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Bill C-30 Just Passed: 5 Ways It Changes Your Wallet in 2026

  Canadian Money Brief Bill C-30 just received Royal Assent — and it touches your gas tank, your TFSA neighbour the RRSP, your CPP statement, and your tax return all at once. Here are the five changes that actually matter for your wallet. 1. The Federal Fuel Excise Tax Is Suspended Until September 7 The federal excise tax on gasoline and diesel is paused from April 20 through September 7, 2026 — shaving 10 cents per litre off gas and 4 cents off diesel at the pump. The tax break also extends to aviation fuel. If you're road-tripping this summer, the savings show up automatically; you don't need to do anything to claim it. Just don't expect it to last past Labour Day weekend, since the suspension is scheduled to expire September 7. 2. Home Buyers' Plan Repayment Window Triples — From 2 Years to 5 If you used your RRSP to fund a down payment through the Home Buyers' Plan, the grace period before you have to start repaying yourself is extending from two years to five, ...

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The 30-30 Rule: A Simple Strategy to Boost Your Savings


Saving money can be challenging, especially when faced with tempting impulse purchases. The 30-30 Rule is a straightforward approach that helps you manage your finances more effectively. Let’s dive into the details.

What Is the 30-30 Rule?

The 30-30 Rule involves allocating your income into specific categories:

  1. Essential Expenses (30%): Allocate 30% of your after-tax income to cover necessities like groceries, transportation, utilities, and healthcare.
  2. Homeownership Expenses (30%): Set aside another 30% for homeownership costs, such as rent or mortgage payments.
  3. Financial Goals (30%): Use 30% of your income to build an emergency fund, contribute to long-term savings, pay off debts, or invest.
  4. Remaining 10%: The last 10% is flexible—use it for discretionary spending, entertainment, or other personal preferences.

How to Implement the Rule

  1. Calculate Your After-Tax Income: Start by determining your monthly income after taxes.
  2. Divide by 10: Allocate 30% to each of the three main categories (essential expenses, homeownership expenses, and financial goals). The remaining 10% is for discretionary spending.
  3. Automate Your Savings: Set up automatic transfers to separate accounts for each category. This ensures consistency and discipline.
  4. Review and Adjust: Regularly assess your spending and adjust as needed. If you consistently overspend in one area, consider reallocating funds.

Benefits of the 30-30 Rule

  • Simplicity: The rule is easy to understand and implement.
  • Balanced Approach: It ensures you cover essentials, invest in your future, and enjoy some flexibility.
  • Financial Discipline: By automating savings, you build good habits.

Remember, the 30-30 Rule isn’t rigid; adapt it to your unique situation. Whether you’re saving for a rainy day, a dream vacation, or retirement, this rule can help you stay on track. 

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