Major changes — whether personal or professional — can significantly affect your family’s insurance and investment needs. A year-end review of your situation will help ensure that you have adequate coverage and that your investments are meeting your needs. Consider where you stand now in terms of your financial goals and what, if any, adjustments...

The most valuable things we offer our children cost nothing. But there are many other things we give them that cost money.  The most expensive is often the opportunity for them to attend college or university. Without financial assistance, our children may have to forego post-secondary education or graduate with loads of student debts.  We want...

In difficult economic times like these, it’s natural to search for ways to cut expenses and reduce the pressure on your family income. Among the many ways to lower expenses, the easiest may seem to stop making donations to your favorite charities. If we truly believe in what these organizations are doing, discontinuing our financial support means...

As we move through life, each new stage brings its share of joy and challenge. Just as April showers bring May flowers, it is often only after hard work, perseverance and planning that we see the benefit of our efforts. Planning for your financial future is no different.  Saving and planning can be incredibly beneficial when you are faced with...

Today, the number of credit cards in Canada had grown to almost 65 million while the value of annual purchases made with credit cards increased more than ten times. The hard truth: More credit cards mean more credit card debt per person. Many Canadians are swamped by their monthly credit card obligations. Credit card debt is painful because often...

Are you called or are you driven? Do you feel like your life is out of control, or can you peacefully move forward, knowing God is leading? I want to look at that question in relation to our finances. But before we do that, look at this picture of a house: Small, isn't it? And yet the majority of North American families in the 1950s lived in something...

A quick windfall sounds like the answer to so many problems. But for some pro athletes, hitting the big time can put them right into the poor house.  I’m the first to admit I’m not a sports fan.  I’ve probably shared in a few “look at the dumb jocks” comments in my time, but even I was surprised when a friend pointed out these stats in...