MAY 2024
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Wouldn’t it be GRAND?
Enter to win our monthly prize of
$1,000 cash and the grand prizeof $3,000!
Enter now
No purchase necessary. Open to all active and retired Ontario education members.
Must be an Ontario resident, minimum 18 years of age to enter.
Contest closes December 31, 2024. Selected winners must correctly answer a skill-testing question.
Full contest rules at www.otip.com/contest-rules. Odds of winning depend on entries received by the draw date for the prizes.
Enter to win our monthly prize of
$1,000 cash and the grand prizeof $3,000!
Enter now
No purchase necessary. Open to all active and retired Ontario education members.
Must be an Ontario resident, minimum 18 years of age to enter.
Contest closes December 31, 2024. Selected winners must correctly answer a skill-testing question.
Full contest rules at www.otip.com/contest-rules. Odds of winning depend on entries received by the draw date for the prizes.
APRIL 2024
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Protect your home from basement flooding
After a cold winter, the springtime is a welcome change. But with the longer days and warmer weather comes new challenges. The potential for flooding increases as the snow melts and heavy rain falls. Canadians are experiencing more floods than ever before. According to the Government of Canada, flooding has increased 300% since the 1960s. But many homeowners haven't taken the proper steps to protect themselves or their properties. No matter what area you live in, flooding can happen to you. Don't wait for the water – take these proactive steps to minimize your risk of a flood damaging your home.
Read more at www.otip.com/article180. #OTIPUpdate
After a cold winter, the springtime is a welcome change. But with the longer days and warmer weather comes new challenges. The potential for flooding increases as the snow melts and heavy rain falls. Canadians are experiencing more floods than ever before. According to the Government of Canada, flooding has increased 300% since the 1960s. But many homeowners haven't taken the proper steps to protect themselves or their properties. No matter what area you live in, flooding can happen to you. Don't wait for the water – take these proactive steps to minimize your risk of a flood damaging your home.
Read more at www.otip.com/article180. #OTIPUpdate
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Planning for retirement: Are you ready?
Retirement can be a remarkable time of life when you get to explore new things. To make the most of your retirement, you'll want a solid financial foundation to fund your basic needs and those extra activities you finally have time to do. But how much do you need? Let's find out.
Read more at www.otip.com/article181. #OTIPUpdate
Retirement can be a remarkable time of life when you get to explore new things. To make the most of your retirement, you'll want a solid financial foundation to fund your basic needs and those extra activities you finally have time to do. But how much do you need? Let's find out.
Read more at www.otip.com/article181. #OTIPUpdate
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Demystifying Responsible Investing: what you need to know
“Sustainable”. “Green”. “Ethical”. “Responsible”.
Although described in many different ways, investing in funds or companies that reflect your beliefs and values has been one of the fastest-growing investment trends in recent years. Around the world, investors expect to increase the share of sustainably invested assets from 18% to 37% by 2025.
If you’re one of the many investors interested in supporting environmental, social, and corporate governance causes, here’s what you need to know: https://bit.ly/494oGxS.
“Sustainable”. “Green”. “Ethical”. “Responsible”.
Although described in many different ways, investing in funds or companies that reflect your beliefs and values has been one of the fastest-growing investment trends in recent years. Around the world, investors expect to increase the share of sustainably invested assets from 18% to 37% by 2025.
If you’re one of the many investors interested in supporting environmental, social, and corporate governance causes, here’s what you need to know: https://bit.ly/494oGxS.
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Early retirement 101: the importance of being financially and emotionally ready
Did you know that education members tend to retire earlier than the average Canadian (age 59 versus 64)? The sudden shift from working all hours to having an abundance of free time can take a little getting used to—both financially and emotionally. If early retirement is on your mind, and especially if you’re thinking of retiring before you reach your 85 or 90 factor, here’s what you need to do to prepare for life ‘after school’: https://bit.ly/3TRpcen.
Brought to you by Educators Financial Group. Helping the education community, and their families, achieve their financial goals since 1975. Book your complimentary consultation today: https://bit.ly/3VywPaW.
Did you know that education members tend to retire earlier than the average Canadian (age 59 versus 64)? The sudden shift from working all hours to having an abundance of free time can take a little getting used to—both financially and emotionally. If early retirement is on your mind, and especially if you’re thinking of retiring before you reach your 85 or 90 factor, here’s what you need to do to prepare for life ‘after school’: https://bit.ly/3TRpcen.
Brought to you by Educators Financial Group. Helping the education community, and their families, achieve their financial goals since 1975. Book your complimentary consultation today: https://bit.ly/3VywPaW.
MARCH 2024
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Insurance built for all members of the education community.
Get personalized service, exclusive discounts on car and home insurance, and a $20 gift card of your choice when you get a quote!
Learn more: https://bit.ly/3Rce6Os #OTIPUpdate
Get personalized service, exclusive discounts on car and home insurance, and a $20 gift card of your choice when you get a quote!
Learn more: https://bit.ly/3Rce6Os #OTIPUpdate
FEBRUARY 2024
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Burnout and Stress 101: Finding Balance with Mindfulness
In today's fast-paced world, it's no surprise that burnout and stress are common challenges millions face. As society places increasing demands on our time, energy, and mental capacity, many feel drained, unfulfilled, and overwhelmed.
However, there is a secret tool for gaining mental clarity and a sense of inner peace. Here, we'll get into the complexities of burnout and stress and discuss how mindfulness can pave the way to enhanced well-being.
Read more at www.otip.com/article176. #OTIPUpdate
In today's fast-paced world, it's no surprise that burnout and stress are common challenges millions face. As society places increasing demands on our time, energy, and mental capacity, many feel drained, unfulfilled, and overwhelmed.
However, there is a secret tool for gaining mental clarity and a sense of inner peace. Here, we'll get into the complexities of burnout and stress and discuss how mindfulness can pave the way to enhanced well-being.
Read more at www.otip.com/article176. #OTIPUpdate
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Claims counselling – our dedicated team is here to help
The unfortunate reality is accidents happen. That's why insurance exists. However, we recommend you speak with your licensed insurance broker about whether making an official claim with your insurance company is in your best interest. That's where claims counselling comes in handy.
Read more at www.otip.com/article177. #OTIPUpdate
The unfortunate reality is accidents happen. That's why insurance exists. However, we recommend you speak with your licensed insurance broker about whether making an official claim with your insurance company is in your best interest. That's where claims counselling comes in handy.
Read more at www.otip.com/article177. #OTIPUpdate
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Six components that every education member should add to their financial plan
There are many building blocks to a successful financial plan, and it can be hard to create — and stick to — each block.
For many, the choice between stocks and bonds and the arrangement of pensions and taxes can be daunting. Personalized and professional financial advice can help you manage your unique needs and challenges to create a workable strategy.
With the RRSP deadline around the corner, and tax deadline quickly approaching, here are key things you should know about financial planning and taxes: https://bit.ly/3SdKWPr.
Brought to you by Educators Financial Group. Trusted by over 16,000 education members and their families to meet their financial goals. Book your complimentary consultation today: https://bit.ly/3SeMQ2c.
There are many building blocks to a successful financial plan, and it can be hard to create — and stick to — each block.
For many, the choice between stocks and bonds and the arrangement of pensions and taxes can be daunting. Personalized and professional financial advice can help you manage your unique needs and challenges to create a workable strategy.
With the RRSP deadline around the corner, and tax deadline quickly approaching, here are key things you should know about financial planning and taxes: https://bit.ly/3SdKWPr.
Brought to you by Educators Financial Group. Trusted by over 16,000 education members and their families to meet their financial goals. Book your complimentary consultation today: https://bit.ly/3SeMQ2c.
JANUARY 2024
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Turning up the heat: safety tips
There’s nothing like a home that’s toasty and warm when the temperature starts to drop. But there are precautions to take in order to heat safely. Here are some handy tips to avoid ending up… in hot water.
Read more at www.otip.com/article175. #OTIPUpdate
There’s nothing like a home that’s toasty and warm when the temperature starts to drop. But there are precautions to take in order to heat safely. Here are some handy tips to avoid ending up… in hot water.
Read more at www.otip.com/article175. #OTIPUpdate
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How to put your financial plan into motion
When it comes to your financial dreams and goals, where would you like to be a year from now? How about five years from now?
Okay, so you probably can’t even think past the next few weeks let alone five years down the road. However, school years come and go – and before you know it you will have reached your 85- or 90-factor.
Don’t let the years pass you by without spending some time on your financial goals, especially as we kick off a new year. Whether you’re looking to make things happen in the short term, long term, or both, here’s how to put your plans for the future into motion today: https://bit.ly/3RHUEsW.
PLUS: for a limited time, when you open a new investment account with Educators Financial Group, you’ll automatically be entered for a chance to WIN $1,000.* Learn more: https://bit.ly/3NJKQxL
Brought to you by Educators Financial Group.
When it comes to your financial dreams and goals, where would you like to be a year from now? How about five years from now?
Okay, so you probably can’t even think past the next few weeks let alone five years down the road. However, school years come and go – and before you know it you will have reached your 85- or 90-factor.
Don’t let the years pass you by without spending some time on your financial goals, especially as we kick off a new year. Whether you’re looking to make things happen in the short term, long term, or both, here’s how to put your plans for the future into motion today: https://bit.ly/3RHUEsW.
PLUS: for a limited time, when you open a new investment account with Educators Financial Group, you’ll automatically be entered for a chance to WIN $1,000.* Learn more: https://bit.ly/3NJKQxL
Brought to you by Educators Financial Group.
DECEMBER 2023
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Should you opt out of Direct Compensation Property Damage coverage?
Soon, Ontario drivers will have a new option to restrict coverage in the event of a collision—the option not to claim damages.
In December 2022, the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) announced that Ontario Policy Change Form (OPCF) 49 will give drivers the choice to opt out of Direct Compensation Property Damage (DCPD) coverage.
Under OPCF 49, you can agree not to be compensated by your insurance company or anyone else, including anyone at fault for causing the damage or their insurance company. But what does that mean?
Read more at www.otip.com/article173. #OTIPUpdate
Soon, Ontario drivers will have a new option to restrict coverage in the event of a collision—the option not to claim damages.
In December 2022, the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) announced that Ontario Policy Change Form (OPCF) 49 will give drivers the choice to opt out of Direct Compensation Property Damage (DCPD) coverage.
Under OPCF 49, you can agree not to be compensated by your insurance company or anyone else, including anyone at fault for causing the damage or their insurance company. But what does that mean?
Read more at www.otip.com/article173. #OTIPUpdate
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The top 8 things that should be on your ‘end of the year financial to-do’ list
If you hold any kind of investments, have children or grandchildren, or turned 71 this year, this is one list you might want to bookmark. While it may not be filled with elaborate gifts or delectable treats, taking care of the items on this list will provide you with the financial peace of mind to make you merry not only during the upcoming holiday season—but also in the years to come.
Here are your top 8 financial ‘to-dos’ before the end of the year:
#1: Consider making TFSA withdrawals by December 31st.
If you were thinking about withdrawing from your Tax-Free Savings Account in the next few months to pay for home renovations, car repairs, or other big-ticket items—you might want to consider taking that money out by December 31st. Otherwise, if you withdraw funds from your TFSA after January 1st, you wouldn’t be able to re-contribute that money until the following calendar year.
#2: Get those RESP contributions in by December 31st to maximize the CESG.
While you can contribute to a Registered Education Savings Plan anytime (within 31 years of opening it), maximizing your contributions before the end of each calendar year has one very specific benefit—getting the most from the Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG). That’s where the government chips in up to 20% over and above your annual contributions.
Read the full article: https://bit.ly/3QSUZsF
Brought to you by Educators Financial Group.
Helping the education community, and their families, achieve their financial goals since 1975.
Book your complimentary consultation today: https://bit.ly/3sWAWRW.
If you hold any kind of investments, have children or grandchildren, or turned 71 this year, this is one list you might want to bookmark. While it may not be filled with elaborate gifts or delectable treats, taking care of the items on this list will provide you with the financial peace of mind to make you merry not only during the upcoming holiday season—but also in the years to come.
Here are your top 8 financial ‘to-dos’ before the end of the year:
#1: Consider making TFSA withdrawals by December 31st.
If you were thinking about withdrawing from your Tax-Free Savings Account in the next few months to pay for home renovations, car repairs, or other big-ticket items—you might want to consider taking that money out by December 31st. Otherwise, if you withdraw funds from your TFSA after January 1st, you wouldn’t be able to re-contribute that money until the following calendar year.
#2: Get those RESP contributions in by December 31st to maximize the CESG.
While you can contribute to a Registered Education Savings Plan anytime (within 31 years of opening it), maximizing your contributions before the end of each calendar year has one very specific benefit—getting the most from the Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG). That’s where the government chips in up to 20% over and above your annual contributions.
Read the full article: https://bit.ly/3QSUZsF
Brought to you by Educators Financial Group.
Helping the education community, and their families, achieve their financial goals since 1975.
Book your complimentary consultation today: https://bit.ly/3sWAWRW.
NOVEMBER 2023
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.