Do you have questions about buying a home?
We’ll take you step-by-step through what you need to know (and do) when buying a home in Alberta.
Good Advice
Putting people first.
COVID-19 Personal financial insights and advice
Providing insights, helpful advice and expertise to help you minimize disruption.
Credit and Debt
Understanding credit card cash advances
Learn what a cash advance is, common types of cash advances, how fees and interest are applied, and what to do when a cash advance isn’t your best option.
Everything you should know about credit card limit increases
We cover everything you need to know about credit card limit increases including how to decide whether a limit increase is the right decision for you.
Disputing charges to your credit card: FAQs
We answer the most frequently asked questions about chargebacks, including what a chargeback is, what types of transactions qualify, and what you need to dispute a charge.
Paying online with a credit card versus a debit card
What should you use to pay for the purchases you make online? Here are the differences between paying online with your credit card versus your debit card.
How to build good credit and avoid fraud
Credit cards are amazingly convenient. But before you start making purchases on your card, there are a couple things you should know.
How to choose a credit card that is best for you
What you need to consider when choosing a credit card that is best for you.
Saving and Investing
How to teach your children about money at every age
Here are some tips and activities that can help you teach your kids about money and finances during the COVID-19 pandemic and every day.
Is your emergency fund enough for the unexpected?
Albertans cannot control the unexpected, but you can prepare for it with an emergency fund.
Budgeting 101
Budgeting lets you be in control of your destiny, and helps you spend and save with confidence.
Should you invest in GICs?
Learn more about when you should choose a GIC for your portfolio and when you should look for something with more risk and reward potential.
RRSP or TFSA...or both?
RRSPs and TFSAs are similar as they both provide incentives for Canadians to save and invest, but their differences will likely lead you to one or the other.
Investing 101: your questions answered
If your answer to, "what is the most confusing thing about investing?" is "everything", then we have you covered. We address what investing is, FAQs and how to get started.
Home Buying and Mortgages
Mortgage stress test: What you need to know
A mortgage stress test is an important step in the mortgage pre-approval process. Here we explain what a mortgage stress test is and help you understand the latest rules.
Understanding the basics of mortgage interest
When you take out a mortgage to buy a home, the lender will charge you mortgage interest. Here’s what you need to know about mortgage interest and how it works at ATB.
What happens at the end of your mortgage term?
An overview of your mortgage renewal options and the decisions you need to make at the end of your mortgage term.
6 mortgage terms you need to know
These 6 mortgage terms and tips will help you decide which mortgage option is right for you.
How are mortgage rates calculated?
Borrowers should be prepared for additional interest costs on their variable rate debt or when rolling a fixed rate mortgage over the next few years.
What you need to know about residential outbuildings
What is considered a residential outbuilding, the steps to build one and your financing options.
Retirement
How to create a retirement savings plan
A comfortable retirement starts with knowing how much income you’ll need and making a savings plan.
Got room? Learn about your RRSP contribution limits
Your RRSP room is determined by your annual RRSP contribution limits. Learn how to best take advantage of all that room.
Make the most of your RRSP contribution
Consider these tips to make the most of your RRSP contribution, save on your tax bill and maximize your retirement savings growth.
It's never too late to start investing in RRSPs and TFSAs
Even if you are close to retirement, it can still be beneficial to start investing in RRSPs and TFSAs.
Will OAS and CPP be enough?
See how much Old Age Security (OAS) and the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) will contribute to your retirement
How can I increase retirement income with income splitting?
Income splitting is a way of moving income from the higher to the lower-income spouse.
Students Education and RESPs
How to budget your income as a student
Whether you’re paying for post-secondary with earnings, savings, aid, or a loan, make the most of your resources by following these budgeting steps.
Five ways to pay for post-secondary education
Paying for school shouldn't be the most stressful part of being a student. Here are five different ways students can finance their post-secondary education.
Paying off a student loan early: Pros & cons
Most people graduate post-secondary with student loans. Learn the advantages and disadvantages of paying off student loans early.
Understanding RESP options in Alberta
Learn about RESPs: how much you can contribute, what government grants provide, and what happens if your child doesn'tt attend a post secondary institution.
Maximize Your RESP Contributions
Take advantage of the government grant that matches up to 20% on your contributions to an RESP and learn about carry-forward room for missed contributions.
What do you need to withdraw money from an RESP
In order to withdraw funds from your RESP you'll need to complete some steps for validation. Read through as we uncover what these steps entail.
Insurance
How much life insurance do I need?
Use this assessment and article to guide you through understanding your lifestyle protection needs.
Answering your questions about disability insurance
Understanding disability insurance, including applying for disability insurance and compensation timing.
Applying for life insurance - what to expect
Applying for life insurance is an important step in preparing for the future, but it can feel overwhelming. Here's what to expect.
How to choose the right type of life insurance for you
Your specific life needs will help determine the right life insurance for you. Here we help you understand term, whole life and universal life insurance options.
Including insurance in your financial plan
Insurance is an important part of any financial plan, and understanding your coverage is key
Alberta Lifestyle
Six tips to help with your job search in Alberta
Tips, job search resources, and information on assistance that can help you navigate finding new employment in Alberta.
8 tips for successfully running a side hustle
Here are our top tips for turning a hobby, passion or great idea into a side hustle and a way to earn extra cash.
11 costs you should consider when buying an RV
Recreational vehicles offer the freedom to explore, but are a long-term investment. Here are the costs you should consider when buying an RV in Alberta.
Banking and Security Tips
How to avoid fraud and scams this holiday season
Frauds and scams targeting online holiday shoppers are common. Here are tips on how to avoid fraud and shop online safely and securely.
How to bank online securely
Tips on how to bank online responsibly and securely and protect your information from online fraudsters.
Working from home? Here’s how to keep your mobile devices secure.
As work from home becomes reality for thousands of employees, there are cyber risks and best practices you might want to brush up on.
Understanding release limits
Understanding what release limits, point-of-sale limits and ABM withdrawal limits are and why they are put in place.
Tips on sending money to loved ones—safely and securely
Here are a few tips on how to set you and your family up for success when sending money abroad.