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What to Do with Your Tax Refund: 5 Smart Moves for Canadians

  Tax Season · Personal Finance By MoneySavings.ca Editorial Team • May 7, 2026 • 7 min read Tax season is wrapping up across Canada, and for millions of Canadians, that means a refund cheque — or a direct deposit — is on its way. The average Canadian tax refund hovers around $1,800. That's real money. The question is: what's the smartest thing you can do with it? It's tempting to treat a tax refund like "found money" and splurge. But here's the truth — that refund was your money all along. The government was just holding it for you, interest-free. So before it quietly disappears into day-to-day spending, let's look at five moves that will make it work harder for you. $1,800 The average Canadian tax refund — enough to make a meaningful dent in debt, pad an emergency fund, or kick-start your TFSA for the year. 1 Pay Down High-Interest Debt First If you're carrying a balance on a credit card, this should be your very first call. Most Canadian credit car...

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Canada’s Inflation Edges Up to 2.9% in March: A Closer Look


In March 2024, Canada’s annual inflation rate nudged up to 2.9%, driven by several factors including rising gasoline prices, mortgage interest costs, and rent. Let’s delve into the details of this economic development.

Key Points:

  1. Gasoline Prices Surge: The surge in gasoline prices played a significant role in pushing up the inflation rate. As global energy markets fluctuate, consumers are feeling the impact at the pump.

  2. Mortgage Interest and Rent Costs: Alongside fuel, mortgage interest costs and rent contributed to the overall increase. These expenses are closely monitored by households and can significantly affect their budgets.

  3. Bank of Canada’s Watchful Eye: The Bank of Canada, which recently maintained its key interest rate at 5%, will closely scrutinize this inflation report. While the central bank remains cautious, it acknowledges the possibility of adjusting interest rates in the future.

  4. Budget Implications: The release of the inflation report coincides with the federal government’s budget announcement. Policymakers will consider these inflationary trends as they shape economic policies.

As Canada grapples with inflationary pressures, policymakers and citizens alike must stay vigilant. The delicate balance between economic growth and price stability remains a priority for the nation. The coming months will reveal whether this upward trend persists or moderates.


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