Here’s your updated guide to the top budgeting apps and best financial tools for 2021 that can simplify your financial journey. These apps have transformed the way I budget, save, and invest, and I’m confident they’ll do the same for you

*These products are Canadian based, but you can find similar versions of these in your own country of living.

1. Your Main Bank Card

Your main checking account is your financial home base, where all income lands. For years, I’ve relied on my Scotiabank card for personal finances, enjoying perks like Scene points for free movies. Though I’ve since expanded to a BMO card for business, Scotiabank served me well during my teen and college years.
Pro Tip: When choosing a primary bank, look for rewards or benefits that align with your lifestyle, like cashback, travel points, or student perks.

2. KOHO Card

KOHO isn’t your typical prepaid card—it’s a game-changer. KOHO Prepaid Visa card stands out as one of the top budgeting apps you need. With cashback rewards, automated budgeting, and a round-up savings feature, it’s my go-to spending card. After covering expenses and savings, I transfer my discretionary funds to KOHO.
Why it works: KOHO tracks spending patterns, making it easy to pinpoint where to save or adjust. Want a head start? Use my exclusive link for an extra 1% cashback when you sign up here.

3. Round-Up Apps (Acorns for U.S. users)

Apps like Moka take the guesswork out of saving. By rounding up purchases to the nearest dollar and investing the difference, it introduces you to micro-investing—a perfect entry point for those new to investing.
Think of it as planting small financial seeds that grow over time. While it’s not a long-term solution, Moka is excellent for short-term goals. Sign up through my link and get $5 off!

4. High-Interest Savings Accounts (HISAs)

Every savings account should be working just as hard as you are. I use EQ Bank for my savings—it offers a high-interest rate to keep your money growing and ahead of inflation. Whether it’s an emergency fund or a vacation fund, a HISA ensures your savings don’t sit idle.
Pro Tip: Research and compare HISAs to find the best rate without hidden fees or restrictions.

5. Wealthsimple + Wealthsimple Trade

Wealthsimple makes passive investing effortless. With low fees (~0.5%) and accessible financial advisors, it’s perfect for hands-off investors. For those wanting more control, Wealthsimple Trade lets you actively buy stocks and ETFs.
Here’s a bonus: Use my code to waive fees on your first $10,000 invested!

6. Qtrade Investment Brokerage

For hands-on investors, I currently use Qtrade, though I’m transitioning to Questrade for its lower fees and free ETFs. Brokerages like these offer more variety than robo-advisors, including stocks, mutual funds, and bonds.
Before choosing, shop around to find a platform that fits your goals and budget.

7. Credit Cards

Like it or not, credit cards play a big role in building financial credibility. My American Express card was great for travel rewards, but I’ve since shifted to redeeming points for essentials like groceries.
Another standout is the PC Optimum Mastercard. If you frequently shop at Shoppers Drug Mart or No Frills, it’s worth considering.
Pro Tip: Only use credit cards if you can manage your balance responsibly to avoid debt traps.

8. Credit Score Tools (Credit Karma for U.S. users)

Keeping tabs on your credit is a must, and Borewell makes it easy. With free weekly updates and personalized tips to improve your score, it’s a no-brainer for tracking your financial health.
Set alerts to stay informed about changes in your score and protect your creditworthiness.

9. Bitcoin: Beginner’s Crypto Option

Not ready to dive fully into cryptocurrency? MOGO offers a simple way to start with Bitcoin. It’s risk-averse, with automated investing options, allowing you to ease into the crypto world at your own pace.

10. Advanced Cryptocurrencies

For those ready to explore beyond Bitcoin, Coinbase is my platform of choice. It supports a range of cryptocurrencies like Ethereum, Chain link, and BAT Token. Think of it as the Wealth simple Trade equivalent for digital assets.

Whether you're saving for an emergency fund, investing for the future, or building credit, these tools can help you move closer to your financial goals. The key is to pick what works best for your needs and stay consistent.

Let me know in the comments below if you use any of these products or maybe have other ones that you can recommend. As I said, this is the Canadian version, there are American examples like Acorn for micro-investing. You can use this roundup app to help you save on the side, and whatever money you get from those roundup purchases can go into an investment fund that automatically invests for you.

Be sure to check out my YouTube channel for the video version of this blog post and if you're ready to take your financial wellness journey to the next level, then look below for additional coaching services and resources that can help you build lasting wealth and abundance.

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