Learn
Credit cards, explained for Canadians
Short, practical guides with no paid rankings and no jargon. Start with your situation, then pick a strategy.
Getting started
Your first card, and building credit in Canada from scratch.
Your first credit card in Canada
How credit cards actually work, how to pick a first card you won't regret, and the three habits that build a strong credit score.
NewcomersNew to Canada? Building credit from day one
Your credit history from home doesn't move with you. Here's how newcomers get a first Canadian card, build a score quickly and avoid the common traps.
StudentsCredit cards for international students
Study in Canada, leave with a credit history. What you need to apply, which cards are realistic, and how to handle tuition, rent and money from home.
Pick your strategy
Travel points, cash back, or premium perks: how each approach pays.
Canada's points programs, explained
Aeroplan, Membership Rewards, Avion, Scene+ and the rest. What each program is, what a point is roughly worth, and how to choose the one that fits how you travel and shop.
TravellersTravel bug credit cards
Points that become flights and hotel nights. How Canadian travel cards differ, what a point is really worth, and the perks that matter once you're in the air.
Cash backMin-max your cash back
Two or three no-nonsense cards, the right one at each store, and none of the traps. The cash back playbook for Canadians who want money, not points.
PremiumHigh value credit cards
When a $150 to $800 annual fee pays for itself, and when it doesn't. A clear-eyed way to judge premium Canadian cards.
BonusesWelcome bonuses without the stress
Welcome bonuses are often worth more than a year of everyday rewards. How they work, how to reach the spending target with money you'd spend anyway, and the traps to avoid.
Protect and plan
The insurance hiding in your wallet, and cards through retirement.
The insurance hiding in your wallet
Travel medical, trip cancellation, rental cars, phones and purchases. What Canadian credit card insurance usually covers, how to switch it on, and the fine print that decides claims.
RetirementCredit cards and retirement planning
Income drops, travel goes up, and insurance gets age limits. How to set up your wallet before and during retirement.
Money tools
Budgeting apps, spreadsheets and keeping track.