To get the most money from the government, we recommend you contribute $2,500 a year for 14 years and then an extra $1,000 in the 15th year. This way, you’ll get the maximum basic Canada Education Savings Grant from the government—a whopping $7,200—plus any other grants you qualify for.

If you miss a year, you can still cash in on the matching grants, but you’ll need to “catch up” and contribute more in a subsequent year.

Remember that every little bit helps. If you can’t put $2,500 a year, simply contribute what you can. The government will match 20% of whatever contribution you make.