KOHO vs Alternatives: Compare Options

KOHO offers a prepaid Mastercard alternative that lets you earn cash back, build credit, and manage your money without borrowing or carrying debt. Instead of a traditional credit limit, you spend only what you load into your account.

With multiple subscription tiers offering different earn rates, foreign transaction policies, and credit-building features, choosing the right KOHO plan depends on how you spend and save.

We compare KOHO plans based on cash back potential, fees, interest on balances, FX savings, and credit-building value so you can decide if a prepaid approach fits your financial goals.

Compare KOHO Mastercard Cards
Koho logo

Top KOHO Credit Cards in Canada: Quick Overview

Aperçu rapide des meilleures cartes de crédit à faible taux d’intérêt
Category First year value Score Winner Card Learn more
Best Overall$2814.5KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Everything
KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Everything
Best Credit Building$1644.2KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Essential
KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Essential
Best Travel$1964.3KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Extra
KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Extra
Best No-Fee$1644.2KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Essential
KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Essential

Best Overall KOHO Credit Card

KOHO’s prepaid Mastercard plans offer a modern alternative to traditional credit cards, with each tier providing different levels of cash back, savings features, and affordability.

The best overall option is the one that delivers the strongest mix of rewards, travel-friendly perks, and higher interest on balances for users who want maximum everyday value.

Within KOHO’s lineup, one plan provides the most complete set of features for Canadians who want consistent rewards and premium-level benefits while still avoiding the complexity and debt risk of a traditional credit card.

Winner: KOHO Everything Mastercard

For maximum earning potential and premium features, the KOHO Everything Mastercard delivers the highest cash back rates, removes foreign transaction fees, and includes the most comprehensive savings and travel benefits in KOHO’s lineup.

It earns 2% cash back on groceries, dining, and transportation, plus 0.5% on all other purchases, while offering 1 free global ATM withdrawal per month, priority support, and up to 3.5% interest on account balances.

The card’s credit building add-on is discounted to $5 per month and reports directly to Equifax. With an annual cost of about $177, frequent travelers and high spenders easily recoup the fee through rewards and FX savings.

Best Overall

KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Everything

A feature-rich prepaid card that delivers strong cash back, zero FX fees and high interest on balances for users who want maximum everyday value without traditional credit.

$281 first year value
Subsequent years estimated value $246
Annual Fees: $177 (First year rebated)
Interest Rates:
0% on purchase 0% on cash advance 0% on balance transfer

Why it wins:

KOHO’s most complete plan combines premium earning power, travel perks, and savings benefits in one cost-effective package.

Best for:

Frequent travelers and high spenders who want top-tier rewards and zero FX fees.

Not ideal if:

You prefer a free plan or do not spend heavily in 2% categories.

Alternatives to compare:

  • KOHO Extra Mastercard: Lower-cost plan with solid travel perks.
  • KOHO Essential Mastercard: Budget-friendly choice for new users or rebuilders.
+ More details Learn More Apply now
KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Everything – KOHO Financial

Estimated rewards for the first year*

Total Reward: $443
Entertainment: $6
Gas: $120
Groceries: $144
Restaurants: $120
Other: $33
Additional Bonus: $20
Annual Fee: $162.25
Total: $280.75
* The calculated estimated expenses are based on typical monthly spending, including approximately $100 for entertainment, $500 for gas, $600 for groceries, $550 for other miscellaneous costs, and $500 for restaurants, or on the amounts entered by the user in the expense calculator on this page, if provided.
KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Everything – KOHO Financial

Estimated rewards for subsequent years*

Total Reward: $423
Entertainment: $6
Gas: $120
Groceries: $144
Restaurants: $120
Other: $33
Annual Fee: $177
Total: $246
* The calculated estimated expenses are based on typical monthly spending, including approximately $100 for entertainment, $500 for gas, $600 for groceries, $550 for other miscellaneous costs, and $500 for restaurants, or on the amounts entered by the user in the expense calculator on this page, if provided.

Best KOHO Credit Card for Credit Building

KOHO offers a simple and accessible way for Canadians to build or rebuild their credit using a prepaid structure rather than traditional borrowing.

Its plans integrate Equifax reporting, modest cash back, and savings features that help users strengthen their credit profile while avoiding the risk of carrying a balance.

In the credit-building category, the top choice is the plan that offers the best combination of affordability, reliable reporting, and everyday value.

This option provides an approachable path for newcomers, students, and rebuilders who want to improve their credit while still earning rewards on routine purchases.

Winner: KOHO Essential Mastercard

The KOHO Essential Mastercard is the best option for Canadians looking to build or repair their credit history affordably.

It includes KOHO’s Credit Building feature (normally $10 per month) with Equifax reporting, and the monthly plan fee of $4 is waived with a $1,000 direct deposit or recurring load.

The card earns 1% cash back on groceries, dining, and transportation, and offers 2.5% interest on savings balances.

This structure makes it a low-cost path to establishing credit while earning modest rewards and maintaining financial flexibility.

Best Credit Building

KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Essential

An accessible prepaid card that offers affordable credit building with Equifax reporting along with modest cash back and savings features.

$164 first year value
Subsequent years estimated value $144
Annual Fees: $48
Interest Rates:
0% on purchase 0% on cash advance 0% on balance transfer

Why it wins:

The most affordable way to build credit in Canada, offering real rewards, fee waivers, and consistent credit reporting.

Best for:

Newcomers and rebuilders seeking to establish credit without paying high monthly fees.

Not ideal if:

You want higher cash back rates or travel features.

Alternatives to compare:

  • KOHO Extra Mastercard: Adds travel benefits and higher earn rates.
  • Neo Secured Mastercard: Another strong option for credit building with partner rewards.
+ More details Learn More Apply now
KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Essential – KOHO Financial

Estimated rewards for the first year*

Total Reward: $212
Entertainment: $0
Gas: $60
Groceries: $72
Restaurants: $60
Other: $0
Additional Bonus: $20
Annual Fee: $48
Total: $164
* The calculated estimated expenses are based on typical monthly spending, including approximately $100 for entertainment, $500 for gas, $600 for groceries, $550 for other miscellaneous costs, and $500 for restaurants, or on the amounts entered by the user in the expense calculator on this page, if provided.
KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Essential – KOHO Financial

Estimated rewards for subsequent years*

Total Reward: $192
Entertainment: $0
Gas: $60
Groceries: $72
Restaurants: $60
Other: $0
Annual Fee: $48
Total: $144
* The calculated estimated expenses are based on typical monthly spending, including approximately $100 for entertainment, $500 for gas, $600 for groceries, $550 for other miscellaneous costs, and $500 for restaurants, or on the amounts entered by the user in the expense calculator on this page, if provided.

Best KOHO Credit Card for Travel

KOHO offers practical travel benefits through its subscription plans, giving users features like no foreign transaction fees, higher earn rates on dining and transportation, and free international ATM access.

These perks create a compelling alternative for Canadians who want travel-friendly value without committing to a traditional premium credit card.

In the travel category, the leading plan is the one that combines everyday rewards with meaningful international perks at a reasonable cost.

It is well suited for users who travel regularly and want simple, predictable savings on purchases made at home and abroad.

Winner: KOHO Extra Mastercard

The KOHO Extra Mastercard strikes the ideal balance between rewards and travel perks for Canadians who want value without the premium plan cost.

It eliminates foreign transaction fees, includes 1 free international ATM withdrawal per month, and earns 1.5% cash back on dining and transportation (home or abroad) plus 0.25% on all other purchases.

Users also earn 3% interest on their KOHO balance, and can add the Credit Building feature for $7 per month, discounted from the standard rate.

The plan costs about $144 annually when billed annually, making it an accessible travel-friendly choice.

Best Travel

KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Extra

A travel-friendly prepaid card that offers cash back, zero foreign transaction fees and useful international perks at an affordable annual cost.

$196 first year value
Subsequent years estimated value $164
Annual Fees: $144 (First year rebated)
Interest Rates:
0% on purchase 0% on cash advance 0% on balance transfer

Why it wins:

Combines strong travel rewards, zero FX fees, and affordable pricing, creating one of Canada’s best travel fintech cards.

Best for:

Travelers who want cash back and savings perks without paying for a full premium plan.

Not ideal if:

You rarely travel or prefer free credit card options.

Alternatives to compare:

  • KOHO Everything Mastercard: Premium-level perks and higher rewards for frequent travelers.
  • Wealthsimple Cash Card: No-fee debit alternative with cashback flexibility.
+ More details Learn More Apply now
KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Extra – KOHO Financial

Estimated rewards for the first year*

Total Reward: $327.56
Entertainment: $3
Gas: $90
Groceries: $108
Restaurants: $90
Other: $16.56
Additional Bonus: $20
Annual Fee: $132
Total: $195.56
* The calculated estimated expenses are based on typical monthly spending, including approximately $100 for entertainment, $500 for gas, $600 for groceries, $550 for other miscellaneous costs, and $500 for restaurants, or on the amounts entered by the user in the expense calculator on this page, if provided.
KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Extra – KOHO Financial

Estimated rewards for subsequent years*

Total Reward: $307.56
Entertainment: $3
Gas: $90
Groceries: $108
Restaurants: $90
Other: $16.56
Annual Fee: $144
Total: $163.56
* The calculated estimated expenses are based on typical monthly spending, including approximately $100 for entertainment, $500 for gas, $600 for groceries, $550 for other miscellaneous costs, and $500 for restaurants, or on the amounts entered by the user in the expense calculator on this page, if provided.

Best No-Fee KOHO Credit Card

For Canadians who want a simple, low-cost way to earn rewards and save on everyday spending, KOHO’s no-fee tier offers strong baseline value without requiring a monthly subscription.

It’s well suited for students, newcomers, and light spenders who want to manage money, earn modest cash back, and build healthy financial habits at no cost.

Within KOHO’s lineup, the no-fee option provides the most accessible path to everyday rewards and savings features without committing to a paid plan.

Winner: KOHO Essential Mastercard

The KOHO Essential Mastercard is the best (and only) no-fee option in KOHO’s lineup, offering 1% cash back on groceries, dining, and transportation, plus 2.5% interest on savings balances.

The $4 monthly fee is automatically waived with a $1,000 monthly direct deposit or recurring load, allowing users to enjoy premium-like benefits at no cost.

This plan also supports KOHO’s Credit Building feature, enabling Equifax reporting to help users improve or establish credit over time.

Best No-Fee

KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Essential

A simple no-fee prepaid card that offers steady cash back, interest on savings and optional credit building for users who want everyday value at zero cost.

$164 first year value
Subsequent years estimated value $144
Annual Fees: $48
Interest Rates:
0% on purchase 0% on cash advance 0% on balance transfer

Why it wins:

Delivers the best blend of flexibility, savings, and accessibility for fee-averse users who still want cash back and credit support.

Best for:

Students, newcomers, and light spenders looking for an easy, no-fee rewards option.

Not ideal if:

You spend heavily in higher-earning categories or need travel benefits.

Alternatives to compare:

  • KOHO Extra Mastercard: Adds travel perks and higher cash back rates for a modest annual cost.
  • Neo Mastercard: Strong no-fee alternative with merchant-specific rewards averaging around 5%.
+ More details Learn More Apply now
KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Essential – KOHO Financial

Estimated rewards for the first year*

Total Reward: $212
Entertainment: $0
Gas: $60
Groceries: $72
Restaurants: $60
Other: $0
Additional Bonus: $20
Annual Fee: $48
Total: $164
* The calculated estimated expenses are based on typical monthly spending, including approximately $100 for entertainment, $500 for gas, $600 for groceries, $550 for other miscellaneous costs, and $500 for restaurants, or on the amounts entered by the user in the expense calculator on this page, if provided.
KOHO Prepaid Mastercard Essential – KOHO Financial

Estimated rewards for subsequent years*

Total Reward: $192
Entertainment: $0
Gas: $60
Groceries: $72
Restaurants: $60
Other: $0
Annual Fee: $48
Total: $144
* The calculated estimated expenses are based on typical monthly spending, including approximately $100 for entertainment, $500 for gas, $600 for groceries, $550 for other miscellaneous costs, and $500 for restaurants, or on the amounts entered by the user in the expense calculator on this page, if provided.
Mathieu Laliberte-Robert
Written by Mathieu Laliberte-Robert Updated on April 8, 2026

KOHO Credit Card Plans Detailed Comparison

Understanding the complete feature set across KOHO plans helps determine which prepaid credit card delivers optimal value for your spending patterns and financial goals.

Feature Essential Extra Everything
Monthly Cost$4 ($0 with waiver)$144 annual/$18 monthly$177 annual/$22 monthly
Cash Back – Categories1%1.5%2%
Cash Back – Other0%0.25%0.5%
Interest Rate2.5%3%Up to 3.5%
Foreign Transaction Fees1.5%0%0%
Credit Building Cost$10/mo$7/mo$5/mo
Free International ATMNo1/month1/month
Priority SupportNoNoYes

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • ✅ No credit check or debt risk with instant approval and prepaid balance control.
  • ✅ CDIC insurance protection through Peoples Trust up to $100,000.
  • ✅ Cash back rewards on everyday purchases plus credit-building options for all users.
  • ✅ Robust digital banking tools including budgeting, savings goals, and real-time spending insights.
  • ✅ High interest on balances and unlimited fee-free transactions.
Cons
  • ❌ Limited acceptance at some merchants, car rentals, and hotels requiring credit authorization.
  • ❌ App-based customer support with no in-person service options.
  • ❌ Credit building feature requires an additional monthly fee.
  • ❌ Lower maximum earn rates than traditional premium credit cards.
  • ❌ Prepaid structure lacks credit limits and cash advance features.

KOHO Credit Building Features Deep Dive

KOHO’s credit building programs help users establish or rebuild credit history by reporting account activity directly to credit bureaus.

This approach eliminates debt risk and approval barriers, allowing Canadians to build credit without a traditional credit card.

The program works by tracking your account activity and reporting positive payment behaviors to Equifax, one of Canada’s main credit bureaus.

Unlike secured or unsecured credit cards that require deposits or prior credit approval, KOHO’s prepaid system contributes to your credit history while keeping spending limited to your own funds.

KOHO offers three plan options: the Essential Plan includes standard credit building for $10 per month, often waived with eligible benefits; the Extra Plan reduces the cost to $7 per month (a 30% savings); and the Everything Plan provides the lowest rate at $5 per month (a 50% discount).

Credit improvements typically appear within three to six months of consistent activity. Those with little or no credit history may see progress sooner than those rebuilding after past delinquencies.

Because KOHO reports account management behaviors rather than credit utilization, results depend on consistent deposits, regular spending, and responsible account maintenance.

Compared with traditional secured cards, such as the Neo Secured Mastercard or bank-issued secured Visa products that require a $200-$500 security deposit, KOHO builds credit using your existing prepaid balance and requires no collateral.

While secured cards may yield slightly faster results, they involve credit checks and potential interest charges, making KOHO a lower-risk, more accessible option for steady, long-term credit growth.

Foreign Transaction Fees Analysis

Foreign exchange fees significantly impact the value proposition for each KOHO plan, particularly for frequent travelers or online shoppers purchasing from international merchants.

  • KOHO Essential: 1.5% Foreign Transaction Fees

    Open expandable Close expandable

    Essential users pay 1.5% on all foreign currency purchases, lower than the typical 2.5% charged by most Canadian credit cards but still meaningful for regular international spending. A $1,000 foreign purchase costs an additional $15 in exchange rate markups.

  • KOHO Extra and Everything: No Foreign Transaction Fees

    Open expandable Close expandable

    Both premium plans eliminate foreign exchange fees entirely, providing immediate savings on international purchases, USD online shopping, and travel expenses. This benefit alone can justify plan upgrades for users spending $2,000+ annually in foreign currencies.

  • Break-Even Analysis

    Open expandable Close expandable

    Upgrading from Essential to Extra costs $144 annually but saves 1.5% on foreign purchases. Break-even occurs at $9,600 in foreign spending per year. For Everything, the additional $33 annual cost over Extra requires minimal foreign spending to justify given the higher cash back rates on other categories.

  • International ATM Policies

    Open expandable Close expandable

    Extra and Everything plans include one free international ATM withdrawal monthly, typically saving $3-5 per transaction in network fees. Essential users pay standard ATM fees when accessing cash abroad.

Maximizing KOHO Credit Card Rewards

KOHO’s prepaid credit cards offer multiple ways to increase cash back earnings and overall value. By aligning your spending habits, monitoring promotions, and taking advantage of savings features, you can maximize the benefits of your KOHO plan.

  1. 01

    Optimal Spending Strategies

    Focus your KOHO card spending on the highest-earning categories. The Essential plan earns 1% on groceries, dining, and transportation, the Extra plan increases this to 1.5%, and the Everything plan offers 2%. For categories earning 0% or 0.25% on lower-tier plans, consider using other payment methods unless you prefer the simplicity of using one card for all purchases.

  2. 02

    Partner Merchant Bonus Opportunities

    KOHO frequently runs bonus cash back promotions at partner retailers, sometimes boosting rewards by up to 50% over the base rate. Check the KOHO app regularly for these rotating offers at grocery stores, restaurants, and popular service providers to maximize returns during promotional periods.

  3. 03

    Interest Earnings Strategy

    Maintaining a higher balance in your KOHO account increases your overall return since balances earn interest at 2.5% on the Essential plan, 3% on the Extra plan, and up to 3.5% on the Everything plan. This adds meaningful passive income, particularly for users who keep larger balances for savings goals or major purchases.

  4. 04

    RoundUps and Automation

    Enable RoundUps to automatically round purchases to the nearest dollar and save the spare change toward your savings goals. This simple feature builds interest-bearing savings over time while complementing your cash back earnings.

  5. 05

    Referral Program Benefits

    KOHO’s referral program offers $20 for each successful referral, up to $1,000 per year. Referring friends and family who are looking for flexible and low-cost financial tools can add significant bonus value to your annual rewards.

KOHO vs Alternative Prepaid and Credit Cards

Comparing KOHO prepaid credit cards against traditional secured cards and competing fintech products highlights distinct advantages for specific user profiles.

  • KOHO vs. Neo Secured Mastercard

    Open expandable Close expandable

    Neo secured mastercard requires a $500-$2,500 security deposit and functions as a true credit card with potential interest charges. KOHO eliminates deposit requirements and debt risk but offers lower maximum earning rates. Neo may build credit faster through traditional utilization reporting, while KOHO provides more comprehensive budgeting tools and interest earnings.

  • KOHO vs. EQ Bank Card

    Open expandable Close expandable

    EQ Bank offers higher savings account interest rates but lacks structured cash back rewards and credit building features. KOHO prepaid cards provide integrated reward earning and spending tracking within a single platform, better serving users seeking comprehensive financial management.

  • KOHO vs. Traditional Bank Secured Cards

    Open expandable Close expandable

    Major bank secured credit cards typically require $300-1,000 deposits, annual fees, and credit applications. KOHO’s prepaid structure provides immediate access without approval delays or security deposits, making it ideal for newcomers to Canada or those with limited banking relationships.

  • When to Choose KOHO

    Open expandable Close expandable

    Select KOHO prepaid credit cards when prioritizing debt risk elimination, instant account access, transparent fee structures, or integrated budgeting tools. Traditional credit cards may better serve users with established credit seeking maximum reward rates or requiring larger spending limits.

How to Choose the Right KOHO Credit Card Plan

Selecting the optimal KOHO prepaid credit card requires analyzing spending patterns, travel habits, and credit building priorities against each plan’s cost structure.

  1. 01

    Assess Spending in Cash Back Categories

    Calculate monthly spending on groceries, eating, drinking and transportation to determine potential earnings. Essential and Extra users earning $15-30 monthly in these categories may justify higher plan costs, while light spenders benefit from Essential’s lower fee structure.

  2. 02

    Evaluate Interest Earning Potential

    Consider typical KOHO account balances when comparing interest rates across plans. Users maintaining $5,000+ balances earn meaningful additional income from Everything’s 3.5% rate compared to Essential’s 2.5%, potentially offsetting higher monthly fees.

  3. 03

    Calculate Foreign Transaction Impact

    Estimate annual foreign currency spending from travel, online shopping, and international services. Users spending $3,000+ annually in foreign currencies typically benefit from Extra or Everything plans’ zero foreign exchange fees.

  4. 04

    Determine Credit Building Value

    Assess the importance of credit history development against program costs. Newcomers to Canada or those rebuilding credit may find Essential’s integrated benefits or Everything’s discounted rate worthwhile for long-term financial health.

  5. 05

    Consider Total Cost vs. Benefits

    Compare annual plan costs against estimated cash back earnings, interest income, and foreign transaction savings. Most users find break-even points between $8,000-15,000 annual spending depending on category mix and international purchase frequency.

Frequently Asked Questions about KOHO Credit Cards

  • Is KOHO a real credit card or just a prepaid card?

    Open expandable Close expandable

    KOHO offers prepaid mastercard credit cards that function like traditional credit cards for purchases but operate from preloaded balances rather than borrowed money. You cannot spend more than your account balance, eliminating debt risk while providing cash back rewards and credit building opportunities.

  • How does KOHO help build credit without a traditional credit line?

    Open expandable Close expandable

    KOHO credit building programs report your account management behaviors to Equifax, including consistent deposits, spending patterns, and account maintenance. This positive activity contributes to credit history development without requiring credit approval or debt utilization.

  • What’s the maximum amount I can load onto a KOHO card?

    Open expandable Close expandable

    KOHO doesn’t use a single overall loading limit. Instead, each deposit method has its own velocity rules that cap how much you can add per transaction and per 24-hour period. Typical limits include $3,000 per day for cash or debit loads, and up to $10,000 per day for inbound Interac e-Transfers. KOHO-to-KOHO transfers generally allow up to $3,000 per day, while direct deposit limits vary based on whether your account is fully verified.

    You can view your exact loading limits at any time in the KOHO app by selecting Profile → Account velocity limits. Unverified accounts face lower caps, and large cash deposits over $10,000 may trigger required FINTRAC reporting.

  • Can I use KOHO for car rentals and hotel bookings?

    Open expandable Close expandable

    Some car rental agencies and hotels may not accept prepaid cards due to authorization hold requirements exceeding account balances. Contact merchants directly to confirm prepaid card acceptance or consider using KOHO for other travel expenses like flights and dining.

  • How long does it take to see credit score improvements with KOHO?

    Open expandable Close expandable

    Credit building typically shows initial results within 3-6 months of consistent program participation. Users with limited credit history may see faster improvements compared to those recovering from negative credit events, though individual results vary based on overall credit profile.

  • Are KOHO deposits safe and insured?

    Open expandable Close expandable

    Yes, KOHO accounts receive CDIC insurance protection up to $100,000 through partnership with Peoples Trust, providing the same deposit security as traditional bank accounts for eligible deposits.

  • How do I contact KOHO customer support?

    Open expandable Close expandable

    Primary support operates through the KOHO app’s help center and chat features, with additional email support for complex issues. Everything plan subscribers receive priority support with faster response times for account and technical questions.

Final Thoughts

KOHO has become one of Canada’s most accessible and transparent financial platforms, offering a modern alternative to traditional credit cards.

Its prepaid Mastercard lineup provides flexible options for different needs, from Essential’s no-fee plan for everyday users to Everything’s higher cash back rates and travel-friendly benefits.

With features like credit building, interest on balances, and budgeting tools built into an easy-to-use app, KOHO delivers genuine value without the debt risk of conventional credit products.

For Canadians looking to earn rewards, build credit, and manage their money more efficiently, KOHO is a smart and practical choice.

Compare KOHO Credit Cards
credit-cards-illustration
Mathieu Laliberte-Robert
Mathieu Laliberte-Robert

Mathieu is a finance and digital marketing professional with experience across banking, investment services, and financial product marketing. He previously worked with organizations such as National Bank, Manulife Securities, and Accenture. He is part of the leadership team at Hardbacon, where he contributes to editorial strategy and financial content aimed at helping Canadians make informed decisions.

Insights and Useful Articles

Hardbacon makes managing your money easier by combining comprehensive financial tools, unbiased comparisons and personalized insights.

Wealthsimple prepaid card showed on an iPhone screen and besides is a pile of coins
Credit Cards

Wealthsimple Prepaid Mastercard: My Experience with Wealthsimple Chequing account

Wealthsimple is a Canadian fintech known for its investment app. Today, it offers many other products. I’ve had a Wealthsimple account for several years and applied for the Wealthsimple prepaid Mastercard in August 2025. How does it compare with the…

KOHO prepaird card on the left againts yellow background and Wealthsimple Cash card on the right against a blue background
Credit Cards

KOHO Mastercard Versus Wealthsimple Cash: Which Prepaid Card Is Right for You?

KOHO and Wealthsimple are some of the first names that come to mind when you think of prepaid cards in Canada. These two companies are often compared despite the fact that they are not similar. On the one hand, KOHO…

black credit cards
Credit Cards

The 8 Best Black Credit Cards in Canada

Black credit cards are the ultimate status symbol. Often rare and exclusive, they’re designed for the rich and are considered prestigious. Plus, they come with some great perks including special discounts and premium benefits not available with a standard card.…

Credit Cards
Credit Cards

The 8 Easiest Credit Cards to Get in Canada

Qualifying for a new credit card can be tough. What are the easiest credit cards to get in Canada? Whether you have insufficient credit history or a poor credit score, it can be difficult to determine exactly which cards you…

New CIBC Costco Credit Card
Credit Cards

The CIBC Costco Credit Card: Benefits and Alternatives

The CIBC Costco credit card comes with great rewards and can reduce your bill if you shop at Costco often. But if you shop at several different locations, take the time to compare it to other store credit cards. Quick…

Logos of various banks and credit cards displayed together, representing financial institutions.
Banking

The 5 Easiest Banks to Get a Loan From in Canada

If you have ever found yourself in need of a personal loan, you probably found that different banks have different criteria for being approved. When you are in a financial pinch, you want to know exactly which institution will approve…

KOHO vs EQ Bank
Banking

KOHO vs EQ Bank: Which One Takes the Crown?

It’s time to compare two of Canada’s leading neobanks – KOHO vs EQ Bank. Loyalty is an excellent quality to have, except when it comes to your cash. Sticking to one of the Big Five without exploring other options is…

Best Banks for Students in Canada
Banking

The 10 Best Banks for Students in Canada

The best bank for students in Canada shouldn’t just give you a free account with unlimited transactions, it should reward you too. Why? Because people rarely change banks, even when there are better deals out there. That makes you a…

Koho vs Neo Financial
Banking

KOHO vs Neo Financial: Who Wins the Battle for Your Buck?

Both KOHO and Neo are Canadian fintech startups that offer out-of-the-box digital banking services. These two platforms are becoming increasingly popular among millennials and younger Canadians because they provide an alternative to traditional banking with low or no fees, a…

Online Banks
Banking

The 6 Best Online Banks in Canada for 2024

Online banks are digital institutions that do not rely on physical branches. With lower operating costs than their brick-and-mortar counterparts, online banks are able to pass the savings on to us in the form of lower fees and higher interest…

Budget

Tariffs in Canada, explained: which ones actually raise your prices (and what to do)

Prices are up, and every headline says “tariffs”. But two sets of tariffs are in the news, and only one of them can show up on a store shelf. This guide explains which one reaches your cart, how to tell…

canadian couponing
Budget

The 25 Best Canadian Coupon Sites and Apps in Canada

Whether you need to or just like to save, there are countless canadian coupon sites and apps that offer the same thing: savings, points, coupons, or some combination of the three. In times like these, saving money is at the…

a group of cards with flowers on them next to a green plant
Budget

The 5 Best Websites to Sell Gift Cards in Canada

Gee, thanks for the gift card. I mean, a gift card is a nice gift to receive but it may not always be the right one. There are many reasons why someone may wish to sell gift cards in Canada.…

Budget

How Much Does it Cost to Support a Future Figure Skating Athlete?

With only 1 in 5 young people in Quebec considered active, the cost of recreational sports is one of the main factors holding them back. Having the support of their parents, on the other hand, acts as a propellant for…

Budget

Where did My Money Go: The Financial Reality of Raising a Hockey Player in Canada

In collaboration with Royal Bank Of Canada In Canada, hockey isn’t just a sport – it’s a way of life. From backyard rinks to bustling arenas, the echoes of skates slicing through the ice are a familiar soundtrack across the…

a black square with white text on it next to a pen and calculator
Investing

The 8 Best Options Trading Platforms in Canada

Navigating the labyrinthine world of options trading can be a daunting task in Canada. From the uninitiated beginner to the seasoned investor, everyone needs a reliable platform that aligns with their trading goals, offers robust tools, and doesn’t break the…

Investing

Questrade VS Wealthsimple: Which Online Broker Should You Choose?

Online brokerage has grown in popularity in recent years, driving down trading costs between fiercely competitive platforms. There are now a wide variety of online brokers on the Canadian market, with different prices, features and tools. With the arrival of…

review of wealth simple
Investing

A review of Wealthsimple

Wealthsimple is an online investing service founded by Michael Katchen in 2014 in Toronto. Today the company has over $70 billion in assets under administration. Wealthsimple stood out from the start by offering smart and simple investing without the high…

exchange traded funds
Investing

Understanding Canadian ETFs to Increase your Wealth

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are the new darling of self-directed investors. Although they were first introduced several years ago, the democratization of investing has made it easier than ever to buy ETFs. Are ETFs really beneficial? What are their limitations? How…

RRSP- a yellow piggy bank with a coin and a dollar sign
Investing

How to Use the RRSP to Save on Taxes and Retire Rich

A registered retirement saving plan (RRSP) is, for most of us, the first step towards saving for our golden years. The RRSP is a registered investment account that carries many tax benefits. The primary purpose is to shelter a portion…

Desk with tax forms and calculator for financial planning
Financial planning

The 5 Best Free Canadian Tax Softwares

For most people, doing their taxes is a thankless task. Fortunately, there are free tax software programs that make it easy to calculate and file your taxes online. We recommend that you choose a software that is easy to use,…

Financial planning

The 6 Best Tax Return Software in Canada

To file quickly, easily, and without a blinding migraine, choosing the best tax return software in Canada is crucial. Tax season is the most dreaded time of year, with many of us hoping to bypass the annual state of confusion…

Guide to old age security in 2023
Financial planning

The New Guide to Old Age Security

What is Old Age Security? Times are tough, especially when you stop working. Your income goes down while prices go up. Old Age Security (OAS), sometimes called Old Age Pension, is money you might receive from the government when you…

A man and woman standing face to face, displaying depression and anxiety between them
Financial planning

What Is the Cost of a Divorce in Canada?

Going through a divorce can drain you emotionally and financially. By understanding the costs involved, you can decide what to fight for and what to do yourself. In Canada, divorce costs can vary from $1,000 to $25,000 and up, depending…

Ontario staycation tax credit
Financial planning

Ontario Staycation Tax Credit: What You Need To Know in 2022

If you are a resident of Ontario and are planning a short trip anytime soon, you may consider opting for a staycation in the province. At least you get to receive some money back from the Ontario government for enjoying…

Your Financial Journey Starts Here

Sign up for our newsletter and take control of your money, your way. Access exclusive tips, tools and personalized insights delivered straight to your inbox.

What are you looking for?
Submitting…

Thank you for subscribing to Hardbacon’s newsletter!

piggy fire
This site is registered on wpml.org as a development site. Switch to a production site key to remove this banner.