Holiday Season and Payday Loans

I know that for some people, Christmas isn’t even on the horizon, but for others, the credit cards are already out and the spending has begun. It’s a financially daunting time of year for many people, but the idea of having lots of presents under the tree is important to some people as well. With…
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Balancing Finances As New Parents

Having a baby is exciting. As a new parent, you have read all the books and prepared yourself for every waking moment with your new addition. One thing the baby books might forget to mention is your finances. After all, one parent typically takes maternity leave, which means your household income could drop. If that…
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Why you shouldn’t pay only the monthly minimum on credit cards

When credit cards are used properly, they can be great. They provide a great deal of comfort to consumers who would otherwise struggle with paying medium to large sums of money upfront for their purchases. Using a credit card delays the actual payment with the idea of a temporary loan from your financial institutions and…
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When Should You Seek Debt Relief?

The average interest rate on credit cards is approximately 20%. For example, if one owes $20,000.00 on credit cards, the approximate annual interest is $4,000.00. This individual will pay about $333.33 in interest every month of the year. You have less money to pay your living expenses or for savings and you have not reduced…
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Debt Management and your Bank

The first step to getting a fresh start is taking control of your personal finances. That is why I recommend opening a new bank account at a new bank if you owe money to the bank that you currently do you banking at. There is nothing worse than having your bank freeze your account, taking money…
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Financial Difficulties and your Family

Debt and other financial difficulties can take a significant toll on your personal well-being. However, if you have a family, that toll only becomes heavier. You worry about providing for your family members, and you worry about their happiness. They will notice your stress, and they will notice that you do fewer activities and give…
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Managing Credit Card Debt

If you carry around a credit card or two, like most Canadians, it’s not necessarily a problem. Credit cards offer convenience and flexibility, and used correctly, can help you build a good credit rating as well. Unfortunately though, not everyone is in the black with their credit card statements. If you are someone who carries a…
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5 Things to Do With Your Tax Refund

With tax season here, many people are eager to file their tax returns for only one reason: the possibility of a tax refund. How wonderful it would be to see unexpected money arrive. Pondering how to use the refund? There is no right or wrong way to use the money but getting your priorities straight…
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Don’t worry about your child going into debt at university!

It’s the time of year where students leave their home to embark on post-secondary education. There are a lot of things parents worry about when their children leave their home, but finances doesn’t have to be one of them. Sure, all of a sudden they have more financial responsibility and often times struggle with budgeting. And, when they walk around…
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I lost my job. Now what?

After losing your job, it’s important to remember that it can happen to anyone. No one is immune to job insecurity. I know that doesn’t make the situation less stressful, but it I just wanted to remind you that you are not alone.  Fortunately, there are plenty of resources to help you cope mentally and financially when…
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