Doghouse Banking 🐾

Checking, savings & budgeting basics

Latest Articles

Fresh takes on doghouse banking that won't make you want to chase your tail.

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HISA vs GIC: The Battle for Your Savings

Deciding between a High-Interest Savings Account and Guaranteed Investment Certificates is key in today's high-interest climate. Let's explore the pros and cons of each to help you make a savvy choice.

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Building Your Job Loss Safety Net

Explore the importance of having a dedicated emergency fund for job loss and how to create a cushion that keeps you secure during uncertain times.

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Side Hustles That Work for Everyone

Discover fun and accessible side hustles for people with disabilities that offer flexibility and income potential while accommodating various needs.

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Finding Roommates Without the Drama

Navigating the roommate jungle can be tricky, but with a few smart strategies, you can find dependable companions to share living costs and keep the peace.

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Cash Envelope Method in a Digital World

Exploring the enduring effectiveness of the cash envelope method in today's digital economy, highlighting its psychological benefits compared to modern budgeting apps.

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Budgeting on the Go

Learn how to manage your budget seamlessly while living a busy, social life.

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Should You Pay Rent at Home While Studying?

Navigating the tricky waters of paying rent while still in school can feel overwhelming. Let's break down the pros and cons of this situation and find the best path forward.

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Mastering Your Money Moves as a Student

Navigating student life without drowning in debt is possible with smart financial strategies. Here’s how to stay on top of your finances while having fun.

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Grocery Budgeting in an Inflation Era

Explore how inflation impacts grocery budgeting and discover new strategies for frugal shoppers to keep costs low while navigating rising prices.

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Bouncing Back After a Financial Setback

Discover actionable steps to rebuild your financial stability after a major setback, like losing a job or facing unexpected expenses, without starting from scratch.

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Finding Your Perfect Emergency Fund in a Costly World

In a time of rising expenses and flat incomes, figuring out how much to stash away in an emergency fund can feel like solving a Rubik's Cube blindfolded. Let's break it down and find the right balance for your financial safety net.

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Bouncing Back from Financial Fumbles

Learn how to recover from major financial mistakes with practical rebuild plans, mental health tips, and strategies to avoid repeating past errors.

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Navigating Joint Finances When Boundaries Are Crossed

When one partner withdraws funds from a joint emergency account without consulting the other, it raises important questions about boundaries, trust, and financial communication in a relationship. Here's how to handle it with grace and clarity.

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Budgeting Without Apps for the App-averse

Explore effective low-tech budgeting methods for those who prefer to stay away from apps, including tried-and-true techniques like pen and paper, spreadsheets, and envelope systems.

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Choosing Insurance Without Breaking the Bank

Navigating the insurance maze doesn't have to be overwhelming. Here’s how to pick the right plans for health, home, and car insurance without losing your sanity or your savings.

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How Much Emergency Fund Is Enough

Navigating the world of emergency funds can be tricky. Let's break down the traditional advice and explore how to tailor it to your personal situation.

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How Grocery Inflation is Changing Canadian Dinner Tables

Explore the real-life impacts of grocery inflation in Canada, as people adjust their shopping habits and meal plans to cope with rising prices. Discover how the shift towards buying less meat, switching stores, and seeking deals is reshaping the way Canadians eat.

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Grocery Prices That Make You Go Wow

Explore the surprising items at the grocery checkout that have seen dramatic price increases, from bread to eggs, and join the conversation about how inflation has left us all feeling a little lighter in the wallet.

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Grocery Hacks to Save Big in Canada

Discover clever grocery hacks that can help you save money and eat better, including the power of whole chickens, using flyers, and cooking in bulk.

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Mastering Money Management as a Student

Learn how to balance living and discretionary expenses, utilize budgeting apps and spreadsheets, and maintain a savings buffer while navigating student life.

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Mastering Your Money in College

Learn how to budget effectively in college with practical tips on income, expenses, and tracking your finances, all while having a little fun.

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Budgeting for Student Loan Repayment in 2025

With student loan repayments resuming in August 2025, it's time to gear up your budgeting game. Here are some strategies to make the transition smoother and keep your finances in check.

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Student Loans: To Pay Monthly or Save for a Lump Sum

Navigating student loans can be tricky, especially when deciding between making small monthly payments or saving up to make a larger lump-sum payment. Let’s break down the options and find the best path for your financial journey.

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TFSA HISA or GIC for Your Emergency Fund in 2025

Explore the pros and cons of using a TFSA High-Interest Savings Account versus a Guaranteed Investment Certificate for your emergency fund in Canada. Discover what real people are doing and why it's important to make the right choice for your financial future.

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Surviving College on $30 a Week

Discover how students manage to thrive on a tight budget by utilizing food banks, side gigs, and savvy financial hacks.

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Why Money Skills Should Be a Must in Schools

Experts argue that teaching money skills in schools is essential as kids face real-world financial questions. Let's explore the benefits of formal money lessons and how parents can bridge the gap.

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Mom's Money Moves: Are Greenlight Cards Too Strict for Kids?

Jessica Roderick's approach to teaching her kids about money management through Greenlight cards sparks a debate about accountability versus stinginess. Are her methods paving the way for financial literacy or just being a tough cookie?

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When to Give Your Teen a Debit Card

Navigating the world of debit cards for your teen can feel like stepping into a real-life episode of a coming-of-age sitcom. Here’s how to know when the time is right to hand over financial responsibility.

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Rent Payments Now Count for Your Mortgage Application

Starting in July 2025, rent history may help you qualify for a mortgage, thanks to VantageScore 4.0 being accepted by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Let's explore how this change could benefit future homebuyers.

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Canada’s Mid-Year Tax Bracket Shift and Your Paycheck Puzzle

If you noticed a boost in your net pay this July, you might be wondering if the 2025 tax cut took effect automatically or if your employer adjusted payroll mid-year. Let’s break down the mystery of those T4 slips and what it all means for your finances.

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Financial Tips for Future Doctors to Start Now

As you prepare for medical school, navigating finances can feel like trying to solve a riddle while juggling. Here’s what you need to know about budgeting, taxes, and more to set yourself up for success.

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Mastering Taxes on Your Side Gigs

Learn how to navigate taxes for your odd jobs like babysitting and tutoring, from understanding thresholds to tracking deductions.

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Smart Moves for Your First $20K Monthly Salary

Navigating your first paycheck can feel like a high-stakes game, but with a little strategy, you can turn that $20K monthly salary into a financial powerhouse. Let's break down the best ways to make your money work for you.

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Should You Open Multiple Savings Accounts for Different Goals

Deciding between one savings account or multiple accounts for different financial goals can be tricky. Let’s break it down in a fun and approachable way, so you can make the best choice for your travel dreams, emergency fund, and car aspirations.

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Getting Started with Your First Paycheck

Navigating your first real paycheck can feel overwhelming. Here's a friendly guide on how to prioritize your finances, from building an emergency fund to exploring investment options.

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Smart Money Moves for Young Adults

Discover essential financial tips for young adults to kickstart their financial journey without breaking the bank or losing sight of their goals.

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Gen Z's Financial Dreams and Goals

Discover the financial milestones that late Gen Z young adults are setting for themselves, including saving, investing, and homeownership.

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Should You Finance a Car or Save Up Cash

Deciding between financing a car or saving up cash can feel like choosing between popcorn and candy at the movies. Let’s break down the options and find the best fit for your ride.

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Rent or Buy: The Case for Renting and Investing

In the age-old debate of renting versus buying a home, many advisors are leaning toward the idea that renting and investing the difference could be the smarter choice. But before you grab your popcorn and jump into this financial drama, let's break down the key factors you should consider.

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Starting Your Money Journey at 35

Feeling lost about money at 35? Don’t worry! This guide will help you find the best beginner resources to kickstart your financial education without the jargon.

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Side Hustle Ideas That Actually Make Money

Discover realistic side hustle opportunities that can help you earn meaningful income, from online freelancing to local service businesses. Let's turn your free time into cash!

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Money-Making Side Hustle Ideas That Actually Work

Explore realistic and fun side hustle opportunities that can help you earn extra cash, from online freelancing to local services. Let's dive into ways to boost your income without turning your life upside down.

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Checking vs. Savings: The LEGO Box Analogy

Discover how thinking of your bank accounts as different types of LEGO boxes can help you understand the roles of checking and savings accounts in your financial life.

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How to Budget Like a Pro Gamer

Level up your financial game with budgeting tips inspired by pro gamers. Learn to allocate your resources wisely, avoid the loot box trap, and play the long game for financial success.