Quick answer
Most adults in Canada can open an RESP. There are generally no strict restrictions on who can be the original subscriber, meaning a parent, grandparent, relative, or another individual can open an RESP and name a beneficiary. You can also open an RESP for yourself or another adult in some cases. The account is opened with a financial institution, and you must provide a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to register the plan.
Key facts
• An RESP is opened by a subscriber, who is usually an adult
• The subscriber names a beneficiary, the person who will use the education savings
• Parents, grandparents, relatives, and others can open an RESP
• You can open an RESP for your child, someone else’s child, or even yourself
• Some RESPs allow joint subscribers, such as spouses or co-parents
• A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is required for both the subscriber and the beneficiary
Who can be an RESP subscriber?
Most adults can open an RESP
In Canada, there are generally no major restrictions on who can be the original subscriber of an RESP.
This means the following people can typically open an RESP:
• Parents
• Grandparents
• Other family members
• Friends or guardians
• Any individual looking to save for someone’s education
You can open an RESP for different people
You are not limited to opening an RESP for your own child. You can open one for:
• Your child
• A relative’s child
• Someone else’s child
• Yourself or another adult
Can more than one person open an RESP?
Yes. In many cases, two people can open and manage an RESP together:
• Spouses or common-law partners can be joint subscribers
• Separated or divorced parents can also be joint subscribers for their child
Each subscriber shares responsibility for contributions and decisions related to the account. It is important not exceed the $50,000 lifetime limit for beneficiaries as tax penalties may apply.
Are there special cases?
Public primary caregivers
Organizations or agencies that care for a child, such as government departments or trustees, can also open RESPs as subscribers in certain situations.
Changes in subscriber
If circumstances change, other individuals may become the subscriber, such as:
• A spouse or former spouse who acquires the subscriber’s rights under a court order or written agreement
• A person who takes over rights under a legal agreement
• An estate after the subscriber’s death
What do you need to open an RESP?
To open an RESP, you typically need:
• A Social Insurance Number (SIN) for the beneficiary
• Your own SIN as the subscriber
• A financial institution or RESP provider (called a promoter)
The promoter will register the account and help apply for any eligible government benefits.
Why it matters and how Embark helps
Who opens the RESP can affect how contributions are managed and how the account is used over time. For example, families may choose joint subscribers or have grandparents contribute through a separate account.
Embark helps simplify this process:
• You can open an RESP online without visiting a branch
• The setup process includes naming beneficiaries and applying for eligible grants
• Choose from flexible contribution options. Contribution requirements vary by plan. See the plan prospectus for details.
• Manage the RESP and track contributions and grants online
Looking to open an RESP? Get started here. If you have any questions, our Education Savings Specialists are here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
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