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CTV News
4 days ago
- Business
- CTV News
Drowning in debt? 7 steps to dig yourself out
Paying off debt can feel like an uphill battle. In his column on personal finance contributor Christopher Liew explains how to assess and prioritize your debt, and shares strategies to help you pay it off more quickly (Getty Images) Christopher Liew is a CFP®, CFA Charterholder and former financial advisor. He writes personal finance tips for thousands of daily Canadian readers at Blueprint Financial. If you feel overwhelmed by debt, you're not alone. With rising interest rates, ballooning living costs and everyday expenses piling up, it can seem like an uphill battle to keep up. One missed payment turns into two, you take on extra debt, you start getting collection calls, and then a couple of unexpected life events and expenses later, you find yourself in a hole that just keeps getting deeper. The good news is that you can take control, one step at a time. You just have to have a bit of patience and consistency with the right strategies. While getting out of debt certainly doesn't happen overnight, it is achievable. How to get control of your finances In the first quarter of 2025, over 1.4 million Canadians missed at least one credit card payment, according to a report from Equifax Canada. While missing a single payment isn't the end of the world, it's typically a sign you could be beginning to fall down a slippery slope. That said, whether you're in a few thousand or tens of thousands of dollars in debt, here are some simple strategies to help you get out of the hole and get back on top. Step 1: Separate and prioritize your debts I tend to be a visual person, especially when it comes to finances. I recommend taking a big sheet of paper or a whiteboard, or a spreadsheet, and writing down: Each creditor/debt you owe and how much you have left Your payment amounts and dates How many missed payments you have with each account Going one step further, write down the interest rate for each debt that you have. This will help you identify the ones that need to be prioritized. Two common debt repayment strategies are the snowball method and the avalanche method. The snowball method suggests prioritizing and paying off small debts first, allowing you to build on small successes. This method is great if you have multiple smaller loans you're dealing with, and the sense of paying debts off one-by-one can be a great morale booster. The avalanche method suggests prioritizing larger, higher-interest debts first, before moving onto your smaller debts. This method can be great for those who appreciate delayed gratification or want to feel like they're making a meaningful impact on their bigger problems. Both strategies are solid, but which one you choose depends a lot on your current situation and what's easiest for you to stick with. Step 2: Stop adding to your debt Once you have a clear picture of your debts, you need to stop adding to them. With the exception of debt consolidation, make a commitment to stop taking out loans, using buy-now-pay-later programs, or racking up your credit cardt. At the same time, you should also start hacking your budget by finding small ways you can save on everyday expenses. Even something as simple as not drinking a $5 coffee everyday could save you over $150 per month, and that money could go straight towards paying off your debt. Step 3: Consolidate or refinance high-interest debts High-interest debts can be a major problem and are often associated with credit cards, personal loans, or payday loans. These debts often have interest payments that are so high that 80 to 90 per cent of your minimum monthly payment goes purely to interest, making it nearly impossible to make a dent in the principal balance. For these loans, I often recommend applying for a debt consolidation loan. Banks and lenders often offer consolidation loans, which allow you to combine multiple higher-interest debts into one large, lower-interest loan. This can do two important things: Lower your overall interest rate on debt Simplify your multiple monthly payments into a single larger payment Additionally, a consolidation loan could help boost your credit score, as your credit will now show that you've successfully paid off several smaller loans. Just make sure that you continue to make timely payments with the new consolidation loan. If you only have one problematic loan (such as a higher-interest auto loan, for example), your best bet may be to simply refinance the loan at a lower interest rate. As long as you have a good payment history on your existing loan, it usually isn't hard to find another lender willing to pay off the loan and give you a lower interest rate or lower payments. Step 4: Create payment goals and deadlines Like the old saying goes, a ship with no destination will never make its way to port. Without clear goals and deadlines, your debt repayment plan could fail before you begin to make any real progress. As you begin to create an action plan, I recommend creating goals and deadlines for each specific debt. This will help you stay motivated month by month, as you make consistent progress towards each goal. Step 5: Negotiate more affordable payments In the event that you're unable to refinance or consolidate certain debts or if you find yourself missing payments more often than you'd like, consider negotiating a more affordable payment. Often, credit card companies offer hardship repayment plans, which will give you an extended period of time where you'll be allowed to make smaller, more affordable payments. Your interest rate may also be temporarily lowered during this period. This can be a game changer, as it gives you time to pay off smaller debts and free up more money to pay towards higher-interest debts. To get approved for a lower payment, though, you may need to provide a good reason, such as showing that you're facing financial hardship. Step 6: Find small ways to increase your income One of the simplest strategies to get out of debt quicker is to simply increase your cash flow. You don't have to make drastic changes to your career, but some ideas that could increase your monthly income by hundreds (or even thousands) of dollars include: Asking your boss for a raise (even a $2 per hour raise could get you an extra $300 per month) Picking up a side gig like with a rideshare or delivery company for an extra few hours on the weekend Offering a small freelance service like cutting grass, moving boxes, photography, or cleaning on your weekends or days off Remember, every extra dollar you earn can add up at the end of the month. Step 7: Make extra interest-free payments when possible Periodically, you may find yourself with some extra cash. Perhaps you get a work bonus, a birthday gift, win a prize, or pull some overtime at work and get a higher cheque. One of the best ways to utilize the extra funds is to make additional payments on a debt which you've already made your monthly payment for. The extra money will go purely towards the principal balance (not the interest), which can really help you make a dent in your debt. Don't forget to reward yourself Keep in mind that getting out of debt can be a long process. Your first focus should be on catching up on late accounts, lowering your interest rates, and finding a plan you can stick with. Once you catch up where you're behind, your consistency will help you pay down debts, and your credit score will reflect your progress. As you progress in your journey, be sure to track your progress and reward yourself – even if it's just something small and affordable like buying yourself your favourite snack, checking off a box on your list, or giving yourself a well-deserved recreational day off. More from Christopher Liew:
CTV News
30-05-2025
- Business
- CTV News
Planning a parental leave? How to prepare yourself financially: Christopher Liew
Personal finance contributor Christopher Liew has some tips for expecting parents who are planning to go on leave from their workplace. (Morsa Images / Getty) Christopher Liew is a CFP®, CFA Charterholder and former financial advisor. He writes personal finance tips for thousands of daily Canadian readers at Blueprint Financial. Preparing for the arrival of your first child can be as exciting as it is overwhelming, especially if you're planning to take parental leave. While your Employment Insurance (EI) will provide some basic income support, it typically only replaces a portion of your regular earnings. If you don't already have several months' worth of expenses saved in reserve prior to the arrival of your new child, you'll need to employ some resourceful budgeting if you plan to take time off with your family. Whether you're planning to take a few months off or the full extended leave, the key to a successful transition lies in understanding the support available to you combined with a solid financial plan. Below, I'll break down some basics about how EI parental benefits work, how much you can expect to receive, and outline practical budgeting tips to help you feel more financially prepared. Parental leave basics EI maternity and parental benefits provide income replacement for eligible parents while they take time off work to care for a newborn or newly adopted child. However, the structure and amount of these benefits may differ based on your situation and the type of leave you choose. Should you choose to take parental leave, your right to return to work may also be protected by various provincial regulations, allowing you to return to your prior position and rate of pay. EI qualification To qualify for EI parental benefits, you must have worked at least 600 insurable hours in the 52 weeks before your claim (equivalent to working around 12 hours per week for one year) and must also have experienced an interruption in earnings due to childbirth or parental responsibilities (something almost every parent qualifies for). Both biological and adoptive parents may apply. If you're self-employed, you must be registered with the EI program and meet minimum contribution requirements. Standard vs. extended parental leave Eligible new parents have two options: Standard leave - provides up to 40 weeks of shared benefits (with one parent eligible for up to 35 weeks), pays up to 55 per cent of your average weekly earnings Extended leave - offers up to 69 weeks (with one parent eligible for up to 61 weeks), pays up to 33 per cent of your average weekly earnings How much can you get from EI parental leave benefits? As of 2025, the maximum weekly benefit for standard parental leave is $695, and for extended leave, the weekly maximum drops to $417. These amounts do count as taxable income, which means you won't see the full amount. That said, some employers offer their own prospective parental leave benefits, which could help bridge the gap, providing you with additional income and your employer with a tax break or credit. Budgeting before the baby arrives Understanding what you can expect to receive from your EI government benefit is the first step to creating your budget. Once you have a reliable number you can expect from EI, you can create a plan to cover any additional resources you may need to cover bills and basic living expenses. 1. Estimate your EI income and compare it to your current spending Use the Government of Canada's EI benefits calculator to get a rough estimate of what your weekly payments will be. Then, compare that number to your current monthly expenses to identify any potential shortfalls. Knowing your 'leave income' in advance helps you determine how much you may need to cut back or save ahead of time. 2. Build a parental leave emergency fund Ideally, you should aim to save enough money to cover three to six months' worth of essential expenses. Start putting aside money each month before the baby arrives. Even a small, consistent contribution can make a big difference as you prepare for a newborn. 3. Reduce or eliminate non-essential expenses Take a close look at your spending and trim where possible. Cancel unused subscriptions, limit takeout, and postpone big-ticket purchases. Prioritize needs over wants, especially as baby-related expenses begin to take up more space in your budget. The goal is to keep your finances manageable while still enjoying time with your new child. Long-term financial considerations In addition to saving up and budgeting for your basic parental leave, adding a new member to the family will come with a host of other long-term financial implications, such as: Your child's clothing School supplies Furniture, bedding, and room supplies Food and snacks Childcare expenses while they're too young for school Although you don't need to budget for these specific expenses immediately prior to your parental leave, I do encourage new parents to devote some of their time off to create a financial plan for the future. Once you get back into the daily rhythm of work, life, and caring for your child, planning for the future can become more difficult. Whether your goal is to create more disposable income, reduce your living expenses, go back to school, or start a small business, it's easier to do this while you're rested and relaxed rather than after you get back to the grind. Final thoughts Thanks to EI parental leave benefits, eligible parents-to-be are entitled to a portion of their pre-leave income. This benefit payment, combined with the right budgeting skills and savings, can provide new parents with the stress-free time they need to forge a lasting bond with their new child. Planning ahead (even as early as nine months ahead) will give you a better chance to set you and your family up for success and allow you to take as much time as you need.
CTV News
30-05-2025
- Business
- CTV News
Christopher Liew: How to financially prepare yourself for parental leave
Personal finance contributor Christopher Liew has some tips for expecting parents who are planning to go on leave from their workplace. (Morsa Images / Getty) Christopher Liew is a CFP®, CFA Charterholder and former financial advisor. He writes personal finance tips for thousands of daily Canadian readers at Blueprint Financial. Preparing for the arrival of your first child can be as exciting as it is overwhelming, especially if you're planning to take parental leave. While your Employment Insurance (EI) will provide some basic income support, it typically only replaces a portion of your regular earnings. If you don't already have several months' worth of expenses saved in reserve prior to the arrival of your new child, you'll need to employ some resourceful budgeting if you plan to take time off with your family. Whether you're planning to take a few months off or the full extended leave, the key to a successful transition lies in understanding the support available to you combined with a solid financial plan. Below, I'll break down some basics about how EI parental benefits work, how much you can expect to receive, and outline practical budgeting tips to help you feel more financially prepared. Parental leave basics EI maternity and parental benefits provide income replacement for eligible parents while they take time off work to care for a newborn or newly adopted child. However, the structure and amount of these benefits may differ based on your situation and the type of leave you choose. Should you choose to take parental leave, your right to return to work may also be protected by various provincial regulations, allowing you to return to your prior position and rate of pay. EI qualification To qualify for EI parental benefits, you must have worked at least 600 insurable hours in the 52 weeks before your claim (equivalent to working around 12 hours per week for one year) and must also have experienced an interruption in earnings due to childbirth or parental responsibilities (something almost every parent qualifies for). Both biological and adoptive parents may apply. If you're self-employed, you must be registered with the EI program and meet minimum contribution requirements. Standard vs. extended parental leave Eligible new parents have two options: Standard leave - provides up to 40 weeks of shared benefits (with one parent eligible for up to 35 weeks), pays up to 55 per cent of your average weekly earnings Extended leave - offers up to 69 weeks (with one parent eligible for up to 61 weeks), pays up to 33 per cent of your average weekly earnings How much can you get from EI parental leave benefits? As of 2025, the maximum weekly benefit for standard parental leave is $695, and for extended leave, the weekly maximum drops to $417. These amounts do count as taxable income, which means you won't see the full amount. That said, some employers offer their own prospective parental leave benefits, which could help bridge the gap, providing you with additional income and your employer with a tax break or credit. Budgeting before the baby arrives Understanding what you can expect to receive from your EI government benefit is the first step to creating your budget. Once you have a reliable number you can expect from EI, you can create a plan to cover any additional resources you may need to cover bills and basic living expenses. 1. Estimate your EI income and compare it to your current spending Use the Government of Canada's EI benefits calculator to get a rough estimate of what your weekly payments will be. Then, compare that number to your current monthly expenses to identify any potential shortfalls. Knowing your 'leave income' in advance helps you determine how much you may need to cut back or save ahead of time. 2. Build a parental leave emergency fund Ideally, you should aim to save enough money to cover three to six months' worth of essential expenses. Start putting aside money each month before the baby arrives. Even a small, consistent contribution can make a big difference as you prepare for a newborn. 3. Reduce or eliminate non-essential expenses Take a close look at your spending and trim where possible. Cancel unused subscriptions, limit takeout, and postpone big-ticket purchases. Prioritize needs over wants, especially as baby-related expenses begin to take up more space in your budget. The goal is to keep your finances manageable while still enjoying time with your new child. Long-term financial considerations In addition to saving up and budgeting for your basic parental leave, adding a new member to the family will come with a host of other long-term financial implications, such as: Your child's clothing School supplies Furniture, bedding, and room supplies Food and snacks Childcare expenses while they're too young for school Although you don't need to budget for these specific expenses immediately prior to your parental leave, I do encourage new parents to devote some of their time off to create a financial plan for the future. Once you get back into the daily rhythm of work, life, and caring for your child, planning for the future can become more difficult. Whether your goal is to create more disposable income, reduce your living expenses, go back to school, or start a small business, it's easier to do this while you're rested and relaxed rather than after you get back to the grind. Final thoughts Thanks to EI parental leave benefits, eligible parents-to-be are entitled to a portion of their pre-leave income. This benefit payment, combined with the right budgeting skills and savings, can provide new parents with the stress-free time they need to forge a lasting bond with their new child. Planning ahead (even as early as nine months ahead) will give you a better chance to set you and your family up for success and allow you to take as much time as you need.
CTV News
15-05-2025
- Business
- CTV News
Christopher Liew: The harsh truth about side hustles in Canada
Christopher Liew is a CFP®, CFA Charterholder and former financial advisor. He writes personal finance tips for thousands of daily Canadian readers at Blueprint Financial. In days past, side hustles were often just a way to make passive income on the side to help save extra money. Now, for many, side hustling is a way of life that allows people to earn the extra money they need to pay their rent and bills, save up to start a business, or contribute to their retirement. Side hustles offer flexibility, independence, and a chance to earn extra income in an era of rising living costs. Whether you're interested in rideshare driving and food delivery or freelancing and online businesses, taking on so-called 'gig work' is becoming the norm, especially for those living in a larger, more expensive urban environment. The harsher realities of side hustles For many, juggling a full-time job and a side hustle (or multiple gigs) leaves little time for rest, relationships, or financial stability. What often starts as a way to stay afloat, get ahead, or pursue a passion can quickly become unsustainable. While having an extra side job or side business can definitely help you elevate your lifestyle and catch up with bills, there are some all-too-realistic realities that you should consider beforehand. 1. You'll pay both the employee and employer portions of the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) contributions One significant financial difference for self-employed individuals compared to regular employees involves CPP contributions. While employees and employers each pay a share (5.95 per cent each in 2025), the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) requires self-employed individuals to cover both portions, for a total of 11.90 per cent. This mandatory double CPP contribution is separate from and in addition to the regular federal and provincial income taxes you'll owe on your net business profit. 2. Work is often seasonal Depending on what type of gig work you do or what your industry is, your income can become heavily reliant on the seasons and holidays. For example, as a rideshare driver, you'll generally be the busiest on weekends (in larger cities), around holidays, or early in the morning if you live close to an airport. This can limit the amount you can earn during certain times of the year. 3. You're on the hook for everything One of the hidden perks of traditional employment is having someone else to absorb the fallout when things go wrong. In the gig economy, you are the boss, the worker, and the customer service. So when a job runs late, a client is unhappy, or a refund is demanded, it's all on you. That constant pressure can wear people down. 4. The time trade-off is real A common misconception is that gig work is 'flexible.' And while it's true that you can choose when you work, that doesn't mean you work less. Many side hustlers end up trading their evenings, weekends, and personal time just to make ends meet. Is having a side hustle worth it? In my opinion, the key to side hustling and being happy is to have an end goal. If you're working the extra hours to build a small business or save extra money with a side hustle, it should be something that helps you build towards a larger goal of yours. With that in mind, you'll be able to push through the hard times, stay focused when things aren't going your way, and balance your budget effectively.
