Newcomer guide

Money and budgeting: the first months

Steps, in order

1. Write down your first-month budget before you arrive if you can: rent, food, transport, phone, and a buffer for deposits and winter clothing.
2. Expect the biggest shocks to be rent, food prices, and winter costs; track spending for the first month rather than guessing.
3. Avoid payday loans and high-interest credit offers aimed at newcomers. A basic bank account, a secured credit card used carefully, and on-time bill payments build Canadian credit history faster than any shortcut.
4. File taxes every year (see the taxes section) and check your benefit entitlements after every major life change — a new child, a job loss, or a move can change what you are owed.

General information only — not legal or financial advice. Rules, benefit amounts and local services change. Use the official or finder links above to confirm details before acting. No local addresses or phone numbers are listed here on purpose — use the national finders above for your area.

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