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Start Saving Now for September: Your RESP Checklist Before the School Year Hits

  Canadian Money Brief · Family Finance September feels a long way off on July 1. That's exactly why now is the right time to look at your child's RESP — not in late August when the school supply list arrives and the grant math gets rushed. If you have a Registered Education Savings Plan (or you've been meaning to open one), here's what to check right now, and why the calendar year — not the school year — is what actually matters. Why July, Not August The Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG) — the government's 20% match on RESP contributions — runs on the calendar year , not the school year. Grant room for 2026 resets on a January-to-December basis, and it doesn't carry any special "back to school" deadline. But summer is genuinely the best time to check your numbers, for three reasons: You still have six full months left in the year to top up if you're behind. Contributions made now have more time to grow before your child needs the money. You av...
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How to Eat Healthy on a Budget in 2024

 


The cost of food is expected to rise by 3.5% in 2024, according to the latest report from the Food and Agriculture Organization. This means that eating healthy can be challenging for many people who are on a tight budget. However, there are some ways to save money and still enjoy nutritious meals. Here are some tips:

- Plan your meals ahead and make a shopping list. This will help you avoid impulse buying and wasting food. You can also look for sales and discounts on items that you need.

- Buy in bulk and freeze or store the leftovers. You can save money by buying larger quantities of staples like rice, beans, pasta, oats, and frozen vegetables. You can also cook large batches of soups, stews, casseroles, and other dishes and freeze them for later use.

- Choose seasonal and local produce. Fruits and vegetables that are in season and grown locally are usually cheaper and fresher than those that are imported or out of season. You can also visit farmers' markets or join a community-supported agriculture (CSA) program to get fresh produce at a lower price.

- Grow your own food. If you have some space and time, you can grow your own herbs, salad greens, tomatoes, peppers, and other crops in pots, containers, or a small garden. This will not only save you money but also give you access to organic and pesticide-free food.

- Cook from scratch and avoid processed foods. Processed foods are often high in salt, sugar, fat, and additives, which can harm your health and increase your medical bills. Cooking from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and the portion sizes. You can also use cheaper cuts of meat, such as chicken thighs, ground beef, or pork shoulder, and make them tender and flavorful by using marinades, spices, herbs, and slow cooking methods.

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