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The Learning Centre
Retirement 101: 5 investment strategies to get you saving beyond your OTPP pension.
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The Learning Centre Happy New Year: Are these financial updates on your radar?
If working towards financial goals is one of your top resolutions for the year ahead, then you’ll definitely want to be on top of the following updates for 2025. TFSA... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre 4 ways to finance continuing education
Whether you’re looking to fund your child’s post-secondary education, or take courses to enhance your own skills so you can move up the pay grid—higher learning costs money. As each... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Federal Budget 2023: 5 key takeaways
There’s no doubt that cost of living is one of the top financial concerns facing Canadians today. With the latest federal budget pledging to make life in Canada more affordable,... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Oh, baby: how to financially prepare for a new arrival.
Starting a family means committing to a whole new lifestyle, both personally and financially. As far as the kind of financial commitment it takes, you’re looking at roughly $260,000 to... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre We answer the top 5 questions asked by education members.
However, similar to what you’ve probably experienced with your students over the years, there are certain questions that seem to pop up more than others. So, in the spirit of... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Summer break: a financial checklist
Whether your plans are to pack up and head to the cottage, take additional courses to move yourself up the pay grid, or enjoy life after school (i.e. retirement), the end... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre How to build a balanced portfolio that reflects your risk tolerance
Do you know how much risk you’re willing to take on in order to achieve your investment goals? Investment experts agree that one of the most important things to consider... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
Contribute to your Educators Financial Group investment account through online banking!
Article in News And Updates
The Learning Centre Contribute to your Educators Financial Group investment account through online banking!
Participating banking institutions BMO Bank of Montreal Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (including Simplii) National Bank of Canada RBC Royal Bank Scotiabank TD Canada Trust How to use this service... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Spending lockdown: 6 tips for protecting your finances during the pandemic
(Reading time: 3:30) Young Canadians have taken the biggest financial hit, with 82% of Generation Z (those born from 1995 on) and 67% of Millennials (those born between 1980 and... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Your top 5 financial ‘to-dos’ for spring
The days are getting longer, the weather is finally warming up, and the end of another school year is just on the horizon. Yes, it’s spring. The season of new... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Educators Insights – Spring 2024 Newsletter
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The Learning Centre Money 101: how to make the most of a lump sum cash flow boost
So, you’ve just come into a nice chunk of money—congratulations. But to spend, save or invest it? That is the question. For the answer, well, that really depends on your... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre Value of advice: when it comes to your debt load becoming too big to handle
To coin a phrase, the road to helping your children is paved with good intentions. And sometimes those intentions can come back to bite you in the bottom line—especially when... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Responsible Investing: the road to a better and brighter future
They say that money makes the world go round. The more money involved, the more spin (or ‘impact’) it will have, wherever that money moves and whomever it exchanges hands... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre The top 10 things that should be on your ‘end of the year financial to-do’ list
When putting together this year’s holiday ‘to-do’ list, be sure to also include all of the financial details you need to look after by December 31st. If you hold any... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre How the 2022 budget might improve the affordability factor
Once upon a time, buying a home was considered to be a rite of passage for the average, hard-working Canadian. In today’s world, however, soaring real estate prices and increased... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Ask Educators: how can I fill a potential pension income gap due to inflation?
One of the most commonly asked questions we get from education members in retirement involves pension income and inflation. Specifically, many retirees have been wondering why their annual pension adjustment... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Value of advice: when it comes to paying down debt and building up savings
(Reading time: 3:45) For many Canadians, paying down debt and building up savings is a bit of an oxymoron. After all, if you had extra money lying around to put... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Demystifying Responsible Investing: what you need to know
“Sustainable”. “Green”. “Ethical”. “Responsible”. Although described in many different ways, investing in funds or companies that reflect your beliefs and values has been one of the fastest-growing investment trends in... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre TFSAs, RRSPs, RRIFs, and the importance of beneficiary designations
So, you’ve recently updated your will—great, but what about your beneficiary designations? If we lost you at ‘beneficiary designations’ and you’ve got registered investments (e.g., TFSAs, RRSPs, RRIFs), then you’re... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Money 101: how to get back to basics
Inflation, interest rates—food, home, and gas prices. It probably comes as no surprise to find out these are among the top financial concerns currently facing Canadians. In fact, according to... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre Interest rates have changed – has your financial plan?
For much of the last 20 years, we’ve been living in a world of relatively low-interest rates. In early 2022, when interest rates were at an all-time low, the Bank... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre 7 tips for keeping your holiday spending in check
You’ve made your gift list and checked it twice—but have you calculated how much all of that holiday shopping is going to cost? Thanks to inflation, this year’s festive shopping... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Change these 5 habits to move your finances forward in the New Year
Next to health and fitness, improving our personal finances tends to top the list of New Year’s resolutions. Yet according to an Ipsos survey, only 27% of Canadians who make... Keep reading -
Document in News And Updates
The Learning Centre Educators Insights – Fall 2022 Newsletter
Get ‘Insights’ on the financial matters that are important to you, including: Did you know? – It is possible to prepare for uncertain financial times … and it’s easier than... Keep reading -
Document in News And Updates
The Learning Centre Educators Insights – Summer 2023 Newsletter
Get ‘Insights’ on the financial matters that are important to you, including: Did you know? – Make the most of a heartfelt inheritance – whether giving or receiving it. Chuck's... Keep reading -
Document in News And Updates
The Learning Centre Educators Insights – Winter 2024 Newsletter
Get ‘Insights’ on the financial matters that are important to you, including: Did you know? – If your ‘holiday hangover’ is of the financial sort, we have the cure. Chuck's... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre 2024 Federal Budget: 4 key takeaways
Well, the ink is dry on the latest federal budget. With a targeted spend of $535 billion that will cover a wide range of measures and impact Canadians across every... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre How to maximize your money when interest rates start to fall
There is an ancient saying, “what goes up must come down”. While Isaac Newton wasn’t exactly referring to 21st century interest rates when he first quipped that now infamous line,... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Home-buying 101: the 12 things to avoid when buying a home
(Reading time: 3:25) Buying a home can be exciting and overwhelming, all at the same time. In fact, it can be so easy to get caught up in the rush... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre How to put your financial plan into motion
When it comes to your financial dreams and goals, where would you like to be a year from now? Five years from now? Okay, so you probably can’t even think... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Borrowing 101: how to avoid predatory lending pitfalls
33% of Canadians are using alternative lending sources for their borrowing needs. While having various credit options beyond the big banks is a good thing, it can also leave you... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
3 simple strategies to avoid being caught in the debt net in your ‘after school’ years
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The Learning Centre 3 simple strategies to avoid being caught in the debt net in your ‘after school’ years
Retirement. No more marking. No more ringing bells (of the alarm clock or school kind). No more mounds of debt. Or at least, that’s what you want to be striving... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre How you – and your kids – can get the most from the Canada Child Benefit.
As an education member with a family, you’re used to your paycheque having to go a long, long way. You may be saving for a down payment for a home,... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre 3 ways to make your money work harder for you in retirement
That’s where having a financial action plan in place can prepare you to not only take it all in stride—but make your money work harder for you in retirement. ACTION... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Registered Education Savings Plans: What parents and grandparents need to know
Accumulation - Opening an RESP and starting to contribute regularly Making the most of an RESP begins with researching and selecting the right plan and provider. At Educators Financial Group,... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre “Knowledge is power”.
Everyone’s heard that ‘knowledge is power’. But here’s a newsflash: knowledge alone won’t achieve your goals. It’s when that knowledge is put to use that it has the greatest impact.... Keep reading -
Article in News And Updates
The Learning Centre Put your Educators team to work for you: Contact Centre
As an education member, you have a busy life, and your finances can be complicated. We understand what you have to deal with—your pay grids, pensions, summer cash flow issues,... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Two important mortgage rule changes from OSFI.
Looking to buy a home, or renegotiate your mortgage? Here’s what Educators Financial Group clients should know about the changes from the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI)... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Gains vs. loss: what a ‘loss’ really means
When it comes to your investment portfolio, performance is a result of the combination of holdings (gains and losses)—but what does a ‘loss’ mean exactly? It means the market value... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Rising interest rates and debt: what you need to know
No matter where you are on the pay grid or what your pension income is in retirement, rising interest rates are making everyone’s debt load more expensive to carry. They’re... Keep reading -
Article in News And Updates
The Learning Centre Is a recession due in 2019?
Newspapers have recently cited numerous predictions for a recession in 2019, perhaps because of 2018’s market volatility—traditionally, one of the predictors of a recession. However, predicting a recession is notoriously... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre HELOCs: beware of borrowing yourself into a never-ending balance
(Reading time: 3:05) The road to HELOCs (Home Equity Lines of Credit) is paved with good intentions. After all, it’s easy access to credit, often at far lower interest rates... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Investing: taking your money beyond ‘pay grids and pension income’
So you’re making your way up the pay grid and have a defined benefit pension plan in place. Wonderful—your finances are cruising forward at a comfortable pace. But why stop... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre COVID-19 and home financing: “What happened?” and “What’s next?”
Anyone involved in financing a home in 2020 probably thought it was like “adding insult to injury”. Buyers dealt with bidding wars in cities and rural areas had to add... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Investing 101: how to weather the storm during a recession
Escape velocity aside, what goes up must eventually come down. After all, there’s no escaping basic gravity. But what do you do if you have money in the market and... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre How to manage your mortgage renewal during a time of rising rates
Being a homeowner with an impending mortgage renewal can be pretty nerve-wracking. The source of that anxiety all comes down to interest rates. If rates happen to be low, that... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre Plan and budget your home renovations in 5 simple steps
Home renovations are very much akin to all-you-can-eat buffets. The intention is always to begin with only as much as you can handle. But with so many delectable options, it’s... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Responsible Investing: you’ve got questions, we’ve got answers.
Responsible Investing (RI) is becoming increasingly popular with Educators’ investors who are interested in supporting environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) causes. However, many things about RI are still unclear... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre RESP investments: timing is everything
Registered Education Savings Plans (RESPs) are a real boon to education members saving for their children’s education. Not only does interest earned on the investments inside your RESP accumulate tax-free... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
How refinancing your mortgage could help you save money, increase cash flow, and consolidate debt
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The Learning Centre How refinancing your mortgage could help you save money, increase cash flow, and consolidate debt
Your mortgage is one of the biggest financial commitments you’ll ever make. At the start of that commitment, you typically select the kind of mortgage that works best with where... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre What you need to know about debt (and how to pay it off)
It pays to pay attention to interest rates…especially when it comes to your high-interest debt payments. Teaching the fundamentals of interest rates might be part of the financial literacy curriculum... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre 4 ways to cover the cost of home renovations
In the past couple of years, home renovation projects have gone up by almost 40% nationwide. With the increased amount of time everyone has spent within their own four walls... Keep reading -
Article in Planning
The Learning Centre 3 quick tips for starting the school year on the right financial track
Summer is winding down. A new school year is about to start. Can you hear the bells? We’re not talking about school bells—although those will be sounding off soon enough.... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Early retirement 101: what retiring early means for your investment strategy
The majority of Canadians (70%) don’t have a financial plan in place for retirement. As an education member, you might consider OTPP or OMERS to be your main plan when... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre 6 things to keep in mind before making any investment decisions
It is estimated the average adult makes more than 35,000 decisions a day. That’s a ton of decisions. And yes, somebody actually took the time to count. Whether that number... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Value of advice: when it comes to changing careers
If you could choose an entirely different career path (other than education), what would it be? For Erika, a teacher who was fast approaching retirement, the answer to that question... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Should you invest any extra money or use it to pay down your mortgage?
Once upon a time, it might have been easier to come up with a clear-cut answer to that question. However, we’re not exactly living in clear-cut times. Interest rates are... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
The top 5 things that should be on your ‘beginning of the year financial to-do’ list
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The Learning Centre The top 5 things that should be on your ‘beginning of the year financial to-do’ list
It’s a new year—and while you’re sorting out whether or not ‘old acquaintance should be forgot’; there is a list of things you shouldn’t forget if you want to start... Keep reading -
Article in Planning
The Learning Centre Value of advice: when it comes to realizing your financial goals
As an education member, you play a pivotal role in providing students with the essential building blocks they need to succeed in life. If you also happen to be a... Keep reading -
Article in News And Updates
The Learning Centre Educators Mortgage & Income Fund Receives Fundata’s FundGrade A Rating
Fundata’s FundGrade is an independent and objective fund rating system that has been developed to recognize funds that have achieved superior returns. The FundGrade rating system employs an advanced, risk-adjusted... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Around the world with Julie and Marc
It’s no secret—education members love to travel. After all, with a whole world out there to explore, what better way to soak up new learning experiences than by eating exotic... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Around the world with Julie and Marc: A lesson from Hawaii!
When we last left off, schoolteachers and Educators clients Julie and Marc Goulet were preparing to leave on their global adventure… Now the teachers are the students. An entire world... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Mastering financial literacy: how knowledgeable are you?
The Canadian government considers financially literacy to be critical in supporting the creation of jobs, growth and long-term prosperity. That’s why it’s now part of the Ontario Curriculum. At Educators... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Around the world with Julie and Marc: Exploring the depths of Oceania.
Bula friends! In every corner of the world there is typically a customary way of saying ‘hello’. In Hawaii it’s, ‘aloha’. Back home in Canada it’s usually ‘hi’, ‘bonjour’… or... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Around the world with Julie and Marc: Good morning (from) Vietnam
[caption id="attachment_20672" align="alignright" width="300"] Julie making friends with regional tribe members during a hike through the mountains[/caption] Vietnam was actually a last-minute destination added to our itinerary, thanks to recommendations... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre Home-buying 101: uncovering the hidden costs of buying
Interest adjustments. Services charges—and at least three different types of tax. Welcome to the hidden costs of home buying. But don’t worry. We’ve uncovered an ‘A to Z’ of extra... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Around the world with Julie and Marc: The not-so-direct journey home.
After all, when you spend a year exploring the various corners of the world like we have, you want to squeeze in every country (and experience) along the way as... Keep reading -
Article in News And Updates
The Learning Centre Help for the family budget – know what’s available for you.
Most parents would agree that their most important job is raising their kids. But providing your children with everything they need to get ahead in life can be financially challenging. ... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre The best way for your kids to learn money management is through you
(Reading time: 3:38) Well, spare yourself the time, the worry, and the money of picking the perfect book … because the truth is, the best way to teach your... Keep reading -
Article in News And Updates
The Learning Centre Will the markets be trumped?
While only time will tell, there were subjects discussed during the campaign and promises made that could affect the Canadian economy generally and Canadian investments specifically. One of those subjects... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Summer school and other ways to boost your retirement savings
(Reading time: 2:30) “Boy, I wish I had your pension!” “Well, you won’t have to worry when you retire.” As an education member, you’ve heard comments like these before. Many... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre It pays to understand the Bank of Canada overnight rate increase
Managing your monthly cash flow can be tricky during the best of times. Throw record inflation into the mix and you've got a situation where many people are being financially... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre 3 tips for getting ahead of the game in a homebuyer’s market
That goes extra when it comes to home buying, especially now that the housing market is leaning more towards favouring the buyer (over the seller) for the first time in... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre Attention (aspiring) homeowners:
If home ownership (or selling and buying a new home) is on your list of resolutions for the New Year, you may want to consider closing the deal before the... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Investing and the millennial educator
According to Statistics Canada, millennials now make up the majority of the Canadian workforce. That means if you’re an education member born in the '80s and '90s (broadly speaking), you... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Saving isn’t hard when you know how
Like a student’s “A, B, C’s”, the importance of saving is drilled into us from an early age. Most people understand the need to save to meet their goals. What... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Key information about market volatility
The upside of investing in the stock market is that it can help you save for your goals more quickly. The potential downside is market volatility and the negative impact... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Investing, interest rates, and the inflation correlation
Your investments are affected by interest rates, which, in turn, can be influenced by inflation. As for how those two market forces potentially impact your portfolio, well, that naturally depends... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre Why pay more interest on your debt than you have to?
According to the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada, 41% of Canadian credit card holders are not aware of the interest rate charged by their main credit card company. As national... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre ITWORKS: 7 steps to take if you’ve been laid off
(Reading time: 2:25) Layoffs happens surprisingly often. Read any newspaper these days, and you’ll see just how much. But when it happens to you, it can be emotional and overwhelming.... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre ITWORKS: 7 steps to take if you’ve been laid off (step 3)
(Reading time:3:00) You’re looking for a new job and need expert advice on how to handle a job search and your finances. Congratulations…you’re in the right place. Whether you are... Keep reading -
Article in Planning
The Learning Centre ITWORKS: 7 steps to take if you’ve been laid off (step 4)
(Reading time: 2:39) You’re looking for a new job and need expert advice on how to handle a job search and your finances. Congratulations…you’re in the right place. Whether you... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre 2020 RRIF Minimum Amount Reduction
Keeping you updated (Updated April 7, 2020) On March 18, 2020 the federal government announced a set of economic measures as part of the Government of Canada’s Covid-19 Economic Response... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre RESP 101: a 3-step guide to maximizing its total savings potential
68% of Canadian parents would go back in time if they could to save more for their children’s post-secondary education. Unfortunately, time travel isn’t yet an option and hindsight can... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
How to add an additional layer of protection by designating a Trusted Contact Person
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The Learning Centre How to add an additional layer of protection by designating a Trusted Contact Person
It happens too often. A person meets someone online, and they become friends. Then at some point, one asks the other for money and subsequently disappears. Or someone gets a... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre TFSA or RRSP: an education member’s guide to making the right choice
So, you’re finally ready to invest and are weighing your options between a Tax-Free Savings Account and Registered Retirement Savings Plan. But which one do you choose? After all, both... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre Home-buying 101: the 4 essential pieces of pre-mortgage homework
You advise your students of the importance of doing homework so they can be better prepared for any tests that you (and life) will spring on them. That’s very good... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Tax credits: what you don’t know can cost you
When it comes to tax time… are you taking advantage of ALL of the tax credits available to you? If you're not sure, chances are... you're not. In fact, according... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre 3 simple strategies to pay your mortgage off years faster
As an educator, you know that education pays off. Especially when it comes to mortgage payments. Yet there seems to be an education gap between Canadian mortgage holders and a... Keep reading -
Article in Planning
The Learning Centre ITWORKS: 7 steps to take if you’ve been laid off (step 2)
You’re looking for a new job and need expert advice on how to handle a job search and your finances. Congratulations…you’re in the right place. Whether you are planning to... Keep reading -
Article in Planning
The Learning Centre Two quick tips for a money-smart March Break
Whether you plan on spending it at home or away, March Break is one of those times of the year when you need to be extra mindful when it comes... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre Would you pass the test when it comes to these 5 financial literacy questions?
(Reading time: 5:30) ‘Interesting’ because according to a national online poll conducted by Ipsos, 76% of Canadians ‘believe’ they are financially literate. Yet 57% (that’s nearly 6 out of 10... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre 3 things to consider with the Bank of Canada overnight rate increase.
They say that “the only constant is change”. If that’s the case, one couldn’t expect the Bank of Canada (BoC) overnight rate to remain as low as it has forever.... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre Early retirement 101: how to get debt under control before you retire
When it comes to personal finances, there is one thing 54% of education members would like to get under control. And that thing is—debt. This should probably come as no... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre 4 ways to better manage your money now so you can maximize your pension later
As an education member, you’re one of the fortunate groups of Canadians with a defined benefit pension plan in place. That’s pretty amazing when you think about it. But if... Keep reading -
Article in Planning
The Learning Centre 6 ways to make better use of your tax refund
To spend or not to spend—that is the question; at least when it comes to your tax refund. Last year, the Canada Revenue Agency issued 17 million refunds, amounting to... Keep reading -
Article in Planning
The Learning Centre Divorce and your pension: what you need to know
You might be surprised to learn that divorce rates in Canada have been steadily declining since the 1980’s. Even so, that still means approximately 40% of marriages end in divorce.... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Learn how to manage a Registered Retirement Income Fund (RRIF)
When it comes to retirement, there’s more to think about than simply collecting your pension. Education members are no different from other types of workers; they think about taking the... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre 3 mortgage tips that will save you time and money
Approximately 17% of all Canadian mortgages renew every year. If your renewal is coming up (or if you’re about to buy a home for the very first time), there are... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre A step-by-step guide: Using a Tax-Free First Home Savings Account to help you save for your first home
Homeownership is something many education members aspire to, but with rising real estate prices and higher interest rates, the dream of owning a home can seem out of reach. And... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre 3 tips for taking your credit card debt to zero
Don’t play with fire. It’s simple yet smart advice. Maybe you’ve even passed it on to your students (and even your own children) at some point. Yet how good are... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre An RESP under the tree: now that’s a gift that makes dollars and sense
It’s the time of year when parents, grandparents—even aunts and uncles are all in search of it. By ‘it’, we’re talking about the perfect holiday gift for the child on... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre 5 misconceptions when it comes to mortgage renewals
So, you’ve been getting emails and phone calls from your lender about your mortgage renewal. But wait, according to your calendar, renewal time is still 4 months away. That’s pretty... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre Attention mortgage holders and seekers: changes are coming
The process of home ownership can be like a running a marathon. First, there’s the ‘training’ phase—as in all of the financial legwork that goes into getting a mortgage, such... Keep reading -
Article in News And Updates
The Learning Centre Market Update – Fall 2024
Featuring Karen Hubbard, Vice President, Client Advisory Services, Educators Financial Group As we enter the final quarter of 2024, the Canadian market continues to experience mixed performance driven by a... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre EDUCATORS ONE-TO-ONE: DENNIS MACEYOVSKI
Here’s what one of your fellow educators, Dennis Maceyovski, has to say about the importance of having an emergency fund. You never know when the money you are saving away... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre February is Financial Aid Awareness Month: Educators Tip #1
If your child is a Canadian resident 17 or younger in the year, then the first $2,500 of RESP contributions will be eligible for $500 of CESG. The CESG is... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Here are 4 ways to maximize the return on your tax refund
Expecting a tax refund this year? Now it’s time to make that hard-earned money work just as hard for you. Educators Senior Financial Advisor, Phil Blouin, offers up a few... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Markets going up and down? Remain C-A-L-M
September 2015 laid to rest any doubts that the market has its ups and downs. Many investors were happy to see the end of September 2015. At the end of... Keep reading -
Article in News And Updates
The Learning Centre November is Financial Literacy Month!
Get an A+ in financial literacy This month, take some time to empower yourself and build up your own knowledge, skills and confidence in financial literacy so that you can... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre New Year’s Resolution: become financially literate and save!
Pay less on your debt, starting today. Becoming financially literate is more than understanding esoteric terms like ‘cumulative’, ‘TFSA’ or ‘front load’ – a lot more. It’s learning how to... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Educator-specific advice and resources on saving for retirement
1. Why reconsider that RRSP ‘top up’ contribution? While other institutions may be telling you to ‘top up’ your RRSPs, Educators Financial Group invites you to speak to one of... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Teacher and Early Childhood Educator School Supply Tax Credit
This measure will allow an eligible educator to claim a 15 percent refundable tax credit based on an amount of up to $1,000 in expenditures made by the employee in... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Around the world with Julie and Marc: ‘Down Under’ and beyond…
G’day mates! Since leaving Fiji, our travels have literally taken us from ‘A’ to ‘Z’ (or Australia to New Zealand). If you’re looking for scenic landscapes to photograph or serve as... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
Wondering how you can be prepared in case of a Canada Post mail service disruption?
Article in News And Updates
The Learning Centre Wondering how you can be prepared in case of a Canada Post mail service disruption?
Here are 4 convenience services that can help mitigate any mail service disruption: 1. Online account access. There is nothing better than instant access to your account information. Sign up... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre Home-buying 101: 5 tips on how to budget after you’ve bought
(Reading time: 2:25) Congratulations—the sale is final, the move-in was a breeze… and you even had time to mark your students’ homework. So now what? Funny you should ask. Because... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Investing: the undiscovered country.
One of these misconceptions involves the type of person associated with investing. One survey1 showed that people visualized two types of investors: the wealthy individual who sits at their computer... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre ESTATE PLANNING: Powers of Attorney, Guardians and Trustees
In “ESTATE PLANNING: It’s not what you know, it’s who you know” we discussed the general attributes you should look for in the people helping to administer your estate, and... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Educators Financial Group Mutual Funds and the TSX returns: why the difference?
While your Educators Financial Advisor is always available to answer any questions in detail, here is a summary of the returns and the basic reasons behind them. TSX and Educators... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre PODCAST – A niche financial advisor: What it is and why you should have one.
As an educator, students come to you to learn or be coached. Now apply that same logic where your finances are concerned. Learning how to save money early in your... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Rising interest rates: what it could cost you and what to do about it
What goes up must come down—until it eventually goes back up again. Yes, we’re talking about interest rates. As for the impact rising rates could have when it comes to... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre The Equifax Breach – what you should know.
At Educators Financial Group, we consider it our responsibility to keep our clients informed about financial issues that could affect them. On September 7, Equifax Inc., one of the affiliates... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Why bond prices fall when interest rates rise
The higher the interest rate—the higher the return. Right? Well that’s definitely accurate if we’re talking about GICs or savings accounts. However, bond funds and interest rates have an inverse... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Why you should diversify…and how
Most investors have heard that diversification within your portfolio helps to manage risk. It makes sense: investing in assets whose returns do not react to market change the same way... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Put your Educators team to work for you: Financial Advisors
The saying ‘a failure to plan is a plan to fail’ is particularly true when it comes to financial planning, which experts say is an important means of meeting your... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre How to navigate the new mortgage rules
On January 1, 2018 the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) ushered in the all-new mortgage stress test. The ‘stress test’ requires the qualifying rate for both insured (those who... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre The top 3 reasons for reallocating your investment portfolio
(Reading time: 3:30) Your initial investment strategy is typically based on two key things—where you currently are in life; and where you ultimately want to be down the road. For... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre What Educators investors should know about recent market changes
October 2018 has been a volatile month for the stock market. In fact, when the market dropped October 23 it was the 12th time it had done so in 14... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Take maximum advantage of a TFSA
The Tax-Free Savings Account contribution limit for 2022 is $6,000. Educators Financial Group Financial Advisors have long recommended Tax-Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs) to education members to save for your financial... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre The debt-to-income ratio: what it is and how to reduce it
Oscar Wilde once said, “Anyone who lives within their means, suffers from a lack of imagination.” However, according to Statistics Canada, the current national debt-to-income ratio is $1.78 for every... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Update: Federal budget helps first-time home buyers
In their fourth and final budget before the October 2019 federal election, released Tuesday March 19th, the Liberal government introduced a new First-Time Home Buyer Incentive, to take effect September... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre How to prepare for sudden financial challenges
(Reading time: 3:30) Moving up the pay grid, reaching your 85 or 90 factor, collecting your hard-earned pension — these ‘constants’ are part and parcel of being an education member.... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Investing, you, and your emotions – here are the issues
As much as we’d like to think that our decisions are based on 100% logic, the growing field of behavioural finance suggests that investors are influenced by a variety of... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre CHILD + RESP = S-M-A-R-T
December 31 is an important date for education members with young children (or grandchildren). Why? Because that’s the contribution deadline for a Registered Education Savings Plan. Educators Certified Financial Planner... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Know the difference: secured vs. unsecured lines of credit.
(Reading time: 2:15) You save for what you need. You’ve got an emergency fund. But then something totally unexpected happens. You have an accident driving to school and the car... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Understanding the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive
(Reading time: 3:30) Buying a home is probably the biggest purchase you’ll ever make. But there’s good news: the government wants to help. That’s why Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre ITWORKS: 7 steps to take if you’ve been laid off (step 5)
(Reading time: 1:30) You’re looking for a new job and need expert advice on how to handle a job search and your finances. Congratulations…you’re in the right place. Whether you... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre ITWORKS: 7 steps to take if you’ve been laid off (step 6)
(Reading time: 1:30) You’re looking for a new job and need expert advice on how to handle a job search and your finances. Congratulations…you’re in the right place. Whether you... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre ITWORKS: 7 steps to take if you’ve been laid off (step 7)
(Reading time: 1:00) You’re looking for a new job and need expert advice on how to handle a job search and your finances. Congratulations…you’re in the right place. Whether you... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre What you need to know about borrowing during the pandemic
Some would venture to say we have experienced more change in a few short months in 2020 than most have in generations before. We’ve learned to adapt quickly and be... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre The key to unlocking funds in your LIRA or LIF
(Reading time: 3:00) Experiencing “financial hardship” due to COVID-19? Your LIRA or LIF could provide the money you need. The Locked-In Retirement Account (LIRA) and Life Income Fund (LIF) were... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre 2020 tax-filing guide: what’s new ahead of the April 30th deadline
(Reading time: 3:25) This year’s tax season is a little more complex to navigate due to the impact of COVID-19. For starters, some Canadians might be looking at owing more... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Fixed-income investments and low interest rates: do you have alternatives?
(Reading time: 3:25) “A diversified portfolio has a mix of equities, fixed-income investments, and cash”. “Never put all your eggs in one basket.” For years, investment experts have preached the... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
Women and Wealth: financial security for women means being prepared for the unexpected
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The Learning Centre Women and Wealth: financial security for women means being prepared for the unexpected
They say, “the only constant in life is change”. So it makes sense for women to be financially prepared for anything. This includes losing your job, salary disruption, maternity leave,... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Ask Educators: should inflation impact my decision to retire early?
With the inflation rate at an all-time high, Randy, an education member approaching his 85 factor, had the following question for us. “I’ve been wondering about how the current rate... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Estate planning essentials for education members at every age
There’s an idea out there that estate planning is something you get around to in your 50s or 60s. That’s like saying eating healthy or exercising regularly is something that’s... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
Remarrying? Give consideration to how a second marriage could affect your Estate Plan
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The Learning Centre Remarrying? Give consideration to how a second marriage could affect your Estate Plan
Here are some of the financial considerations of a second marriage, and how it could affect your Estate Plan: 1. Ensure your will is up to date in reflecting your... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Your educator tax credit checklist
It’s true. Not only that, but the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) allows corrections and omissions for a 10-year period … so if you missed out on the deductions or tax... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre The mortgage dilemma: what to do if you can’t afford to make your payments
What are your mortgage payment options when you’re fresh out of options and cash flow? As interest rates continue to rise, it’s an unfortunate reality facing a number of homeowners.... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Home-buying 101: how to choose the right mortgage lender
Shopping around for a mortgage lender goes beyond simply chasing after the best rate. While it’s only natural to be driven by the numbers, especially if you’re early in your... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre The deadline is April 30th: here are some tax time tips to maximize your return
First, let’s start with the tax credits and deductions that are unique to you as an education member. Eligible educator school-supply tax credit: As of 2021, eligible teachers and early childhood... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Advanced Mathematics
What you need to know about mortgage penalties. People who enjoy math say they like it because it is logical. Predictable. Let’s make one thing clear: Those people are not... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Helping your kids buy a home: educate yourself.
Today, that often means helping them buy their first home. A study from the Canadian Association of Accredited Mortgage Professionals shows that 13% of a first-time homebuyer’s down payment comes... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre COVID-19: 3 action steps to minimize its impact on your finances
According to a recent Angus Reid survey, 44% of Canadians have reported lost work and lost pay due to the impact of COVID-19—and that number is increasing every day. With... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Women and Wealth: does bias affect women’s finances?
As a professional in the financial industry, and as a woman, it’s clear to me that gender bias has affected women’s finances for a long time, and that it continues... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Education members need to think twice about generic advice: When it comes to the pension-income tax credit
You probably know that you can contribute to your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) up to age 71 (if you’re still earning income to deduct against it). And you also... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Women and Wealth: the impact of COVID-19 support programs on your tax return
(Reading time: 1:30) It’s an understatement to say that 2020 taught Canadian women many new things – new ways to teach, communicate, help your family, use your home. Here’s something... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre International Women’s Day: an educator’s guide to financial freedom every day
International Women’s Day, a day that is all about celebrating the contributions and advances of women—socially, politically, and economically. As education members of all gender identities and specialties, the key... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Ask Educators: how can I maximize my gratuity payout?
Over the past month, we’ve been getting a lot of questions about what retiring educators can do in order to avoid paying unnecessary taxes on their gratuity. One of those... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre 3 tips to protect your credit during the summer months
Summertime—the temperature rises… and so does the spending. It seems many Canadians are finding themselves having to resort to putting purchases on credit. In fact, according to a recent Equifax... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre An education in summer spending (and how to avoid getting burned)
Summer spending without a plan is akin to a day in the sun without UV protection. At some point, you’re going to get burned. Especially with the current rate of... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre 3 ways to get your investments ready for summer and beyond
It’s officially summertime—the time of year when you can finally catch up on life. Because let’s face it, the 10 months of a school year (as rewarding as they can... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Here’s why you should be investing any extra savings
Money… they say it makes the world go round. When you consider the state of the economy in recent years, it’s fair to say that ‘they’ are 100% right on... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Maximize your RRSPs by avoiding these two common missteps
Contributing to a Registered Retirement Savings Plan is a surefire way to add financial peace of mind over and above your pension income in retirement. Yet there are two common... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre RRSPs: what’s fact, what’s fiction, and what’s specific to education members
For most education members, saving for retirement begins with that very first pension contribution. While having the benefit of OTPP or OMERS should, in theory, provide you with financial security... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Investing 101: a 5-point ‘beginner’s guide’ to getting started
As an education member, you should already have a ‘vested interest’ in investing your money. We’re talking about your pension of course. Without investing those pension contributions, the savings bucket... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Value of advice: when it comes to buying a home early in your career
When you’re just starting out, owning a home can seem like something that’s totally out of reach. The latest statistics aren’t helping to dispel that notion either. A recent study... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Why financial literacy (and advice) is important to education members
Pay grids. Pension contributions. Deferred leaves. These are all factors unique to education members. And each of these factors plays an important role when it comes to your overall financial... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Protecting your money 101: financial scams
What do the holiday season, March Break, and the summer months all have in common? These are specific times of the year when your vulnerability to financial scams increases. That’s... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre TFSA Master Class – Lesson 2: How to avoid the over-contribution confusion
Let’s start this next lesson with a pop quiz to test your TFSA ‘over-contribution’ knowledge. Sarah-Jane deposited the maximum annual contribution limit of $7,000 into her TFSA in January of... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Sylvie’s Journey to Africa: A journey of a lifetime
For Sylvie Pelletier of Educators Financial Group, and family, vacation meant 10 volunteer-filled days in Kenya as part of Free The Children’s ‘We Trip’ tailored for families. Having already been... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Educators: think topping up your RRSP is a good idea? Think again!
Retirement gratuity + RRSP contribution room = keep more money, pay less tax… “If you’re an education member who is expecting a gratuity from your school board upon retirement, the... Keep reading -
Article in Planning
The Learning Centre EDUCATORS ONE-TO-ONE: BERTHA BREEN
However travelling isn’t cheap – especially on an educator’s salary. That’s why many of you choose to travel with friends, or a partner/spouse — someone you can share the costs,... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre How Will You Be ‘Spending’ This Summer?
Maybe you’ve been thinking about springing for that dream vacation in Italy, or tackling a long overdue home renovation (finally!). Perhaps it’s time to purchase a new boat for the... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Canadian Business Journal Features Educators Financial Group
January 15, 2014 - The Canadian Business Journal recently sat down with Educators Financial Group President and CEO Chuck Hamilton to discuss the longstanding history of our organization within the Ontario education... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Five ways to afford your dream vacation.
Here are 5 ways to have a fantastic vacation without having to dole out a lot of money: 1. Choose the deals carefully. Don’t get swayed by offers which look... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Inflation protection + pension credit + changes = WHAT for you?
For those of you paying into the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan (OTPP), or if you’re retired and collecting your OTPP income, then you’ve most likely heard the recent news that... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre During uncertain financial times, it pays to be prepared
Life has a way of throwing you financial curveballs when you least expect it. For education members, those curveballs can be especially hard-hitting. Wage freezes, reduced government funding, pay grid... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Are you planning for the ‘pension years’?
We say ‘fortunate’ because a study released by the Canadian Payroll Association (CPA) discovered that 75% of working Canadians have managed to put aside less than 25% of the money... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Mastering Financial Literacy – Second Semester
Our second article on the importance of financial literacy deals with planning and saving for your future and protecting yourself – and your plans - against fraud and financial abuse.... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Savings resolutions don’t have to be hard for education members
A pre-authorized contribution plan (or PAC) makes it easy to pay yourself first by setting money aside in regular contributions. Start with an amount (even as little as $25) and... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Solutions to Managing Volatility for Long-Term Success
Principal Protected Notes can help reduce the impact of market volatility on your portfolio. Principal Protected Notes blend the characteristics of growth-oriented and yield-generating investments while protecting your principal. Innovative... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre 2016 Federal Budget Summary
Growing the middle class The new Liberal government’s first federal budget focuses on growing the middle class and strengthening the economy through both tax measures and non-tax measures, such as... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Annual Management Report of Fund Performance 2015
The annual management report of fund performance (“MRFP”) contains financial highlights but does not contain the complete annual financial statements of the Fund. You can request a copy of the... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Closing The Gap
Thankfully, expert advice can help close the knowledge gap. Here are our top 5 tips for avoiding the most common mistakes first-time homebuyers make: Focus on a mortgage plan rather... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Serial Home Buyers Beware
Experts say that boredom is the second biggest reason for moving to a new home, surpassed only by retirement. On average, people move 4 to 5 times in their lifetime;... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Good news: ‘bad news’ doesn’t mean you should bail from the market.
In fact, pulling out of the market during times of volatility could cost you a lot in potential returns. As an educator, there’s a certain comfort that comes from knowing... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Home-buying 101: a purchaser’s guide to buying in a seller’s market
Your home is one of the biggest purchases (and investments) you’ll ever make. It can also be one of the most perplexing, particularly when it comes to buying in a... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre An education in saving for vacation
For you, perhaps ‘getting away’ means dreams of squeezing out every second during the precious summer months to travel and explore various parts of the world. Or perhaps you have... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre How to build a budget that works
Budgets are to adults what homework is to students: not fun to do—yet it still needs to be done. You only have to take a look at the latest debt-to-disposable... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
Le gouvernement fédéral annonce des mesures pour contrer les risques immobiliers
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The Learning Centre Le gouvernement fédéral annonce des mesures pour contrer les risques immobiliers
Les assurances hypothécaires vont changer Selon le nouveau règlement en vigueur dès le 17 octobre, une simulation de crise qui ne s’appliquait auparavant qu’aux emprunteurs optant pour une hypothèque à... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Federal Government announces measures to address housing risks
Mortgage insurance changes coming As of October 17th, under the new rules, a stress test that had only applied to borrowers who opted for variable rate mortgages or fixed rate... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre Home-buying 101: who to turn to when you’re looking to buy a home
Buying a home is a big financial commitment filled with so many considerations. How much home can you really afford? Is there a best time to buy? Which type of... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Divorcing? Your estate plan should change.
And yet, many people are confused about how ones Estate Plan should be changed in case of a divorce. Here’s how divorce should impact your estate plan: Being separated from... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre How to (credit) score: 5 things you need to know about credit and debt
(Reading time: 4:30) According to the Educators Financial Kickstart Challenge, 75% of education members pay their credit card balance off in full every month. Congratulations, you’re just slightly edging out... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Sellers beware: 3 tips to protect yourself in a buyer’s market
When supply exceeds demand, prices tend to drop. Basic ‘Economics 101’, right? Yet in the case of the housing market, ‘basic economics’ took a backseat to the ‘housing bubble’. In... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Know Your Client (KYC) Definitions
Risk Tolerance Risk tolerance can be defined as how comfortable you are with fluctuations in the value of your investments. The three risk categories below will assist you in determining your... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
The top 3 financial challenges faced by education members (and how to solve them)
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The Learning Centre The top 3 financial challenges faced by education members (and how to solve them)
In 2016, Educators Financial Group launched the Financial Kickstart Challenge — a self-directed online resource, exclusively dedicated to increasing the financial literacy of education members like you. Since its launch,... Keep reading -
Article in News And Updates
The Learning Centre Today, the world celebrates YOU!
As an organization that has a proud history of working exclusively with educators, we tend to celebrate the education community every single day of the year. However, today on World... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
Educators Financial Group reduces Management Expense Ratio (MER) on Balanced Fund
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The Learning Centre Educators Financial Group reduces Management Expense Ratio (MER) on Balanced Fund
That’s because as of October 2, we reduced the Management Expense Ratio (MER) on our Educators Balanced Fund from 1.93% to 1.87%. About the Educators Balanced Fund: Invests in a... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Update: The Equifax Breach
As part of our ongoing efforts to keep our clients informed about issues that may affect them, we are providing an update about the Equifax cyber attack that occurred last... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Investing 101: how to handle market volatility
When your investments are impacted by sudden fluctuations in the financial market, your first instinct may be to react. After all, you’ve worked hard for every dollar you have invested.... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Put your Educators team to work for you: Regional Directors
The teacher who consolidated her debt in a low-rate line of credit to save thousands of dollars. The principal who discovered a mortgage that lets him have the ‘summer off’,... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre How to put your finances on the right path to retirement
While your pension will provide you with your main source of income in retirement, there are steps you should be taking at various stages in your career to ensure true... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Are you spending on budget? Check out our budget breakdown.
49% of Canadians use a budget to plan their spending. But do budgets really make a difference? Considering half of the population is on the brink of insolvency, it would... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre 7 ways to make the most of dollar-cost averaging
Market fluctuations make it difficult for most investors (and even some professional managers) to determine precisely when to capitalize on an investment. However, there is a useful investment technique called dollar-cost... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre The financial impact of divorce
Fact: for most people, the biggest effect of divorce is on their relationships. The second biggest effect? Their finances. How divorce affects your finances can be complicated, and it’s one... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre The impact of the 2018 U.S. midterm elections
It’s fair to say that the U.S. midterm elections on November 6th garnered more attention than midterms have had in several years. In fact, voter turnout was expected to be... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Important: Capital Market Update
With recent discussions regarding the potential of a 2019 recession, many Educators investors have a heightened awareness of the state of the markets. For these investors, Educators will be providing... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre What to say before you say “I do”
Okay, so it’s not the most romantic of conversations. However, whether you’re taking the plunge and getting married, becoming common-law partners, or simply moving in together—this is a big commitment.... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Taking the mystery (and the stress) out of the mortgage stress test
On their own, the words ‘stress’ and ‘test’ don’t exactly say, “well, this is going to be fun.” Put them together; then add the word ‘mortgage’ into the mix—now you’ve got a... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
TFSA Master Class – Lesson 1: Shift your tax-free savings out of ‘park’ to drive higher returns
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The Learning Centre TFSA Master Class – Lesson 1: Shift your tax-free savings out of ‘park’ to drive higher returns
It was author, historian, and biographer Michael King that said, “If you have a little extra parking, I err on the side of getting rid of it in favour of... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Protect your future with professional advice
(Reading time: 2:50) You aren't a doctor, so when your son needed an operation you talked to a pediatrician. You don't build homes, so you hired a recommended contractor for... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre ‘Outside the box’: alternative ways to borrow
You need to borrow, but—temporarily or otherwise—your financial situation isn’t ideal. Will you be able to get a loan? What will lenders think of you? What are your options? Different... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre RESP 101: how to choose the plan that’s right for you
(Reading time: 4:30) When it comes to setting up a Registered Education Savings Plan, it’s important to be fully aware of your options. For example, out of the three types... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre 3 ways to prevent your credit cards from taking control of your finances
According to the Canadian Bankers Association, 76.2 million credit cards were reported to be in circulation nationally in 2021. That’s double the Canadian population, which roughly stands at 38 million.... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre RESP 101: what you need to know about contributions, withdrawals, and taxes
Once you get into the groove of making regular RESP contributions, it can be easy to adopt a ‘set it and forget it’ approach to investing until it’s time to... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Gains and Losses now look different in the Client Portal
(Reading time: 1:30) At Educators, we are committed to providing the clearest and most accurate information about your investments. When you review your investments, you will notice a difference in... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Avoiding emotional investing in 2020 and beyond
(Reading time: 2:45) They say it’s healthy to “get in touch with your emotions.” When it comes to investing, it’s not only healthy to understand your emotions, it’s essential if... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Value of advice: when it comes to the sudden passing of a spouse
(Reading time: 4:30) The death of a spouse can have a devastating impact beyond the loss of the loved one. With most couples sharing the burden of everyday household expenses,... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre How to better manage your finances during times of runaway inflation
If you’ve gone shopping for pretty much anything in the past several months, you’ve probably noticed that your budget isn’t stretching as far as it used to. It’s all thanks... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre Fixed vs. variable: how to decide which mortgage rate is right for you
Coffee or tea, french fries or salad, Leafs or Canadiens—some choices in life are clear-cut. When it comes to deciding between a fixed or variable mortgage rate, on the other... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Value of advice: when it comes to balancing financial priorities
They say that opposites attract, but what happens when those differing points of view revolve around money. Take our clients Joe and Sue, for example. Joe works for a local... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre The “how to” guide to saving for teachers
Saving has perhaps never been more important. In the education community this year, incomes have taken a one-two punch - salary disruption due to job action, plus the financial stress... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre TFSA Master Class – Lesson 4: Using a TFSA to pay the way, early in your career
If you’re an educator early in your career – now more than ever you need to think ahead to retirement. We know what you’re thinking: retirement is a long way... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Timing the market vs. time in the market: why the best time to invest is now
If investing your hard-earned money in the market makes you a little nervous, you’re not alone. From economic and political events to ‘meme’ stocks that often affect short-term market performance,... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre The top 3 factors deterring potential home buyers (and how to conquer them)
If you’ve been finding it challenging to enter the home buying market, you’re not alone. Over the past few years, Canadians from coast-to-coast have been applying the brakes when it... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre Mortgage insurance rates are going up. Here’s what you should know.
The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has announced that mortgage insurance rates are going up as of March 17, 2017. “The actual increase may not be that much –... Keep reading -
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The Learning Centre CMHC’s new rules may not affect you
Homebuyers have alternatives to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s new, stricter mortgage rules. In early June 2020, CMHC announced new rules for insured mortgages (those with less than 20% down... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre TFSA Master Class – Lesson 5: Using a TFSA to live larger, and be taxed smaller – later in your career
Have you started the countdown to retirement? Maybe you’ve recently retired? Perhaps you’ve already been enjoying life after school for some time now. Wherever you are on the retirement spectrum,... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
6 key questions about your RRSP that you’ll want to answer before March 1, 2023.
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The Learning Centre 6 key questions about your RRSP that you’ll want to answer before March 1, 2023.
While educators may think of January and February as the start of a new school term, to those in the financial field the days leading up to March will always... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Important news for mutual fund investors
In alignment with the Canadian mutual fund industry, Educators is changing its settlement cycle to T+1. Right now, when you buy or sell mutual funds through Educators Financial Group, settlements... Keep reading -
Article in Planning
The Learning Centre An education member’s guide to maximizing a sudden windfall
Regardless of where you are on the pay grid, you’re all about making every dollar count. Then out of the blue, you find out that you’re about to receive a... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Investment fads: proceed with caution
By definition, a fad is an object or behavior that achieves short-lived popularity then fades away. Considering that investing is meant to be more of a long-term plan, you would... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
Thinking about taking early retirement? Then you’ll also need to think about this…
Article in Planning
The Learning Centre Thinking about taking early retirement? Then you’ll also need to think about this…
(Reading time: 3:00) When you’re an education member working towards retirement, collecting your full pension is typically the ideal plan for your golden years. But you know what they say... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
TFSA Master Class – Lesson 3: Passing on your tax-free savings account after you’ve passed away
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre TFSA Master Class – Lesson 3: Passing on your tax-free savings account after you’ve passed away
(Reading time: 2:00) To paraphrase Benjamin Franklin, the only things certain in life are death and taxes. But hey, there’s actually a silver lining to that cloud of reality. While... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre How to borrow when the economy slows down
Borrowing money is a fact of life. After all, how many of us can buy a home without a mortgage loan, for example? If used wisely, borrowing can be an... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
Home-buying 101: verifying the sources of your down payment (the what, why, and how)
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre Home-buying 101: verifying the sources of your down payment (the what, why, and how)
One little detail about making down payments is causing a bit of stress among homebuyers. The culprit: having to verify the sources of their down payment. Never heard of such... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre Home-buying 101: the lowdown on making the down payment
(Reading time: 3:45) After all, that’s a large chunk of money to put down all at once—especially with other financial obligations (such as pension contributions, rent, car payments, debt, day-to-day... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre Why mortgage brokers are more essential today than ever
Constant changes in the mortgage market can confuse borrowers In securing a mortgage in today’s market, borrowers face challenges from constantly changes conditions and only partial explanations in the media.... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre Reverse mortgages: what you need to know
As an education member who is a 55+ Canadian homeowner, there are a variety of options available for you in retirement. It is important to look at your retirement needs,... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
Why you should be contributing to an RESP (and what it’s costing your kids if you’re not)
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Why you should be contributing to an RESP (and what it’s costing your kids if you’re not)
At this rate, it is expected tuition fees will increase from an average of $7,360 in 2024 to $19,900 in 2036. If you just had your first kid, congratulations… now... Keep reading -
Article in News And Updates
The Learning Centre EDUCATORS TIP – Get an A+ in financial literacy
With financial literacy as a part of the curriculum, it is now more important than ever that educators are financially literate. This month, take some time to empower yourself and... Keep reading -
Article in Planning
The Learning Centre 5 tips for saving up to $500 a month
What if we told you that you likely already have that extra cash flow kicking around? No, we’re not talking about the coins between your couch cushions or under your... Keep reading -
Article in Planning
The Learning Centre Here’s why your estate plan needs to include digital assets
It’s estimated that a whopping 94% of Canadians are online. That’s 37 million people browsing, clicking, banking, gaming, zooming, teaching, learning, shopping, streaming, posting, sharing, liking, tweeting—and that’s all before... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre What education members need to know about the new First Home Savings Account
Thinking about buying your first home? Good news. The Tax-Free First Home Savings Account (FHSA), introduced by the federal government in their 2022 budget, is now available at Educators Financial... Keep reading -
Article in Planning
The Learning Centre How to better manage your debt and save money
Pension contributions, union dues, and don’t forget the tax. Your paycheque makes a few ‘stops’ along the way before it finally gets to you. As an education member, you know... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre What is a Pre-Authorized Contribution (PAC) plan?
With a PAC, a pre-arranged amount is automatically withdrawn from your chequing account on a regular timeframe, such as weekly, biweekly, semi-monthly or monthly, then deposited directly into your investment... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre An education member’s guide to giving and receiving inheritance money early
Whether you’ve just begun your education career, or are now enjoying the ‘after school’ years—we’d like to talk to you about money. After all, ‘money is what makes the world... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre Retirement 101: the Canada Pension Plan enhancement (CPP2)
Let’s talk retirement income—specifically, the evolution of the Canada Pension Plan (CPP). As an education member, you’re fortunate enough not to have to rely solely on the CPP as your... Keep reading -
Article in Planning
The Learning Centre Getting a pay increase? Here’s how to make that money go the extra mile.
Whether it’s a result of contract negotiations or moving up the pay grid, it’s always great to know when a salary bump is on the way. But have you thought... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
Our investment reports meet the highest standards for transparency and information
Article in News And Updates
The Learning Centre Our investment reports meet the highest standards for transparency and information
As a registered mutual fund dealer, Educators Financial Group adheres to regulations established by the Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) that are designed to improve the industry. One recent example is... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre How to build and maintain your credit history
Your students know the importance of working hard to get good grades. The higher their grades, the better their chances will be at securing their post-secondary institution of choice. The... Keep reading -
Article in News And Updates
The Learning Centre Educators Financial Group made the A+ list… again!
It’s the second year in a row that we’ve received this distinction for this outstanding Fund – an exciting achievement, especially when you consider that we were ranked against over... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
EDUCATORS FINANCIAL GROUP KICKS OFF THE ULTIMATE ROAD TRIP WITH THE SMART MONEY TOUR
Article in News And Updates
The Learning Centre EDUCATORS FINANCIAL GROUP KICKS OFF THE ULTIMATE ROAD TRIP WITH THE SMART MONEY TOUR
Educators Financial Group (Educators) is packing their bags and hitting the road on its special tour bus on October 2, 2014 to bring its newest initiative, the Smart Money Tour,... Keep reading -
Article in News And Updates
The Learning Centre Say YES to ‘Greener’ by choosing to opt out!
By now you’ve probably heard of our mission to offer you "Smarter, Faster, Greener" solutions when it comes to everything from the products we offer you, to the way you... Keep reading -
The Learning Centre
Here’s what some of our portfolio managers are saying about this week’s market volatility.
Article in News And Updates
The Learning Centre Here’s what some of our portfolio managers are saying about this week’s market volatility.
Recent market volatility commentary provided by some of Educators Financial Group Portfolio Managers Beutel Goodman* are the portfolio Managers appointed to manage the Educators Financial Group Balanced Fund Equity Commentary:... Keep reading -
Article in Investing
The Learning Centre When markets are volatile, keep your eyes on the (long-term) prize.
Volatility in equity stock markets continues Volatility in equity stock markets continues, and may do so for the short term or even increase as we approach the September Federal Reserve... Keep reading -
Article in News And Updates
The Learning Centre New option for submitting a transaction request
At Educators Financial Group, our focus is on delivering the best client experience. We want to make it easier for you to manage your accounts with us, and we’re happy... Keep reading -
Article in Planning
The Learning Centre Do this before December 31…or be prepared to lose.
The recent changes to the tax rates and TFSAs require a quick assessment of your tax planning and action before the year-end! Ensure your RRSP contribution is maxed. Educators in... Keep reading -
Article in Borrowing
The Learning Centre Don’t be Scared of Rising Rates
Every homeowner and new home buyer seems to be asking the same question: What’s going on with rates? The bad news: Rates are often unpredictable and therefore unwise to count... Keep reading -
