Prepare documents and questions before requesting RESP withdrawals for school.
Once the beneficiary is enrolled in a qualifying program, CRA guidance lists a computer as potentially reasonable when it helps further post-secondary education.
A laptop bought mainly for school is easier to support than a high-end or shared family device.
Ask the promoter what receipt or explanation it needs before buying, and keep the receipt and a short note on the school use.
How to check this rule
Details that matter
School use matters
The computer should help further the student's post-secondary education.
Proportionality matters
A cost can be unreasonable if it is not in line with furthering education.
Ask before buying
Promoters may be more restrictive than the CRA examples, so confirm the process first.
Example
Example: A student needs a laptop for coursework and a required software package. The family confirms the program use with the promoter before buying and keeps the receipt with a note on the school use.
Questions to ask your provider
Would you treat a laptop purchase as a reasonable EAP expense in this situation?
What receipt or explanation do you require before the purchase?
Would accessories or software be treated differently?
Is there a maximum amount you would approve without additional review?
Read next
Withdraw RESP money explains the broader decision and links to related tools.