A new report says there are steps the government can take to ensure Canadians have enough money in their retirement —and they don't have to be sweeping measures to make a difference.

The paper by the University of Calgary's School of Public Policy says Canadians have had a tougher time saving for old age since the 2008-2009 economic crisis, especially those with modest incomes.

The authors suggest that the Canadian Pension Plan be expanded to enable 35 per cent of a worker's income to be replaced in retirement, up from the current 25 per cent level.

Report co-author and tax policy expert Jack Mintz says anything larger could hurt Canadians, especially younger ones looking to buy a house or start a family.

The paper says the eligibility age for CPP benefits could be increased to 67 to minimize a payroll tax increase and contributions should be tax-deductible.

And the report says the age limit for Registered Pension Plans and Registered Retirement Savings Plans should be hiked to 75 from 71 to reflect an increase in life expectancies.