Mark Simone

Today, more Canadians than ever are interested in making choices that positively impact their community and making purchasing decisions that benefit the planet. As you evaluate how you shop, there are countless opportunities to start incorporating eco-friendly shopping habits into your everyday life that can benefit the environment and your wallet. What is sustainable shopping?Sustainable …

How to Guide for Shopping Sustainably and Saving Money Read More »

As the age-old saying goes, ‘tis better to give than to receive, and giving back– big or small -can make a real difference to those in your community. While contributing to your community is a worthwhile endeavor, it can be a source of great financial stress without proper financial planning. The good news is, there …

Contributing to Causes Without Breaking The Bank Read More »

Credit scores are like bones in our body: we often don’t realize how important they are until we injure them. However, unlike a broken bone, by adopting sound financial habits, you can heal your poor credit score without too much discomfort. Whether you are applying for your first credit card, purchasing your first car, or …

Credit History 101: Your Credit History and Why It Matters Read More »

For many young Canadians who attended college or university, the years spent on campus are some of the best memories of their lives. Now while you may look back on your college days with fondness, what is a less appealing reality is the student debt that follows you well after graduation. According to a 2020-2021 …

How to Eliminate Your Student Debt Read More »

  With inflated prices of everyday goods and services dominating the lives of Canadians, many are left wondering if they’ll ever be able to afford a vacation, save up for their first home, or meet the rising costs of day-to-day living. If you are feeling the financial pinch yourself, you might be thinking, how can …

How to Budget Like a Boss Read More »

Income tax season has wrapped up, and tax returns are being issued left, right and centre. Seeing extra money in your bank account may make your eyes light up, and Canadians expecting a refund might already be pondering how they plan to put that “dough” to use once it hits their accounts. Spoiler alert: spending …

Four Best Ways to Use Your Tax Return This Year Read More »

With spring in full bloom and warmer temperatures on the horizon, May marks the end of another tax season. While getting a tax refund can be a delightful bonus for your household budget, an unexpected tax bill can be unwelcome news. Owing money to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) might feel daunting, but ignoring your …

Owe taxes? How to Manage Your Tax Repayment Plan Read More »

Looking to plan a wedding on a budget? While it can be a daunting task, with a little bit of research and ingenuity, it’s absolutely possible to have a stunning celebration without breaking the bank. Here are some helpful tips to consider when planning your Canadian wedding on a budget. Begin with a clear budget …

A Guide to Frugal Wedding Planning Read More »

With natural disasters and the environmental impacts of pollution flooding news headlines more and more every year, ESG has quickly become a hot topic driving the conversation in our world today. From recycling and picking up litter to reducing carbon emissions, Canadians are more passionate about preserving the future of our planet than ever before …

How Credit Unions are Championing an Environmentally Sustainable Future Read More »

Tax season can be a stressful time for many Canadians, especially when it comes to protecting themselves from tax fraud. Fraudulent activity during tax season can result in identity theft, financial loss, and even legal consequences. To help keep yourself safe this tax season, below are four tips for fraud prevention.   Protect your personal …

4 Tips to Protect Yourself from Tax Fraud in 2023 Read More »

In the red and feeling overwhelmed? You are not alone. For many millennial Canadians, debt is just one of the many facets of their everyday life. From student loans to credit card bills and mortgage payments, millennials face greater financial strain than previous generations. In fact, millennials were reported to be 1.4 times more likely …

5 Ways to Manage Your Debt Problem in 2023 Read More »

A new year brings new possibilities, new experiences, and… a new tax season! For many Canadians, tax time can take a big bite out of their wallets every year. Plus, with inflation and the cost of living skyrocketing, Canadians could use a little extra cash in their pockets now more than ever. So, when you …

6 Tips to Maximize the Savings on Your Return this Tax Season Read More »

Settling into a new country can be an exciting journey, but also a stressful one. From learning a new culture and searching for a new job, to finding the best financial institution for your banking needs, starting a new chapter in a different country requires consistent effort and knowledge. Newcomers can find the Canadian banking …

How New Canadians Can Build Wealth Read More »

Imagine a world where true gender equality existed. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination that fosters a diverse, equitable, and inclusive world. A delightful concept, right? Well, for women in Canada and around the globe, that is the reality towards which they are striving towards. For centuries women have faced systemic social, political, …

International Women’s Day Feature: How Credit Unions Champion Gender Equality Read More »

Are you planning to move in with your partner or getting ready to walk down the aisle? No matter what phase you are in in your relationship, it’s important to have a holistic picture of your partner’s financial habits and to be able to have productive conversations about money. While discussing finances might not be …

Financial Intimacy: 3 Tips for Discussing Finances with Your Partner Read More »

Are your dollars not stretching as far at the grocery checkout or on public transit in 2023 as they once did? You’re not alone. From the rising cost of food and transportation to fluctuations in employment, Canadians are experiencing unprecedented tension in their everyday finances. With murmurs of a potential recession upon us, adopting the …

Top 6 ways to help you manage your finances in today’s world Read More »

When it comes to saving for your retirement, time is money. But the costly realities of life, such as therise of inflation, credit card debt, or having to juggle payments forthe mortgage of a new home or student loan, might have put your retirement savings plans on pause. Do you have plenty of contribution room …

RRSP Loan: How to Save for Retirement without the Money Read More »

The world is advancing at a rapid rate, from artificial intelligence (AI)and5G wireless networks to robotics and automation, new technologies are constantly being developed, leaving many Canadians to wonder about the staying power of their chosen career pathand if now is the time to make a switch. Don’t want to give up on your current …

Getting Ahead Of The Skills Gap: Future-Proof Careers Read More »

With the holiday season in the rearview and a new year in full swing, a new school semester is upon us. Time to trade skiing on the slopes or watching Netflix in bed for class lectures and assignments! From attending a new set of courses to cultivating new friendships and strengthening old ones, a new …

New Year, New Semester: 5 ways to keep your student budget on track Read More »