Are you a pet parent – whether to a furry friend, feathered companion or another beloved animal?  No matter if your companion is a cat, dog, bird, horse or exotic animal, it is important to have a plan in place to ensure they are cared for in the event you are no longer able to do so or upon your death. This is something every pet owner should read, to protect their special family member.

Anyone who owns a vacation property will eventually face a tax bill when the property is sold or transferred, assuming its value has increased. You or your estate will owe tax on 50% of the capital gain, payable in the year of the sale or transfer.

However, the taxable amount isn’t simply based on the difference between the property’s current value and its original value when you purchased or inherited the cottage, cabin or chalet. The original value is the cost base, but the capital gain is determined by the adjusted cost base. You can add eligible upgrading costs to the original value, which reduces the capital gain and saves you tax.

It’s an age-old question. If you have surplus cash flow or receive a lump sum, such as a tax refund or annual bonus, are you better off making extra mortgage payments or investing the money?

Life sometimes has its uncertainties. Major economic events, such as a deep recession, or personal challenges, such as job loss or divorce, can shake our financial stability.

Corporations and governments establish contingency plans to protect against unexpected calamities, but individuals can also put a plan in place. Here are three ways you can help safeguard your financial security.