The nice weather is starting! There is still enough time to plant some seeds for your financial future. Here is a list of common financial goals: Purchase a home Purchase a new vehicle Annual vacations (or perhaps a big trip every few years) Retirement Pay down debt Emergency fund Kids’ education fund The list above […]

According to the calendar, spring is here. You wouldn’t know it from the weather we’ve been having but in Vancouver the flowers and trees are blooming. Spring is an excellent time to set the path for your financial future because the holiday season is well behind us, income tax information is current and there is […]

It’s that time of year again and taxes will be due before you know it. It’s a rare breed that enjoys doing their taxes and even as an accountant I don’t look forward to it. I’ve found that if I break the job into smaller and more manageable tasks. It is easier to tackle the […]

Step 3 This is probably the easiest step! Using the form you downloaded or whatever you want, consider the following questions: What do you want? Retirement, repay debt or new car When would you like it? In 1 year, 2 years or 25 years How much will it cost? Estimate is ok Writing them down […]

Happy New Year! If you didn’t get around to sorting out your finances before or over the holidays, don’t worry, Dear Piggy Bank will catch you up. Start the new year with a plan that will make you feel like you have your finances under control and your money working for you. It’s easier than […]

How are you doing? It’s almost impossible to become financially literate overnight but if you’ve taken the opportunity to put the basics in place, you’ll be well on your way. This doesn’t mean that it takes care of itself but I think you’ll find the amount of time you spend managing your financial affairs will […]

Once you know the ins and outs of your household finances it’s time to decide where you’d like to go, make a map, put gas in the car and get on the road. GOALS: Having a destination in mind may not be how everyone likes to travel but without specific goals, the probability of achieving […]

Do you feel like you’re living on a tight budget? If you do, tightening your belt before you’ve slimmed down to fit the new belt notch doesn’t feel very good so we’ve provided a simple process to get you started on the path to financial fitness.

Whether you’re saving for something special, something shiny and new or your future, here are a few are some tips to get you started. Do you work better with a goal? I do, I’m one of those people that likes to know where I’m going and typically I know what I want. I don’t always […]

Despite best efforts, many leave post secondary education with student loan debt and the job market isn’t always so friendly. Taking a look at some numbers can give an idea of what to expect in terms of income and expenses (including loan payments). If you can earn $22/hour or $44,000/year, this will put about $3,000 […]