Tara Al-Khudairi

Tara Al-Khudairi is a freelance personal finance writer who has worked in the financial services industry since 2017. She graduated from McMaster University with a degree in Finance and is pursuing her CFA.

She has worked at a major Canadian financial institution in various client-facing advisory roles, starting as a bank teller and working up to a Client Services Associate within the Asset Management division. She specializes in simplifying concepts of personal finance for people of various financial backgrounds.

When she’s not examining the markets looking for the next SHOP.TO, she’s either practicing yoga, planning her next vacation, or has her nose buried deep in a book.
What is a Cash Advance Fee?

What is a Cash Advance Fee?

Thinking of taking out a cash advance? Read this first.

Understanding Alcohol Tax by Province in Canada

Understanding Alcohol Tax by Province in Canada

The alcohol tax rates in each province are influenced by various factors, including government revenue goals, public health concerns, alcohol consumption rates, competitiveness with neighboring provinces, and economic considerations.

Is OSAP (Student Loans) Considered Taxable Income?

Is OSAP (Student Loans) Considered Taxable Income?

OSAP loans are not taxable income and do not need to be reported on your tax return. Grants or bursaries in addition to the loan may be considered taxable income.

How Does the CRA Track Rental Income for Tax Purposes?

How Does the CRA Track Rental Income for Tax Purposes?

There are various ways the CRA knows about rental income and it is essential that rental income be declared.pw

VAC Payment Dates (Veteran Disability Pension)

VAC Payment Dates (Veteran Disability Pension)

The Disability Pension is a monthly, tax-free financial benefit provided to eligible Canadian Armed Forces members and veterans who have service-related disabilities.

Average Cost of a Wedding in Ontario: Breaking Down Expenses for Couples

Average Cost of a Wedding in Ontario: Breaking Down Expenses for Couples

A wedding for 150 guests in Ontario will cost you between $35,000 to $40,000 on average.

The Cost of Having a Baby in Canada: What You Need to Know

The Cost of Having a Baby in Canada: What You Need to Know

The cost of having a baby in Canada falls within the range of $10,000 to $15,000 a year, until they turn 18.

Understanding Employee Numbers: What Are They and How Do They Work?

Understanding Employee Numbers: What Are They and How Do They Work?

An employee number, also known as an identification number, is a unique code given to individuals by their employer for internal administrative purposes.

5 Best Gift Cards Canada – Find the Perfect Present!

5 Best Gift Cards Canada – Find the Perfect Present!

Gift cards offer the convenience of purchasing and giving a gift last-minute without overthinking. They can easily be purchased online or in-store in various denominations

What is a CRA Security Code & How to Get One?

What is a CRA Security Code & How to Get One?

The CRA Security Code is a unique alphanumeric code used to access confidential information when using CRA online services. This code acts as an additional layer of security, ensuring that only authorized individuals can access their personal tax and benefit information.

Is World Financial Group a Pyramid Scheme? (The Truth)

Is World Financial Group a Pyramid Scheme? (The Truth)

World Financial Group recruits individuals to sell insurance and investment products, earning commissions. Associates of the company do not get paid to recruit other associates to the company.

Do You Have to Pay Back EI? Everything You Need to Know

Do You Have to Pay Back EI? Everything You Need to Know

You may have to repay some or all of your EI benefits if your net income exceeds a certain threshold, due to inaccurate income reporting or if you were not eligible to receive EI.

How to Change Name on SIN Card: A Simple Guide for Canadians

How to Change Name on SIN Card: A Simple Guide for Canadians

To change your name on a SIN card, you will need to submit a SIN application and select the box for “Legal Change of Name” at the top of the application, along with the supporting documents. This can be done online, in person, or through mail.

Québec Child Benefit Dates: Know When to Expect Your Payments

Québec Child Benefit Dates: Know When to Expect Your Payments

The Quebec Family Allowance consists of four different programs: the Family Allowance payment, the Supplement for the Purchase of School Supplies, the Supplement for Handicapped Children, and the Supplement for Handicapped Children Requiring Exceptional Care.

Does Target Ship to Canada? (Simple Guide)

Does Target Ship to Canada? (Simple Guide)

Target doesn’t ship directly to Canada, however Canadians can shop at Target and have their items shipped to Canada using a cross-border package forwarding service.

How Much Money to Give For a Wedding in Canada?

How Much Money to Give For a Wedding in Canada?

The average Canadian generally gives $100 to $200 a person when attending a wedding. However, some offer much more, while others way less.

What is  PPPL Can CAD CE Charge on Credit Card?

What is PPPL Can CAD CE Charge on Credit Card?

A PPPL Can Cad CE Charge on a credit card is the charge you receive after a failed transaction from the online payment company PayPal.

Understanding the Bell CRDV Charge on Your Credit Card

Understanding the Bell CRDV Charge on Your Credit Card

A Bell CRDV charge refers to a transaction on your credit card associated with the services provided by Bell Canada.

Cash Miles vs Dream Miles: Comparing Rewards Programs for Optimal Benefits

Cash Miles vs Dream Miles: Comparing Rewards Programs for Optimal Benefits

The main difference between Cash Miles and Dream Miles is that Cash Miles can be used instantly online or in-store to pay for things like groceries and gas, whereas Dream Miles can be redeemed for products, travel, activities, and more.

Meta PPGF Charge on Credit Card: What You Need to Know

Meta PPGF Charge on Credit Card: What You Need to Know

A “Meta PPGF” charge on your credit card statement is related to a payment you made using Meta Pay, previously called Facebook Pay.

What is CPC/SCP Charge on Credit Card?

What is CPC/SCP Charge on Credit Card?

A charge on your credit card statement labeled CPC/SCP is typically a legitimate charge by Canada Post.

Aeroplan Missing Points – Expert Tips & Solutions

Aeroplan Missing Points – Expert Tips & Solutions

Missing Aeroplan points from a recent purchase or flight? Follow this guide to ensure they are credited to you.

Is American Express Worth It in Canada?

Is American Express Worth It in Canada?

Even though American Express cards aren’t accepted at all stores, including Costco and Loblaws, the perks and rewards make getting an Amex a worthy choice for Canadians.

How Many Air Miles to Fly for Your Dream Destination

How Many Air Miles to Fly for Your Dream Destination

The monetary value of your Dream Miles will depend on a variety of different factors, including the time of year that you’re traveling, how far ahead you’re booking your flight, and the distance you’re flying. On average, the value of one Air Miles Dream Mile is somewhere between 10 and 12 cents.

WF/CA Charge on Credit Card: What it is and How to Handle it

WF/CA Charge on Credit Card: What it is and How to Handle it

A charge on your credit card statement labeled WF/CA is from a purchase made online on Wayfair.ca.

What is Nayax Canada Charge on Credit Card?

What is Nayax Canada Charge on Credit Card?

When you see a Nayax Canada charge on your credit card statement, it means that a transaction has been made using their payment processing system.

Where is American Express Accepted in Canada?

Where is American Express Accepted in Canada?

American Express cards are widely accepted in Canada by major online retailers like Amazon and eBay. They can also be used at grocery stores like Metro, Longos, and Whole Foods Market, gas stations like Petro-Canada and Shell, and hotels like Marriott.

What is Vesta Chatr Charge on Credit Card?

What is Vesta Chatr Charge on Credit Card?

If you’ve recently found a charge from Vesta Chatr on your credit card statement, it is related to your Chatr Wireless bill. Chatr Wireless is a subsidiary of Rogers Communications, one of the major telecommunications companies in Canada.

What is SP TBMBM Charge on my Credit Card?

What is SP TBMBM Charge on my Credit Card?

If you receive a charge by SP TBMBM on your credit card, you’ve likely made a purchase from the online store PinkCherry.ca.

Scotiabank vs RBC: Comparison of Canadian Banks

Scotiabank vs RBC: Comparison of Canadian Banks

Scotiabank and RBC are two of the largest and most well-established banks in Canada.

TD vs RBC: Which Canadian Bank is Better?

TD vs RBC: Which Canadian Bank is Better?

In this article, we will compare TD and RBC across various aspects, including accessibility and branch network, online and mobile banking experience, account types and fees, customer service and support, and credit card options.

Is Koho Safe to Use? (Yes, Here’s Why)

Is Koho Safe to Use? (Yes, Here’s Why)

KOHO is just as safe to use as any other financial institution and is CDIC insured.

Equalization Payments Canada: What Are They & How Do They Work

Equalization Payments Canada: What Are They & How Do They Work

An OTB notice is a letter sent to eligible Ontario residents informing them of their status with respect to the Ontario Trillium Benefit.

What is an OTB Notice From The CRA?

What is an OTB Notice From The CRA?

An OTB notice is a letter sent to eligible Ontario residents informing them of their status with respect to the Ontario Trillium Benefit.

How Many Quarters Are in a Roll in Canada?

How Many Quarters Are in a Roll in Canada?

A standard roll of Canadian quarters contains 40 quarters, which means the roll has a total value of $10.

What Does BPF Payment Date Mean (TD App)

What Does BPF Payment Date Mean (TD App)

A “BPF payment date” on your TD app refers to the date on which your account was debited to pay a bill. This is also typically honoured as the bill payment date, as long as the funds were in the account to begin with.

SAID (Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability) Payment Dates

SAID (Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability) Payment Dates

Here are the payments dates for SAID (Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability).

Canada FED Deposit: Why Did I Receive It?

Canada FED Deposit: Why Did I Receive It?

A Canada FED deposit is a direct deposit of funds from the Government of Canada for a benefit or a tax refund.

Tipping in Canada: A Simple Guide

Tipping in Canada: A Simple Guide

Yes, it is customary to tip in Canada, particularly in the service industry .These days, it’s common to tip 15-20% in restaurants.

CERB Repayment: What is it & Do I Have to Repay it?

CERB Repayment: What is it & Do I Have to Repay it?

If you didn’t meet the eligibility requirements for CERB, you may need to repay some or all of it back to CRA or Service Canada.

Rent Assist Manitoba – What is it & How to Apply

Rent Assist Manitoba – What is it & How to Apply

If you’re a Manitoban who has to pay housing costs and you get Employment and Income Assistance (EIA), you could be eligible to receive a financial benefit from the government called “rent assist”.

What is EOS Canada?

What is EOS Canada?

EOS Canada is a debt collection agency in charge of collecting money on behalf of creditors.

Saskatchewan Income Support (SIS) Payment Dates

Saskatchewan Income Support (SIS) Payment Dates

The Saskatchewan Income Support (SIS) benefit is a financial support program for individuals and families who require financial assistance to be able to afford basic living necessities.

Alberta Seniors Benefit Payment Dates

Alberta Seniors Benefit Payment Dates

The Alberta Seniors Benefit is a program which allows for low-income seniors to receive payments to help with their monthly living expenses.

Tax Deadline Canada – When Are Taxes Due?

Tax Deadline Canada – When Are Taxes Due?

The deadline for filing your personal tax return in Canada for the 2022 tax year is April 30, 2023.

What Age is Senior Citizen in Canada?

What Age is Senior Citizen in Canada?

Thinking about retiring soon? Learn about some of the government programs offered to senior citizens in Canada.

AISH Payment Dates (2023)

AISH Payment Dates (2023)

This program based in Alberta offers financial support to Albertans with a permanent and severe disability affecting their ability to earn a living.

What is the Climate Action Incentive Payment? (2023)

What is the Climate Action Incentive Payment? (2023)

With a need to protect the environment and grow our economy, the Climate Action Incentive (CAI) was born. Find out if you qualify for the tax credit.

What is the Age of Majority (AOM) in Ontario? (2023)

What is the Age of Majority (AOM) in Ontario? (2023)

The age of majority indicates how old you must be to be legally considered an adult.

All Your Canada GSL Questions Answered

All Your Canada GSL Questions Answered

Got a deposit titled ‘Canada GSL’ and wondering what it's for? We’re here to break it all down for you.

Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Death Benefit Explained

Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Death Benefit Explained

Most working Canadians have contributed to the Canada Pension Plan (CPP). Here are some details on the CPP Death Benefit.

Working While on EI Employment Insurance in Canada: How Much Can I Earn?

Working While on EI Employment Insurance in Canada: How Much Can I Earn?

Are you on Employment Insurance (EI) and thinking of earning some income? Here's how it'll affect your benefits.

5 Ways to Minimize and Save on Banking Fees

5 Ways to Minimize and Save on Banking Fees

Bank charges can pop up out of nowhere and in all forms. Learn about the most common ones and how you can keep them at a minimum.

Mileage Reimbursement Allowance in Canada CRA (2023)

Mileage Reimbursement Allowance in Canada CRA (2023)

Got questions about the reasonable per-kilometre automobile rates for 2021? This article answers all your the biggest questions.

How to Check if You Have Unclaimed Cheques from the CRA (Canada Revenue Agency)

How to Check if You Have Unclaimed Cheques from the CRA (Canada Revenue Agency)

Never miss another pay day. Learn how you can verify if you have uncashed CRA cheques.

What is the HST / GST Rebate on New Homes?

What is the HST / GST Rebate on New Homes?

What if a form could potentially save you thousands of dollars on the purchase of your brand-new home? Here's what you need to know.

Ontario Works Payment Dates (2023)

Ontario Works Payment Dates (2023)

Ontario Works is a benefit offered to Ontarians that struggle making ends meet. Do you qualify? Find out here.

Wire Transfers: Everything You Need To Know

Wire Transfers: Everything You Need To Know

Thinking of sending a wire transfer? Make sure you have all the information first. This guide has you covered.

What is Minimum Wage in New Brunswick? 2023

What is Minimum Wage in New Brunswick? 2023

Here's everything you need to know about the minimum wage in New Brunswick - including which jobs pay a higher one.

What is a Pay Stub and How Do I Read a Pay Stub in Canada

What is a Pay Stub and How Do I Read a Pay Stub in Canada

If you’re having trouble reading and understanding your pay stub, we've got you covered.

A Guide to Statutory Holiday Pay in Ontario

A Guide to Statutory Holiday Pay in Ontario

Everything you need to know about statutory holiday pay in Ontario.

What is the Guaranteed Income Supplement in Canada?

What is the Guaranteed Income Supplement in Canada?

If you're a Canadian senior over the age of 64 and earning a moderate-to-low income, you'll want to learn about the Guaranteed Income Supplement.

How to Find Your Bank Account Number in Canada

How to Find Your Bank Account Number in Canada

Whether it’s for a money transfer, a new job or car insurance payments, here's exactly how to get your hands on your bank account number.

What is the Canada Pension Plan Child Rearing Provision?

What is the Canada Pension Plan Child Rearing Provision?

If at some point in your career you had to lighten your workload or take time off work entirely to care for your young children, this is for you.

Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Eligibility Explained

Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Eligibility Explained

Whether you've lived or worked abroad or are planning to work past the retirement age, we've got you covered with all the CPP eligibility rules.

How to Budget for a Vacation or Trip from Canada

How to Budget for a Vacation or Trip from Canada

Embark on your next adventure stress-free. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to create a fail-proof budget for your next trip.

A Guide to ODSP Payments and More 2023

A Guide to ODSP Payments and More 2023

Everything you need to know about the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP).

Canada Child Benefit (CCB) Payment Dates & Application Guide (Baby Bonus) 2023

Canada Child Benefit (CCB) Payment Dates & Application Guide (Baby Bonus) 2023

Everything you need to know about the Canada Child Benefit (CCB).

What is Minimum Wage in Manitoba? 2023

What is Minimum Wage in Manitoba? 2023

Want to know which jobs pay the highest minimum wage in Manitoba?

What is the Ontario Opportunities Fund?

What is the Ontario Opportunities Fund?

Reduce the province's debt and the taxes you need to pay? Here's everything you need to know about the Ontario Opportunities Fund.

What is Minimum Wage in Newfoundland? 2023

What is Minimum Wage in Newfoundland? 2023

Newfoundland has the forth lowest minimum wage in Canada - can you guess how much it is?

How Much is Child Benefit in Ontario? (Baby Bonus) 2023

How Much is Child Benefit in Ontario? (Baby Bonus) 2023

Learn about the provincial program that offers financial support to lower income families with children under the age of 18 years old.

How to Claim the Canada Training Credit (CTC) 2023

How to Claim the Canada Training Credit (CTC) 2023

Everything you need to know about one of Canada's newest training credits - perfect for working professionals and lifelong learners.

What is Canada FPT? 2023

What is Canada FPT? 2023

Did you get a deposit from Canada FPT and are unsure what that’s all about? Canada FPT is short for Federal, Provincial, Territorial tax credit.

What is the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)? (Working Income Tax Benefit)

What is the Canada Workers Benefit (CWB)? (Working Income Tax Benefit)

Are you a low-earning Canadian worker? You just might qualify for a little thing called the CWB. Come get the inside scoop.

What is Canada RIT?

What is Canada RIT?

Every year, some Canadians receive a surprise deposit in their bank account titled “Canada RIT”. What's this all about?

GST Payment Dates and Everything You Need to Know About The GST/HST Credit 2023

GST Payment Dates and Everything You Need to Know About The GST/HST Credit 2023

What if we told you that you could be entitled to getting some money back? Learn all about the GST/HST Credit to make sure you're not missing out.

Ontario Trillium Benefit – What is it and How to Claim Your Payment

Ontario Trillium Benefit – What is it and How to Claim Your Payment

Got questions about the Ontario Trillium Benefit? We've got you covered with everything you need to know.

What is Minimum Wage in BC? 2023

What is Minimum Wage in BC? 2023

Got questions about the minimum wage in BC? We've got everything you need to know, all in one place.

BC Disability Benefit PWD Payments & Dates 2023

BC Disability Benefit PWD Payments & Dates 2023

Learn about the BC PWD Disability Benefit, PWD payment dates in 2022, PWD benefits and how to apply for PWD.

CPP Payment Dates: Canada Pension Plan Benefits Guide (2023)

CPP Payment Dates: Canada Pension Plan Benefits Guide (2023)

Got questions about your CPP? We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know about payments this year.

What is Minimum Wage in Ontario? 2023

What is Minimum Wage in Ontario? 2023

Know your rights, get paid fairly. Get the lowdown on everything you need to know about the minimum wage in Ontario.

OAS Payment Dates (2023)

OAS Payment Dates (2023)

Turning 65 soon? Here's everything you need to know about the Old Age Security benefit.

Canada Pension Plan (CPP Survivor Benefits Explained) 2023

Canada Pension Plan (CPP Survivor Benefits Explained) 2023

If you're married or the common-law partner of a deceased contributor, you may be eligible for the monthly CPP Survivor benefits. Learn more here.

Equifax vs TransUnion: Different Credit Scores Explained

Equifax vs TransUnion: Different Credit Scores Explained

TransUnion vs. Equifax - why are my credit scores different? Which of the two are more accurate? Read this for all your biggest questions answered.

What is a Canada PRO Deposit?

What is a Canada PRO Deposit?

If you live in Ontario or Alberta and have received some money in the bank from a payor named Canada Pro, you’re not the only one.

How Much is Overtime Pay in BC British Columbia? (2023)

How Much is Overtime Pay in BC British Columbia? (2023)

Whenever you work more than the official standard work hours, your employer must pay you for overtime. Here's what you need to know.