November 2022

During November, the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC) will lead Financial Literacy Month (FLM), an important campaign that helps Canadians improve their financial literacy skills and build their financial resilience. This year's campaign focuses on managing debt, as we recognize that the world we live in is constantly changing and how you manage your money may need to change too.

Join the FLM virtual launch event on Tuesday, November 1 at 1:00 P.M. (EST), with the Governor of the Bank of Canada. You may also visit the Canadian Financial Literacy Database for a complete list of financial literacy events and resources offered by Canadian organizations. Then, test your new-found financial literacy skills with the FCAC's self-assessment quiz.

Follow the conversation on social media throughout the month and use #FLM2022 to share financial literacy tips and to give Twitter "high fives" to people and organizations you know do great work in financial literacy (don't forget to tag them!)

Paying with a credit card might be convenient, but it is worth noting that merchants face higher fees for accepting credit cards than they do for other forms of payment (e.g., debit, cash). As of October 6th, 2022, merchants have the option of passing on some, or all, of these fees to the consumer. As such, it is important that you are aware of when they may apply so you can make informed decisions about payment options.

The Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC) has information on how these surcharges may affect you as a consumer. Learn more about merchant surcharges, service and convenience fees, and discounts, as well as how credit cards work on the FCAC website.

With Cyber Monday fast approaching, you may be feeling the pressure to take advantage of online deals. Your next purchase may only be a few clicks away, so the Office of Consumer Affairs (OCA) wants to remind you of the implications of the on-demand economy and share some things to consider before you click "buy now".

Visit the OCA's new on-demand economy page for online purchasing health and safety tips, reminders about purchasing behaviours and seller product suggestions, as well as privacy and personal security considerations.