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The RATESDOTCA editorial team are experienced writers focused on sharing stories and bringing you the latest news in insurance and personal finance. Our goal is to provide Canadians with the information and resources they need to make better insurance and financial decisions.
If you choose to break a closed mortgage before the end of your term, you will pay a penalty. So, when does it make sense to end your mortgage early, and how does the process work?
Here’s how disobeying road closures could void your auto insurance.
Check your credit history before you renew your mortgage in 2023.
Take your savings strategy beyond a mere resolution and turn it into a reality in 2023.
From getting to the airport early to having the right travel insurance coverage, here are five easy ways to make holiday travel painless.
The Équité Association reveals the top 10 stolen vehicles in Canada. If yours is on the list, you could end up paying more for auto insurance.
When time falls back on November 6 at 2 a.m., you may get an extra hour of sleep, but it can also pose potential safety risks on the road. Here’s how to prepare yourself.
There are two types of drivers in Canada: those who install winter tires and those who don't. Which side of the debate do you land on?
To make sense of the rollercoaster that is the Canadian housing market, we turned to five real estate industry experts to shed some light on how this year's rate increases are impacting buyers and owners.
Do you have the right coverage for your stored-away valuables? Be sure to review your home, condo, or renters insurance policy.
Car rental companies typically offer four types of auto insurance for the vehicle you rent. But do you actually need to shell out the extra cash for these protections?
Drivers need to be extra cautious in residential neighbourhoods and school zones as students return to the classroom.
If you are over 65 and spending time outside of Canada, you may want to purchase travel insurance. This can help with medical costs in the event you suffer illness or injury abroad.
If you’re a snowbird, here are some crucial questions you should ask yourself before taking flight for the winter.
From installing new garage doors to increasing curb appeal with landscaping, learn which home renovations have the best return on investment and how they affect your home insurance rate.
Parents can help their adult children break into the housing market by co-signing a mortgage. But there are risks to consider.
Not every homeowner can afford to make a 20% down payment. Enter mortgage insurance. Here’s how it works.
With stiff competition in housing markets across the country, you may be pressured in to buying prematurely. Here's how to stay grounded in your purchase.
If you plan to live the van life, make sure your home on wheels and your belongings inside have the proper coverage.
Trip protection coverage can be an excellent option if you need to cancel your hotel or flight reservations. But it may not provide the comprehensive medical coverage and benefits of travel insurance.
All it takes is a simple tumble to ruin your vacation. Travel insurance makes it easy to avoid costly medical bills while abroad.
Be aware of exclusions within your policy to avoid a denied travel insurance claim.
Here are a few simple tips for spending less on your least favourite car costs: gas and car insurance.
Truck versus SUV? Considering the benefits and drawbacks of each can help you decide.
Insurance providers offer many home insurance discounts. Find out if you qualify.
Do you know if your auto insurance will cover a guest driver’s collision?
A reverse mortgage is a home equity product that allows homeowners aged 55 years and older to access up to 55% of the value in their homes. Homeowners can choose to receive the money…
Seize the chance to save on auto insurance when opportunity knocks.
Here’s how different auto insurance claims can impact your car insurance premium.
Knowing the ins and outs of your travel insurance policy and the insurance provider’s claim-filing process can help avoid problems.
Avoid the following five bad driving habits to keep your auto insurance premium in check.
From preparing your vehicle to calling your car insurance company, here’s what to do before getting your car towed.
It helps to know your credit score well before applying for a mortgage.
A good driving record can save you money on car insurance.
Learn the pros and cons of rustproofing. Do you really need the service?
Eliminate any chance of buyer’s remorse with a thorough test-driving experience.
Consider these details before selling your vehicle, especially if you’re leasing or financing.
Should you get a fixed mortgage rate or variable mortgage rate? Learn about how these options are different, and which one is the best fit for your mortgage needs.
Holiday disasters can happen when you least expect them. Here are a few cautionary tales to gently remind homeowners to be careful during the hectic (and sometimes hazardous) holiday season.
If you decide to deliver fast food, you can skip the dishes, but don’t skip the auto insurance coverage you need.
Travelling south for the spending frenzy? Ensure you have the right auto and credit card coverage.
Deal hunters expected to descend on the malls en masse on Black Friday will make parking lot driving riskier than usual.
Here are some simple tips for finding a fuel-efficient vehicle to help you decide on the best choice.
While one insurance provider might be allowed to deny you coverage, the entire industry cannot.
Separation and divorce hold many unknowns. For many families, insurance is one area of uncertainty.
Canadian winters demand extra caution. Follow these winter driving tips to get you and your car ready for what lies ahead.
Whether it’s travel points, cash back, or even a low interest rate, many credit cards have additional perks that can suit your lifestyle.
Traditional auto insurance policies provide coverage for a year, but there are some circumstances where a driver may need a shorter policy.
Winter driving can take quite a toll on your car (pun intended). Not only is it messy, slippery, and slow – but gas can also get very expensive, especially since a drop in temperature can increase fuel consumption by 16%…
Travel insurance is a must-have, especially if you have a pre-existing condition.
Package theft is increasingly common, but will your home insurance provider cover the cost of those stolen items?
According to Statistics Canada, the cost of gasoline was up by 32.8% year-over-year in September.
Whether you're planning a month away or more, it's time to get ready for your adventures as you follow the sun south.
Many car insurance companies offer discounts for those aged 60 and older since they are more likely to be safe drivers.
It will protect your contents in the event of loss or damage, and it also provides liability coverage.
There are several free credit monitoring services available to consumers. However, lenders don't typically use these scores to determine your creditworthiness.
Some aspects of credit scores can be confusing. As a result, common myths circulate and lead to misunderstandings or missed opportunities.
Learn several factors that can influence the rate you pay for your home insurance coverage.
Make sure your teen driver hits the road in a safe, reliable, and affordable first car.
Planning a road trip this Labour Day? Here are some tips for saving when you fill up the tank.
Having more than one credit card can benefit your credit score. But, can you have too many?
If a child living at home drives, you should add them to your car insurance as soon as they have a provisional or full license.
A few of Ontario’s largest cities have lower insurance premiums than the provincial average.
Taking the time to understand car insurance may be about as fun as vacuuming a carpet. But having the proper knowledge can help ensure you have the protection you need at the price you want.
The cost of auto insurance policies can vary by hundreds of dollars depending on a myriad of variables, including which insurer you choose.
How much your car insurance premium may rise as a result of two convictions can vary between insurers, and it depends on what those convictions are.
Here is what you should do if an everyday road hazard or an unforeseen event triggered by poor weather or construction damages your vehicle.
Where you live and the type of dwelling may affect your home insurance premium. Learn several factors insurance providers use to determine your rate.
Motorists with spotty driving records may have a tough time finding affordable auto insurance. Here’s what you can do about it.
The Bank of Canada will have more than a month to monitor economic data ahead of its next rate decision meeting planned for early September.
As more retirees look to reverse mortgages to get through their golden years, one of the country’s two lenders in the space is now offering more options.
For hopeful homebuyers shut out by soaring prices, renting has usually been more affordable.
There’s no stress like the end of a marriage. And one of the least fun parts of the divorce process is divvying up assets.
One of the greatest bull markets in Canadian real estate history has resulted in Canadians amassing record mortgage debt.
Despite all the thought that goes into shopping and applying for a mortgage, comparatively little goes into what to do with your mortgage if you die.
Despite home prices having soared 38.4% in just the past 12 months, it could be a lot worse for young buyers if it weren’t for one thing: interest rates staying ultra-cheap.
Canada’s dramatic rise in home prices over the past year may be easing, but that’s little comfort for hopeful buyers who are shut out of the market.
The divide between average fixed rates and their floating-rate counterparts is now approaching the largest it's been since August 2011, the last time it was over one percentage point.
Bond market forecasts now suggest interest rates could climb up to 200 basis points before they level off, potentially over the next five years or so.
The biggest challenge now facing the Bank of Canada is keeping a lid on inflation expectations, and it's working overtime on this battle, taking every opportunity it can to calm markets.
Bank of Canada (BoC) researchers have developed a new way to detect over-bullish home price expectations across Canadian cities.
Canada isn’t the only country with stratospheric home prices. But its pace of price growth does lead the way among the G7 nations.
Nearly half of Canadian seniors say that home equity is a vital part of retirement planning.
Nearly three-quarters of first-time buyers in Canada’s largest cities fear they won’t have a sufficient down payment to enter the housing market.
If you believe market predictions, mortgage shoppers who snapped up record-low rates in 2020 will likely face higher rates at renewal.
When you buy resale it’s someone else’s home. You understandably want to make it your own. But how do you renovate when you just blew all your cash on a down payment? Here’s one way.
Despite fresh lockdown restrictions, the number guessers (economists) seem to universally anticipate strong growth ahead. Perhaps too strong.
For years, housing critics have argued that home prices are dangerously detached from fundamentals.
Aspiring homebuyers are itching for property holders to start listing their homes. They yearn for a deluge of supply, so it helps them buy at better prices.
Here is how to close a bank account the right way and what happens when you don’t.
5-Year fixed rates fell at multiple lenders over the last week, but only by about 5 basis points (1 basis point or "bps" = 1/100th of a percent) on average.
Here’s something that will surprise very few. Canada’s parabolic rise in home values is killing the dream of homeownership for young Canadians.
It could become more challenging for people to get a mortgage. Come June 1, Canada’s banking regulator will use a new method of qualifying mortgage applicants
When mainstream lenders approve a mortgage application, it means they’ve done enough due diligence to know the borrower has a low likelihood of non-payment.
Three more of Canada’s largest metro areas, including the country’s biggest market, the Greater Toronto Area, are not considered “high” risk by Canada’s housing agency.
A strengthening economy. Soaring home prices. Surging bond yields. Rising inflation. These are just some of the concerns the Bank of Canada’s Governing Council will grapple with when it convenes at its next policy meeting on April 21.
With work-from-home a big thing now, and with average home prices over $1 million in some of Canada’s largest cities, thousands of Canadians are finding ample reason to abandon big metro areas.
Canada has 6.08 million households with mortgages. If you’re curious what kinds of mortgages they pick, Mortgage Professionals Canada (MPC) has some stats for you.
You may have more noticed experts in the media suggesting that too many borrowers are gorging themselves on low-rate debt and putting themselves at risk.
Mortgage advisors are constantly urging borrowers to “Get a pre-approval.” What they don’t tell you is that a pre-approval usually comes with a premium.
Alberta’s provincial government has been lobbying for changes to the federal mortgage stress test for the past year and a half, to no avail.
The average price of a Toronto home has surpassed the $1 million mark for the first time ever, amid a pandemic no less.
The Bank of Canada will have plenty to chew on before making its next rate decision on March 10.
Homebuyers have enjoyed nearly a full year of falling mortgage rates. But the tide has shifted.
With mortgage rates now doing a U-turn and heading higher, borrowers are rushing to lock in a rate on a refinance while they still can.
Drivers in Ontario who are covered by Economical will see a rate decrease of approximately 5% as the insurer extends its COVID-19 pandemic relief.
Should you transfer your RRSP? Here’s what you need to know before you do.
Working from the office is so 2019. The pandemic took remote workplace adoption to a whole new level, allowing many to look farther outside the city for new digs.
CAA’s latest initiative follows the $100 car insurance relief benefit and rate reduction it announced earlier in the year.
When a billionaire investor gives financial advice, there’s usually something to it.
The average price for a house in Canada rose to $621,525 in January, according to new data from the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA). That’s nearly a 23% jump from just one year ago.
The explosion in home values last year was accompanied by a collapse in mortgage rates. And it’s a good thing, because surging home prices hurt mortgage affordability.
Our economy’s surprising rebound in December caused speculation that rate hikes may be on the table sooner than expected.
If you’re not stoked about taking 25 years to pay off your mortgage, we’re about to show you how to speed up the repayment process. Just one thing, it may not be in your best interest.
Reverse mortgage growth has been phenomenal in Canada. And it’s been that way for years, particularly since rates started plummeting.
In recent weeks, talk of a potential “micro” interest rate has grown louder. That’s largely due to rising COVID case counts and more restrictive lockdown measures.
Despite home prices soaring out of reach for many, a large majority still believe homeownership is a worthwhile pursuit.
Have you ever found yourself wishing that someone would come up with an easy way to compare the lowest rates for all terms, depending on your equity?
You’ve probably seen some ultra-low rates from mortgage brokers on rate comparison websites. Many of those rates (not all) are low-frills mortgages. That means they have restrictions in exchange for a lower interest rate.
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario published its latest rate filing decisions. Find out if your insurance provider increased or decreased its rate.
For the better part of last year, it seemed the pandemic would never end. Now, a new year brings new hope that vaccines will shift our economic recovery into second gear.
Learn how much debt the average Canadian has, plus six great tips to help you pay off your debt fast.
The seemingly unstoppable ascent of home values will extend into 2021 — if the latest prominent forecasts prove true, that is.
If adopted by Toronto’s city council, Canada’s largest city will prohibit turning right on a red light at 15 intersections to help improve road safety.
The Alberta government estimates ditching plate stickers on private passenger vehicles, fleet vehicles, and permanent trailers will save taxpayers about $1.2 million per year.
HSBC made headlines Friday when it unveiled Canada’s lowest-ever mortgage rate — a 0.99% 5-year variable for default-insured borrowers.
Learn a few simple things you can do to cut holiday costs before the new year.
These are the top credit cards and winners of Best of Finance 2020. Review the best credit cards in Canada so you can earn the most rewards and save more money.
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority, Ontario’s auto insurance regulator, has published its latest rate filing decisions that may affect the cost of the premium you pay. Here’s what Ontario drivers should know.
Optimistic vaccine news has boosted market sentiment. Bond yields, which traditionally lead fixed mortgage rates, have risen somewhat as a result.
Buying a home can be intimidating, especially if you’re a first-time buyer. You have to worry about mortgage approvals, contracts, closing procedures, fees, deposits and all the little things that can go wrong.
Canada’s average mortgage size is growing at almost three times the rate of inflation.
Not even a global plague can stop Canadian home prices, much to the dismay of renters who want to be buyers.
More than nine out of 10 Canadians want to stay in their homes as long as possible in their golden years. And now, Equitable Bank offers a new option to make that possible.
Economic optimism has bond yields surging versus last week. That’s got many wondering if fixed mortgage rates will soon follow.
The Ontario 2020 Budget includes an outline of how the province will continue to monitor the impact of COVID-19 on the provincial auto insurance system to ensure consumers are being treated fairly.
If you’re confused about what’s in store for Canadian home prices, you’ve got company.
Borrowers were reassured this week that rates will remain ultra-low for the next two years.
When stressing about finances, have you ever thought, “if only I made more money, all my problems would be solved.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has upended Canada’s rental market, driving landlords to boost incentives and offer renters perks to help fill their available units.
Hundreds of thousands of Canadian households are still not paying their mortgages, by agreement with their lender.
Toronto house prices may be climbing, but rents are plunging. And they have been since the start of COVID. Does that make it more financially sensible to rent or buy?
British Columbia’s publicly managed car insurance system may be rendered extinct should voters in Canada’s most westerly province oust the incumbent government on October 24.
Briskly rising home prices are once again boosting the minimum down payments required to break into the housing market.
We are excited to announce that RateSupermarket.ca is now RATESDOTCA. Don’t worry, besides a name change, how you compare the best credit cards and mortgages rates will remain the same.
It’s a story we seem to report on several times a year: an unsuspecting homeowner decides to break their current mortgage in favour of one from another lender at a lower rate, only to be whacked with a monster prepayment penalty.
Ontario’s car insurance regulator details how much premium relief is available for eligible drivers to deal with the economic fallout because of the pandemic.
The latest economic gauges are looking up: Jobs are coming back (246,000 in August), home sales are 20% above pre-pandemic levels and home prices are posting record highs.
Those under 35 remain the most optimistic about purchasing a home, with many saying the pandemic has accelerated their homebuying intentions.
Existing homeowners may be rejoicing at the fact average home prices are headed for the stars. Would-be purchasers, on the other hand, are curling up in the fetal position as their homeownership dreams turn nightmarish.
When it comes to mortgage applications, there’s no such thing as a little white lie. Even for applicants who think they may only be fudging a trivial part of the application, such indiscretions are still be considered fraud, and it can cost them.
$1 billion per month. That’s the amount of mortgage payments that Canadians have been postponing since the height of the pandemic.
Amid record home prices in parts of the country, more parents are finding their children in need of down payment assistance. That’s great so long as the happy couple goes on to live a long and happy life together. But what if the relationship goes sour?
Car insurance can be confusing to understand. A new RATESDOTCA survey finds a majority of Canadian drivers’ knowledge of auto insurance and how it works is often influenced by myths.
Some Canadians are getting worried about the government's response to COVID-19. They fear an exploding national debt, one that’ll grow more than 55% to potentially over $1.2 trillion, is a ticking timebomb.
It’s a tough road back from the deepest recession of all time. Yet, Canada’s economy continues to make strides on its road to recovery.
Bad credit behaviours can result in negative information appearing on your credit report. Some of those details can remain for upwards of 10 years.
A once-in-a-generation pandemic is turning Canadians off city life. Nearly a third of Canadians (32%) say they no longer want to live in an urban centre, according to a new survey from Remax Realty.
When HSBC became the first bank to offer a 5-year fixed rate under 2% in June, it made national headlines.
Experts have warned about the end of mortgage payment deferrals for months. Now those deferral end-dates are right around the corner.
The 2020 Top Safety Picks can help drivers in their car-buying decision by narrowing down the most reliable and dependable vehicles.
The minimum mortgage stress test rate dropped this week thanks to a fresh round of posted rate cuts by the country’s big banks.
Both homeowners and non-homeowners alike are reporting a greater likelihood of purchasing a home post-COVID, according to a new survey.
With no Bank of Canada rate decision scheduled for August, we turn our attention to Canada’s COVID-riddled recovery.
As the economy reopens and more drivers are taking to the road again, several insurance companies may be ending the discounts they offered. Find out how these changes may affect you.
The older our population gets, the greater the chance that mortgage rates will stay low. That’s the message from a growing body of research.
Months of lockdown has people yearning for more space. That, plus lofty city home prices and the work-from-home trend are driving a growing number of urban dwellers out of the city and into the burbs, and beyond.
With high unemployment and a possible recession, many homeowners could face the possibility of defaulting on their mortgage.
Thanks to plunging interest rates and high debt loads, demand for reverse mortgages has exploded in recent years.
Auto insurers Desjardins Group, SGI Canada, and TD Insurance are all upping their financial relief measures for customers during the ongoing pandemic.
The Automobile Insurance Rate Board’s annual review of consumer perspectives on car insurance finds Albertans are becoming increasingly unhappy with the cost of their premiums.
Investors almost unanimously expect the Bank of Canada to continue holding its overnight lending rate at 0.25% when it meets next on July 15.
As you get close to making the last of your payments, there are a few things you consider as your days of having a mortgage are nearly over.
Canada’s biggest default insurer is about to make it harder to qualify for a mortgage. That is, if you’re buying with less than a 20% down payment.
As the COVID-19 pandemic drags on, three more insurers are extending or enhancing their respective rate relief measures to assist drivers and homeowners.
Fixed mortgage rates continue reaching new depths. Some are now under 2.00% for the first time ever.
Ontario’s auto insurance regulator says it is continuing to monitor insurers’ rate relief measures to assist drivers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Buying a house? Here are some apps that can help you visualize the interior and exterior of your potential dream home and gather all the information you will need on listings.
Telematics, or usage-based insurance, is shifting how car insurance premiums are calculated. Drivers who sign up for it with their insurers can earn discounts on their rates for driving safely.
It seems we ask this question every six months. And this time we’re asking amid one of the worst recessions in Canadian history.
Revisiting and possibly revising the province’s no-fault insurance provisions are among the course of actions a government-appointed committee is reviewing.
The COVID-19 crisis has altered everything from buying and selling decisions to open houses to home price expectations.
Mortgage rates have been falling almost weekly since the first week of April. We’ve got to a point where bank-offered fixed and variable rates are both under 2% for the first time in Canadian history.
Two Canadian insurers are enhancing or extending the financial relief measures to their auto policy customers. Here’s what you need to know.
Real estate lawyers offer a multitude of services that aid their clients in purchasing or selling a home. They take the legal matters related to the purchase or sale entirely off your hands.
When peaceful protests turn violent, vehicles can be damaged, vandalized, or destroyed. What happens if your car or truck is is damaged by a civil commotion or riot?
A sharp decline in mortgage rates in recent months is driving up the cost to break big-bank fixed-rate mortgage.
The Bank of Canada adopted a decidedly positive tone Wednesday when it left the country’s key lending rate untouched at 0.25%.
Deferring your mortgage payments during the COVID-19 crisis could cost you thousands in additional interest.
Whether you’re looking to find a home to buy or an apartment to rent, try simplifying your search (and making it more fun) with one of these mobile apps.
Your credit report contains a plethora of information and can show you more than just your credit score. Here is how to make sense of those codes and numbers.
Next Wednesday, the Bank of Canada has its first rate meeting since April—and for the first time led by its new Governor, Tiff Macklem.
This week, CMHC projected that mortgage arrears could surge to record highs. But, what exactly are mortgage arrears, and how are they different from mortgage defaults or foreclosures?
Aviva is enhancing its COVID-19 premium discount for drivers across Canada.
There has been a surge in pet adoptions as well as rescue and foster pet applications since the start of the COVID-19 crisis. It’s great to see more animals finding forever homes, but the decision to integrate a pet into your life should not be a rash decision or taken lightly.
It’s hard to find a positive side to a coronavirus pandemic that’s devastated lives and economies around the world.
For those who’ve been hoping to enter Canada’s increasingly expensive housing market while prices are “on sale”, this seems like the chance they’ve been waiting for.
For many, scrounging up the required down payment is the most challenging part of homebuying. But one thing many overlook is that lenders all want to know where your money came from.
Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, Canadian banks have stepped up, offering mortgage deferrals or skip-a-payment assistance to more than 710,000 Canadians.
This month we won’t focus on where the Bank of Canada’s key lending rate is going. The next BoC rate decision isn’t until June 3 and no economists forsee a change.
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic raging on, fear in the financial markets is easing. And that’s exactly what new borrowers want to hear.
Unica auto insurance customers to get a 15% refund on three months’ worth of premium payments.
If you’re wondering what relief measures insurance companies, mortgage lenders, and credit card issuers are offering during the COVID-19 crisis, find out in a jiffy with our COVID-19 Rebate Calculator.
Virtually no one signs up for a five-year fixed mortgage with plans to break it early. Yet, almost half of Canadians who’ve had one previously say they refinanced or terminated a five-year fixed early, according to a Rates.ca survey.
Intact Insurance is enhancing its pandemic lockdown support by providing a 15% discount for all its customers who are driving less.
Virtually no one signs up for a five-year fixed mortgage with plans to break it early.
Insurer will issue a 25% credit on one month’s auto insurance premium to help ease its customers’ financial challenges during the coronavirus pandemic.
Three more Canadian insurers outline their coronavirus pandemic financial relief measures for their policyholders.
Wawanesa, RSA Canada, and The Co-operators provide more details on the actions they are taking to assist their respective policyholders during the coronavirus pandemic.
Insurer is offering a broad range of financial support measures for customers impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.
Just two months ago, most housing markets were roaring into an early spring market. The COVID-19 pandemic changed that in a few weeks' time.
A state of emergency permits governments to invoke certain powers to protect the public. Find out how these measures may affect your home and auto insurance coverage.
Digital home and auto insurer joins many other Canadian insurance providers that are offering their customers financial support during the coronavirus pandemic.
Thanks to the digital age, you can still file a home or auto claim or get a home inspection done despite the coronavirus lockdown.
It’s gotten a lot harder to find households with 3+ months worth of living expenses sitting in a liquid emergency fund.
Canadian insurance companies are offering consumers rebates and discounts on their auto policies during the coronavirus lockdown. Find out what relief measures your insurer is providing.
The cost and intensity of natural disasters in Canada such as flooding are on the rise. Does your home insurance policy have you covered if your house is flooded?
Research from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety suggests motorists who rely on driver-assisted technologies may be lulled into a false sense of security that leads to reckless behaviour such as distracted driving.
Much has changed in just a month. On March 1, the Bank of Canada’s key lending rate was 1.75% and prime rate—the basis for all variable rates and lines of credit—was 3.95%.
Alberta’s provincial government is exploring whether it will change its impaired driving laws or not. Here’s why it is a contentious issue.
The Bank of Canada took rates down again this morning, in emergency fashion.
The coronavirus pandemic has renters in a tizzy: where do they turn if they can’t afford to pay rent? Here’s what we know so far.
Canada’s big banks delivered a joint announcement this week that they will be offering mortgage deferrals for those impacted by the COVID-19 crisis.
The Canada Revenue Agency is extending its tax-filing deadline to June 1st. Find out what financial relief is available to you, and how the new tax deadline may help you and your family.
The ramifications of COVID-19 seem to get more unbelievable each day. Case in point: tonight's news from Canada's major banks.
As a government committee explores ways to make Alberta’s auto insurance system more sustainable, the Insurance Brokers Association of Alberta says expanding no-fault insurance would help.
Ontario’s auto insurance regulator wants to hear from drivers about their experiences obtaining car insurance coverage.
Italy—the country hardest hit by the spreading coronavirus pandemic outside of China, has announced that mortgage payments will be temporarily suspended.
Data from the NHTSA and IIHS in the U.S. shows a troubling trend concerning traffic fatalities involving pedestrians and cyclists.
Planning to book a last-minute March Break getaway? Check out the exclusive offers, complimentary services, and travel perks these rewards credit cards have to offer for your trip.
As the provincial government explores ways to contain the rising cost of auto insurance in Alberta, here are a few things you can do to get a lower rate.
With coronavirus panic now setting in throughout financial markets, rate watchers have their eyes glued to the Bank of Canada. Its rate decision comes March 4 and it has the potential to surprise people.
Motorists in Alberta may be finding it tough to find low auto rates these days. But there are a few things you can do to give yourself an edge.
J.D. Power’s 2019 Canada Auto Insurance Satisfaction Study finds Canadian drivers’ satisfaction with insurers hinges on how well they understand the value of their policies.
Is a store credit card right for you? Here are the top perks and downsides of retail credit cards.
The much-maligned mortgage stress test is changing. The Department of Finance has confirmed that as of April 6, 2020, homebuyers getting insured mortgages will have an easier time qualifying.
We are excited to announce that ShopInsuranceCanada.ca has become Rates.ca. Don’t worry, besides a name change, how you compare the lowest auto insurance quotes will remain the same.
One of the consequences of stricter mortgage rules has been the steady stream of borrowers turning to higher-cost unregulated lenders.
Some people spend years dreaming of their wedding day. They plan big, lavish marital events that they hope they’ll never forget.
Last Tuesday, TD Bank became the first major bank to drop its posted 5-year fixed rate in seven months.
If you’re thinking of getting into the home-sharing business, make sure you have the right insurance to protect you and your property.
Before you get any deeper in debt, it is time to get your financial house in order and develop a plan for paying off your credit card debt.
The number of Canadians overdosing on debt has made the Bank of Canada’s job far more complicated.
It was heralded as the government’s answer for first-time buyers struggling to enter the housing market amidst sky-high prices.
As debt loads grow, Canadians are increasingly left with less free cash at the end of each month…as little as $200 in most cases.
The type of debt you carry can say a lot about your overall finances. There’s a big difference between those with mortgages and those with only non-mortgage debt, according to a recent survey.
Vancouver and Toronto have earned the dubious distinction of being among the top six least affordable housing markets in the world—outranking even New York City and London, England.
If you’ve got a floating-rate mortgage, don’t expect changes to your interest rate when the Bank of Canada meets Wednesday for its first policy meeting of the year.
People like talking to people for mortgage recommendations. They always have.
But here’s something that we didn’t realize until now.
Despite the efforts many Canadians are making to dig themselves out of debt, roughly a quarter say their situation remains “overwhelming.”
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario okays another car insurance increase.
Before embarking on a vacation or cross-border shopping, understand how and why a bad allergic reaction can void your travel insurance policy.
If you’re like most, mortgages are a necessary evil if you hope to own a home. But they can take a toll on your health.
From learning about language and culture to experiencing homesickness, these are the risks and benefits of studying abroad.
Canadian real estate is in danger of returning to a level of “froth,” said Bank of Canada Governor Stephen Poloz on Thursday.
Although all the different dashboard warning lights in your vehicle serve a purpose, some are more important than others.
Variable-rate borrowers have rejoiced with interest rates in Canada and around the world returning to near-record lows in 2019. We’ve seen such rates for several quarters now, but several quarters could become several years.
If you make an unconditional offer on a house, you better be prepared to follow through with the purchase.
Paying off credit card debt can help save you money. Here, you'll learn strategies to pay off your debt quickly so you can get your financial house in order.
At the turn of every new year, Canadians start thinking about the state of their finances. And it seems that this year, a majority of us are worried about personal debt levels and a potential recession.
With a rewards credit card, you can earn points or money back just by spending how you already do.
As we prepare to bid farewell to 2019, it will be remembered as the year of falling fixed mortgage rates.
Canadians are more delinquent, according to Equifax, both with their mortgages and non-mortgage debt.
Tis the season for giving. And for many parents across the country, that means gifting down payment funds to help their child get a foothold in the housing market.
Unless your eyes have been glued to a rate comparison website, you may not have noticed the bounce in fixed rates this month.
One in four Canadians uses their credit card to bridge gaps between paycheques; here’s how to set a financial plan to get ahead.
Many bright-eyed and bushy-tailed first-time homebuyers are so focused on saving a down payment, that they forget the myriad of other costs that come with buying a home.
Life is about tradeoffs. And a great price or good service is a tradeoff that happens all the time, including in the mortgage market.
We are excited to announce that ComparaSave.com has become Rates.ca. Don’t worry, besides a name change, how you compare the lowest auto insurance quotes will remain the same.
Mortgage lenders had a tough start to 2019 with higher interest rates and the government’s stricter mortgage rules (“stress test”) taking a bite out of mortgage volumes.
Be prepared for the wrath of winter with an emergency home kit.
Teen driving safety technology can help to prevent speeding, impaired driving, distracted driving, and reinforce safe driving habits.
In 2018, higher rates and the mortgage stress test were supposed to make homes more affordable. Well, that didn’t last long.
Is cash back as simple as it sounds? In general, yes. This simple rewards system lets you earn a percentage of your purchases back as cash or a credit to your account.
If you’re a floating-rate mortgage holder wishing for a Bank of Canada rate drop for Christmas, well, better luck next year.
Should I staycation or travel? This is a question many people ask themselves when booking time off from work.
Given today’s relatively low mortgage rates, obtaining a second mortgage can be a viable option for Canadians in need of extra funds. It’s one of the options available to homeowners who want to borrow against the equity they’ve built up in their home.
There are many different types of GICs available. Use the following tips to help find a financial product that fits your needs.
Looking to earn cash back on your daily expenditures? Don’t want to pay an annual fee? Enter the Tangerine Money-Back credit card – one of the most popular cash-back credit cards on the market…
Gen-Xers and Millennials seem to be struggling more than Baby Boomers ever did.
More people are starting to figure out that mortgage breakage penalties can ravage their family budget. An Oshawa woman recently learned this the hard way.
Those who are strapped for cash may want to jump at the opportunity to transfer the balance on their current credit card to another card at a lower interest rate.
We’ve heard from experts and policymakers for years that Canadian debt loads are a growing problem.
This is how you can get your credit score and improve your rating before applying for a mortgage.
Canadians are spending more time in transit commuting to work than ever before. Whether it’s by car, public transit, walking or riding a bike, as Canada’s working population grows, so does their commute time.
Whether you've moved from another Canadian province or from outside the nation, here's what you'll need to know to get your Ontario driver’s licence.
Learn where to find your credit card's CVV and how it protects your card from being used without your permission.
Scotiabank’s customers report illegitimate charges on their credit card statements. Be sure to check your statements often.
For those who believe that immigrants to Canada are driving up the country’s housing demand and worsening affordability, here’s new data to mull over.
Getting a jumpstart on your holiday budget means more time for the savings to add up.
Five-year fixed rates aren’t suited to everyone, and if you do take one, choose a lender with a fair penalty if you can help it.
The Bank of Canada is holding its key benchmark rate for the eighth time in a row.
One of the great things about a mortgage broker is that you can hand the wheel to them and let them drive your mortgage all the way to closing. But not all brokers are created equal.
Rising home prices are great for existing homeowners but they’re not so great for aspiring homeowners.
If you get a distracted driving ticket, you might be denied insurance, or your rates can go up by 25%. Here's what you need to know.
Climate change is impacting insurers and federal parties have varying plans to fight it.
These are the top credit cards, bank accounts and investment product winners of Best of Finance 2019. Earn the most rewards, spend less and save more money…
Ontario auto insurance rates often change. Sometimes they increase, and believe it or not, sometimes they go down. See how rates have changed, industry-wide, over the last five years.
Negotiating a great deal on your mortgage is kind of like asking your boss for a raise – you need to do a bit of homework before the meeting, go in prepared and confident, and if you’re making a fair request, you should leave…
When it comes to planning your bachelor or bachelorette party, a few savvy tips can help you enjoy time with your best friends and family before your big day.
Thomas Cook's collapse stranded 600,000 travellers. If you're affected by this tour agency's closure or concerned about a trip, here's what you need to know.
Mortgage brokers have access to rates from many mortgage-specific lenders and major banks, enabling them to find the best product for you. This is how they can save you money.
Do you know how to get the most out of the fuel you buy? Test your fuel savings know-how to see if you’ve got what it takes to stop the siphoning of your money.
Ready to make a big purchase? You might want to try CIBC’s Pace It installment plan. But, will you pay less than with your standard credit card?
Not sure which of your valuables and personal property need a home insurance rider? Here's a helpful list.
The new technology allows Canadians to temporarily block in-person international charges as well as lock their account.
CIBC becomes first major Canadian bank to offer installment options on larger credit card purchases at lower interest rates.
Hurricane Dorian wreaked havoc in the Bahamas and repairs might take several months or years to complete. If you had upcoming travel plans for the Bahamas what can you expect? Or, what if you want to travel to the Caribbean islands in the next six months to a year?
Non-pecuniary damages are damages that can't be calculated like a medical bill or car repair bill.
Need to file an insurance claim after Hurricane Dorian? Here are the steps to take and why you should file right away.
Canadians are forking out more each month to stay current on their Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs).
Older Canadians lead the way when it comes to maximizing returns from rewards credit cards.
How does the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite travel rewards card stack up against the market? Read on for our review.
As of today, Ontario becomes the fourth province to allow electronic pink slips.
All eyes will be on the Bank of Canada’s rate decision tomorrow looking for signs of the next interest rate move.
Thinking about a DIY project? Don’t void your home insurance or lower your home’s value with these home renovation mistakes.
The federal government’s First Time Homebuyers Incentive (FTHBI) begins on September 2. Here’s why it’s not the gift you think it is.
The next recession will likely have an impact on insurance rates. Here is how a recession might make your rate go up or down.
Speeding tickets could increase your car insurance premiums. Here's how to avoid them.
We highlight the best GICs on offer each year based on rate and market relevance.
Mechanical breakdown or engine explosion are both exclusions in standard auto insurance policies. Learn more about when a vehicle fire is covered and when a driver pays out-of-pocket.
What could possibly go wrong with a DIY home or auto repair. Here are some of the funniest fixes about repairs gone wrong.
Looking to earn travel rewards faster? The Scotiabank®* Gold American Express® Card is a quick route to getting you to the destination of your dreams. Read on to find out if it’s the right card to add to your wallet.
A TransUnion report finds the new mortgage rules are having the intended effect, although not without consequences.
Here's how to deal with boredom when you're stranded in an airport.
Canadians who want to get in on the housing market have new ways to make that dream a reality. Here are some options to getting your name on the title even as prices rise.