Credit Card Companies Love Students

I remember the first time I used my credit card to order pizza. All I had to do was give the guy my credit card number and magically pizza showed up at my house. As a student, I didn’t really have to apply for the credit card. The card was basically given to me and…
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Understanding Your Credit Report

Many Canadians request a free copy of their credit report through Equifax or Transunion, but once they receive their report, they have a hard time reading it. If you’re not used to reading credit reports, they can definitely be difficult to understand. Here are some points to remember when reading your credit report: Included Information…
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The Truth About Debt Consultants

Are you one of the many unlucky Canadians who have received phone calls from creditors promising to settle your debts? Or have you been intrigued by the TV and radio advertisements claiming a government program will reduce your debts if you call NOW? These ads and phone calls are from debt consultants (or telemarketers working…
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Financing To Avoid Personal Debt

Yes, I know it’s a little early to start talking about the holidays, but it’s never too early to address the financial stress that the holidays cause. The major source of stress for people struggling with financial issues during the holidays is trying to figure out how to afford gifts for loved ones.  When money is…
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Consumer Proposal vs. Bankruptcy

Why is it a good idea to consider making a consumer proposal if you have previously filed personal bankruptcy? Filing a consumer proposal is not bankruptcy. Therefore by filing a consumer proposal, someone that has been bankrupt previously can avoid a second personal bankruptcy filing. This is important because the personal bankruptcy process for a…
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Options For Dealing With Your Personal Debt

When it comes to dealing with personal debt, there are three choices: digging out of debt on your own (which may include credit counselling); making a consumer proposal; or filing personal bankruptcy. Deciding which option is right for you and your family depends on your personal situation. It is important to explore all of your options and…
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Opening January 1, 2015 – Our new Hamilton office!

Effective January 1, 2015 Welker & Associates will be opening a new location in Hamilton, Ontario. Although we won’t “officially” be open until January 1, if you would like to book an appointment before then, we will be happy to meet with you.  We will be using space at the Financial Wellness Centre located at 236 Pritchard Road,…
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Opening January 1, 2015 – Our new Windsor office!

Effective January 1, 2015 Welker & Associates will be opening a new location in Windsor, Ontario. Although we won’t “officially” be open until January 1, if you would like to book an appointment before then, we will be happy to meet with you.  We will be using space at 720 Ouellette Avenue, Windsor, Ontario. We look forward to being able…
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Ripped off by a Debt Settlement Company?

I’ve met many people who feel they have been ripped off by debt settlement companies in Canada. Unfortunately, it’s almost impossible for the average consumer to discern who they can trust. If you are one of the thousands of Canadians who feel they’ve been ripped off by a debt settlement company, you should consider taking…
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E-Filing Tax Returns After Filing Personal Bankruptcy

Many people who have filed personal bankruptcy in the past have difficulty e-filing their income tax return even after being discharged. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) does not allow individuals who have filed personal bankruptcy to e-file their income tax returns until the trustee has been discharged. There are two discharges associated with personal bankruptcy filing…
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