The Canadian Press
TORONTO—A new TD report suggests university students who are having a hard time funding extra-curricular activities need to make smarter choices with their budgets.
The survey found that when it comes to paying for extra-curricular activities, 52 percent of current post-secondary students surveyed say costs prevent them from joining up or limit the number of activities they can participate in.
TD offers the following tips to help students make the most of their money:
•Flash your student card
University or college memberships can provide instant access to numerous extra-curricular activities usually offered at a reduced rate for student—and sometimes even for free.
If you’re not sure if a discount is offered, don’t be afraid to ask.
•Track your spending
Money management apps can keep students on track with their budgets by sending instant notifications the moment you pay for something, letting you know if you’re above or below your typical spending for the month.
•File your taxes
Even if you don’t make enough money with your student job to owe the government money, you could be entitled to a tax refund by claiming the tuition and textbook tax credit.
Also, the CRA will determine if you are eligible for payment of the GST/HST credit if you file.
•Rent textbooks
Consider buying used textbooks—or even renting them—and then resell them after your course is done to make some of your money back.
•Pay credit card bills on time
To avoid late fees and accruing interest charges, pay the balance in full every month by the payment date.
Later on, you’ll need a healthy credit score to borrow money for a home mortgage or auto loan, so this is a simple way to start building credit.
TD Bank Group commissioned Environics Research Group to conduct the custom survey of 6,337 Canadians aged 18 and older, including 803 current post-secondary students.
Responses were collected between Feb. 25 and March 17.
