Are you new to Canadian banking terms?
As you embark on this exciting journey, we understand that navigating the world of banking in a new country might feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory. Don't worry, we're here to guide you every step of the way. At Affinity Credit Union, we believe in making your transition as smooth as possible, starting with the basics.
What do I need to open a bank account in Canada?
Sending and receiving money made simple with Interac e-Transfer†
Need to send money to friends or family? With Interac e-Transfer, it's as easy as sending an email or a text. Whether it's paying rent, splitting a bill, or sending funds to loved ones, you can do it all with just a few clicks.
Exploring different account types
- A chequing account is all about access. It’s where you keep the money to cover day-to-day expenses like rent, utilities or groceries. You can also write cheques on this account and use your debit card to make purchases or withdraw cash from it.
- A savings account is the perfect place to save for a vacation or build a safety net to access later. Savings accounts typically have no monthly fee and include one or two free transactions per month. You’ll earn more interest than you would with a chequing account, making it the perfect place for short or long term savings.
Understanding credit history
Establishing a strong credit history is essential for accessing various financial services in Canada. In Canada, a Credit Score is a numerical representation, ranging from 300 to 900, providing lenders with an overview of your financial well-being at any point in time. Based on the data from your credit report, lenders calculate this score to assess the likelihood of you defaulting on a loan – with higher scores indicating a greater probability of timely payments. It's a mandatory requirement for all Canadians seeking to borrow money within Canada.
Planning for your future
A Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) is a government-registered investment designed to enable taxpayers to save for retirement within a tax-sheltered setting.
Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA)
It allows tax-free gains on investments and tax-free withdrawals for short, medium, and long-term savings purposes
First Home Savings Account (FHSA)
It's an account designed to help individuals save for their first home purchase. It provides tax benefits and other incentives to make homeownership more affordable.