Articles About Personal Finance

What is an Installment Loan?

An installment loan is a type of loan where you borrow a fixed amount of money and repay it, along with interest, over a specified period. The interest rate is determined based on your creditworthiness. Installment loans provide predictability with fixed monthly payments until the loan is fully repaid. These loans can be secured, with collateral like a car, or unsecured, relying on your creditworthiness. Borrowers are advised to borrow only what they need, calculate affordability, and compare loan terms to make informed borrowing decisions.

AimFinance aims for installment loans in 3 new provinces in 2024

AimFinance, a digital installment lender, is set to expand its loan offerings to borrowers outside of Ontario in 2024, aiming to enter Alberta, British Columbia, and Quebec. The company provides installment loans ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, primarily serving the “underbanked or unbanked” market segment.

The Bank of Canada Has Been On a Rate-Hiking Tear. Is That About to Change?

The Bank of Canada, once focused on raising interest rates, may now be considering a pause due to changing economic conditions. In response to high inflation, the central bank had aggressively increased rates in 2022, but the economy has shown signs of deceleration. If the economy continues to weaken, the Bank of Canada could reverse its rate-hiking strategy and lower interest rates in early 2024. This potential shift could impact various financial aspects, including mortgage rates and savings account returns, making it important for individuals to stay informed about the changing economic landscape.

Greener Homes Grants: making the most of new home energy retrofit programs

Canadian homeowners can access government programs for greener home retrofits, including interest-free loans of up to $40,000 over ten years (Canada Greener Homes Loan), grants of up to $5,000 (Canada Greener Homes Grant), and a 25% mortgage insurance premium reduction (CMHC Eco Plus). These retrofits help improve energy efficiency and can lead to significant long-term savings, with potential reductions of up to 78% in energy costs over ten years, making them a wise investment amid rising energy prices.

What Is Line 10100 (Or 101) On Your Tax Return?

A fundamental section of your tax return to complete accurately is Line 10100 (formerly specified as 101), which deals with your employment income. Let’s take a look at the details to help you navigate your way around the form.

Top 7 Paid Surveys Sites in Canada

We’ll let you know about the top 7 paid survey sites for Canadians. These have been vetted as legitimate, well-established paid survey sites. They all have different incentives that can include cash, gift cards, a point system, sweepstakes, and free products.

How to Spot and Avoid E-Transfer Scams

One of the main ways you can be scammed is through e-Transfers. Unfortunately, there are many ways that you can be scammed if you’re not cautious. We’ll let you know what to look out for and how to prevent scams from happening to you.

When can I file my taxes in 2023

The tax season runs from March through to the end of April. If you owe, you need to pay by the end of April so it’s always good to prepare before March and then hand it in as soon as possible. The deadline can vary depending on a few things. It’s important to understand when exactly you need to file your taxes as you don’t want any late fees like interest.

The 30 Cheapest Places to Live in Canada for 2023

If you’re currently living in one of the areas in Canada that are inflated, you may want to consider looking for a new place. There are plenty of affordable towns and cities in Canada to get in on owning a home. There are some mortgages you may not currently be able to access because you don’t qualify. If you have the freedom to move, you may want to consider it. There are a lot of Canadians that are working remotely now. If you don’t need to live in one of the expensive cities like Vancouver or Toronto, it’s a great opportunity to explore this incredible country.

The Dividend Tax Rate in Canada: What You Need to Know Now

If you live in Canada and are an investor, you can benefit from the dividend tax rate. Why is this exactly? A dividend stock in Canada will share the tax burden with the company you’re investing in. If the company performs well financially because of the money you invested, you get to keep the stock and any future dividend returns. Not only that but you pay less tax on dividend income.

Best Bank for Students in Canada

When you’re going through college, you want to save every penny you can. Having a bank account that doesn’t have huge costs attached to it is one of the perks of being a student. The bank knows that someday, you’ll be potentially looking for loans because you’re making good money. So low-cost bank accounts for students are to their benefit. Here are competitive offers that might make your life easier while you’re focused on your studies.

Highest Paying Jobs in Canada for 2023, by province breakdown

Currently, the Canadian job market is flourishing and can be lucrative if you’ve chosen a good career. In fact, most of the jobs on our list pay over $300,000 per year. Having a high-paying job gives you a lot of benefits like paying less on personal loans when you’re looking to invest some of that money you’re making. We’ve created this list so you can identify what the highest paying jobs so you can see if they’re viable for you. Bringing in as much money during your earning years will allow you to plan your future.

Prime Rates Canada and Their History

It’s expected that the Bank of Canada’s target overnight rate will reach at least 2.00% by the end of 2022. As a result, Canadian bank prime rates will likely be at least 4.20% by the end of the year. Looking back at the decades before now, there have certainly been some higher interest rates based on economic problems. History shows us that things are ever changing and what we’re experiencing now with Prime rates isn’t permanent. Learn more!

Can you add your child to your credit card in Canada?

Find out if there’s an age requirement for children to use a parent’s credit card.

What is inflation and what does it mean for the average Canadian?

With inflation near a 40 year high in Canada, I’m sure you’ve felt the pain when you went to the grocery store or filled up your car like a lot of Canadians. Let’s look at what inflation is and what it means for the average Canadian.

What is a recession and what does it mean for the average Canadian?

We often hear that a recession is coming. You may be wondering, why do we worry about recessions so much? Let’s gain a better understanding of recessions by looking at what a recession is and what does it mean for the average Canadian.

US Investment Property Financing for Canadians

Better still, so far as the US government is concerned, there are no restrictions for Canadian citizens wanting to purchase real estate in America. With that in mind, here’s what you should know about buying and financing an investment property in the US.

Is There a Minimum Credit Score for Renting an Apartment in Canada in 2022?

Most landlords and rental companies check the credit scores of potential tenants as part of their application process. But is there a minimum credit score requirement for renting an apartment in Canada? Here’s what you need to know about credit scores and renting in 2022.

Best Robo Advisors in Canada: Reviewing the Benefits of Using a Hybrid Approach

You can find some of the best robo advisors in Canada, as Canadians like to use today’s technology to stay ahead with their investments. So, from which companies should you seek guidance? Let’s review three of the best robo advisors – companies that offer a hybrid model when investing.

Foreign Exchange Fees in Canada

If you are ready to learn more about these exchange fees, then read on to find out even more. You can benefit from knowing these fees, but also be able to stay away from anywhere that the fees might be higher than you’d like to play.

Canada Savings Bonds Explained

Savings bonds are a popular choice to go with for those who want to gift someone with a financial gain that grows with time. For decades this used to be one of the easiest ways to grow some of your cash and cash out later when it matures. However, since 2017; savings bonds have really died down. Find out even more about these Canada Savings Bonds, what they are, why they are now gone, and how you might be able to cash yours in if you’re still holding onto them.

What Does It Cost to Raise a Child in Canada?

The cost of parenting is expensive. While Canadians can take advantage of parental incentives, such as maternity leave and parental leave, they also get a shock when they start spending money on formula, diapers, baby gear, and accessories. Moreover, the costs climb over time, with the major expenses assumed when a child is 15 to 17 years old. The following information will give you more details about the costs assumed by Canadians who raise children in Canada.

How to Get Money from the Canadian Government

While getting free money sounds a bit scammy, the money from the Canadian government takes away the stigma. Both federal and provincial governments offer cash incentives, whether you need money for education or for upgrading the energy efficiency in your home. Unclaimed money also awaits taxpayers who do not know they have the funds available. You just need to know where to look. Here are some of the top ways you can receive government money.

What is my RRSP deduction limit?

RRSP’s allow you to have more money for retirement and pay less money on taxes for the amount. The amount you send to the RRSP can be deducted from your taxable income each year and the amounts are not taxed until you withdraw the money. Learn more about the deduction limits to make the wisest decisions on how to use your own Savings Plans.

Tips for Better Credit Success

Find out more about your credit history and score right here, along with the tips and tricks that you can use to boost your credit score overall. You can even regularly check your credit to make sure it is in the best shape with help from the many apps that you can download to keep track of your score and the history behind it.