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Canada's Inflation Just Hit a 3-Year High—Here's What That Actually Means for Your Money

May's Consumer Price Index report reveals inflation is accelerating again, driven by global oil shocks and rising food costs. We break down the impact on mortgages, savings, and your household budget. Last week, Canada's inflation story took a sharp turn. The May Consumer Price Index report showed inflation climbing to its highest level in three years—a wake-up call for households already struggling with rising costs and a signal that the Bank of Canada's long hold on interest rates may not ease anytime soon. If you've been hoping for relief at the grocery store or relief on your mortgage renewal, this news probably stings. But understanding what's driving inflation—and what it means for your financial decisions—is critical right now. What Pushed Inflation Up This Time? The spike wasn't random. Inflation jumped primarily due to energy and food prices—two categories that hit everyday Canadian wallets hard. Energy prices surged because of geopolitical tensions in ...

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Ontario’s “One Fare” Program Saves Transit Riders $1,600

 

The Ontario government is keeping costs down for public transit riders with the launch of the “One Fare” program, which will save riders an average of $1,600 each year. Beginning February 26, 2024, riders will pay only once as they transfer for free between the TTC and participating transit agencies in the Greater Toronto Area, including GO Transit.

The One Fare program, announced earlier this year, allows passengers to transfer between a number of different transit systems in Ontario but only pay once. Under this program, commuters can transfer between the TTC and GO Transit, as well as regional transit systems like Brampton Transit, Durham Region Transit, MiWay, and York Region Transit.

How Does It Work?

  • When transferring between the TTC and GO Transit, your TTC fare will be free.
  • When you transfer between the TTC and other local transit systems, your second fare will be free.
  • Simply tap your PRESTO card to automatically receive the discount. It’s akin to the free two-hour transfers already in effect on the TTC.
  • Your transfer remains valid for two hours if you start your trip on a local transit system or three hours for trips originating on GO Transit.

Even if you forget your PRESTO card, the One Fare program has got you covered. Passengers can still benefit when paying using credit or debit. For frequent commuters, this program could save an average of $1,600 annually—a welcome change for many Toronto residents.

The introduction of the One Fare program aligns with Metrolinx’s long-term strategy for sustainability and improved public transit service in the province. As Toronto navigates this fare revolution, commuters can breathe a sigh of relief—and perhaps even pocket some extra change for their morning coffee. 

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