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Fixed vs. Variable Mortgages in Canada: Which Should You Choose Right Now?

  Mortgages | Personal Finance | June 2026 Variable rates sit at 3.30% while fixed rates have climbed above 4%. The Bank of Canada is frozen between inflation and recession. Here's what that means for your mortgage decision today. By MoneySavings.ca Staff  |   June 26, 2026 📊 Today's Best Mortgage Rates — June 26, 2026 Type Term Lowest Rate (Broker) Big Bank Range Variable 5-Year ~3.30% ~3.50–4.00% Fixed (Insured) 5-Year ~4.04% ~4.50–5.20% Fixed (Conventional) 5-Year ~3.94% Higher Bank of Canada Policy Rate 2.25%  |  Prime Rate: 4.45% Sources: NerdWallet Canada, Ratehub.ca, WOWA.ca, bestrates.ca. Rates as of June 26, 2026. Broker rates require qualification; Big Bank rates are estimates. Your actual rate depends on your credit score, down payment, and mortgage type. If you're buying a home, renewing a mortgage, or simply trying to make sense of an unusually complex rate environment, you've arrived at the right question at a complicated moment. The Canadian...
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Temporary GST Breaks: What's Covered and What's Not


Starting December 14, 2024, and lasting until February 15, 2025, the Canadian government has introduced temporary GST/HST breaks on a variety of essential items. This tax relief aims to provide financial relief to Canadians during the holiday season.


What's Included:

  •  Food and Beverages: All groceries, restaurant meals, and drinks will be exempt from GST/HST.
  • Children's Items: Clothing, footwear, diapers, car seats, toys, and jigsaw puzzles for all ages will also benefit from the tax break.
  • Books and Newspapers:  Printed books and newspapers are included in the relief.
  • Holiday Decorations: Christmas trees and similar decorative items are also covered.
  • Video Game Consoles and Games: Physical video game consoles, controllers, and games qualify for the tax break.


What's Not Included:

  • Luxury Items: High-end electronics, jewelry, and luxury clothing are not covered by the GST/HST break.
  • Alcoholic Beverages: While regular beverages are included, alcoholic drinks are excluded from the tax relief.
  • Non-Essential Toys and Games: Items not specifically listed under children's toys or educational games do not qualify.
  • Sports Equipment: Items used exclusively for sports or recreational activities are not included.


This temporary tax break is designed to make essential goods more affordable and provide some financial relief during the holiday season. Make sure to take advantage of these savings while they last!





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