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:

If you’re interested in simplifying your finances, it’s worth taking a look at what’s in your wallet. How many different cards and pieces of paper do you keep handy? Most things fall into 1 of 4 categories: Cards – Bank, credit, loyalty and identification Receipts Cash Reminders

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

A couple things to think about when it comes to keeping your personal information and money safe.   The number of fraudulent transactions occurring each day is staggering. Although many of us have been the victim at one time or another, this doesn’t give a good sense of the magnitude of theft through fraud.