Expat Canadian who has been granted non-resident status by CRA

[paulhen]

I have finally had my NR5 status confirmed but accountants are telling me to retract the request, primarily because I would have collapse my RRSP at the top marginal tax rate. I could roll my RRSP into a RRIF and withdraw it 10% a year under the 16% NR5 approval granted which applies for 5 years. But I have read that the withholding tax on a RRSP deregistration is 25% for non-residents which would be my preference as opposed to a RRIF.

I quickly need guidance from someone who has already been down this same path, and soon in order that I can proceed with the RRSP alternatives mentioned.

Further, I would like a referral to an accountant who is a pro, that knows the "ropes" and strategies for expats and is located in the Hamilton, Ontario area.