I suppose the first question is ‘Have you done your taxes?’ and the second question ‘Why do them?’. A) If you owe money, pay Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) promptly to avoid penalties and interest. B) If CRA owes you money then it would be nice to get it sooner rather than later.

I was pleasantly surprised to receive the kids’ Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) statements and see that they are accumulating a tidy sum.  They are young at 4.5 and 2.75 (can’t forget that 1/4!) years old and post secondary education seems like a long way off. At least it feels like we’re on the right […]

If I have a budget, why do I need a financial plan? This is a common question.

Big decisions. Whether you are applying for your first mortgage, selling and buying, renewing or making a change to your existing mortgage it can be nerve wracking. The following are the main decision points with respect to mortgages:

Planning holidays and weekends away is fun. It’s something I’ve always enjoyed doing. It’s a little more challenging these days with two constraints: Kids Budget

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 […]

Do you feel guilty about what you spend? Maybe both. The way we think and feel about money can be very different for women and men. The psychology of money. To have your personal finances under control can mean a great sense of power. I’m not talking about being ‘rich’ but having confidence that you […]