Are you new to the Okanagan?

Kelowna’s population is growing. People are moving here to enjoy life in the beautiful Okanagan. Are you a newcomer to the Okanagan or to B.C.?

The actual physical move may include a new home in a different city, a new school for the children and a new work place.

Moving also means meeting new friends, finding new shops and restaurants and discovering the community as a whole. When preparing for a move, start a list. You can prioritize your things-to-do and delegate the small jobs to your children.

Give them appropriate jobs they can do on their own. Here are items to include: Banking If purchasing a new home, you will be arranging for a new mortgage.

For your day-to-day banking, there are national banks and credit unions to choose from.

If you prefer the internet, you can bank 24 hours a day.

When you have automatic debits for your bills or investment purchases and deposits for your paycheques or investment income, notify them of your new address. Investments Today, people are investing in many different ways.

Some investors have a full service broker or representative; others are do-it-yourselfers. What is your preference? There are a wide variety of investment firms in the Okanagan.

If you are looking for a representative, make appointments with several and have a talk with them before committing. Insurance All the major life insurance companies are represented here.

Most life insurance agents are considered brokers and are able to answer your questions.

You will need to notify the life insurance companies with your new address and-or banking information.

Perhaps a review of your plans is in order, to update any changes you have made.

Insurance is a key component of your sound financial plan. B.C. Medical Plan Once in B.C., apply for basic medical coverage.

Call the toll-free number at 1-800-663-7100 or visit the Medical Services Plan website as soon as you arrive and request an application.

To be eligible for coverage, you must be a resident in B.C. for three months.

B.C. Medical gives you access to a doctor, specialists, emergency care and hospitals. This is vital coverage. Extended health and dental plans British Columbians have a good choice of plans.

Some companies offer group insurance plans for this coverage.

If you are either a self-employed person or have a company with employees, ask your insurance broker for quotes.

A group plan may include life insurance and short and long-term disability.

Premiums for extended health and dental plans are tax deductible.

A private health and welfare trust is an option for self-employed individuals with employees and corporate business owners.

It is a plan that allows you to deduct 100 per cent of money spent on eligible healthcare and dental expenses from business income. Lawyer You may wish to review your will with a lawyer.

B.C. laws may differ and it is best to make certain your will is both current and valid. Vehicle inspection When coming into this province, your vehicles must pass a government-approved inspection before obtaining B.C. auto insurance. Driver’s licence When moving from another province, you have 90 days to switch over your licence.

There are certain restrictions if you do not have two years of driving experience. Please refer to for more information. If moving from outside of Canada, inquire at ICBC.

B.C. has different licencing requirements depending on where you are from.

In your daily newspaper, on the local radio stations and through community groups you can find about schools, day cares, local businesses, shopping, sports facilities, and clubs for every interest.

Hope you settle in quickly and find our community warm and friendly.

Lisa Jaffary is a life insurance agent and financial adviser at Points West Insurance in Kelowna. Reach her at lisa@pointswest.ca.