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Big Six Banks Raise Fixed Mortgage Rates: What Your Renewal Costs Now

  Canadian Money Brief • Mortgages Updated Saturday, October 17, 2026 If your mortgage term ends this winter, the rate you saw advertised in August is probably gone. All six of Canada’s big banks have raised fixed rates since early September, and the Bank of Canada hasn’t touched its policy rate in almost a year. That disconnect catches a lot of homeowners off guard. Your fixed mortgage rate doesn’t follow the Bank of Canada. It follows the bond market. And bond yields have been climbing on oil-driven inflation worries, which means the people feeling it first right now are the ones opening a renewal letter. The numbers at a glance Up to 0.50 pt in fixed-rate increases at the big banks in about five weeks • BoC policy rate still 2.25% • Big bank prime still 4.45% • About $110 a month more on a $400,000 balance from a half-point jump How far have the big banks moved? Depending on the term, some big bank fixed rates are up by as much as half a percentage point in roughly five week...

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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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