Even starting in the fall will give you four more months of compounding. Although that accrued interest may not seem like much, during the life of your RRSP, that headstart will add up. Planning early also gives you more time to make rational, informed investment decisions. You don't want to be throwing money at any old mutual fund, you want to be investing. And investing means thinking.
Cooper adds that knowledge about investing is accumulated over time.
Part of the decision-making process involves a review of your RRSP portfolio. Forming a strategy takes time, but it can help you avoid decisions based on fear, or external factors. Cooper and Hyett downplay the risks posed by Y2K, and say that what really matters is an investor's comfort level. If you don't have the time or inclination to form a strategy and watch the market, there are other approaches to put time on your side. It's like paying your phone bill.