Finances FYI

Credit card debt is a common problem, and paying it off can be difficult. Consolidating that debt can help pay it off quicker and cheaper, but these mechanisms should be used with caution. Find out what pitfalls to avoid and the potential benefits of debt consolidation.

Cutting spending and increasing savings is an admirable goal, especially during the holiday season when many of us are spending much more than normal.

Life insurance can be a confusing, and, let’s face it, even morbid, thing to think about, but these policies can be enormously helpful for children or other dependents down the line. By learning a few basics about these policies, the forms they take, and the benefits they offer, you can take the initial steps toward finding the right policy for you and your family.

Identity theft is a rapidly rising crime in Canada, with thousands of Canadians falling prey to it every year. But there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your finances. By keeping your information safe and being smart online, you can keep would-be identity thieves at bay.

Credit card rewards can be a great way to earn perks in the course of your everyday spending — from cashback to airline miles. But before signing up for a new credit card, make sure you know all the details of these rewards programs, including how you earn them, how they can be redeemed, and how long they last.

We all know how important it is to save money, but it can be difficult. Bills pile up and the temptation to make new purchases gets in the way. But with a little planning, some effort, and some willpower, you can create a healthy savings account for a rainy day or for a big purchase.

Car insurance is both necessary and smart, but it can also be expensive. This doesn’t have to be the case, though. With some research, smart shopping and adopting good habits, you can cut your car insurance rate to make it fit into your budget while still getting you the protection you need.

Having your wallet or purse stolen is a terrifying situation. After all, that’s where you keep some of your most important and sensitive documents. But with the right tips and a little help from various authorities, you can set things right again — and hopefully not lose anything too important or costly in the meantime.

It’s time to get back out there and start traveling again, but if you’re looking for a way to save some money on things like flights or hotels, you might want to consider a travel loyalty program. These tools can be very handy and save you money, but there are some basics to know before you get into one, as well as some potential risks to look out for.

The weather is turning colder, but that doesn’t mean anyone wants to start paying the sky-high energy bills that come with heating a whole house. If you’re trying to cut down on some expenses and want to figure out how to lower your energy bill, take a look at these tips. You’ll save money, and it’s good for Mother Nature too.