Money talks

In the November 2004 issue of Canadian Living Magazine, Family Finances: 10 Tips for Stress-Free Money Management outlines what every couple should know and share about family finances, and helps get this all-important dialogue going. Whether you are part of a couple – and a joint bank account – or on your own, these money-wise websites tell you how to be a smarter spender, saver and investor.

• www.cba.ca
The Canadian Bankers' Association offers advice on budgeting, credit use and retirement. Worth a stop.

• www.canlearn.ca
CanLearn Interactive provides information on post-secondary education and how to finance it. Geared to both parents and students.

• www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca
The official site of the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation gives solid advice for home buyers and renters alike. And there's a mortgage calculator to help you figure out what you can afford.

• www.moneysense.ca
This all-around personal finance site helps you file your tax return and get free insurance quotes. And tips, articles and e-newsletters address specific investment, mutual fund, small business and home ownership needs.

• www.rrsp.org
Find easy-to-understand articles on investing and links to financial planning resources and mutual fund companies.

• www.ific.ca/yourmoney/index
The Investment Funds Institute of Canada's guide to investing in mutual funds starts with the basics: what are mutual funds and how do they work?

• www.cra-arc.gc.ca/tax/menu-e.html
Take the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency's online course and learn how to file a basic tax return.

• www.insurance-Canada.ca
Here's everything you wanted to know about insurance and then some (plus online quotes).

• www.morningstar.ca
Check the performance of more than 1,300 mutual funds and learn some financial planning tools for a better retirement.

• www.creditbureau.ca
Find out your credit rating.

Be sure to check out our other couples' finances features as well:
Cash clash: Learn how to resolve money problems in your relationship
Couples financial personality quiz