STACY LEE KONG

Senior editor

WHEN THE NEWS hit earlier this year that employees at the Big Five Canadian banks feel so much pressure to meet their sales targets that they sometimes break the law—increasing customers’ creditcard limits or lines of credit without notifying them, for example— I felt terribly for those workers but, I must admit, also worried about my own bank account. It was a reminder that it’s important to actively monitor my finances, keeping an eye out for rogue service charges or changes I didn’t authorize. As for avoiding the upsell, the best approach is to say no. Even if you think you need a new credit card, line of credit or mortgage, don’t accept a bank’s “deal” impulsively. Do your research to make sure you’re getting the lowest interest rate, then apply for the product that best suits your needs.