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The Fed Just Hiked Rates. Here's What It Means for Your Canadian Mortgage.

  The U.S. Federal Reserve raised its benchmark rate 25 basis points yesterday — the first hike in three years. The Bank of Canada hasn't moved. That gap is now the biggest story in Canadian personal finance. MoneySavings.ca  |  September 17, 2026  |  Canadian Money Brief Yesterday afternoon, the Federal Open Market Committee voted 12-0 to raise the U.S. federal funds rate by a quarter point, pushing it to a target range of 3.75%–4.00%. It's the Fed's first rate hike since July 2023, and Chair Kevin Warsh made clear it almost certainly won't be the last. The Bank of Canada, by contrast, has held its overnight rate at 2.25% through seven straight meetings. It doesn't decide again until October 28. For Canadians with a mortgage, a renewal coming up, or a home equity line of credit, this matters more than it might look at first glance. 3.75–4.00% New U.S. Fed Rate 2.25% Bank of Canada Rate 1.625% Rate Gap (vs. 1.375% yesterday) ~71.5¢ Loonie (post-hike low) What th...

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What’s New in 2024 Tax Filing: Key Changes and Tips

 

As the tax season kicks off, Canadians are gearing up to file their 2023 income taxes. Whether you’re a seasoned filer or a first-timer, here’s what you need to know for the 2024 tax-filing season:

Important Dates

  • February 19, 2024: The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) opens its portal for online tax filing. If you prefer paper filing, expect your income tax package in the mail by this date.
  • April 30, 2024: This is the deadline for most Canadians to file their tax return. Filing on time ensures timely processing of refunds, benefits, and credits.
  • June 15, 2024: Self-employed individuals (and their spouses or common-law partners) have until this date to file their returns. If you owe money to the CRA, remember to pay by April 30, 2024, to avoid interest.

What’s New?

  1. Digital Disability Tax Credit (DTC) Application Form:

    • The CRA now offers a fully digital application process for the DTC. Persons with disabilities and their medical practitioners can complete Part A of the application form online in My Account or by phone. No more printing and manual completion!
    • The applicant’s portion of the form is prepopulated with information already on file at the CRA. Once done, applicants receive a reference number for their medical practitioner to complete Part B.
  2. Changes to the T1 Notice of Assessment:

    • The T1 notice of assessment and notice of reassessment now provide clearer and more comprehensive information.
    • If you’re expecting a refund and haven’t signed up for direct deposit, you’ll receive a paper T1 notice of assessment and a separate cheque.

Remember, timely filing ensures you receive the benefit and credit payments you’re entitled to. 


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