Edward Jones-Financial Advisor: John Bennett

06/08/2026

One of the most helpful exercises families can do when budgeting is distinguishing between needs and wants. Your mortgage or rent, groceries, utilities, and transportation costs are essential. They keep your household running.

But wants aren't bad. Dining out, travel, and gifts for family and friends add meaning to life. The key is setting boundaries around them so they don't pull you off course from what's most important to you.

When you prioritize together as a family, you build healthier financial habits. Small adjustments in your discretionary spending can create meaningful savings over time without feeling like deprivation.

If you're looking to align your family's spending with your values and goals, let's talk. We can help you create a budget that reflects what matters most.

These considerations can help you get a handle on how you spend money each month.

06/06/2026

Last week's blowout U.S. payroll report underlined the improvement in the U.S. labour market this year, with hiring accelerating and broadening across sectors, signaling a more durable foundation for growth. Canadian employment data were also surprisingly strong, reversing some of the weakness in hiring this year.

How did the markets perform this week? Get the highlights and the latest economic news.

06/05/2026

Old Age Security, or OAS, is an important part of retirement income for many Canadians, but how and when you receive it can vary.

Your eligibility is based on residency, not work history. Payment amounts can change over time and may be affected by when you start and how OAS fits with your other income sources.

Understanding these details can help you make more informed retirement decisions.

You asked – we answered! Here are the top 10 questions about Old Age Security (OAS)

06/03/2026

One of the most common questions about Old Age Security (OAS) is when to start taking it. The standard age is 65, but you can delay until age 70. Each choice affects how much you receive.

Starting at 65 means you begin receiving income earlier. But if you delay, your monthly payments increase by 0.6% for each month you wait, up to a maximum 36% increase at age 70.

So which option is right for you? It depends on several factors unique to your situation. Your current tax rate matters. If you're still working or have other significant income, delaying might make sense. Your total income matters too, because OAS is subject to a clawback if your income exceeds certain thresholds.

If you're approaching 65 and wondering when to start your OAS, reach out. I can help you evaluate your options based on your personal circumstances.

You asked – we answered! Here are the top 10 questions about Old Age Security (OAS)

06/01/2026

Happy Pride Month! 🌈

This June, we celebrate love, authenticity, and the courage it takes to live as your true self.

Pride is about visibility, acceptance, and progress. It's about creating spaces where everyone feels safe to plan for the life they envision, whether that's marriage, family planning, retirement, or legacy building.

05/30/2026

Markets closed last week hopeful that a U.S.–Iran peace deal will finally help unwind the shock to global energy markets seen this year, with equities hitting new record highs and bonds rebounding.

How did the markets perform this week? Get the highlights and the latest economic news.

05/29/2026

You don't have to manage your financial life alone.

If you're juggling a demanding career and want a long-term relationship with someone who listens, explains and keeps you on track, now is a great time to connect.

05/27/2026

Spousal RRSPs can help to level out household income, both now and in retirement.

The higher-earning spouse contributes and claims the tax deduction at their marginal tax rate, while the lower-earning spouse owns the account and pays tax on future withdrawals, typically at a lower rate. This strategy works particularly well when there's an income gap between partners or a significant age difference.

I help couples evaluate whether spousal RRSPs fit their retirement income strategy. Reach out to discuss your situation.

Income splitting is a strategy to level out income earned by spouses to reduce tax bills.

05/25/2026

Strategic retirement income planning considers not just how much income you'll have, but how it's structured and taxed.

I help clients evaluate income splitting opportunities as part of comprehensive retirement income strategies. Reach out to discuss whether this approach could benefit you

Income splitting is a strategy to level out income earned by spouses to reduce tax bills.