Finance

If you’re a senior homeowner in Alberta with a low income, you may qualify for the Seniors Home Adaptation and Repair Program (SHARP) grant to help with essential home repairs. Here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, qualifying repairs, and how to apply. What is the SHARP Grant? The SHARP grant provides financial assistance Continue reading

In the final interest rate announcement of 2024, the Bank of Canada reduced its benchmark rate by 50 basis points (bps), bringing it down to 3.25%. This rate cut, which follows a similar reduction in October, is being made amidst a slight uptick in inflation. The Bank’s decision marks its fifth consecutive rate cut, signaling Continue reading

The Alberta Seniors Benefit (ASB) program provides financial assistance to low-income seniors in Alberta. This detailed guide covers everything you need to know about the program, including the payment schedule, eligibility requirements, how benefits are calculated, application steps, and the appeals process. Payment Schedule for 2025 The Alberta Seniors Benefit operates on a fiscal year Continue reading

Overview of the Proposed Tax Levy Increase Owen Sound’s city council has reviewed its draft operating budget, which includes a proposed 2.65% increase in the tax levy. While the draft budget remains close to the initial proposal, several changes were made during the council meeting held on Monday. These adjustments, including additional funding and contract Continue reading

As a Canada Post strike looms in December 2024, the Government of Alberta has implemented a contingency plan to ensure critical payments, including the Alberta Seniors Benefit (ASB), are delivered without interruption. Here’s what you need to know to stay informed and prepared. Government Plan for Uninterrupted Payments To safeguard timely delivery of vital government Continue reading

The Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP) offers vital assistance to lower-income households by reducing their electricity bills. Administered by the Ontario Energy Board (OEB), this program provides direct monthly credits to eligible customers, helping to ease financial pressures while ensuring access to essential electricity services. How Does the OESP Work? The OESP reduces electricity costs Continue reading

The Low-Income Workers Tax Credit, also known as the Low-Income Individuals and Families (LIFT) Tax Credit, is a valuable financial benefit for Ontario residents. This credit helps reduce or eliminate Ontario personal income tax (excluding the Ontario Health Premium) for eligible low-income workers, including minimum wage earners. Here’s everything you need to know to determine Continue reading

As Canadians gear up for the busy and often costly holiday season, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government has introduced a temporary measure aimed at providing some financial relief. A two-month reduction in Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) has been implemented for a variety of essential items and holiday-related goods. This Continue reading

Losing a loved one is emotionally taxing, but understanding the financial assistance available can help provide stability. If your spouse or common-law partner was a Canada Pension Plan (CPP) contributor, you might be eligible for the CPP Survivor’s Pension—a monthly payment offered to legal spouses or common-law partners of deceased contributors. This guide provides a Continue reading

The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) is primarily designed to provide retirement income for individuals who have contributed to it through employment or self-employment. However, exceptions and related benefits might allow someone who has not worked or contributed to the CPP to receive certain benefits. If you have never worked in Canada, you will not be Continue reading