Snowbird Alert A simple guide to digital spring cleaning Your online accounts and services may not have physical drawers to go through, but this doesn’t mean that you can’t tidy them up. Springtime is a great opportunity to get things in order, and digital file cleanup is no exception. Here are some tips to get you started: Update passwords and account details It’s a good idea to change passwords regularly, instead of relying on them for long periods. When you’re coming up with them, here are some pointers: ▶ Use a different password for every account, in case one gets compromised; ▶ Make them hard to guess, but easy to remember – try longer passwords or pass phrases with just a couple of numbers or special characters sprinkled in; and ▶ Be cautious with password managers. Data breaches do happen, and having all of your eggs in one basket could compromise multiple passwords. Organize important documents and receipts The spring season is also tax time, so it’s a good opportunity to go through any receipts and documents which you have lying around. You can also check your internet, phone or TV service contracts to make sure that you’re getting everything that you were promised. If you spot a problem, you can reach out to your provider to get them to fix it. You have options if they don’t resolve the complaint to your satisfaction, such as going to the Commission for Complaints for Telecom-television Services (CCTS). This is an independent agency that handles unresolved internet, TV, phone and wireless service issues from thousands of Canadians each year. Reduce unused or forgotten services Many online services work by auto-renewing, so it’s possible that you’re paying for things which you don’t use anymore. Take stock of your entire list – don’t forget to check your banking and credit card statements for regular charges. For each one, take the time to consider if it’s something that you still actively want. If it’s not, let it go. Spring cleaning is a chance to take charge of your space, and the same is true for your digital space. Don’t be afraid to make cuts, and don’t forget that you have the right to have complaints addressed. You can learn more about resolving issues with your telecom provider at letsstayconnected.ca. www.newscanada.com Springtime Snowbird Checklist Go to the doctor Get those pre-existing medical conditions under control and work with your doctor to make any necessary adjustments to your medication as soon as possible. Get followup tests and procedures scheduled, so that you have a clear 90-day stability period before you head south in the fall. While you’re there, make sure that all of your vaccinations are up to date! File your 8840 Form When you fulfil the requirements of the substantial presence test, you can be treated as a resident of the United States and be taxed by the IRS on your worldwide income. Declare your closer connection to Canada by completing the IRS 8840 Form and sending it in. Update your Personal Health Record When you or your spouse are dealing with a medical emergency – either away or at home – you don’t want to run around looking for prescription medication bottles or be concerned with an accurate recollection of what year or instance in which either of you received medical treatment. Write it down now, while you have time and presence of mind, and keep it in a handy spot – such as on your fridge – for quick and easy access, should the time ever come at which you need to answer medical questions quickly. Renew your CSA membership Support the only organization that actively lobbies governments in both Canada and the United States to protect and defend the snowbird lifestyle. Download the new CSA app The CSA has just launched its first smartphone app which keeps your membership details, information booklets and membership card all in one place. CSANews | SPRING 2026 | 11
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