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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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From Ramen to Hamburger Helper: Why “Struggle Meals” Are Back on the Menu

 

As grocery bills climb higher, many households are turning to inexpensive, filling dishes that stretch every dollar. So-called “struggle meals”—simple, low-cost recipes like instant ramen, tuna casserole, and Hamburger Helper—are trending across social media as people share creative ways to make ends meet.

Sales data reflects the shift: Hamburger Helper, first launched in 1971, has seen a 14.5% jump in U.S. sales compared to last year, while boxed macaroni and cheese, dry rice, and canned goods are also on the rise. In Canada, purchases of packaged frozen and dry foods have surged more than 10% since 2023, according to Statistics Canada.

Experts say the trend is less about nostalgia and more about necessity. With inflation, rising beef prices, and ongoing economic uncertainty, families are seeking affordable, comforting meals that can be made quickly. TikTok and Reddit communities have embraced the movement, with viral videos showcasing everything from “poverty potlucks” to inventive ramen hacks.

While the resurgence of these budget-friendly staples offers a sense of solidarity, it also highlights a deeper issue: growing food insecurity. Food Banks Canada reports that one in four Canadians is struggling to afford groceries.

In tough times, the humble “struggle meal” has become more than just dinner—it’s a symbol of resilience, creativity, and community.


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