Wednesday, July 22News That Matters

Author: Arexl

Avoiding Bank Fees and Charges in Canada

Avoiding Bank Fees and Charges in Canada

BANKING
Let's face it, the fees and charges associated with banking in Canada can be overwhelming. Not only do consumers pay financial institutions to manage their funds, but they also incur charges for nearly every additional service they utilize. This reality has prompted many individuals to transition to high-interest savings accounts offered by online banks instead. While entirely discarding a traditional chequing account is unlikely for most Canadians, there are strategies to reduce or eliminate bank fees. Understanding what these charges entail and how to avoid them is essential in reclaiming your hard-earned money. Understanding Bank Fees First, let's clarify what bank fees and charges are. These are costs associated with services provided by banks. Most service offerings include a fee, ...
WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard Assessment

WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard Assessment

CREDIT CARDS
Are you considering a review of the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard? In short, this card is ideal for regular WestJet travelers. Even if you anticipate flying with WestJet just once, the appealing welcome bonus and the benefit of a complimentary first checked bag make it a valuable option. Continue reading for an in-depth exploration of the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard. WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard Apply Now Annual fee of $119 Earn 25,000 WestJet points after your initial purchase Receive 20,000 WestJet points by spending $5,000 within the first three months Accumulate 2 WestJet points for every dollar spent on WestJet, WestJet Vacations...
Understanding Your Credit Card Statement

Understanding Your Credit Card Statement

BANKING
Understanding how to interpret a credit card statement is a fundamental aspect of financial literacy, but it may appear overwhelming, especially for first-time credit card users or those who have recently changed banks. To add to this complexity, different financial institutions have various ways of displaying the rewards earned from points or cash back during the preceding billing cycle. By mastering the art of reading your credit card statement, you’re poised to make more informed financial choices. This knowledge allows you to track your spending, monitor your credit usage, and see the rewards you’ve accrued. Here’s a guide on how to interpret your credit card statement. What exactly is a credit card statement? A credit card statement is a document, either physical or digital, that o...
Understanding Student Lines of Credit

Understanding Student Lines of Credit

PERSONAL FINANCE
Pursuing a post-secondary education can be a significant financial burden. While the situation in Canada may be less acute compared to the United States, there is no denying that the costs associated with obtaining a college or university degree can be substantial. Balancing work with studies often isn’t enough to cover educational expenses entirely. Fortunately, there are various resources available to assist students financially, including student lines of credit. But what exactly is a student line of credit? What other forms of financial assistance exist for students? Continue reading to uncover the details. Understanding Student Lines of Credit A student line of credit is specifically designed for educational expenses. This type of credit functions similarly to a loan, allowing you ...
WestJet RBC Mastercard Overview

WestJet RBC Mastercard Overview

CREDIT CARDS
The WestJet RBC Mastercard is an excellent option for individuals seeking to minimize their annual fee while benefiting from discounts on future WestJet flights or vacation packages. While it offers limited benefits compared to other cards, the rewards earning potential is still commendable. This card is particularly accessible due to its minimal personal income requirement of $12,000, making it suitable for those who may not qualify for the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard, which demands a higher income. Check out my comprehensive review of the WestJet RBC Mastercard for detailed insights. WestJet RBC Mastercard Apply Now Annual fee of $39 Receive 5,000 WestJet points after your in...
Required Credit Score for a Credit Card

Required Credit Score for a Credit Card

BANKING
Have you ever inquired about the credit score required to obtain a credit card in Canada? In general, a credit score of at least 660 is necessary for most applications; however, this can vary. Different credit card issuers set their own standards, which means that even individuals with exemplary scores of 800 or higher might face rejection. In most scenarios, it’s advisable to aim for the highest credit score possible when seeking a credit card. However, given the multitude of factors involved in the approval process, it’s essential to consider the broader context. Understanding Good Credit Scores Before diving into the specifics of what credit score is needed for a credit card in Canada, it’s important to grasp how credit score ranges operate in the country. A credit score in Canada r...
Choice Privileges Rewards Program Overview

Choice Privileges Rewards Program Overview

Travel
For both business and leisure travelers, the Choice Privileges® rewards program is a simple way to accrue reward nights and additional benefits. Exciting enhancements are set to roll out in early 2026, designed to help members gain rewards more frequently. An increasing number of travelers are recognizing the advantages that Choice Privileges brings to their journeys. Here’s everything you need to know. What is Choice Privileges? Choice Privileges is the rewarding program of Choice Hotels, which boasts over 7,500 properties across 45 countries. More than 350 of these hotels are situated in Canada, providing a diverse range of offerings from economy to upscale, as well as extended-stay options. Notable brands include Comfort™, Quality®, Radisson®, and the Ascend Hotel Collection®, giving ...
39 Free Birthday Gifts in Canada for 2026

39 Free Birthday Gifts in Canada for 2026

PERSONAL FINANCE
Did you know that Canada offers a variety of birthday freebies? Numerous restaurants and retailers are eager to provide you with complimentary birthday treats as a way to foster customer loyalty and stimulate their sales. If you're wondering what birthday perks you can claim, the options vary by location. Many local eateries across Canada are known to provide free meals for your birthday. While finding a close restaurant can be convenient, major chains often present a wider array of offers. For instance, start your day with a complimentary breakfast at Denny’s. Next, you might enjoy a free birthday drink at Starbucks, followed by a burger at Harvey’s for lunch. To satisfy your sweet tooth, consider visiting Menchie’s for a $5 coupon on frozen yogurt. For dinner, the Mandarin buffet await...
Wait Time Between Credit Card Applications

Wait Time Between Credit Card Applications

BANKING
If you're in the market for a new credit card or keen on a lucrative welcome offer, you may find yourself asking how long you should wait before applying for new credit cards. The straightforward answer is typically six months, but the reality is a bit more nuanced. The duration between credit card applications largely hinges on your personal objectives, credit standing, and the specific policies of lenders. Continue reading to uncover more about the appropriate waiting periods between credit card applications. Appropriate Waiting Periods Between Credit Card Applications Based on your credit score, many professionals advise waiting three to six months before applying for any new credit card. This waiting period allows time for your credit score to recover from the hard inquiry generated...
RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard Overview

RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard Overview

CREDIT CARDS
The RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard stands out as RBC's premier cash back card. Instead of offering elevated earning rates in specific categories, it provides a straightforward 1.5% cash back on all purchases. While this might be satisfactory for some, it may leave others wishing for higher rewards. Explore this review of the RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard to determine whether it should be part of your wallet. Welcome Bonus and Earning Rate Typically, the RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard offers no welcome bonus. Given its annual fee of $99, many would anticipate a more enticing cash back offer upon sign-up. Even cards without annual fees often feature a small welcome bonus, making the absence of one here a bit disappointing. Despite its lack ...
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