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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.
April 2022
Spring is in the air – Road trip!
Ontario is a big province with lots to offer—from beautiful nature scenes to bustling city centres. Check out these Ontario road trip ideas that guarantee fun for all ages.
Read more at www.otip.com/article141.
Ontario is a big province with lots to offer—from beautiful nature scenes to bustling city centres. Check out these Ontario road trip ideas that guarantee fun for all ages.
Read more at www.otip.com/article141.
Will a speed camera ticket make my insurance rate go up?
You arrive home after a long day of work and check your mailbox. Inside, you find a ticket from a speed camera with a photo of your vehicle driving above the posted limit. Let’s address some commonly asked questions about speed camera tickets.
Read more at www.otip.com/article142.
You arrive home after a long day of work and check your mailbox. Inside, you find a ticket from a speed camera with a photo of your vehicle driving above the posted limit. Let’s address some commonly asked questions about speed camera tickets.
Read more at www.otip.com/article142.
I’m moving: what should I do about my home insurance policy?
Take a look at the moving and home insurance frequently asked questions inside so that you can look forward to making memories in your new home, confident that you have the coverage you need.
Read more at www.otip.com/article140.
Take a look at the moving and home insurance frequently asked questions inside so that you can look forward to making memories in your new home, confident that you have the coverage you need.
Read more at www.otip.com/article140.
March 2022
Before, during, and after: Driving through a Canadian blizzard
There’s no denying that Canadian winters are beautiful. But when you have to get in your car and hit the road, that picturesque snow globe we call home can start to look a little less sparkly. Take some practical precautions before, during, and after each winter drive or road trip to make sure you (and your vehicle) arrive safe and sound.
Read more at: https://otip.com/article139.
There’s no denying that Canadian winters are beautiful. But when you have to get in your car and hit the road, that picturesque snow globe we call home can start to look a little less sparkly. Take some practical precautions before, during, and after each winter drive or road trip to make sure you (and your vehicle) arrive safe and sound.
Read more at: https://otip.com/article139.
How to choose the right vehicle
When it comes to finding the right car for you, there are pros and cons to both new and used vehicles — but ultimately, your decision will likely come down to budget and your driving habits. So how do you choose the right vehicle for yourself? Consider these factors before deciding.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article138.
When it comes to finding the right car for you, there are pros and cons to both new and used vehicles — but ultimately, your decision will likely come down to budget and your driving habits. So how do you choose the right vehicle for yourself? Consider these factors before deciding.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article138.
Does my car insurance policy cover rental cars?
You’ve got the keys to your new rental car and are excited to put it in gear to officially mark the start of your vacation. But before you drive off into the sunset, ensure you have the coverage you need. We’ll walk you through each insurance option to help you find the coverage that’s right for you and your next trip.
Read more at: https://otip.com/article137.
You’ve got the keys to your new rental car and are excited to put it in gear to officially mark the start of your vacation. But before you drive off into the sunset, ensure you have the coverage you need. We’ll walk you through each insurance option to help you find the coverage that’s right for you and your next trip.
Read more at: https://otip.com/article137.
February 2022
Self-driving vehicles and the future of car insurance in Canada.
While fully automated self-driving vehicles are not yet available to the Canadian public, Ontario’s automated vehicle pilot program to test driverless vehicles on public roadways is already well underway. With the future of autonomous vehicles already here, many drivers are wondering what impact advanced vehicle technology will have on their car insurance. Here’s what you need to know.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article134
While fully automated self-driving vehicles are not yet available to the Canadian public, Ontario’s automated vehicle pilot program to test driverless vehicles on public roadways is already well underway. With the future of autonomous vehicles already here, many drivers are wondering what impact advanced vehicle technology will have on their car insurance. Here’s what you need to know.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article134
Leasing vs. buying a car: What’s best for me?
Both leasing and buying have their benefits and drawbacks, so the right choice all depends on your budget, driving needs and lifestyle. We’ve outlined some of the key factors to consider when deciding between leasing versus buying your next vehicle to help you determine which option is best for you.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article135
Both leasing and buying have their benefits and drawbacks, so the right choice all depends on your budget, driving needs and lifestyle. We’ve outlined some of the key factors to consider when deciding between leasing versus buying your next vehicle to help you determine which option is best for you.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article135
Lock it up!
Safety features are an important part of every home. Locks, specifically, are the best way to keep your home safe and secure from unwanted “guests.” Different doors require different types of locks. Let’s review some basic and high-tech models to help you decide what kind of locks fit your needs the best.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article136
Lock it up!
Safety features are an important part of every home. Locks, specifically, are the best way to keep your home safe and secure from unwanted “guests.” Different doors require different types of locks. Let’s review some basic and high-tech models to help you decide what kind of locks fit your needs the best.
Read more at: www.otip.com/article136
January 2022
Does my home insurance cover items in storage?
Whether you’re in the middle of a move, downsizing, hanging on to a loved one’s belongings, or just looking to free up some space at home, you might find yourself storing items in an offsite storage unit. Whatever the reason, the items you’ve chosen to store are likely important to you. That’s why it’s equally important to know that your precious belongings have the proper coverage to repair or replace them if they were damaged or stolen while in storage.
Read more at www.otipinsurance.com/article133
Whether you’re in the middle of a move, downsizing, hanging on to a loved one’s belongings, or just looking to free up some space at home, you might find yourself storing items in an offsite storage unit. Whatever the reason, the items you’ve chosen to store are likely important to you. That’s why it’s equally important to know that your precious belongings have the proper coverage to repair or replace them if they were damaged or stolen while in storage.
Read more at www.otipinsurance.com/article133
In-house auto & property claims service makes a difference for our members
There are many variables in your daily life that you may not be able to control but when the unexpected happens to you on the road or at home, know that the Curo claims team will have your back. For over 12 years, OTIP has partnered with CURO Claims Services and as a result, members like you have raved about their experience.
Read more at www.otipinsurance.com/article132
There are many variables in your daily life that you may not be able to control but when the unexpected happens to you on the road or at home, know that the Curo claims team will have your back. For over 12 years, OTIP has partnered with CURO Claims Services and as a result, members like you have raved about their experience.
Read more at www.otipinsurance.com/article132
Planning to rent out your basement apartment?
Renting out your basement is a great way to test the waters and make some extra money without the upfront cost of purchasing a rental property. We are here to provide you with some helpful tips that may encourage you to take on the initiative. #OTIPUpdate
Read more at www.otipinsurance.com/article131
Renting out your basement is a great way to test the waters and make some extra money without the upfront cost of purchasing a rental property. We are here to provide you with some helpful tips that may encourage you to take on the initiative. #OTIPUpdate
Read more at www.otipinsurance.com/article131