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.
This is a good time of year to review your budget and your spending plans. Most Canadians have started to think about doing their taxes to file by April 30th. Although we are naturally focused on the money we owe to Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) or will receive as a refund on taxes already paid, it’s a good opportunity to reflect on how much net income (after taxes and deductions) you received and how much went to savings, debt and lifestyle expenses.
Taking a moment to look at the big picture can help to review your budget with a fresh perspective. A few tips:

• Recognize that nice weather brings ice cream treats and weekends away – budget for it!
• A warm weather holiday can be a welcome pick-me-up during a Canadian winter – save for it!
• There’s usually a pattern to regular monthly spending – review it against your budget amount (i.e. food, household, entertainment, hobbies/interests)
• Make sure there’s a money in your budget for large or seasonal expenditures such as car or home insurance, vacation and clothing (typically larger amounts spent are in time with seasonal changes)

Keeping your budget up to date and is a good way to achieve your financial and lifestyle goals.