Alto Blog

Expert insights on personal finance, budgeting strategies, and how AI is transforming the way we manage money.

Jan 20, 202623 min read

Mint or Copilot Alternatives in Canada (2026 Guide)

A Canada-first guide to Mint and Copilot alternatives: budgeting, net worth, bank connections, privacy, pricing, and step-by-step setup for Canadians.

Jan 20, 202619 min read

What Is a Budget and Why Do You Need One?

Learn what a budget is, why you need one, and how to build a simple plan that fits your life. Includes examples, tools, and step-by-step budgeting tips.

Jan 20, 202621 min read

Zero-Based vs Envelope vs 50/30/20 Budgeting

Learn zero-based, envelope, and 50/30/20 budgeting methods with Canadian examples, step-by-step setup, and how to pick the best system for your goals.

Jan 14, 202618 min read

Ontario Tax Season Prep: What You Need to Know

A step-by-step Ontario tax season checklist: key dates, slips, deductions, credits, CRA accounts, and common mistakes to avoid before you file.

Jan 14, 202617 min read

Quebec Tax Season Prep: What to Know Before Filing

A Quebec-specific tax season checklist: key dates, slips, deductions, credits, CRA vs Revenu Quebec, and step-by-step prep to file faster and avoid surprises.

Jan 14, 202621 min read

Tax Season Alberta Checklist: What to Know in 2026

A step-by-step Alberta tax season guide: key deadlines, slips, deductions, CRA benefits, self-employment tips, and how to file accurately and on time.

Jan 13, 202620 min read

Average Canadian Family Finances in 2026: A Snapshot

See what the finances of an average Canadian family look like today: income, housing costs, debt, savings, budgets, and practical steps to improve cash flow.

Jan 13, 202623 min read

Best Practices to Manage Credit Card Debt in Canada

Comprehensive Canadian guide on managing credit card debt: budgeting, debt repayment strategies, balance transfers, negotiation, and avoiding pitfalls.

Jan 13, 202622 min read

Common Financial Personas and What to Prioritize

Identify your financial persona and follow a clear priority plan for budgeting, debt, credit, saving, and investing with Canada-focused examples and steps.

Jan 13, 202621 min read

How to Start Building Retirement Savings in Canada

A step-by-step guide for Canadians on how to start building retirement savings, choose RRSP vs TFSA, automate contributions, and invest with confidence.

Jan 13, 202622 min read

Key 2026 Money Trends That Will Shape Your Finances

A Canada-focused guide to the biggest 2026 personal finance trends: rates, inflation, housing, taxes, AI, fraud, credit, and investing, with clear action steps.

Jan 13, 202618 min read

Smart Ways to Manage Discretionary Income in Canada

Learn smart ways to manage discretionary income in Canada with step-by-step tactics to pay debt, save, invest, and spend guilt-free without breaking your budget.

Jan 13, 202622 min read

Top 10 Personal Finance Apps 2026 (Canada Guide)

A data-driven guide to the top 10 personal finance apps for 2026—budgeting, investing, credit, and bill tracking—plus a comparison table and FAQs.

Jan 13, 202622 min read

Top Financial Decisions to Make Before You Turn 30

A step-by-step guide to the most important financial decisions before 30, including debt, credit, saving, investing, and insurance, with Canada-specific tips.

Jan 13, 202618 min read

What Sinking Funds to Prioritize in 2026 (Canada)

A Canada-first guide to what sinking funds to prioritize in 2026, with step-by-step setup, target amounts, timelines, and examples for real households.