What is the COLA for 2025 in Ontario?

Every December, the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) begins sending annual indexing letters to benefit recipients. These letters provide details on cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) for the upcoming year. Starting January 1, 2025, WSIB benefits will increase by 2.6%, fully indexed to the Consumer Price Index (CPI). What Does the 2.6% Adjustment Mean for You? Continue reading

Is Ontario Works Benefits Going to Increase?

As of July 2024, Ontario Works (OW) recipients continue to face stagnant rates, with no increase or inflation-based adjustment for the sixth consecutive year. This lack of change, combined with rising costs of living due to inflation, effectively reduces the purchasing power of OW recipients. Single individuals on OW still receive only $733 per month—an Continue reading

How Much Should You Have Saved by Age 40?

So, you’re in your 30s and feeling pretty good about life. Maybe you’ve earned a promotion or purchased your first home. But amid the wins, financial challenges like daycare fees, mortgage payments, student loans, and the rising cost of living might leave you feeling financially stretched. Add to that the social media envy from seeing Continue reading

Budget-Friendly Travel Destinations for Canadians in 2025

With many Canadians struggling to make ends meet, booking a flight might seem like an unattainable luxury. However, thanks to certain destinations offering lower travel costs, you might still be able to treat yourself to a well-deserved vacation. According to Skyscanner’s Travel Trends 2025 Report, there are several wallet-friendly travel spots that combine affordability with Continue reading

12 Social Welfare Changes in Ireland for 2025 You Need to Know

Ireland is ushering in a new wave of social welfare, tax, and cost-of-living reforms in 2025 as part of Budget 2025. These changes, set to take effect from January 1, 2025, aim to address rising costs, support low-income families, and incentivize energy efficiency. From enhanced child benefits to reduced taxes, these updates will impact thousands Continue reading

Urgent Cheese Recall Alert: Listeria Concerns Prompt Action from Irish Supermarkets

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has issued an urgent recall of several cheese products due to fears of contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a potentially life-threatening bacterium. These cheeses, produced by Wicklow Farmhouse and sold across major Irish supermarkets including Dunnes Stores, SuperValu, Aldi, and Spar, pose a significant health risk if consumed. Health Continue reading

FLU-NAMI 2024: UK Experts Call for Return to Social Distancing as Flu Cases Hit Alarming Highs

As the festive season unfolds, the UK faces a surge in flu cases that has health experts sounding the alarm. With nearly 3,000 people hospitalized and over 150 in critical condition, this winter’s flu outbreak threatens to strain an already overburdened NHS. Experts are urging citizens to adopt precautionary measures, including social distancing, self-isolation, and Continue reading

What’s Open and Closed in Toronto on Boxing Day 2024

Boxing Day in Toronto is always a unique mix of hustle and relaxation. While retail hubs and shopping malls will be bustling with deal-seekers, many services and attractions take a break for the holiday. Whether you’re planning to enjoy some downtime or hit the stores, here’s a detailed guide to what’s open and closed in Continue reading

Canada Implements Measures to Combat Fraud in Express Entry System

On December 23, 2024, the Government of Canada, led by the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced important updates to the Express Entry system. These changes aim to strengthen the integrity of Canada’s immigration process by reducing fraud and ensuring the country’s immigration system remains fair and responsive to economic needs. Continue reading

Canada Discontinues Flagpoling for Work and Study Permits at Border

As part of Canada’s Border Plan, the Government of Canada has announced a significant policy change. Effective December 23 at 11:59 pm ET, work and study permits will no longer be issued to individuals engaging in flagpoling at a port of entry. What Is Flagpoling? Flagpoling refers to the practice where foreign nationals with temporary Continue reading