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The articles and information in your Everyday Guidebook is provided by sponsors from across Canada who believe in building community by connecting neighbours. To help strengthen these connections, they have made a commitment to share these useful articles on everyday topics for your benefit. You will find that many items apply across Canada, while some are specific to your region or Province.
Get next year’s tax refund this year
March 31, 2009 --
Get next year’s tax refund this
year
It’s almost impossible to totally avoid
paying taxes and, with this year’s tax deadline ra...
Tax preparation is not tax planning
March 31, 2009 -- Here comes that dreaded tax filing deadline
– and maybe a late night of tax preparation along with it. But don’t
confuse your last minute tax prep...
Save or spend your tax refund?
March 31, 2009 -- What could be better than getting a tax
refund? The answer is - not getting one. You see, a tax refund cheque
is not a gift from the Canada Reven...
Financing your new house –Home Buyers Plan or TFSA?
March 31, 2009 -- It’s not quite time yet but you’re
beginning to think seriously about buying your first home. Among your
early considerations are how much home yo...
Get next year’s tax refund this year
March 5, 2009 -- It’s almost impossible to totally avoid
paying taxes and, with this year’s tax deadline rapidly approaching,
your options for reducing your 2008 t...
Spousal strategies – income-splitting can still work
February 23, 2009 --
The new Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA)
and other federal tax changes may have you wondering about the value
of one of the mos...
RRIF relief – pay back to save on taxes
February 18, 2009 --
This year - for the first and maybe only
time - you will be able to save on your 2008 taxes by returning money
to your Registered Retirement Inc...
Domestic contracts – do you need to set your own rules of engagement?
February 18, 2009 --
These days it seems we often read about
high-profile couples who have entered into ‘domestic contracts’
-- also known as prenuptial agreements, ...
RRSP fast facts – what you need to know to save and grow
February 18, 2009 -- The deadline for making your 2008 Registered
Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) contribution is fast approaching –
but you still have time to take adv...
I resolve to open a TFSA
January 14, 2009 -- Managing Your MoneyI resolve to open a TFSAIt’s coming up to the time of year for making resolutions and a good one for almost anybody looking for fin...
PAC your RRSP
January 14, 2009 -- Managing Your MoneyPAC your RRSP – the easy way to save and growIt’s RRSP crunch time again. That time of year when you search the nooks and crannies ...
Running to the sun?
December 18, 2008 -- Great – but don’t run down your finances, too.
If you’re a ‘snowbirder’ planning on going south this winter, you should also have a sound financial p...
Giving the gift of your time
December 18, 2008 --
Giving the gift of your time
You’ve reached that
time in your life when you have time
for doing those personal things that truly matter to yo...
Tax and New Canadians
December 9, 2008 -- New Canadians have tax obligations too(NC)-Every year, thousands of immigrants make Canada their new home. But living in a different country can be a ...
Can you over diversify your portfolio?
December 8, 2008 -- Can you over diversify your portfolio?
Every investment expert will tell you the same thing: Be sure to diversify your investments. And really, it’s ...
Ten Terrific Tax-beaters
December 8, 2008 --
Ten Terrific Tax-beaters -- year end tax tips that can help you save
Tax planning should be part of your overall financial plan and a year
rou...
Economic and Fiscal Statement - November 27, 2008
December 8, 2008 -- Economic and Fiscal Statement - November 27, 2008For complete details see the Department of Finance Economic and Fiscal Statement.Reduction of minimum...
An RESP withdrawal strategy that pays
August 29, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
An RESP withdrawal strategy
that pays
It seems like such a long time
ago that you started Registered Education Savings Pl...
Fixed versus variable rate mortgages – what’s right for you?
August 29, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
Fixed versus variable rate
mortgages – what’s right for you?
Recent rumblings in the financial
markets have made some hom...
A+ Financial planning tips for students
August 29, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
A+ Financial planning tips
for students
A post-secondary education
is expensive and most students must prudently manage l...
Job loss – turning disaster into opportunity!
August 5, 2008 -- Managing Your Money
Job loss
– turning disaster into opportunity!
Plant shutdowns. Corporate
downsizing. A job today. Gone tomorrow. It ...
Renovating your cottage for retirement – covering the costs and other considerations
August 5, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
Renovating your cottage
for retirement – covering the costs and other considerations
Your cottage has always been
an im...
Erase your financial fears – not your vacation
August 5, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
Erase your financial fears
– not your vacation
Gas prices are going up, the
economy is coming down – and you’re worried. ...
Does gold glitter for you? – investing in precious metals, pro and con
August 5, 2008 -- (Article for the week of
July 21, 2008)
Managing Your Money
Does gold glitter for you?
– investing in precious metals, pro and con
Precio...
Insurance for your children
July 2, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
Insurance for your children
We really can’t say for sure
what the future will bring – although, especially for our childr...
Lighten your load with tax-wise investments
July 2, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
Lighten your load with tax-wise
investments
If you enjoy paying more tax
than necessary, stop reading right now. If you ...
Ten things you should find out about disability insurance
July 2, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
Ten things you
should find out about disability insurance
It’s a fact. Disability strikes
working people far more often t...
Homing in on your finances – a total solution to all of your banking and financing needs
June 11, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
Homing in on your finances
– a total solution to all of your banking and financing needs
It’s so popular Down Under
it ...
The Lifelong Learning Plan – can it work for you?
June 11, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
The Lifelong Learning Plan
– can it work for you?
Somebody once said that life
is what happens when we’re not paying atte...
The RRSP Homebuyers Plan – yes or no?
May 28, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
The RRSP Homebuyers Plan
– yes or no?
Yes, it is possible to use
money from an existing Registered Retirement Savings Pla...
Retiring to the cottage – right for you?
May 28, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
Retiring
to the cottage – right for you?
Each year, more and more Canadians
are fulfilling a long held dream by retiring t...
Leaving a legacy to someone with a disability? Consider a ‘Henson’ Trust
May 28, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
Leaving a legacy to someone
with a disability? Consider a
‘Henson’ Trust
If you are leaving an inheritance
to your dis...
The tripod effect and your estate plan
May 28, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
The tripod effect and your
estate plan
The tripod -- from cameras
to easels, you’ll find that ancient and famous three-le...
It’s never too late to file your tax return
April 28, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
It’s never too late to
file your tax return
Tax deadline day is here!
April 30, 2008 – that’s the last day on which most...
CPP and OAS – cousins not twins
April 25, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
CPP and OAS
– cousins not twins
Your retirement income will
consist of funds from a number of sources, likely including t...
Be sure to use all your tax-savers
April 25, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
Be sure to use
all your tax-savers
Don’t pay more taxes than
absolutely necessary by taking advantage of all the federal ...
‘Low-cost’ insurance can deliver an expensive lesson
April 25, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
‘Low-cost’ insurance
can deliver an expensive lesson
You get the offers by mail
and phone or at your bank when you apply ...
Building prepaid family memories
March 30, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
Building
prepaid family memories
Memories are made of this:
A wonderful family vacation – maybe during spring break -- t...
Estate planning for same-sex partners – it’s not exactly the same
March 30, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
Estate planning for same-sex
partners – it’s not exactly the same
Unique and complex – two
words that describe the estate...
Boomers’ relations becoming more ‘common’ – what it means for your finances
March 17, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
Boomers’
relations becoming more ‘common’
– what it means for your finances
Boomers are leading the way
once again, thi...
How to budget without really budgeting
March 17, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
How to budget without really
budgeting
Do you see budgeting as hours
of drudgery and penny-tracking only to find out that...
Last call for your tax refund
March 17, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
Last
call for your tax refund
The deadline for making your
2007 RRSP contribution is coming up fast (February 29, 2008) –...
Pension income splitting is new – but is it right for you?
March 17, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
Pension income splitting
is new – but is it right for you?
Tax season is looming and if
you are currently retired or appr...
Insure your lifestyle stays on track – the way you planned it
March 17, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
Insure your lifestyle stays
on track – the way you planned it
You have plans – and that’s
good. Plans for your life as i...
Tax changes you should know about
March 17, 2008 --
Managing Your Money
Tax changes you should know
about
At this time of year, there
are two things that make everybody feel good: The fact tha...
It pays to know your retirement income sources and options
February 27, 2008 -- Managing Your MoneyIt pays to know your retirement income sources and options Where will your retirement paycheque come from? Most likely, it will b...
The ‘flaw’ of averages – your retirement isn’t average … it’s personal
January 24, 2008 -- Managing Your Money The ‘flaw’ of averages – your retirement isn’t average … it’s personal Famed novelist Mark Twain is reported to have said: “There ...
The snowball effect – get the ‘magic’ of compounding working for you
January 24, 2008 -- Managing Your Money The snowball effect – get the ‘magic’ of compounding working for you Kick a small ball of snow into motion from the top of a hill ...
Take your portfolio cross-border shopping
January 24, 2008 -- Managing Your Money Take your portfolio cross-border shopping With the rise in the Canadian dollar, cross-border shopping is becoming an even bigger ...
Funding your retirement fun
January 10, 2008 -- Managing Your Money Funding your retirement fun The shape of your retirement is as personal as your thumbprint – or at least it should be. The thing ...
Giving while living – keeping it in the family
January 10, 2008 -- Managing Your Money Giving while living – keeping it in the family You may be among the growing group who hope to pass on wealth to their children dur...
Getting started on your life in retirement
December 18, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Getting started on your life in retirement You will definitely not be living your parents’ retirement – but are you ready for your...
71 is the new 69 – the retirement income and tax rules have changed
December 10, 2007 -- Managing Your Money 71 is the new 69 – the retirement income and tax rules have changed If you’re age 69 to 72, changes to the Income Tax Act that wer...
Check out these year-end tax saving tips
December 4, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Check out these year-end tax saving tipsIt’s the end of another year and the beginning of tax season. Financial professionals rec...
Giving while living – launching your legacy now
November 27, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Giving while living – launching your legacy now You’ve reached that comfortable age when you have the time and resources to consid...
Busy? Ten ways (plus one) to keep your financial life simple and sweet
November 20, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Busy? Ten ways (plus one) to keep your financial life simple and sweet In the rush of everyday life it is often the details that ...
Small business - start, buy or forget it?
November 12, 2007 -- Small business - start, buy or forget it?
One way to independence is having a successful business. There are an endless number of business
possi...
Pension income-splitting – it’s new and could mean extra tax-savings for you
November 12, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Pension income-splitting – it’s new and could mean extra tax-savings for you The 2007 Federal Budget included a few new tax provis...
Four simple rules for tax-wise investing
November 12, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Four simple rules for tax-wise investing A solid return on your investments is always good thing. Paying excessive tax on those r...
Coping with the financial impact of divorce
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your MoneyBe my Valentine -- or not. Coping with the financial impact of divorceNo one wants to think about divorce – especially at this mos...
Avoid injury to your retirement savings
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Avoid injury to your retirement savings If you’re like most Canadians, your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) will be a pr...
There’s still time to RSVP your RRSP and invite new savings
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your Money There’s still time to RSVP your RRSP and invite new savings The Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) deadline for contributi...
Why pay tax on money you never see?
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Why pay tax on money you never see? Based on their in-depth knowledge of the investing habits of Canadians, investment professiona...
Take advantage of tax savings with Universal Life insurance
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Take advantage of tax savings with Universal Life insurance If you’re a prudent Canadian, you likely already know the value of lif...
Tax deadlines and you – get in the know to save
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Tax deadlines and you – get in the know to save There’s a big tax deadline looming – April 30, 2007, the last day on which your 20...
Giving while living – a good way to see your legacy in action
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Giving while living – a good way to see your legacy in action You may have something in common with one of the richest men in the ...
Thinking of ethical investing?
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Thinking of ethical investing? Are you warming up to global environment messages? Does the Kyoto Accord strike a chord with you? ...
Housing your new grad – to rent or buy?
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Housing your new grad – to rent or buy? If your newly minted high school graduate will soon be heading out of town in pursuit of a...
Time to step away from your business?
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Time to step away from your business? Maybe not today or tomorrow, but one day in the not so distant future, you’re going to do it...
Take a critical look at your financial health
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Take a critical look at your financial health You work and you plan and you save – to pay everyday expenses and to achieve your lo...
RESPs are now an even better way to save for an education
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your Money RESPs are now an even better way to save for an education It’s difficult to quantify the value of a post-secondary education. The...
Insurance – a good choice to fund a child’s education?
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Insurance – a good choice to fund a child’s education? Here’s a quick quiz for parents and grandparents: How much will it cost t...
Homing in on your retirement residence
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Homing in on your retirement residence With your retirement years inching closer, your thoughts may be ‘homing in’ on the size and...
Tax tips for students
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Tax tips for students The cost of education rising every year and the government has recently increased its tax assistance to stud...
Should you rely on real estate to fund your retirement?
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Should you rely on real estate to fund your retirement? Real estate remains hot right across the country. If you own a home and a...
You want income – but fixating on fixed income investments may not be the answer
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your Money You want income – but fixating on fixed income investments may not be the answer You want steady income from your investments alon...
Can ‘green’ investments power your investment growth?
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Can ‘green’ investments power your investment growth? ‘Green’ investments are rapidly gaining in popularity for a couple of very g...
Common law couples, blended families
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your Money Common law couples, blended families The blend is a growing trend – as in blended families, that is. Money issues can cause addi...
The unlucky thirteen -- financial frights you don’t need
October 25, 2007 -- Managing Your Money The unlucky thirteen -- financial frights you don’t need It’s the ‘scariest’ time of the year when wee goblins and ghosties haunt ...
Your essential tax credit check up – new credits now available
April 12, 2007 --
Managing Your Money
Your essential tax credit check up – new credits now available
Are you paying more taxes than necessary? Could b...
Can a spousal RRSP still reduce your taxes?
February 3, 2007 -- Managing Your Money
Can a spousal RRSP still reduce your taxes?
Are tax planning decisions leaving you perplexed and confused? You’re far from ...
Retirement income beyond your RRSPs – is it time for a change?
December 7, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
Retirement income beyond your RRSPs – is it time for a change?
You’re retired and, over the years, you’ve done a...
It pays to really understand your company pension plan
November 15, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
It pays to really understand your company pension plan
As you look forward to your post-working life, you’re probably ex...
The danger of rising house prices
November 8, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
The danger of rising house prices
Housing prices have been going up, up, up over the past few years and that has many ho...
How’s your retirement income plan? Maybe it’s time you had one
November 8, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
How’s your retirement income plan? Maybe it’s time you had one
As a working person, it’s usually pretty ea...
Ready for retirement? Financially, maybe – but emotionally?
November 8, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
Ready for retirement? Financially, maybe – but emotionally?
In every life, certain events loom large. A bi...
The ‘real’ cost of your RRSP withdrawal
October 25, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
The ‘real’ cost of your RRSP withdrawal
You need money for a down payment on a new house, to pay for a delayed post-seco...
Snowbirds – 10 steps to a worry-free flight south
October 25, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
Snowbirds – 10 steps to a worry-free flight south
As the leaves fall and the days get shorter, snowbirds begin t...
China, land of investment opportunity?
October 13, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
China, land of investment opportunity?
There was a time not long ago when anything marked ‘Made in China’ was automatica...
To buy or lease a vehicle – what’s best for you?
October 13, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
To buy or lease a vehicle – what’s best for you?
It’s time to get a new vehicle and you are likely asking yourse...
Perfect PAC-ing – so you’ll have everything you need for financial independence
September 18, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
Perfect PAC-ing – so you’ll have everything you need for financial independence
When you pack for a trip, it’s important...
The ABCs of risk/reward investing
September 18, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
The ABCs of risk/reward investing
Every investor dreams of hitting “the big one” – an investment, usually a stock, that ...
Putting all your investment eggs in one basket is easy – and wrong
September 18, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
Putting all your investment eggs in one basket is easy – and wrong
There’s an old proverb: You can’t make an omelette wi...
How to learn and save (on taxes) at the same time
August 21, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
How to learn and save (on taxes) at the same time
A post-secondary education is a valuable asset. It is also very...
Employer-sponsored investment, health, and retirement plans
August 21, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
Employer-sponsored investment, health, and retirement plans –it pays to know what’s what
With Labour Day just around the...
The Universal Child Care Benefit – a hidden educational opportunity for parents
August 9, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
The Universal Child Care Benefit – a hidden educational opportunity for parents
You have probably heard about the new Universal ...
Boomers in the classroom – it’s a booming trend
August 9, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
Boomers in the classroom – it’s a booming trend
Are you planning to revisit the best times of your life? In this e...
Planning for a debt-free vacation – you can do it!
July 31, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
Planning for a debt-free vacation – you can do it!
A terrific vacation is a timeout from the cares of life. A brief peri...
Do you know your life insurance risk profile?
July 24, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
Do you know your life insurance risk profile?
Life insurance is an important part of every financial and estate plan. Bu...
Buy now, pay later?
July 17, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
Buy now, pay later?
That new patio set would look great in your backyard – and, better yet, you can buy it now and not p...
Insure your lifestyle at a cost that makes sense
July 5, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
Insure your lifestyle at a cost that makes sense
Insurance is a very good thing but how do you determine when it’s too much of a...
Does your group insurance plan provide enough protection? Possibly not
July 5, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
Does your group insurance plan provide enough protection? Possibly not
Employer- or co-pay employment benefits can provide...
How to cover the rising cost of knowledge for your children
June 28, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
How to cover the rising cost of knowledge for your children
The math is simple and simply staggering: The cost of sendin...
Life insurance – plain and simple … and necessary
June 28, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
Life insurance – plain and simple … and necessary
Who needs life insurance? You do – if you have loved ones and wa...
What’s what with mortgages? -- know your options
June 15, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
What’s what with mortgages? -- know your options
With interest rates so low, you may be thinking of taking t...
Always home – keeping a roof over your head, no matter what
June 15, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
Always home – keeping a roof over your head, no matter what
An empty house can seem sad and lonely. But a home – t...
Mortgages – what’s right for you?
June 5, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
Mortgages – what’s right for you?
Everybody’s talking mortgages these days. That’s because interest rates are still rela...
Be sure your medical wishes are respected – no matter what happens
June 5, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
Be sure your medical wishes are respected – no matter what happens
You can take care of yourself right now, but what if ...
To probate or not to probate – that could be a costly question
June 5, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
To probate or not to probate – that could be a costly question
Probate – what the heck does that mean? Many people have ...
Renovations that pay - and some that don't
May 1, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
Renovations that pay … and some that don’t
Are you thinking about renovating your home? If so, it’s important to know that ...
Get the ultimate double-dip benefit from your tax refund
May 1, 2006 -- Managing Your Money
Get the ultimate double-dip benefit from your tax refund
Parents have to be terrific jugglers. You juggle time to complete a...
Who? Why? Think about your beneficiaries – it’s financially important
April 19, 2006 -- You should have a will, of course. Otherwise it’s highly unlikely that your legacy will be passed down as you wish and highly likely that winding up y...
It’s your parents’ estate – but do you know their wishes?
April 19, 2006 -- Some things are difficult to talk about with family – and death is definitely near the top of the list. If even the mention of that word makes you unc...
Tax deadlines – it pays to know which ones apply to you
April 3, 2006 -- For most Canadians, it’s just about time to pay the tax piper. But depending on your personal circumstances – like being self-employed or retire...
Don’t panic – it’s never too late to limit your tax bite
April 3, 2006 -- As the tax deadline looms ever closer, normally clear-thinking Canadians tend to forget tax saving fundamentals and end up paying more taxes than they...
A Guide to Registering your business name in Ontario
March 28, 2006 -- Ontario´s Business Names Act came into effect in 1991. All businesses, including those offering services that were previously exempt, must now registe...
How to gain from capital gains and losses
March 17, 2006 -- It’s always a good thing when an investment pays off. That’s why you invest, after all – to win – not to lose. But when you win on an investment, ther...
Medical expenses – often “forgotten” tax breaks
March 17, 2006 --
Medical expenses are never a good thing. They mean you or someone in your family has had to deal with health issues over a short or long period of t...
Tax-efficient investing
March 1, 2006 -- Taxes are often the inevitable consequence of success. When your investments pay off, you usually have to pay out more taxes. Or do you? If some of yo...
Take full advantage of all the tax breaks you deserve
March 1, 2006 -- When you earn income, it’s virtually impossible to avoid paying taxes. But you should never pay more in taxes than absolutely necessary. Here is...
PAC to avoid RRSP deadline-itis and profit from the experience
February 21, 2006 -- With the March 1st tax year deadline for Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) contributions fast approaching, are you frantically running around ...
Mine, yours, and ours – a financial valentine for couples
February 21, 2006 -- Valentine’s Day is here and leftover holiday bills are still piling up at the door. This is the time of year that succinctly sums up the inevitable yi...
Shock absorbers for your financial plan
February 21, 2006 -- Do you find electricity costs shocking? Are rising home heating bills getting you hot under the collar? Aside from practicing prudence or cutting back...
Why you don’t want a tax refund
February 21, 2006 -- It always feels good to get a tax refund cheque – but the reality is that it would be much better for your long-term financial health if you never aga...
Get the added benefits of a spousal RSP
January 16, 2006 -- Most couples would agree that sharing is a vital ingredient in a happy and enduring relationship – and when it comes to your finances, sharing can bri...
Choosing your RRSP beneficiary and other income-building RRSP strategies
January 16, 2006 -- The concept of Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) is fairly simple and simply outstanding, from an investment growth point of view. You put m...
Insure that you don’t travel into financial disaster
January 3, 2006 -- Planning a vacation this winter – maybe to a warm, wet and comfortable southern destination? If so, you’ll want to insure your financial comfort...
RRSPs 101 – easy info that saves taxes, raises your retirement income
January 3, 2006 -- Most Canadians know that a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) is among the best tax-deferred, income-building ways to save for retirement. ...
Win your race to financial security by playing RSP catch-up
January 3, 2006 -- Marathon runners must top-up their fluid levels at regular intervals during a race or they will never make their personal goal times at the finish lin...
It’s never too late to plan for your retirement
December 16, 2005 -- What happened? It seems like only yesterday that your retirement was decades away – and, all of a sudden, it’s just around the corner. Lif...
The January Effect and other stock market mirages
December 16, 2005 -- Most people know that a mirage is something that appears to be there, but isn’t. But change the word “mirage” to “effect” and, all of a sudden, ...
When it comes to minimizing your tax bite – timing is everything
December 1, 2005 -- Effective tax planning can save significant amounts on tax – and even though the current tax year is almost over, there are still some Year-End Tax Pl...
‘Tis the season for tax-wise charitable giving
December 1, 2005 -- Coming up fast: the biggest gift-giving season of the year! As a generous person, you may be looking beyond that growing mound of gifts un...
Is an RSP loan right for you – right now?
November 17, 2005 -- Most Canadians will depend on their Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) to provide necessary financial support for their retirement years.&nbs...
Taxing questions answered about interest income, dividends and capital gains
November 17, 2005 -- There is no question: As a Canadian, it is virtually impossible to avoid paying taxes. And there are so many of them – from GST/HST and pr...
Is it time for your seasonal portfolio checkup?
November 3, 2005 -- As the days grow shorter and colder, prudent Canadians make sure their vehicles get a pre-winter checkup. The small investment in time and money...
Act now – pay less tax later
November 3, 2005 -- Right now, you’re probably thinking more about Christmas than next April’s income tax filing deadline. But even though that deadline is months a...
Everybody wants income – but are fixed income investments right for you?
October 18, 2005 -- Safety is always an issue with investors. How safe is my money? Will my investments provide a safe and steady income as I move into my ret...
Turning age 69? You have some RRSP decisions to make
October 18, 2005 -- If you’re nearing age 69, there’s an important deadline in your future. The federal Income Tax Act stipulates that you must wind down all of you...
Asia – an attractive investment opportunity?
October 18, 2005 --
There’s a whole new world of investment opportunity out there. These days, investors have virtually instant access to every market around the globe ...
Is “free” parking worth the money?
October 3, 2005 -- Everybody loves a guarantee. That’s why when the stock market hits a downward trend, many investors retreat into the security of “guaranteed” in...
Can you trust income trusts – and what are they?
October 3, 2005 -- Income trusts are hot these days. Turn to the business section of almost any newspaper and it’s a good bet you’ll find a story about the birth o...
Money tips for students: 10 ways to protect your credit cards
September 19, 2005 -- (NC)-The Government of Canada website, www.canada.gc.ca, has links to all kinds of budgeting tips for students living on their own this fall, includin...
Three ways to find “hidden” investment money
September 16, 2005 -- Investing regularly is important. If you’re going to achieve your retirement and other financial goals, you should consistently feed your RRSPs and no...
The ABCs of investing
September 16, 2005 -- You believe in the old saying, money makes money. So you scrimp and save to come up with a few extra dollars to invest. But, with all the invest...
Three Ways to Find "Hidden" Investment Money
September 2, 2005 --
Managing Your Money
Three ways to find “hidden” investment money
Investing regularly is important. If you’re going to achieve your...
How to have your own million dollar baby
August 15, 2005 -- If you’re about to experience the miracle of birth in your household, consider doing this: Get your spouse and all the grandparents together in ...
Don’t miss out on "free" government money for your child’s education
August 15, 2005 -- Knowledge sure is expensive – and getting pricier by the semester. These days, a university student living away from home can expect costs of up...
Real estate as an investment – yes or no?
August 15, 2005 -- The current and continuing rise in real estate prices may have you seriously considering a second property as an investment. Even though some ex...
What happens if your kids don't go to school?
August 2, 2005 -- You’ve contributed for years to Registered Education Savings Plans (RESPs) for your children – but what happens to that money if they decide a post-se...
Money tips for teens with summer jobs
August 2, 2005 -- Each year, thousands of Canadian teenagers get part-time or summer jobs for the first time. Maybe yours is among them – if so, he or she is real...
Insurance for the ages — matching coverage to your life stage
July 15, 2005 -- Life is all about change. We age, of course, but every year also brings other changes — in our working and personal life; in our family and its depend...
Should you bank on mortgage insurance? Not necessarily …
July 15, 2005 -- Whether you’re buying a home or renewing an existing mortgage, there’s one question you should ask yourself: “How will my family pay off this mo...
Are you sure you’re covered for an accident or illness?
July 4, 2005 -- Everybody needs an insurance umbrella that provides financial protection from the potentially devastating effects of an accident or serious illness.&n...
Smart investing — investigating Segregated Funds
July 4, 2005 -- Smart investors know that strategic investment planning is vital to the long-term success of their portfolios. That’s why they constantly seek t...
Long-term care insurance – be sure it’s a part of your retirement plan
June 16, 2005 -- Canadians are living longer – that’s the good news. Statistics Canada says the fastest growing portion of the population is those 80 and over an...
Accommodating your post-secondary student – does buying make sense?
June 16, 2005 -- The high school years have whizzed by and in just a few months thousands of new graduates will be heading off to other cities and towns for their post...
When it comes to insurance, diversity delivers strength
June 1, 2005 -- Many people don’t think about insurance as an “investment”, but in a way it is. It’s an investment in your legacy – a means of enhancing the val...
RESP withdrawal strategies that make the grade
June 1, 2005 -- The last photo has been taken, the gown and cap have been returned, the happy smiles of achievement have given way to anticipation and perhaps some ne...
Is it time to make plans for your parents?
May 17, 2005 -- Your parents – in the not too distant future, may need to rely on you as you once depended on them.
Most of today’s Baby Boomers can e...
Marry me, marry my money? I do believe that is a good question!
May 17, 2005 -- June is the traditional wedding month – but these days, lots of couples are making life commitments to each other in both traditional and non-traditio...
Budgeting for wedding bell bliss
May 17, 2005 -- Maybe it’s because even the romantics among us are more practical these days. Or just that the things we really want seem to cost so darn much.&...
Your cottage – can you keep it in the family?
May 5, 2005 -- Cottages and families go together like ice cream and cones – but how do you lick the issue of keeping your cottage in the family in years to come?&nbs...
Are your kids ready to inherit?
May 5, 2005 -- You may have already decided how your children will benefit from your legacy. If so, you’ve likely specified in your will how much each will receive. ...
Successful small business succession planning for the next generation – it can be an emotional issue
April 15, 2005 -- You’ve been thinking about preparing a succession plan for your small business, and keeping it in the family is important to you. That’s certain...
Tax prep tips for your investment portfolio
April 15, 2005 -- Each year at this time, most tax-paying Canadians wonder which expenses are legitimate tax deductions and which ones are not. For investors, tho...
Keep it all in the family for max tax relief
April 1, 2005 -- Few people would describe tax filing as enjoyable, but when you make it a family affair, you could enjoy additional tax relief. And that’s a goo...
Time to give your Will a spring tune-up
April 1, 2005 -- Life changes – marriages begin and end, children are born and grow, you work for years and then retire – and that means your legacy changes, too. ...
Save or spend? What to do with your tax refund
March 18, 2005 -- A tax refund cheque is always a welcome sight. But before you rush out and spend it in a flurry of shopping, consider this: that refund cheque i...
Tax-planning strategies for your post-retirement life
March 18, 2005 -- People often make the mistake of thinking that tax planning ends when their employment income stops – but post-retirement tax strategies can be vital ...
Your mortgage should be an investment in your financial future
March 1, 2005 -- If you’re planning on buying a home, you have probably become an investigator. You’ve looked carefully into the neighbourhood you would like to ...
More of your money for you! – that’s the big difference between tax preparation and tax planning
March 1, 2005 -- It’s tax-time again – and if you’re stressing over the last-minute preparation of this year’s return, you’ve got plenty of company. Most Canadia...
Outside your RRSP – Reducing the Tax Chill Factor on Your Non-Registered Investments
February 23, 2005 -- Every Canadian knows about the dreaded wind chill factor that makes already frigid temperatures feel even colder. On extreme wind chill factor d...
A Financial Formula for Blended Families
February 23, 2005 -- The Brady Bunch films of a few years back rekindled interest in North America’s most famous “blended” family. But while the Brady family was abl...
Last-minute RSP tips – save on taxes, retire with more
February 1, 2005 -- Do you have a retirement deadline date in mind? That glorious day when you’ll wave goodbye to the workaday world and stroll into the retirement ...
Buy right tips for first time homebuyers
February 1, 2005 -- Ahh, your first home. You’ve dreamt about it – and now you’re ready to take the plunge. But before you sign on the dotted line, here are a...
When You Pay in Advance
February 1, 2005 -- Prepayment -- it's how we buy many goods and services in Ontario. You plunk down your money at the fitness club before losing your first pound. You pa...
Yes, the holidays are over – but now is the best time to wrap up holiday (and other) debt
January 14, 2005 -- Welcome to the New Year, the perfect time for looking back, looking forward, and looking at that pile of holiday bills and wondering how it got so hig...
Living longer? – yes! Priceless? – yes and no
January 14, 2005 -- One hundred years – that’s a long time. But celebrating a century of life will become more common in the coming years for a growing number of Ca...
Scrambled eggs – good. Scrambled investments – not so good
January 14, 2005 -- It’s true that to make scrambled eggs you must first break some eggs. And it’s equally true that a diverse array of investment ‘eggs’ is critica...
PAC today to reach your desired financial destination tomorrow
January 3, 2005 -- If you’re like many Canadians, there are two things you always leave to the last minute: packing for a trip and making your annual RRSP contribution.&...
A versatile portfolio PAC-age keeps everything in balance
January 3, 2005 -- In last week’s column, we looked at the value-added benefits of a PAC – a Pre-Authorized Contribution program through which you make automatic monthly...
Tax-smart gifts get the most out of your charitable giving – for your charities and you
December 14, 2004 -- At this ‘gift-giving’ time of year, you may feel a special urge to share your good fortune with others. That’s terrific: charitable gifts are al...
Looking back to look ahead – a checklist for future financial success
December 14, 2004 -- Famous baseball pitcher Satchel Paige made his final major league start in 1965 at age 59. When asked the secret of his very long and distinguis...
You’re never too young to dream up a picture-perfect retirement
December 3, 2004 -- If you’re a Canadian under 50 years of age, you’re probably pretty busy. These are your peak personal productivity years, when building a career...
Is that gift from your employer tax-free – or not?
December 3, 2004 -- At this time of year it’s not uncommon for employers to give gifts (other than cash) of some sort to employees. And while everybody likes to get...
Keep more for yourself by avoiding dreaded ‘clawbacks’
November 15, 2004 -- Congratulations – as a senior, you have ‘earned’ the right to access a variety of tax credits not available to others. Among these are the Old A...
Keep your family in your business and save on taxes
November 15, 2004 -- Success in business doesn’t come without a price. You put in long hours, carry an exhausting workload, worry constantly about the economy, inter...
Turning 65? – be sure to take advantage of the pension income credit
November 15, 2004 -- If you’re celebrating your 65th birthday this year, there is one gift you should be sure to open. It’s the gift of a $1,000 pension income tax c...
Reduce the Tax Bite on Your Investment Income
November 1, 2004 -- You work hard for your money, invest it wisely and dream of a financially secure future. Wouldn’t you like your ‘financial-freedom’ day to come ...
Don’t wait until tax crunch time or you could end up shortchanging your retirement
November 1, 2004 -- We’re getting mighty close to that part of the year when time and money start to dominate our thoughts. The holiday season is coming and we need...
Transferring Foreign Pensions to Canada
October 15, 2004 -- Managing Your Money
Transferring a foreign pension to Canada? It pays to look before you leap
Have you got a pension payable f...
Avoiding Tangled Finances and Estate Snafus in Blended Families
October 15, 2004 -- Managing Your Money
Avoiding tangled finances and estate snafus in blended families
Blended families are those created by the marria...
How to pay your bills and invest, too!
October 1, 2004 -- There’s no doubt about it, making ends meet is tough. And getting ahead? -- well, for many Canadians, that’s a desperate dream for tomorrow when...
Getting the most out of your investment dollars in a low-rate environment
October 1, 2004 -- Are interest rates going up? Could be – the U.S. Federal Reserve Board has been making noises about raising the federal funds rate in that count...
Can you afford to be your own financial advisor?
September 17, 2004 --
How many hours a day do you devote to your financial health? If you’re like most people whose lives are filled with the demands of a job, ...
Risky business – do better investment returns always mean more risk to you?
September 17, 2004 -- One of the most often repeated ‘rules for successful investing’ is this: Risk and return go hand-in-hand. Low return investments equal low...
Getting lost in the details of your investments? Investigate the power of consolidation
August 30, 2004 -- Managing Your Money
You have a bundle of registered and non-registered investments. You invest in stocks, bonds, T-bills, mutual ...
Money education -- something your kids don’t learn in school
August 30, 2004 -- Managing Your Money
There are book smarts and street smarts and wise parents make sure their children benefit from equal measures of both.&...
Education budget breaks could mean increased savings opportunities for you
August 3, 2004 -- It’s true that a post-secondary education is expensive – and getting more so each year. But it’s equally true that an education is one of the mo...
Beyond tuition – will you be ready for the real costs of a post-secondary education?
August 3, 2004 -- The value of a post-secondary education is clear: the average university graduate earns almost twice as much as someone who has a high school educatio...
Fair ways to tee up tax savings on the links
July 13, 2004 -- Managing Your Money
Golf can be fantastic or frustrating – often at the same time. But, whether you’re a low handicap whiz or a weekend duffer,...
Stay on top of your insurance needs – especially if you’re staying home
July 13, 2004 -- Managing Your Money
Most of us know exactly what we make each week – it’s right there on our company cheque or payroll credit statement. ...
Travel health insurance – do you need it? Yes!
July 5, 2004 --
An illness or accident can quickly turn your dream vacation into a financial nightmare – especially if you’re far from home or in anothe...
How to celebrate your personal tax freedom day earlier next year
July 5, 2004 --
According to The Fraser Institute, the average Canadian will celebrate Tax Freedom Day on June 28th. That’s the day Canadians start work...
What's With Mortgages? -- Know Your Options
May 31, 2004 -- With interest rates so low, you may be thinking of taking the big step into home ownership, ‘moving up’ or even refinancing your existing home. ...
How to cover the rising cost of knowledge for your children
May 31, 2004 --
The math is simple and simply staggering: The cost of sending your children or grandchildren off to college or university can add up to well o...
Always home – keeping a roof over your head, no matter what
May 31, 2004 --
An empty house can seem sad and lonely. But a home – that’s different. It’s your place, an architectural shell you’ve filled with ...
Life insurance – plain and simple … and necessary
May 31, 2004 -- Who needs life insurance? You do – if you have loved ones and want to provide them with financial protection when you die. It’s really tha...
Debt Free Vacation
April 28, 2004 -- Managing Your Money
Plan to enjoy a debt-free vacation this summer
The best part of your dream vacation? Memories that’ll las...
Probate and Estate Taxes
April 28, 2004 --
Managing Your Money
Probate costs, estate taxes and preserving your legacy
Folk wisdom is often expressed in short, memorable sayi...
Legacy Planning
April 28, 2004 --
Managing Your Money
Legacy planning – who should do what?
You’ve been thinking about the legacy you wish to leave behind. Bu...
The Family Farm
April 28, 2004 --
Managing Your Money
Passing the family farm to the next generation – you need a succession and estate plan
Running a family farm i...
Providing for Your Family
April 28, 2004 --
Managing Your Money
If you’re unable to provide for your family, who will?
Someone once said that time is merely a device to keep ...
Spousal Splits
March 27, 2004 --
Managing Your Money
When a spousal split spices savings
The federal government is currently encouraging couples to split – i...
Last Minute Tax Tips
March 27, 2004 -- Managing Your Money
Last-minute tax return tips that can add up to more tax-savings for you
It’s tax time! And while preparing...
Tax Efficient Investing
March 27, 2004 -- Managing Your Money
How to be tax efficient with your non-registered investments
Tax breaks are like Sasquatch sightings – extremely...
Portfolio Funds
March 27, 2004 -- Managing Your Money
Diversify and simplify in a single step – the Portfolio Funds investment option
Whether your investing history s...
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