Budgeting Guides for Canadians
The calculator gives you targets in seconds. These guides cover the harder part: what to do when real life doesn't fit the targets. Each one is written for Canadian accounts, taxes and housing costs, and each shows the date it was last reviewed.
Where the 50/30/20 Rule Came From — and Where It Falls Short
The Harvard bankruptcy research behind the rule, why the 50% needs line matters more than the other two numbers, and six honest weaknesses to know before you rely on it.
Making the 50/30/20 Rule Work in Real Life
How 50/30/20 compares to zero-based and envelope budgeting, what to do when your needs blow past 50% in a high-cost city, and a step-by-step method for gig or irregular income.
Mortgage Renewal and Your 50/30/20 Budget
Estimate your new payment before the renewal letter arrives, the four levers you control at renewal, and how to rebalance your budget if the payment goes up anyway.
TFSA, RRSP or FHSA? Where Your 20% Should Go First
A plain-language order of operations for the savings part of your budget, with 2026 contribution limits and the mistakes that cost Canadians money.
These guides are general information for Canadian readers and reflect the author's professional experience. They are not personal financial, tax or investment advice. For decisions about your own situation, speak with a licensed financial planner or accountant.