Amy Orr

Amy Orr is a professional writer and editor with over 10 years of experience in the Canadian, U.S. and U.K. financial markets. She has written for numerous publications on topics as diverse as economic literacy, corporate finance, and technical analysis of numerical data. Prior to transitioning to full-time writing, she worked in the hedge fund sector. Her academic background is astrophysics, and she has a Masters in Finance from the University of Edinburgh Business School.

Articles by Amy Orr

Dominoin Lender

What is Dominion Lending Centres? A Deep Dive into Canada’s Mortgage Giant

Looking for a mortgage in Canada can feel like navigating a snowy back road with no GPS and a car that only kind of starts. The choices between big banks, credit unions, and private lenders are endless but unclear. That’s where mortgage brokers come in, helping you cut through the noise and find a path…

Canada Lenders

Money Lenders in Canada: Choosing the Best One for Your Needs

You’re finally ready to start a home renovation, consolidate your debts, or launch the side hustle of your dreams. Still, your bank account says otherwise. Whether a planned expense or a financial curveball, we’ve all been there, and that’s where money lenders in Canada can step in.  This twist is that not all money lenders…

BMO Bank

List of Canadian Banks: A Handy Guide for Borrowers and Savers

Whether opening your first checking account, shopping for a mortgage, or looking to grow your savings, choosing the right financial institution in Canada is an essential step toward reaching your money goals. But with dozens of options, ranging from the Big Six banks to local credit unions and digital disruptors, where do you start?  This…

AISH Payment

AISH Payment Dates For 2025

Your Month-by-Month Guide to Alberta’s Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) Payments If you or someone you know relies on Alberta’s Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) program, staying on top of payment dates is a great way to budget your monthly expenses. AISH provides financial and health-related assistance to eligible Albertans with…

Minimum Wage

Is British Columbia’s Minimum Wage Changing In 2025? Here’s What You Need To Know

Is A Minimum Wage Hike Expected In 2025? British Columbia’s minimum wage has been increasing steadily over the past few years, and many workers and business owners are wondering if another change is coming in 2025. With the cost of living continuing to rise, minimum wage adjustments are important in terms of fair pay for…

Manitoba

The Current Minimum Wage In Manitoba (2025)

Everything You Need To Know About Manitoba’s Minimum Wage We are currently in a time of high inflation, which has proven that minimum wage is certainly not liveable. The good news? Manitoba is looking to increase the minimum wage to help combat the consequences of inflation much like other provinces. As of March 2025,  Manitoba’s…

Alberta Minimum Wage

Alberta’s Minimum Wage In 2025

So far in 2025, Alberta’s minimum wage remains at $15.00 per hour, a rate in place since 2018. For students under 18, a lower wage of $13.00 per hour applies for the first 28 hours per week during the school term, with regular rates applying beyond that limit. While some provinces adjust their minimum wage…

ODSP

ODSP Payment Dates For 2025

It’s important to keep track of payment dates throughout the year, especially if you’re on ODSP, which stands for the Ontario Disability Support Program. Essentially, ODSP is financial assistance for those who cannot work because of their disability. This way, you can stay on top of your expenses without falling behind.  In 2025, ODSP payments…

Take Home Pay

What Is Take-Home Pay? Understanding Your Real Income Before Taking Out a Loan

When you’re thinking about taking out a loan, it’s easy to focus on the big numbers, like how much you’re approved for, what the monthly payments will be, and how long it’ll take to pay it back. But before you commit to anything, there’s one number you need to get really clear on: your take-home pay….

Credit Memo

What Is a Credit Memo from CIBC? Understanding Unexpected Account Credits

If you’ve ever checked your CIBC bank account or credit card statement and noticed a transaction labeled “Credit Memo,” you might have wondered what it means. Understanding financial terms can be difficult, so let’s dig into the details. What is a credit memo from CIBC? The short answer is that a credit memo is a refund, adjustment, or correction…

RIT Payment

What Is Canada RIT? Understanding Your Refund and How It Affects Your Finances

If you’ve ever checked your bank account and noticed a deposit labeled Canada RIT, you might have wondered what it is. The short answer? Canada RIT (Refund Income Tax) is a direct deposit from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), and it means you’re getting a tax refund.  However, there’s more to it than just free money showing…

SIN

What Is a SIN Number in Canada? Why It Matters for Your Finances and Loans

If you live or work in Canada, your Social Insurance Number (SIN) is one of the most important pieces of identification you have. It’s more than just a random set of digits; it’s the key to accessing government benefits, paying taxes, and even applying for loans. But what exactly is a SIN, and why does it matter…

Credit Cards

How to Cancel a CIBC Credit Card: A Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you’re switching to a better rewards program, reducing your credit cards, or just closing an account you no longer need, canceling a CIBC credit card is a straightforward process. However, there are a few things you should know before you do it.  Canceling a credit card the right way can help protect your credit score and…

Carbon Tax

Understanding Carbon Tax Rebate Dates for 2025: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction to Carbon Tax Rebate As climate change continues to be one of the most pressing issues confronting our planet, various countries have implemented strategies to mitigate its effects. In Canada, the government has adopted the carbon tax system as a primary measure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Central to this system is the climate…

00 Loan

How to Secure a $3,000 Loan in Canada: Your Complete Guide

Navigating the Path to a $3,000 Loan in Canada Whether you need a quick financial boost for an emergency, home repairs, or unexpected expenses, securing a $3,000 loan in Canada can be a straightforward process when you know where to look. Understanding your options, from traditional banks to alternative lenders, can make the process smoother…

E-Transfer

Why Is My E-Transfer Taking So Long? Understanding Delays and How to Fix Them

The Frustration of Delayed E-Transfers In today’s digital age, e-transfers have become a go-to method for quick and seamless money transactions. However, there are instances when your transfer seems to take an eternity. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why is my e-transfer taking so long?” you are not alone. While e-transfers are typically processed within…

Afterpay

The Impact of Afterpay: Understanding Its Effect on Your Credit Score

In recent years, buy now, pay later services like Afterpay have gained immense popularity. These services allow consumers to split their purchases into manageable installment payments. However, potential users often find themselves asking an important question: Does Afterpay affect credit score? This blog post aims to shed light on this query, alongside important considerations that…

Ontario Works

Ontario Works Payment Dates For 2025

A Guide To Ontario Works And Payment Dates For The Year 2025 If you are one of the thousands of Ontarians relying on Ontario Works to support yourself, staying updated on payment dates is crucial for planning your monthly expenses. Ontario Works provides essential assistance for individuals and families who are struggling with financial challenges,…

Credit Score

The Average Credit Score Across Canada

How Credit Scores Vary Across Provinces and What They Mean Credit scores are an essential part of personal finance, and can influence everything from loan approvals to your interest rates. In Canada, your credit score is 3 digits, which helps lenders see your financial health and responsibility. But what does the average credit score look…

dimes in a roll

How Many Dimes Are In A Roll?

A Brief Guide To How Many Dimes You Can Get Into A Single Roll If you’ve ever wondered about the specifics of rolling dimes, you’re not alone. Dimes are the smallest of all the Canadian coins and they’re worth $0.10. Counting them is very simple, especially when they are rolled. For dimes, each roll contains…

Canada Pro Deposits

Canada PRO Deposit Dates For 2025

Your Complete Guide to Canada PRO Deposit Dates for 2025 If you’re here, you may be wondering what Canada PRO payments are. Well, they are payments issued for programs such as the Ontario Trillium Benefit (OTB) and the Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB). These deposits are there to provide essential financial support to help…

student loans

How To Receive Student Loan Forgiveness In Canada

Everything You Need To Know About Student Loan Forgiveness In Canada Student loan forgiveness is a fantastic tool that is meant to relieve the struggles of students and provide a chance to reset their financial future. A lot of Canada’s loan forgiveness programs are targeted at specific professions, such as healthcare workers, teachers, and those…

cheque

The Key Differences Between Bank Drafts Vs Certified Cheques

Understanding the Key Differences Between Bank Drafts and Certified Cheques Believe it or not, there is a difference between bank drafts and certified cheques. They’re both popular options, often used for large transactions or when a guarantee of funds is required. While they serve similar purposes, the two have some key differences. If you need…

nickel rolls

How Many Nickels Are In A Roll?

A Brief Guide To How Many Nickels You Can Get Into A Single Roll Have you ever wondered how many nickels are in a roll? It might seem like such a small detail, but it’s surprisingly handy to know; especially if you’re organizing loose change, prepping for a trip to the bank, or managing your…

A Credit Score Break Down: What Your Credit Score Really Means

A Break Down Of Your Credit Score And What It Means In Canada Your credit score range in Canada is critical to your financial life, yet many people don’t fully understand what it represents. Essentially, a credit score is a three-digit number, typically ranging from 300 to 900, that reflects your creditworthiness. Lenders, landlords, and…