Two of Australia’s biggest banks, NAB and Westpac, have announced a powerful new mortgage feature allowing customers to set up multiple offset accounts linked to their home loans. This move follows growing demand for offset accounts, with NAB revealing that around 70% of new homeowners are now utilizing them. Offset accounts are transaction accounts tied Continue reading
Finance
Superannuation Funds Soar in 2025: How Your Retirement Savings Benefited from Record-Breaking Growth
Australian superannuation funds witnessed an extraordinary year in 2024, delivering stellar returns that significantly boosted retirement savings for millions of Australians. The median growth fund reported an impressive 11.4% increase, marking one of the best performances in recent history. This growth was largely fueled by strong international share markets, particularly within the technology and financial Continue reading
Canada to Provide Parents with Up to $2,000 to Support Their Child’s Education
On February 21, 2025, the federal government unveiled important changes to the Canada Learning Bond (CLB), aimed at helping more parents access up to $2,000 for their child’s education. The updates include a smoother way to receive funds and expanded retroactive access for parents and eligible young adults, making it easier than ever to save Continue reading
February Old Age Security Payments Are Coming See How Much You Could Receive
As February marches on, seniors across Canada are eagerly awaiting the next round of government benefit payments. For those relying on Old Age Security (OAS) and Canada Pension Plan (CPP) benefits, this month’s payments can provide a crucial boost to help ease the burden of rising living costs. The Old Age Security program, managed by Continue reading
Attendance Allowance 2025: How to Claim Up to £434 a Month for Extra Support in Later Life
As we age, daily tasks can become more challenging due to illness, disability, or mental health conditions. The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) provides Attendance Allowance—a non-means-tested benefit designed to help older people stay independent and manage their daily lives. If you or a loved one struggle with personal care, supervision, or staying safe Continue reading
Here’s When You Can Start Filing Your Tax Return in Canada for a Fast Refund
The countdown to the 2024 Canadian tax season is on, and the good news is, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will officially start accepting income tax returns on Monday, February 24. That means if you file your return early, you could see your refund deposited in just a few weeks! If you’re like most Canadians, Continue reading
How Canadians Can Simplify Tax Filing This Year
Tax season in Canada can often feel overwhelming, with the endless list of documents to gather, claims to remember, and tax benefits to take advantage of. But don’t worry – tax filing doesn’t have to be stressful. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will open online tax filing on February 24th, and it’s time to get Continue reading
Age Pension Increase on 20 March 2025: How Much More Will You Get? Complete Payment Breakdown & Expert Insights
The Australian Age Pension is indexed twice a year, in March and September, to help pensioners keep up with inflation and the rising cost of living. The upcoming adjustment on 20 March 2025, while modest, will still bring a slight increase to pension payments. But how much will it add to your fortnightly income? Let’s Continue reading
Will CPP & OAS Benefits See Higher Payouts or Increased Contributions in 2025?
Canadians who rely on the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) will experience some significant changes in 2025. These adjustments aim to enhance retirement benefits, but they also come with some challenges, including higher contributions for higher-income earners. Here’s a detailed look at the upcoming updates and how they could impact your Continue reading
RBA Boss Predicts Cash Will Fade in a Decade as Inflation Battle Continues
Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) Governor Michele Bullock has issued a stark warning that cash usage in Australia is in “long-term decline” and may only remain viable for another decade. Speaking at a parliamentary hearing in Canberra, Bullock emphasized that lower-income households and regional communities would be the most affected by the diminishing access to Continue reading