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Why Did My Credit Score Drop? 7 Possible Reasons

A credit report document showing a credit score of 525 labeled as Poor, with a color scale indicating credit score ranges and a section detailing credit score grades. A red pencil rests on the page, and part of a computer keyboard is visible in the background.

You check your credit score and discover it’s dropped 30 points since last month. Your stomach sinks as you wonder what went wrong and how this happened without warning. Credit scores drop for seven main reasons: late payments, high credit card balances, closed accounts, new credit applications, credit report errors, collection accounts, and changes in […]

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Hard vs. Soft Credit Checks: What’s the Difference?

An infographic titled The Loan Application Process showing three steps. Step 1, Application Submission, includes an illustration of a person using a laptop and documents being uploaded, with text explaining that applicants complete a form online or in person and provide personal and financial documents. Step 2, Lender Review and Processing, shows icons of an application folder with a magnifying glass, gears, and clocks, along with soft check and hard check symbols. Text explains that the lender verifies information, conducts a credit check, and assesses risk. Step 3, Loan Decision, splits into two paths: approved, shown with icons of money, a house, and a car indicating funds disbursed and repayment beginning; and not approved, shown with a letter icon explaining that applicants receive a notice with reasons and guidance on next steps.

Hard vs. Soft Credit Checks: What’s the Difference? When you apply for personal or business loans, lenders need to check your credit. You might wonder why some credit checks seem to hurt your credit score while others don’t affect it at all. The main difference comes down to impact: soft credit checks don’t affect your […]

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Your Guide to Business Loans in Alberta & BC

Wooden blocks labeled “BUSINESS” and “LOAN” beside an open box containing coins, symbolizing small business financing or funding options.

You have a vision for your small business—and a plan to make it grow. Sometimes that next step needs a bit of financial support, whether it’s new equipment, extra inventory, or a timely opportunity. Understanding how short-term business loans work can help you take that next step with confidence. We’re here to help you make […]

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What Is a Line of Credit Loan & How Does It Work?

Line of Credit spelled out on two stacked wooden blocks in all capitals black font.

Life doesn’t always go as planned. A car repair, medical bill, or business expense can appear out of nowhere. Having fast access to funds when you need them most can make all the difference. That’s where a line of credit comes in. This is where a line of credit can help you manage your finances. […]

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Tips on How to Pay Off Credit Card Debt

Two people review bills and credit cards on the floor while using a calculator to work on paying off debt.

Credit card debt can feel overwhelming, especially when high interest charges make it hard to keep up with payments. Many Canadians face this challenge, with the average household carrying thousands of dollars in balances. The good news is there are proven strategies to help you take control. From structured payoff methods like the debt snowball […]

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Is a Consumer Proposal Worth It?

"Consumer proposal" written in pen on a notebook that lies over a spread of papers.

When overwhelming debt keeps you awake at night, a consumer proposal might seem like a ‘get out of debt’ card that lets you pay back less than you owe. But before you sign on the dotted line, it’s worth considering whether this approach truly benefits your situation. A consumer proposal isn’t right for everyone struggling […]

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Most Common Scams Affecting Canadians in 2025

A holograph illustrating different online scams overtop a person working on a laptop.

Canadians lost over $638 million to fraud in 2024, and the numbers keep climbing. As we move through 2025, scammers are getting smarter, more sophisticated, and unfortunately, more successful.  The good news? Once you know what to look for, these scams become much easier to spot and avoid. These are the most prevalent scams hitting […]

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The Role of Credit Unions vs. Banks in Personal Lending

A sign that reads "Banks vs Credit Unions) sitting on a desk.

When you need a personal loan, you’ve got options.  Unlike the big banks that dominate every street corner, credit unions offer an alternative that many Canadians may not fully understand. These financial institutions operate differently from traditional banks, often providing unique advantages for people seeking personal loans. Credit unions often offer lower interest rates on […]

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How Is Interest Calculated on a Line of Credit?

Close-up of a calculator on a desk while a person holds a pen and calculates the interest rate on their line of credit.

When it comes to managing finances, a line of credit offers flexibility that can be hard to beat. Whether it’s a home equity line of credit (HELOC) or a personal line of credit, understanding how interest is calculated is key to making smart financial decisions.  Interest on a line of credit is typically calculated based […]

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