Learn how to set SMART financial goals to help achieve your objectives, whether it’s to pay off credit card debt, save for retirement, or another money goal.
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The Pros & Cons of Budgeting Apps for Canadians
Budgeting apps can be a great tool to help manage your spending, but they don’t work for everyone. Here are some pros and cons to consider before downloading.
Dispute a Credit Card Charge in Canada & Get a Chargeback
Disputing incorrect credit card charges helps protect your hard-earned cash. Learning how chargebacks work now could save money and frustration later on.
Why Your Credit Score Isn’t Worth Obsessing Over
Building a good credit history is important for using tools like credit cards and mortgages. However, your credit score isn’t worth obsessing over. Here’s why.
Filing Taxes in Canada: Should You DIY or Hire a Pro?
Need to file your taxes soon? Here’s how to decide if you should do it yourself or hire a professional tax preparer, including key filing preparation tips.
16 Affordable & Fun Staycation Ideas for You and Your Wallet
Thinking about your next vacation at home or wondering if it’s a good option? Here are affordable staycation ideas that are fun and friendly for your wallet.
Keep Your Money Safe with These Personal Security Tips
It’s important to know how to guard your hard-earned money from scams and fraud as criminals get better at stealing. Here are 5 ways to help protect yourself.
Get Your Own Credit Reports for Free from Equifax & TransUnion
There’s often a lot of confusion over credit reports and scores. Here’s how you can get free reports from Equifax and TransUnion – and what to do with them.
Is Fear Holding You Back from Consolidating Your Debt?
It can be hard to take the first step when dealing with a problem and debt consolidation is no different. Here’s how to prepare. Don’t let fear hold you back.
What to Know Before Using a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
Is a home equity loan or line of credit right for you? Learn how to use a credit line and not get into debt. If you need help getting out of debt, 1-888-527-8999
Why Your First Checkup of 2021 Should Be a Financial Health Assessment
Getting the right checkups is important to staying healthy every year. Here’s why your first checkup of 2021 should be to assess your financial situation.
4 Common Debt Consolidation Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
While debt consolidation might be your best option when you’re struggling with multiple debts and want a fresh start, here are 4 common mistakes to avoid.
13 Hidden Ways to Save Money on Groceries
Did you know that Canadian families can spend over $1000 a month on groceries? Stretch your grocery budget money further with these 13 hidden ways to save.
Top 10 Budgeting Tips to Start Using for Financial Literacy Month
In celebration of the 10th anniversary of Financial Literacy Month in Canada, here are 10 top budgeting tips to help you manage your money and debt better.
Will Declaring Bankruptcy Solve My Debt Problems?
When it feels like your debts are out of control, you might wonder if bankruptcy will solve your problems. It’s a big step and thankfully there are options to explore first.
Get Debt Relief from Your Mortgage, How to Avoid Foreclosure, Canada
Learn things you can do that will help you to avoid foreclosure and manage your situation better in Canada.
2 Bills to Watch Out for After Receiving CERB and Payment Deferrals
The CERB and payment deferrals have costs that Canadians might not expect or be prepared for. Here are 2 bills to watch out for and how to be ready for them.
Five Reasons to Avoid Instant Payday Loans
Emergencies can happen anytime and when you’re not prepared financially, you might be tempted to take out a payday loan. Here’s why not to & what to do instead.
Best Location for a Debt Consolidation Loan in Ontario
Here is a quick guide ranking the best debt consolidation options in the order we would suggest you look at them, plus pros and cons you’ll want to know.
Joint Debt Problems: How to Deal With and Avoid Joint Debts
Joint debts usually happen with the best of intentions. But when things go wrong, they can go really wrong for both people. Here are some tips to help.
Can You File for Bankruptcy and Keep Your House?
If your home equity is above the provincial exemption maximum, you can either sell your home or ‘buy back’ the amount above the exemption.
How to Avoid Debt Settlement & Debt Relief Company Scams | Canada
How to choose a good debt relief agency? Learn who is eligible and when it’s the best option for dealing with your debt.
How to Deal with a Debt Collection Agency Call or Letter
Learn how to communicate effectively with a debt collector or debt collection agency. We can help you in dealing with your deb, contact us today!
Should Working, Adult Children Who Live at Home Pay Rent?
4 points to consider when deciding if and how you should charge your adult children rent. Budgeting and saving tips.
How to Fix a Bad Credit Score
Wondering how to improve your credit score? Learn how you can resolve four common problems affecting Canadians.
7 Things That Are Not On Your Credit Report
When and how to use credit responsibly and avoid debt traps. Find out what is and isn’t on your credit report.
How Does Debt & Credit Card Settlement Affect Your Credit Score?
Learn who is eligible and when it’s the best option for dealing with your debt. Credit Counselling Society.
Should I Save for My Future or Pay Off My Student Loans?
Learn how to balance between getting out of debt but also setting money aside for later. When you’re ready to tackle your debt, we’ll help you.
Never Pay High Rates at Cheque Cashing Centres Again! Free Alternatives to Get Your Cash, Fast
Never pay high rates at cheque cashing centres Again! Here are alternatives to cash your cheques and get your money for free!
How to Get Out of Debt with Bad Credit | Help in Canada
Learn more about debt consolidation and how to simplify your situation by grouping your debts together to make one payment.
How to Pay Off Debt and Bills Quickly in Canada
Two key parts of money management to help you achieve financial success. Tips and things to keep in mind to help you achieve your goals as fast as possible.
Great Ways to Conserve Electricity and Save Money at Home
10 few simple changes to your daily habits to significantly reduce your home electricity usage, lower your electric bill and save money.
How to Stop Collection Calls and Creditor Harassment
Learn 4 helpful steps to stop collection calls and creditor harassment you can do on your own without even having to involve a Canadian debtors association.
How To Pay Off Credit Cards as Quickly as Possible
The Best Way to Pay Off Credit Card Debt. Learn two credit card payoff strategies to help pay off debt as quickly as possible.
I Need Financial Help Right Now – Immediately | Canada
Learn how to improve your money smarts with small changes that lead to big gains. Bring your financial situation under control.
How to Stop Collection Calls and Effectively Deal with Collection Agencies in Canada
Learn how to stop collection calls and understand the debt collection laws. Get help to overcome your debt.
How Credit Card Cash Advances Work & What to Do Instead
Learn what is a credit card cash advance and why it should be a last resort option. Find out what to do instead of using cash advances.
Is Bankruptcy My Best Option? 6 Instances When Declaring Bankruptcy in Canada May Not Be Right For You
Bankruptcy might not be the best option for you. Explore six instances when alternatives to bankruptcy may be a better option.
So Much to Lose if You Don’t File Taxes – File & Benefit Your Budget
Learn why you should file your taxes, the federal benefits tied to personal income tax returns and penalties for filing late. Call for help 1-888-527-8999.
Should I Pay Off Debt or Save Money?
Getting out of debt is a common New Year’s resolution, but wanting to save is just as common. These points will help you decide what to do with your money.
Can I Keep My Car If I File for Bankruptcy?
What happens to your car if you file for bankruptcy? It depends on whether you have a car loan or if you own the car outright.
Help, I’m Being Sued! What To Do When You Receive a Notice of Claim for a Debt
Here are 3 steps you should take if you’re being sued by a creditor and you received a Notice of Claim. If you’re still unsure about what to do once you receive a Notice of Claim, call us for help!
7 Bankruptcy Myths in Canada
Discover the 7 most common bankruptcy myths. Know what to expect when considering whether to declare bankruptcy.
Top 5 Reasons People are Declined for Debt Consolidation Loans
Debt consolidation loans are often seen as a way to solve their debt problems. But getting a debt consolidation loan isn’t as easy as many people think.
5 Steps to Rebuilding Credit in Canada
Has your credit score taken a hit recently? Discover 5 steps Canadians can take to improve your credit score.
How to Get Out of Debt in 2021
Struggling with Debt? Learn how you can pay down debt quickly and effectively with these twelve proven tips.
How to Pay Debt Off With No Money
Are you wondering how to pay off debt with no money? Maybe you’re living pay cheque to pay cheque. Here’s what you can do to get back on track and climb out of debt.
Is Downsizing Your Home When You’re in Debt Worth It?
Will downsizing your home solve your debt problem, or cost more than it saves? Figure out why you’re in debt before shopping for a smaller home. Here’s how.
Starting a Side Hustle? Make These Reality Checks First
Side hustles are a popular way to make extra income, but they can do more harm than good. Here are 4 reality checks to make before you start one.
3 Tips for Solving Money and Family Budget Arguments
Arguing with loved ones about money problems that are hurting your relationships? Here are 3 tips to help you solve and avoid family budget disagreements.
Keep Home Renovation Costs from Breaking Your Budget
Home renovation costs can be hard for anyone’s budget. Proper planning and preparation are key. Here are some tips to remodel without breaking the bank.
How Do I Help Family or Friends in Financial Trouble?
Loaning money isn’t the only way to help a family member or friend in financial trouble. Here are 3 ways to support them in their time of need.
Choose the Right Debt Consolidation Plan for You
Debt consolidation comes in different forms and there are benefits as well as drawbacks to each option. Consider these key points when choosing what’s best for you.
7 Debt Repayment Mistakes That Are Keeping You In the Red
Does it feel like no matter how hard you work at eliminating your debts, you just can’t seem to get the upper hand? Carrying debt is a common narrative for Canadians across the country. Here’s a look at 7 common debt repayment mistakes that are stopping you from becoming debt-free.
When Your Income Suddenly Drops, Make an Emergency Budget
Financial emergencies like job loss and illness can make it hard to keep the same spending as before. Here’s how you can costs for an emergency budget.
Pros & Cons of 5 Top Programs & Strategies to Pay Off Debt
Do you ever wonder about the top strategies to pay off debt? The path to being debt-free requires dedication, persistence – and most importantly careful planning and strategizing to fit with all of life’s circumstances. When you have credit card debt on multiple accounts and owe many creditors, these debts won’t magically go away.
How to Lower Fixed Expenses on Your Budget When You’re Paying Off Debt
Setting a budget and trimming down monthly expenses are key priorities for anyone working on paying off debt. While there’s so much emphasis out there on cutting back your discretionary spending to free up cash to apply to debt repayments, how often are you looking at making changes to your fixed expenses too?
How to Stop Relying on Your Credit Cards to Make Ends Meet
Credit cards come with steep interest rates, will add up to a mountain of debt if not managed carefully, and can set you up for a lot of stress when an unexpected emergency hits. Instead of being a slave to your credit cards to make ends meet, here’s how to switch over to better money management strategies to get a handle on your money and debt.
Dealing with Debts as a Homeowner or Renter During COVID-19
Owning or renting a home can be a pricey undertaking. How do you manage these costs when you’re also struggling with debt and the economic uncertainty of a pandemic?
Your Finances During the Coronavirus Outbreak, Is Your Emergency Budget Prepared?
Is your budget prepared for the potential economic impact of a pandemic illness? As the rates of the coronavirus (also known as COVID-19) continue to spread around the world, school and business closures as well as social distancing and isolation measures are becoming more widespread.
Steps for Effective Personal Finance Management and Planning
For some people, personal finance management is a passionate hobby, while for others it’s a daunting chore. Either way, personal financial planning – including budgeting, tracking your spending, and saving – is crucial if you want to get out of debt and reach your financial goals.
How to Avoid or Deal with an Unexpected Financial Crisis
Sometimes catastrophe strikes and we end up in a financial crisis. From natural disasters, large-scale pay system errors, illnesses, or sweeping layoffs, Canadians can face major financial emergencies, leaving them suddenly without steady pay or on the hook for significant expenses.
How a No Spend Challenge Can Help Pay Off Your Debts
If you’re looking to find the money to pay off debt quickly, or even jump start your savings fund, taking on a No Spend Challenge is a great tactic to curb your spending.
Almost Free from Credit Card Debt? 6 Things to Do to Stay Out of Debt
You’ve tackled your credit card debt, stayed committed to your debt repayment plan, and after years of dedication you’re nearly debt free. Now that you’re in the green, have you thought about what you’re doing to do with the extra cash you’ll no longer put towards debt repayments?
4 Common Financial Goals – How to Make Them SMART & Be Successful
Here are 4 of the most common financial goals we hear and what to do to make them SMART. A goal that is specific becomes measurable. Once it’s measurable, you can ensure it’s attainable and realistic.
How to Set and Achieve Smart New Year’s Resolutions
At the start of a New Year – and in this case, a new decade! – many people set New Year’s Resolutions. Although well intentioned, these goals fail weeks later. It’s often because these resolutions are far too generic and lack proper planning.
9 Things to Do for a Financially Successful 2020
As yet another year draws to a close and a new decade begins, it’s time to reflect on the past 12 months, how you’ve fared with paying off debt, managing your budget, and what you’d like to do with the year ahead.
How to Get Through Holiday Spending When You’re Tackling Debt Repayment
With the Christmas season comes shopping lists, holiday spending, dinner party meals, and other costly festivities. For Canadians grappling with credit card debt and debt repayment, it’s a tricky time of the year to keep finances in check.
Christmas Budgeting Tips
If you’re wondering how you’re going to pull off avoiding your credit card and adding to your debt during the holiday season, we’ve got your back. Here’s our list of practical ways you can steer clear of extra spending during the holiday season that covers different vantage points from economical, creative, and even personal.
Income & Expense Tool: The Simplest Way to Track Your Money
Looking for the simplest way to track your money? Our income & expense alternative budgeting tool will help you manage your finances with ease.
Free Bankruptcy Counselling & Alternatives that Work
If you’re curious about declaring bankruptcy and want to look into free bankruptcy counselling, there are many ways to fix your financial problems. A certified Credit Counsellor is a great way to get more information and consider alternatives to bankruptcy you might not know about.
5 Reasons Why Declaring Bankruptcy May Not Be Right for You
Despite it crossing your mind when you’re in financial trouble, filing bankruptcy may not be the right solution for you.
What Is the Bankruptcy Process in Canada?
What is the bankruptcy process in Canada and is it a viable solution for your debt problems? When you’re struggling to pay off your debts and you’re inundated with collection calls and letters, easing your money worries and debt-related stress is top of mind.
Financial Goals Feel Unrealistic? Here’s What to Do
Working towards your financial goals is a great, proactive move, but if goals are unrealistic, you could be setting yourself up for disappointment and veering off track.
Money Management Basics: Top Tips for How to Manage Your Money
From paying off debt to creating an emergency fund and getting savings in the bank, your financial fate hinges on key money management basics. Getting familiar with the fundamentals of how to manage money lays the groundwork to achieving your financial goals.
3 Strategies to Manage Money as a Couple with Debt or Income Disparity
Managing money as a couple can be tricky to sort out with two incomes and two financial situations merging. While you’re trying to manage money jointly, there could be major disparities in pay, previous debt loads and differences in budget and lifestyle expenses.
What Winter Storms Teach Us About Smart Money Management
The severe winter storms in both Canada and the States should cause us to think about our finances. Three smart money management tips gleaned from Old Man Winter include saving on heating costs, planning for emergencies, and preventing costly health and medical expenses.
Facing a Pay Cut or Reduced Income? Here’s What to Do Right Now
Facing a pay cut is scary, but there are steps you can take now to protect your money and finances. Here’s what to focus on when your income will be reduced.
Kick Start Your Debt Repayment with a Cash Only Diet
Personal finance experts swear by a cash-only diet to kick start challenging goals. It’s often recommended because it force you to do two important things…
How to Get Rid of Payday Loans with 5 Step Plan to Escape the Cycle
If you’re tired of always borrowing from payday loan companies, have multiple payday loans, and want to know how to get rid of payday loan debt, we’ll show you how in 5 practical steps…
How to Pay Off and Make Joint Debts Work
Joint debts are a major commitment and while you may be co-signing or even just acting as a guarantor, you’re agreeing to shoulder the responsibility and liability for the full loan…
Is the Rising Cost of Living Stressing You Out? Tips & Solutions
The rising cost of living is stressful. Living pay cheque to pay cheque can feel like a never-ending cycle of frugal choices & credit card debt. Look to cut costs with daily spending & expenses. Keep your eye on your future with tips & solutions for saving money.
Credit Reporting & Credit Ratings – 3 of the Worst Myths Debunked and Explained
Credit reporting and credit ratings are two of the most asked about personal finance topics, and here are 3 of the worst credit myths debunked and explained…
Convince a Landlord to Rent to You Even with Past Credit Problems
If you’ve had past credit problems and are afraid of a credit check, convince a landlord to rent to you by checking your own credit report first. Show how you’re resolving problems, create a solid budget, and follow these tips and best practices.
What You Should Know Before Consolidating Your Debt
Debt consolidation doesn’t come with a step-by-step manual to help you transition from being in debt to getting out of debt. Figuring out debt consolidation is one step in the right direction…
How to Spot Early Warning Signs of Financial Problems
It’s always surprising how so many people seem to be doing fine with their finances and then within a fairly short amount of time they encounter serious financial difficulties…
How to Read Your Credit Report and Understand Your Score
If you’re looking at a credit report for the first time it can be quite intimidating. Your credit report may be a single document but it holds a lot of power in your life…
Plan for Christmas and Beyond
Tis the season isn’t it? My husband and I have moved to Ontario from British Columbia and I feel as though the Christmas spirit has come a little early (likely because so has the cold weather)… Tis the season isn’t it? My husband and I have moved to Ontario from British Columbia and I feel as though the Christmas spirit has come a little early (likely because so has the cold weather) and thoughts are now turning to our plan for Christmas and the overall holiday season.
How to Rebuild and Improve Your Credit Score in Canada
Your credit score is your ticket to qualifying for a loan, securing a credit card or locking in a good interest rate on a mortgage. While your credit score is just a number…
What You Need to Know Before You Shop on Black Friday
Are you searching online for Black Friday deals? Or checking out Black Friday sale items in your local flyers? Whether you’re shopping in Canada or heading south across the border to shop in the United States, it can be so easy to get drawn into the hype of Black Friday 2017 or Cyber Monday 2017.
Seniors & Debt: A Growing Problem That We Can Help Fix | Credit Counselling Society
You are a senior or about to be? You are getting ready to head down the golden path of retirement? Nothing ahead of you, but relaxation, grandkids, and debt. Yes, debt…
7 Ways to Protect Yourself from Rising Interest Rates in Canada
Today the Bank of Canada raised the interest rate that all banks base their Prime rate on, and if this continues, what can you do to protect yourself from rising interest rates? Here are 7 ways…
The Dangers of Different Types of Consolidation Loans
While consolidation loans can be a wonderful thing, there are times when they can actually hurt your financial situation and keep you from getting ahead.
What to Do If You Need Help with Your Personal Finances
When life presents us with challenges, we think “We can handle it.” And sometimes we wonder, “Maybe I need help immediately.” This is no different for our personal finances…
How to Make a Personal Expense Tracker Work for You
Tips and suggestions to help you find a personal expense tracker that will work best for you.
How Do You Pay Off A Credit Card?
We are often asked ‘How do you pay off a credit card?’ The majority of Canadians have multiple credit cards, and for a lot of people, it seems like their balances continue to grow larger and larger. While you may faithfully make your minimum payments every month, it may seem like you’re hardly making a dent in your balances.
Getting Debt Help & Using a Debt Ratio/Debt-to-Equity Ratio Calculator
When you need debt help, can your debt & debt-to-equity ratios help you calculate a plan to pay off what you owe? Let us help you make a plan. 1-888-527-8999
NoMoreDebt.org vs NoMoreDebts.org – What is the Difference?
NoMoreDebt.org vs NoMoreDebts.org? NoMoreDebts.org – official website of Credit Counselling Society. Free, confidential, credit & debt help. 1-888-527-8999
How to Reduce Debt – Power Tips, Ways, & Methods
If you’re wondering how to reduce your debt as fast as possible, we’ll show you the best ways to reduce debt, pay off credit card debt quickly and strategies and tips that really work…
Not sure which option is right for you?
Get answers from an expert.
With so many debt consolidation options out there, it can feel overwhelming to try and find the right one by yourself. One of our professional credit counsellors would be happy to guide you through this process by carefully reviewing your whole financial situation with you and answering any questions you have. Speaking with our certified counsellors is always free, confidential and without obligation.