Let’s Talk Money — Because Financial Literacy Matters

November isn’t just another month on the calendar — it’s when Canadians across the country shine a light on what truly matters: our financial well-being. This year marks the 15th anniversary of Financial Literacy Month (FLM) in Canada, and the theme, “Talk Money,” encourages us to break the silence around finances and build stronger, healthier money habits.

At Smythe Insolvency our focus is on helping Canadians relieve the burden of debt and move forward with confidence. We know that wondering whether you need help with your debt can be stressful. Maybe you’ve started to fall behind on payments, or you’re just feeling the weight of trying to keep up. Financial Literacy Month is the perfect time to take a closer look at your situation and ask some honest questions. If you’re unsure where to start, we’re here to guide you — to explain your options clearly, help you understand what relief could look like, and support you in taking the first steps toward a fresh financial start.

Why “Talk Money”?

Here’s what the campaign is about:

• Money is personal, and because it’s personal, many of us avoid talking about it — but avoiding it doesn’t make things better. FCAC’s message: Encouraging open money conversations helps increase financial knowledge, confidence and decision-making.
• It doesn’t matter if you’re a student figuring out how to budget, a parent managing household finances, someone juggling debt, or a business professional helping clients — we all benefit when we talk more openly.
• And yes, stigma still exists around debt, financial worries, or simply not knowing what your next step should be. Talking about it is the first step to dissolving that stigma.

What We’re Doing at Smythe Insolvency

Here’s how we’re stepping up for Financial Literacy Month — and how you can engage:

1. Education through conversation: We’ll be sharing content, resources, and tips that break down the complex stuff (banking, budgeting, credit, debt‐options) into plain speak.
2. Debt elimination & next-step clarity: If you’re dealing with past dues, threats of legal action, or overwhelming monthly payments — we’ll guide how insolvency (and other options) can offer a reset.
3. Encouraging you to start the talk: We’ll prompt you to ask questions, share concerns, and engage. Because the journey doesn’t start when you file papers — it starts when you understand your situation and feel empowered to act.

Three Simple Money Conversations to Start This Month

Here are a few easy topics to start the conversation — whether with yourself, a partner, a friend, or us at Smythe Insolvency:

• “What did I spend last month, and where did it go?” — take a look at one month of bank statements. Awareness is foundation.
• “If I lost one source of income today, what would happen?” — exploring worst‐case scenarios helps design buffers and safety nets.
• “What does financial freedom mean to me?” — maybe it’s being debt-free, saving for a home, travelling, or simply sleeping easier. Naming it gives you direction.

If Debt or Insolvency Is in the Picture…

We know talking about debt isn’t fun — but the longer you wait, the more complex things often become. At Smythe Insolvency we specialize in helping individuals in BC:

• Understand their options (consumer proposal, bankruptcy, restructuring)
• Prepare for the process (what paperwork is needed, timelines, implications)
• Move toward a strong financial future, not just survival

This month is a great time to ask yourself: “Am I simply surviving finance-wise, or am I working toward something better?” If you’re in the “something better” space, we’re here to help.

Let’s Do This Together

To the entire Canadian community — let’s use November as a chance to open up: share a money‐talk with someone, ask a question you’ve been avoiding, or make one small change in your financial habits. Use hashtags #FLM2025 and #TalkMoney to join the national conversation.

At Smythe Insolvency, our goal is not just to help you file for protection or reorganise your finances — it’s to help you understand why, how, and what comes next. Let’s break the silence, start the conversation, and build confidence around money.

Here’s to a month of learning, talking, and moving forward!