Generally, an RRSP contribution is not deductible on a US tax return. Because an RRSP is not a "qualified" plan for U.S. tax purposes, there is no deduction allowed for contributions to such a plan in the U.S. and earnings of the plan are taxable annually to the beneficiary.
There is, however, an exception under the Canada-US tax treaty that allows a RRSP deduction in certain situations. In particular, if the RRSP contribution is made via employee contributions to an employer sponsored group RRSP plan, then the contribution is deductible on the US tax return. This would be through a W2.
But there is a limit on how much you can contribute. Specifically, the RRSP contribution is limited to the lower of your RRSP deduction limit in Canada or your 401(K) limit (currently at $17,000 for those under the age of 50).
In addition, you will need to notify the IRS that you are lowering your taxable wages by the RRSP contribution. You do this by filing a Form 8833 with your US return and claiming an exemption under the tax treaty.There is, however, an exception under the Canada-US tax treaty that allows a RRSP deduction in certain situations. In particular, if the RRSP contribution is made via employee contributions to an employer sponsored group RRSP plan, then the contribution is deductible on the US tax return.
But there is a limit on how much you can contribute. Specifically, the RRSP contribution is limited to the lower of your RRSP deduction limit in Canada or your 401(K) limit (currently at $17,000 for those under the age of 50).
In addition, you will need to notify the IRS that you are lowering your taxable wages by the RRSP contribution. You do this by filing a Form 8833 with your US return and claiming an exemption under the tax treaty.
IRS form 8833:
https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f8833.pdf
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