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This article has been updated from a previous version. If you’ve been mugged while traveling overseas, immediately cancel your credit and debit cards, file a police report, notify your local embassy or consulate, contact your travel insurance provider, and secure access to some cash. I learned this the hard way on a chilly March day in 2013, just after landing in Brussels for a class reporting trip. I was excited — a week of committee hearings, interviews, and writing ahead.

While written leases are standard for rental agreements across the country, the reality is not every tenant has the chance to sign one. For example, you may be renting from a family member or friend, or perhaps your original lease expired and was never formally renewed. Or you might have simply made a verbal agreement to rent a basement unit and started paying monthly. These situations are relatively common, and they raise a crucial question: what are your rights as a tenant without a lease?

This article has been updated from a previous version. When buying or selling a home in Canada, one of the costs to consider is the real estate commission. But what exactly are you paying for, and how are these fees calculated? Real estate commissions are typically a percentage of the home's final sale price, ranging from 3% to 5%.

Is DIY worth the risk, or are some projects better left to the pros? For many homeowners, the allure of saving money and adding a personal touch can quickly turn into a costly lesson in what not to do. A recent survey by LowestRates.ca reveals that 59% of Ontario homeowners have undergone small DIY projects like painting or re-tiling.

Home insurance gives you peace of mind, knowing that your home and its contents are protected at all times. But did you know that it can also provide valuable coverage while you’re away? Your home insurance protection follows you around the globe and protects your belongings while you travel. And the best news of all -- It won’t add anything to your allowable baggage weight. Here’s how understanding your home policy can help you travel with peace of mind.

This article has been updated from a previous version. Buying your first home is one of the most exciting milestones of adulthood—but it can also be filled with potential pitfalls.

This article has been updated from a previous version. Switching mortgage lenders at renewal can be one of the smartest financial moves a homeowner can make—especially if your current lender isn’t offering a competitive rate. It’s also one of the few times you can make a change without paying a prepayment penalty. By exploring your options, you may be able to secure a lower interest rate, better terms, or even cashback incentives.

No matter how skilled of a driver you are, there will likely come a time when you’ll need roadside assistance. You never want to get a dead battery, a flat tire, an empty gas tank or otherwise find yourself stranded and in need of a tow without it. The cost of a standalone roadside assistance plan can range from less than $50 to a couple hundred dollars depending on your travel needs and the number of people who share your plan.

This article has been updated from a previous version. Obtaining a driver’s licence in Ontario is an important milestone, offering freedom, mobility, and new opportunities. Ontario’s licensing process follows a three-step graduated system. It starts with a written test, progresses to an initial road test, and concludes with a final advanced driving assessment. Once you pass all three stages, you'll be able to drive across the country without restrictions.

Travel insurance and ticket protection may sound similar, but they cover different aspects of your trip. Travel insurance offers broader coverage, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. Ticket protection is more limited—it usually only refunds your ticket if you cancel for specific, approved reasons. Planning a trip is a huge expense and time investment, so understanding the differences between the two is crucial to protecting your plans.