Q – I am single and in my early 30s. I hope to one day settle down and get married, but as luck would have it, I have yet to meet my prince charming. Do you have any advice on how a single person can secure retirement and still be able to pay their mortgage? Ingrid....

Q – I’ve completed my tax return, and I actually had taxes owing. It was a shock, and I had to scrape up the money from funds that I had earmarked for other purposes. I don’t want to go through that again. What can I do now to reduce my tax burden for this year? –...

Q – What happens if I miss the tax-filing deadline? – Susan H., Uxbridge, Ontario A – The tax-filing deadline for your 2011 tax return is on or before April 30, 2012. If you’re self-employed, your return for 2011 has to be filed on or before June 15, 2012. However, if...

Q – I’m in the process of filing my 2011 tax return. Are there any tax breaks to help offset the cost of raising a family and going to work? – Ray S., Scarborough, Ontario A – In fact, there are a few deductions available. Here are the most popular ones: Childcare...

Q – I have had my mutual fund portfolio managed by an advisor for the past 10 years. His performance is disappointing, and by the time I pay fees, I am only ahead marginally. Recently, my portfolio has been in negative territory. I would like to try and manage my...

Q – In March, I will turn 71. What happens to my RRSP? Do I need to withdraw the entire amount? – George B., Paris, Ontario A – The rules state that by the end of the year in which you turn 71 (this is the year for you, George), you will need to collapse your RRSP....