February is a busy month for your personal finances. You start to think about taxes, RRSP contributions, and making good on those January resolutions. Here are a few items to consider this month.
February is a good month to…
1. Get prepared for tax season
You should be starting to receive your T-slips this month. Gather up all the receipts you’re using to claim any deductions or tax credits – medical expenses, charitable donations, investment interest, job related expenses or moving costs and any other applicable receipts.
There are some changes to what you can claim on your 2017 return. Here’s a simple guide.
If you have a fairly straightforward tax situation, and you’ve previously been using a tax professional, why not try to complete your tax return yourself this year. There are several choices, including the ever popular Turbo Tax and UFile.
The Wizard questionnaires can be a bit lengthy and daunting at first, but just click through and you’ll be done in no time. The questions help you claim all the deductions you’re entitled to.
Create a CRA My Account (it may take a couple of days to get your code) and take advantage of the “Auto-fill My Return” feature to import your T-slips, RRSP amounts and other information directly into your return.
NETFILE begins accepting returns February 26. With an average processing time of ten days, if you are expecting a tax refund you could have it by early March.
2. Top up your RRSP
Ideally, you should have a plan in place for regular monthly contributions throughout the year. But maybe you’re a procrastinator, or you received a lump sum from a bonus or cashing in stocks from your employee purchase plan. You’ll want to get your contribution in before the deadline of March 1.
When I worked in banking we were always open extended hours in the last week or two of February for all those last-minute contributors. Double check your financial institution’s hours so you’re not knocking on the locked door on February 28.
Should you get an RRSP loan? It may make sense in certain cases, such as if you switched to a higher paying job and you need to “top up” to maximize your contribution room. If you do borrow, be sure to use your tax refund to pay off as much of the loan as you can.
Don’t immediately choose the product your financial institution suggests to you. If you do “park” your money in a savings or money market account temporarily, don’t forget about it. Make a choice within the next 30 days to properly invest according to your financial plan.
Related: You made an RRSP contribution. Now what?
3. Take a look at your investment fees
New securities laws require investment firms to provide clients with an annual investment report. This report details all operating, transaction and other fees and charges you paid, as well as the compensation received through third parties.
It’s important that you know the true cost of the investments in your portfolio, and the value of the service you receive from your investment advisor. Advice costs money – just know how much you’re paying for it and consider whether you feel comfortable with the service and results you are getting. Fees are not set in stone. Always negotiate and ask if there’s a lower fee option that’s right for you.
If you are a DIY online brokerage investor, you’re still paying fees. Don’t overpay transaction fees for small monthly purchases. Notice if you are paying annual account fees, small balance or inactive account fees. You may need to reconsider the type of account you are in for the investments you own.
4. Take advantage of Best Buys for February
Stores follow a yearly sales cycle. Here’s what you can expect to find on sale this month:
- The Consumer Electronics Show takes place in January and retailers will want to clear their shelves for newer models. Save on home theatre products, small electronics and cameras.
- Kick back to watch the Super Bowl and the Olympics. Big screen TVs and recliners are good buys.
- Furniture is on sale, as well as mattresses, and appliances both large and small.
- Winter coats and cold weather accessories; winter sports gear.
- Romantic gifts for your sweetie – perfume, jewelry, lingerie and chocolates (best after Valentine’s Day if you dare wait).
Here’s hoping your local groundhog doesn’t see his shadow.
