NOVEMBER 2023

Winter tire 101
It’s no secret that getting from point A to point B in the middle of a Canadian blizzard can be tough. Thankfully, there’s one simple step you can take towards a safer winter drive: installing a set of quality winter tires.
Read more at www.otip.com/article171. #OTIPUpdate
It’s no secret that getting from point A to point B in the middle of a Canadian blizzard can be tough. Thankfully, there’s one simple step you can take towards a safer winter drive: installing a set of quality winter tires.
Read more at www.otip.com/article171. #OTIPUpdate

November is Financial Literacy Month
Pay grids. Pension contributions. Deferred leaves. These are all factors unique to education members. And each of these factors plays an important role when it comes to your overall financial journey.
This month, take time to empower yourself and invest in your own financial wellbeing. By being financially literate, you can better manage life events such as buying your first home, having a child, or retiring early.
Check out these upcoming events and educational resources to help strengthen your financial literacy and make more informed decisions about your money:
Pay grids. Pension contributions. Deferred leaves. These are all factors unique to education members. And each of these factors plays an important role when it comes to your overall financial journey.
This month, take time to empower yourself and invest in your own financial wellbeing. By being financially literate, you can better manage life events such as buying your first home, having a child, or retiring early.
Check out these upcoming events and educational resources to help strengthen your financial literacy and make more informed decisions about your money:
- NEW First Home Savings Account (FHSA) resources
- FHSA 101 on-demand webinar: https://bit.ly/3QbbJea
- A step-by-step guide: Using a First Home Savings Account to help you save for your first home: https://bit.ly/46LwILJ
- Walk into Retirement with a Plan – sign up for upcoming workshops and webinars in collaboration with OTIP: https://otip.my.salesforce-sites.com/wrpen/
- Financial literacy newsletter – get educator-specific tips and resources straight to your inbox every month, plus your chance to win a $50 gift card: https://bit.ly/3Q6ptqK
October 2023

The ultimate fall home maintenance checklist
Preparing your home in the warmer weather could save you some headaches when winter starts blowing in. Wondering what kind of home maintenance tasks you need to do to get your property ready for fall and winter?
Read more at www.otip.com/article170. #OTIPUpdate
Preparing your home in the warmer weather could save you some headaches when winter starts blowing in. Wondering what kind of home maintenance tasks you need to do to get your property ready for fall and winter?
Read more at www.otip.com/article170. #OTIPUpdate

The top 10 tips for getting the most out of your mortgage renewal
Have a mortgage renewal coming up? You may be tempted to simply sign that renewal letter and be done with it (because time is ticking and interest rates keep on rising). However, not doing your homework before renewal time could mean missing out on opportunities to save money or switch to another mortgage that’s a better fit for your current needs.
Get the most out of your mortgage renewal with these 10 tips: https://bit.ly/3xxKT7G.
Brought to you by Educators Financial Group.
Have a mortgage renewal coming up? You may be tempted to simply sign that renewal letter and be done with it (because time is ticking and interest rates keep on rising). However, not doing your homework before renewal time could mean missing out on opportunities to save money or switch to another mortgage that’s a better fit for your current needs.
Get the most out of your mortgage renewal with these 10 tips: https://bit.ly/3xxKT7G.
Brought to you by Educators Financial Group.
September 2023

Feeling refreshed for a new school year
Summer break is an excellent time to refresh yourself for the next school year. It’s also an ideal time to align your goals, including those that support your health, wellness, and financial security. Let OTIP help you with that!
Read more at www.otip.com/article168. #OTIPUpdate
Summer break is an excellent time to refresh yourself for the next school year. It’s also an ideal time to align your goals, including those that support your health, wellness, and financial security. Let OTIP help you with that!
Read more at www.otip.com/article168. #OTIPUpdate

Sending your teen off to school? Don’t skip these 7 steps
Moving away to college or university will likely be the longest stretch of time your teen has ever spent away from home. In your final few days of the summer holidays, take these 7 steps to prepare your teen for dorm life.
Read more at www.otip.com/article169. #OTIPUpdate
Moving away to college or university will likely be the longest stretch of time your teen has ever spent away from home. In your final few days of the summer holidays, take these 7 steps to prepare your teen for dorm life.
Read more at www.otip.com/article169. #OTIPUpdate

3 quick tips for starting the school year on the right financial track
For members of the education community, this time of year can be demanding enough without having to stress about your cash flow. If you also happen to be coming back from leave or have had a recent change in status to your contract, there are also key financial details you’ll want to keep in mind, going into the new school year.
That’s why we’ve put together 3 quick tips to help you start the school year on the right financial track. https://bit.ly/45OT91O. Brought to you by Educators Financial Group.
For members of the education community, this time of year can be demanding enough without having to stress about your cash flow. If you also happen to be coming back from leave or have had a recent change in status to your contract, there are also key financial details you’ll want to keep in mind, going into the new school year.
That’s why we’ve put together 3 quick tips to help you start the school year on the right financial track. https://bit.ly/45OT91O. Brought to you by Educators Financial Group.
June 2023

7 road trips in Ontario you have to take before summer ends
In Canada, we cherish the long-awaited summertime. Ontario has many experiences to offer, and with just a few short months of warm weather, road trips are essential. That's why we've compiled a list of the best road trips in Ontario to soak up the sights.
Read more at www.otip.com/article166.
In Canada, we cherish the long-awaited summertime. Ontario has many experiences to offer, and with just a few short months of warm weather, road trips are essential. That's why we've compiled a list of the best road trips in Ontario to soak up the sights.
Read more at www.otip.com/article166.

Little-known facts about seasonal property insurance
There’s nothing like a relaxing getaway at the cottage by the lake or the cabin in the woods. More than just bricks and mortar, your seasonal property is the keeper of cherished memories. Read on to learn some little-known facts about seasonal property insurance coverage.
Read more at www.otip.com/article167.
There’s nothing like a relaxing getaway at the cottage by the lake or the cabin in the woods. More than just bricks and mortar, your seasonal property is the keeper of cherished memories. Read on to learn some little-known facts about seasonal property insurance coverage.
Read more at www.otip.com/article167.
May 2023

What education members need to know about the new First Home Savings Account
Thinking about buying your first home? Good news. The new Tax-Free First Home Savings Account (FHSA), designed to help qualifying first-time home buyers save for their home, is here. So, how exactly does this new account work and how can education members leverage it to save for their first home?
Read on to learn more about the FHSA and why you should consider opening an FHSA, even if you’re unsure about buying a home: https://bit.ly/41YyS7T. Brought to you by Educators Financial Group.
Thinking about buying your first home? Good news. The new Tax-Free First Home Savings Account (FHSA), designed to help qualifying first-time home buyers save for their home, is here. So, how exactly does this new account work and how can education members leverage it to save for their first home?
Read on to learn more about the FHSA and why you should consider opening an FHSA, even if you’re unsure about buying a home: https://bit.ly/41YyS7T. Brought to you by Educators Financial Group.

6 ways to make better use of your tax refund
Another tax season is in the books, and for many of you, it may mean getting a refund on money paid in taxes. In fact, just over half of the 31 million tax returns filed in 2022 received a refund, at an average amount of $2,176. But, before you rush out to spend it, consider how you can put it to work to enhance your financial future.
Here are 6 ways to make much better use of your tax refund: https://bit.ly/40J5eT4. Brought to you by Educators Financial Group.
Another tax season is in the books, and for many of you, it may mean getting a refund on money paid in taxes. In fact, just over half of the 31 million tax returns filed in 2022 received a refund, at an average amount of $2,176. But, before you rush out to spend it, consider how you can put it to work to enhance your financial future.
Here are 6 ways to make much better use of your tax refund: https://bit.ly/40J5eT4. Brought to you by Educators Financial Group.
April 2023

Car theft is a huge industry. Is your vehicle a target?
Did you know Canada’s auto theft industry is a $1 billion business? According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, a vehicle is stolen every six minutes in Canada. Knowing whether your vehicle has landed on Canada’s top 10 stolen cars can help you assess your risk level and determine preventative measures.
Read more at www.otip.com/article163.
Did you know Canada’s auto theft industry is a $1 billion business? According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, a vehicle is stolen every six minutes in Canada. Knowing whether your vehicle has landed on Canada’s top 10 stolen cars can help you assess your risk level and determine preventative measures.
Read more at www.otip.com/article163.

Does home insurance cover mould damage?
Mould is a common enemy of Canadian homeowners. It poses a severe health risk and can significantly damage your home, making it expensive to repair. As a homeowner, understanding how to purify your indoor air and keep your family and visitors healthy is essential.
Read more at www.otip.com/article164.
Mould is a common enemy of Canadian homeowners. It poses a severe health risk and can significantly damage your home, making it expensive to repair. As a homeowner, understanding how to purify your indoor air and keep your family and visitors healthy is essential.
Read more at www.otip.com/article164.
March 2023

Planning for retirement when it’s ten years, five years, and one year away
Planning for retirement but don’t know where to start? You’re not alone. Here are some action items you can take as your retirement date draws closer.
Read more at www.otip.com/article160.

Travelling for March Break? Keep these safety tips in mind
Whether you are planning a road trip or a sunny resort getaway, you want your holiday to be enjoyable and stress-free. Read our list of safety tips to help you prepare for a safe and memorable trip.
Read more at www.otip.com/article161.
Whether you are planning a road trip or a sunny resort getaway, you want your holiday to be enjoyable and stress-free. Read our list of safety tips to help you prepare for a safe and memorable trip.
Read more at www.otip.com/article161.

Planning for your retirement?
RTIP offers the most flexible health, dental and travel insurance for the retired education community.
Apply online or register for a free workshop or webinar to learn more: http://bit.ly/3Y7svgs #OTIPUpdate
RTIP offers the most flexible health, dental and travel insurance for the retired education community.
Apply online or register for a free workshop or webinar to learn more: http://bit.ly/3Y7svgs #OTIPUpdate
February 2023

Battery care: Avoid the hazards!
Rechargeable batteries are perishable, slowly fading from the day they are manufactured. No need to worry, though; there are ways to charge and store your batteries properly. Here’s what you need to know.
Read more at www.otip.com/article159.
Rechargeable batteries are perishable, slowly fading from the day they are manufactured. No need to worry, though; there are ways to charge and store your batteries properly. Here’s what you need to know.
Read more at www.otip.com/article159.

TFSA or RRSP: an education member’s guide to making the right choice
One of the most frequently asked financial questions out there is whether to invest in a tax-free savings account (TFSA) or a registered retirement savings plan (RRSP). While TFSAs and RRSPs both offer tax advantages that can help you achieve your saving and investing goals, which is right for you?
To help you decide, check out this education member’s guide to making the right choice: http://bit.ly/3WG9tgc.
Brought to you by Educators Financial Group.
One of the most frequently asked financial questions out there is whether to invest in a tax-free savings account (TFSA) or a registered retirement savings plan (RRSP). While TFSAs and RRSPs both offer tax advantages that can help you achieve your saving and investing goals, which is right for you?
To help you decide, check out this education member’s guide to making the right choice: http://bit.ly/3WG9tgc.
Brought to you by Educators Financial Group.
January 2023

Start the new year off right with ways to save on your home and auto insurance
The price you pay for insurance can vary by hundreds of dollars, so how can you get the best value for your money? Here are 10 ways you may be eligible to save on your home and auto insurance and start your new year off right.
Read more at www.otip.com/article158
The price you pay for insurance can vary by hundreds of dollars, so how can you get the best value for your money? Here are 10 ways you may be eligible to save on your home and auto insurance and start your new year off right.
Read more at www.otip.com/article158

The top 5 things that should be on your ‘beginning of the year financial to-do’ list
It’s a new year—and while you might be sorting out whether or not an ‘old acquaintance should be forgotten’, there is a list of money-related things you shouldn’t forget if you want to start this year on the right financial foot.
From making the most of your TFSA and RESP contributions, to getting ahead of the RRSP and tax deadlines, check out the top 5 things that should be on your new year financial to-do list: https://bit.ly/3VpNTvU. Brought to you by Educators Financial Group
It’s a new year—and while you might be sorting out whether or not an ‘old acquaintance should be forgotten’, there is a list of money-related things you shouldn’t forget if you want to start this year on the right financial foot.
From making the most of your TFSA and RESP contributions, to getting ahead of the RRSP and tax deadlines, check out the top 5 things that should be on your new year financial to-do list: https://bit.ly/3VpNTvU. Brought to you by Educators Financial Group
December 2022

Resisting rust: How to protect your vehicle from rust damage
While road salt helps drivers get safely from one place to the next by keeping streets clear of ice and snow, repeated exposure can leave your vehicle vulnerable to rust. If not correctly taken care of, rust can cause significant damage to your vehicle and pose serious safety risks. Here are 5 things you can do to protect your vehicle from rust damage this winter.
Read more at www.otip.com/article156.
While road salt helps drivers get safely from one place to the next by keeping streets clear of ice and snow, repeated exposure can leave your vehicle vulnerable to rust. If not correctly taken care of, rust can cause significant damage to your vehicle and pose serious safety risks. Here are 5 things you can do to protect your vehicle from rust damage this winter.
Read more at www.otip.com/article156.

Shop safely online this holiday season
Online shopping has become a big part of many Canadians' lives. As an online shopper, you get to avoid checkout lines, scout for the best prices and shop whenever you want – all from the comfort of your home. Here are nine online shopping safety tips to help prevent scams and protect yourself and your family this holiday season.
Read more at www.otip.com/article157.
Online shopping has become a big part of many Canadians' lives. As an online shopper, you get to avoid checkout lines, scout for the best prices and shop whenever you want – all from the comfort of your home. Here are nine online shopping safety tips to help prevent scams and protect yourself and your family this holiday season.
Read more at www.otip.com/article157.
November 2022

How to prepare your vehicle for winter in Canada
Seasoned Canadian drivers know the toll a long winter can take on a vehicle. Between the snow, ice, salt and slush on the roads and the wet, cold climate, it’s a tough season for vehicle owners. While harsh winters are an unavoidable reality of life in Canada, there are steps you can take to prevent damage to your vehicle and to keep you safe on the road. Here’s a list of 7 things you can do to get your vehicle winter ready.
Read more at www.otip.com/article155.
Seasoned Canadian drivers know the toll a long winter can take on a vehicle. Between the snow, ice, salt and slush on the roads and the wet, cold climate, it’s a tough season for vehicle owners. While harsh winters are an unavoidable reality of life in Canada, there are steps you can take to prevent damage to your vehicle and to keep you safe on the road. Here’s a list of 7 things you can do to get your vehicle winter ready.
Read more at www.otip.com/article155.

RESP 101: a 3-step guide to maximizing its total savings potential
Did you know that only half of Canadian families are taking advantage of the Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP)? With the RESP contribution deadline around the corner, there’s a massive opportunity to kick-start your own child’s (or grandchild’s) post-secondary savings into high gear going forward.
Here are 3 steps on how to truly maximize the total savings potential of an RESP: https://bit.ly/3F9SFt1. Brought to you by Educators Financial Group.
Did you know that only half of Canadian families are taking advantage of the Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP)? With the RESP contribution deadline around the corner, there’s a massive opportunity to kick-start your own child’s (or grandchild’s) post-secondary savings into high gear going forward.
Here are 3 steps on how to truly maximize the total savings potential of an RESP: https://bit.ly/3F9SFt1. Brought to you by Educators Financial Group.
October 2022

Comparing an insurance broker to a direct writer and what makes OTIP different
When shopping for insurance it’s not only important to understand the coverage you’re looking for, but also your options for where to purchase your insurance. The two most popular options are direct writers and brokers, and understanding their differences may impact your decision when purchasing a policy.
Read more at www.otip.com/article152.
When shopping for insurance it’s not only important to understand the coverage you’re looking for, but also your options for where to purchase your insurance. The two most popular options are direct writers and brokers, and understanding their differences may impact your decision when purchasing a policy.
Read more at www.otip.com/article152.

Insurance served your way.
Receive a $20 gift card when you get a quote for car or home insurance!
Speak to an OTIP broker and mention this offer.
Get a quote: https://bit.ly/3Rf9e9n
Receive a $20 gift card when you get a quote for car or home insurance!
Speak to an OTIP broker and mention this offer.
Get a quote: https://bit.ly/3Rf9e9n

Your insurance bill shouldn’t scare you this Halloween here’s how to lower your insurance cost
With Halloween just around the corner and the ‘spooky season’ in full swing, there are many frights to behold. But your insurance bill shouldn’t be one of them.
While you need enough coverage to ensure you, your loved ones and your belongings are protected, there are ways to lower your insurance cost without reducing your coverage. We’ve put together a list of savings and discount options you may be eligible for in order to save on your home and auto insurance.
Read more at www.otip.com/article153
With Halloween just around the corner and the ‘spooky season’ in full swing, there are many frights to behold. But your insurance bill shouldn’t be one of them.
While you need enough coverage to ensure you, your loved ones and your belongings are protected, there are ways to lower your insurance cost without reducing your coverage. We’ve put together a list of savings and discount options you may be eligible for in order to save on your home and auto insurance.
Read more at www.otip.com/article153
September 2022

Reflections on a new school year
Summer days are getting shorter, and the evenings are getting cooler. Before you know it, you are at the mall for "back to school shopping” for you and your family, and maybe even for the classroom. As you prepare for the new school year, you may be thinking and finding ways to re-engage, refresh, and re-imagine what the new school year will bring, and how you can best enhance or support the learning experience for students in your community. Fall is also a good time to take stock of your own personal goals including those that support your health, wellness and financial security. As members of the Ontario education community, you also have access to exclusive contests, promotions and special offers, including Edvantage--your exclusive savings program.
Read on to learn more about what OTIP has to offer you at: www.otip.com/article149
Summer days are getting shorter, and the evenings are getting cooler. Before you know it, you are at the mall for "back to school shopping” for you and your family, and maybe even for the classroom. As you prepare for the new school year, you may be thinking and finding ways to re-engage, refresh, and re-imagine what the new school year will bring, and how you can best enhance or support the learning experience for students in your community. Fall is also a good time to take stock of your own personal goals including those that support your health, wellness and financial security. As members of the Ontario education community, you also have access to exclusive contests, promotions and special offers, including Edvantage--your exclusive savings program.
Read on to learn more about what OTIP has to offer you at: www.otip.com/article149

Is water damage covered by car insurance?
With floods claiming the top spot for Canada’s most frequent natural hazard, and average annual precipitation increasing nationwide, many Canadian car owners are wondering how far their coverage extends when it comes to protecting their vehicles from water damage.
Whether or not your vehicle is covered for water-related damage depends on your insurance policy and how the damage occurred.
Read more at www.otip.com/article150
With floods claiming the top spot for Canada’s most frequent natural hazard, and average annual precipitation increasing nationwide, many Canadian car owners are wondering how far their coverage extends when it comes to protecting their vehicles from water damage.
Whether or not your vehicle is covered for water-related damage depends on your insurance policy and how the damage occurred.
Read more at www.otip.com/article150

Securing what matters – 5 security tips to make your car theft proof
You may be thinking that your new vehicle is already equipped with the latest security features – and that might be the case – but in reality a lot of basic features aren’t deterring criminals from accessing your car. With rising incidents of theft, especially to newer vehicles, have you wondered if your security was compromised? Here are 5 security tips to make your car more secure against theft.
Read more at www.otip.com/article151.
You may be thinking that your new vehicle is already equipped with the latest security features – and that might be the case – but in reality a lot of basic features aren’t deterring criminals from accessing your car. With rising incidents of theft, especially to newer vehicles, have you wondered if your security was compromised? Here are 5 security tips to make your car more secure against theft.
Read more at www.otip.com/article151.
June 2022

3 ways to safely tow a car behind your RV
RVs are a great way to explore the beautiful natural landscapes Canada has to offer without giving up the comforts of home. However, while RVs provide comfort and flexibility on the road, they’re not ideal for exploring parks, driving around city or residential streets, or finding a parking space. Let’s look at the three methods you can choose from to safely tow a vehicle behind your RV.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article146
RVs are a great way to explore the beautiful natural landscapes Canada has to offer without giving up the comforts of home. However, while RVs provide comfort and flexibility on the road, they’re not ideal for exploring parks, driving around city or residential streets, or finding a parking space. Let’s look at the three methods you can choose from to safely tow a vehicle behind your RV.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article146

Catalytic converter theft:
What is it and what can you do to prevent it
In recent years, Canada has seen an alarming rise in the theft of catalytic converters, particularly since the start of the pandemic. Let’s take a look at what a catalytic converter is, why thieves are targeting it, and what you can do to protect yourself against catalytic converter theft.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article147
What is it and what can you do to prevent it
In recent years, Canada has seen an alarming rise in the theft of catalytic converters, particularly since the start of the pandemic. Let’s take a look at what a catalytic converter is, why thieves are targeting it, and what you can do to protect yourself against catalytic converter theft.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article147

Renovations that you should call your insurance broker about
If you’re like many other Canadian homeowners who have recently come out of the pandemic, chances are you have either completed some type of renovation or have something planned in the future. Here’s a list of situations that are important to review with your broker ahead of time.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article148
If you’re like many other Canadian homeowners who have recently come out of the pandemic, chances are you have either completed some type of renovation or have something planned in the future. Here’s a list of situations that are important to review with your broker ahead of time.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article148
May 2022

Do electric vehicles need maintenance?
With the rising cost of fuel and the growing movement for a more sustainable future, electric vehicles (EVs) can seem like a win-win for the planet and your bank account. But how do electric vehicles compare to conventional gasoline-powered vehicles when it comes to maintenance?
Read more at www.otip.com/article144.
With the rising cost of fuel and the growing movement for a more sustainable future, electric vehicles (EVs) can seem like a win-win for the planet and your bank account. But how do electric vehicles compare to conventional gasoline-powered vehicles when it comes to maintenance?
Read more at www.otip.com/article144.

Impact of climate change on home insurance
Both insurers and homeowners need to consider the impact climate change will have on the future of insurance, and what they can do now to prepare for climate change-related risks. Here are steps homeowners can take to protect their homes from extreme weather conditions.
Read more at www.otip.com/article143.
Both insurers and homeowners need to consider the impact climate change will have on the future of insurance, and what they can do now to prepare for climate change-related risks. Here are steps homeowners can take to protect their homes from extreme weather conditions.
Read more at www.otip.com/article143.

What is usage-based insurance and is it right for you?
Wondering if usage-based car insurance is right for you? We’ve put together a guide to help break down the frequently asked questions of UBI programs.
Read more at www.otip.com/article145.
Wondering if usage-based car insurance is right for you? We’ve put together a guide to help break down the frequently asked questions of UBI programs.
Read more at www.otip.com/article145.