Chances are that your money concerns aren’t unique. Dear Piggy Bank’s clients often have several things in common: They are conscientious They want to be smart with their money They use adapted money systems to manage their money (jars, envelopes, bank accounts) They are uncertain where to start and what steps to take They want […]

The flowers are beginning to bloom in Vancouver which makes me want to be outside and not at work. It also means lighter clothing, lighter evenings and holiday plans. All this fun can lead to a lighter wallet. The trick is to plan and budget for it.

What I learned from a group of young women about budgeting. Sure I was there to lead the discussion but I learned some things and remembered some tips from years ago. Living on a tight budget is sometimes easier. This may sound ridiculous but there’s some logic to it and here’s why. Lifestyle expectations must […]

Today I had the privilege of meeting a unique group of women. Participants in a program called Dream Seeds. The women aged 16 to 28 are wise beyond their years. Clear on where money stands in their lives, they are realistic about the requirement of the mighty dollar to pay for necessities but firm in […]

Are you going to receive a tax refund? Do you know what you’re going to do with it? Depending how much it will be, you may be able to do a couple of things on your list. A little treat for you and something for your bank account. Here are a few ideas: Pay off […]

Here are some quick tips to get you started with your 2010 taxes: Gather all your paperwork – 2009 taxes, notice of assessment, CRA access code, tax slips. Will you do them or will you use a tax preparer? Software or paper return? You can use the software to prepare your taxes and then print […]

It’s tax time……do you procrastinate? I don’t think anyone likes doing their taxes, particularly if you think you owe money. For most of us, it’s never as painful as imagine. Tax software makes completing taxes very simple and straightforward….essentially data entry. If your income taxes are basic, it may take no more than 1 hour to […]

Tips and tricks to spend without guilt. How do you do it? There are many expenses such as ‘needs’ that don’t attract guilt. They may cause anxiety but the thing is that we need them ….. right? That’s the big question. Knowing the difference between needs and wants and making wise choices. Shelter and food […]