• When does a relationship become common-law?

    Q: My dad is in his 70s and has mentioned moving in with his new girlfriend. Should we be concerned about protecting his assets if the relationship gains common-law status?

  • Estate planning considerations for blended families

    Stepfamilies are common, but planning for who gets what after you die is anything but routine. When families come together, each with their own possessions, ensuring your assets go where you want is key.

  • Starting over: Retirement strategies for blended families

    For couples who meet later in life, retirement planning may seem a little daunting. But it doesn’t have to be. If you get started now, and ask the right questions along the way, it can even be exciting. Here are a few questions that should be top of mind.

  • Bounce back from the retirement blues

    Many people dream of a life free of worries in their golden years. Yet some find themselves anxious and depressed when that abrupt change comes. Here are some planning tips to help make your retirement days truly golden.

  • Me and My Big Fat House

    Whether through luck or longevity, many Canadians nearing retirement are living in homes that may be worth double what they paid for them 10 or 20 years ago. Even with recent dips in the market, these paper millionaires may be asking themselves: Should I stay or should I go?

  • What the RRIF!? 10 common questions you may have

    Many people know at least a little about RRSPs. But what about RRIFs? If you’re in or nearing retirement, are you ready to begin the big conversion? Here’s a quick guide to the world of RRIFs.

  • Can you help your kids buy their first home and protect your money in the process?

    Many parents want to help their kids buy a first home. Is this a good idea, and if so, what’s the best way to do it?

  • Fraud prevention: Eight things your bank would never ask you

    Financial scams and fraud come in many different forms. Sometimes they arrive in the form of a text message, email, or phone call, and often these forms for fraudulent communications are designed to look like they are coming from your bank.

  • How to protect yourself from phishing scams

    We've all received those scary sounding text messages and emails claiming to be from our bank or other service provider. The person calling says that your account has been locked, or that you need to send them a money transfer, and that you need to click this link and enter your personal information as soon as possible, or else.