On Oct.20, the Ontario’s provincial government announced the “Catch Up Payments” plan. Unfortunately, most parents of school-aged children still haven’t heard about the $200 to 250 dollars available through a simple online application process. According to its press release, the Ministry of Education’s “Plan to Catch Up,” is “to keep students in class learning for the entirety of the school …
Shrinkflation a growing cause for concern
As I’m watching the Bank of Canada rate increase, noting that the prices of gas and meat have never been higher, there’s a lot of talk about inflation and greedflation, but I’m surprised more people aren’t talking about shrinkflation as part of both. Reaching back to Economics 101, inflation is an increase in prices, when the purchasing power of money …
Winning the Game of Life
When I was a tween, I remember playing the Game of Life board game. We’d cruise around the board in a convertible car, get married, have kids (sometimes twins) that would be represented by little pink and blue pegs in our cars. The goal was to retire with the most money. As I’m closer to retirement years than not, I …
April showers bring May weeds?
April showers typically bring May flowers. This year, along with the rain, the pre-election money is indeed flowing. Sadly, I don’t think that it is sowing the seeds we’d like to have in our gardens. That said, my vocabulary is becoming as colourful as May flowers every time that I hear about a new announcement. I’d much rather see politicians …
Talking to teens about money makes good sense
My son asked me what is the biggest way that I have saved money over the years. My first thought was not the correct answer, which my daughter actually offered. The beauty of this conversation is that not only do I feel that my teens are financially aware, but that they have learned some of my tips along the way. …
No respect for people who profit from wrecking what others build
I have loved money for as long as I can remember but, sometimes, I really dislike capitalism. What’s happening in the stock market is a good reminder of why I’ll never be a billionaire, because I won’t do whatever it takes for money. There is an adorable (yes, I’m calling myself adorable) photo of me at a wedding with a …
Tightening belt during pandemic doesn’t have to be painful
Perhaps you, like me, are in a household where the monies coming in have been reduced or cut off completely by COVID-19. Or perhaps you know someone in this position. If you’re facing a tighter belt, here are a few things I’ve done this week to save money. Before we get started, this is a great time to get a …
Usury appears to be alive and well
I got a piece of direct mail last week for a service that purports itself to provide “affordable loan solutions.” It said I could apply easily at the branch, online, or by telephone. I could get $5,500 loan – today. I read the conditions on the back, and nowhere did it mention the interest rate for this “affordable” solution that …