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Three Smart Levers to Cut Your 2025 Tax Bill

Taxes are inevitable, but overpaying them isn’t. With new rules and opportunities in 2025, smart planning can help you keep more of your hard-earned money. Here are three effective levers to reduce your tax liability this year: 1. Maximize Retirement Contributions Contributing to retirement accounts such as RRSPs (Canada) or 401(k)/IRAs (U.S.) remains one of the most effective ways to lower taxable income. Contributions qualify for tax relief at your highest marginal rate, meaning every dollar you save reduces your tax bill significantly. Employer-matching programs make this even more attractive, and withdrawals in retirement can be structured for lower tax exposure. 2. Leverage Tax Credits and Deductions Common deductions include childcare expenses, education costs, and home office claims. Tax credits, unlike deductions, directly reduce the amount you owe, making them especially valuable. Temporary tax breaks introduced in 2025 can be maximized before they expire. 3. Use...

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Battling the Smoke: How to Stay Safe Amid Poor Air Quality in Canadian Cities

 

As wildfire smoke blankets major Canadian cities like Montréal and Toronto, air quality has plummeted to hazardous levels. The thick haze poses serious health risks, especially for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.  

According to environmental experts, prolonged exposure to wildfire smoke can lead to breathing difficulties, irritation of the eyes and throat, and even long-term lung damage. To minimize health risks, Canadians should take precautionary measures:  

  • Stay Indoors: Limit outdoor activities, especially strenuous exercise, to reduce inhalation of harmful pollutants.  
  • Use Air Purifiers: HEPA filters can significantly improve indoor air quality by trapping fine particles.  
  • Wear Masks: When venturing outside, opt for N95 masks, which effectively filter out smoke particles.  
  • Seal Entry Points: Close windows and doors to prevent smoke infiltration, and use damp towels to seal gaps under doors.  
  • Monitor Air Quality: Stay updated through government sources and air quality indexes to assess risk levels daily.  

Health officials advise against dismissing the dangers of wildfire smoke, as repeated exposure can have lasting consequences. By taking proactive steps, residents can protect themselves and their families during these periods of compromised air quality.  



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