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Newcomers to Canada

New to Canada? Set up your money in the right order: SIN, bank account, benefits, credit and your first tax return. Our roadmap gives you dates, not just a list.

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  1. Apply for benefits early
    You can apply for the CGEB (formerly the GST/HST credit) and the Canada child benefit before your first tax return.
  2. Start your credit history
    A first credit card, used lightly and paid in full, starts your Canadian credit file.
  3. File your first return
    It is due April 30 of the year after you arrive.
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Newcomer Money Roadmap

Your first 12 months, step by step

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Articles

Newcomers to Canada guides

BANK STATEMENTHidden feesMonthly account fee$16.95Overdraft fee$45.00ATM network fee$3.00Paper statement$2.50Per year$810✓Switch to a no-fee accountKeep $810 a year!Fee alertOverdraft avoided
March 4, 2026·4 min read

Hidden Banking Fees in Canada: How to Avoid Them

Ever looked at your bank statement and wondered what a charge was for? Here is how to spot the most common hidden banking fees in Canada and avoid them.

FREE APPSBudget toolsBudgetTrackGoalsBillsSaveDebt✓Free, made for CanadaCAD, Canadian banks↻Spending syncedGroceries · $412 this month
March 4, 2026·5 min read

Best Free Budgeting Apps in Canada for Women

Budgeting is where financial confidence starts. Explore free budgeting apps available in Canada and learn what to look for before you choose one.

CREDIT SCORECredit from scratch712Good, and climbing300900✓First card, paid in fullMonth 1 to month 12%Credit used18% of your limit
March 3, 2026·5 min read

How a Newcomer Woman Can Build Credit from Scratch in Canada

No Canadian credit history yet? Here is how credit works and the step-by-step habits that help newcomer women build a strong score from scratch.

Finance Woman shares financial education, insights and general information for women in Canada. We are not a registered or licensed financial, investment, tax or legal adviser, and we do not sell or recommend financial products. Do your own research and speak to a licensed professional before you act.

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