Brandon Ballenger Writer

I'm a freelance writer based in Pompano Beach, Fla. who's done work for The South Florida Business Journal and BusinessMiami, covering real estate, health care, and franchising. I received a bachelor's degree in English and public communication from Florida Atlantic University in 2008, and am currently pursuing a master's degree in communication there. In my free time, I read fantasy novels, plays video games, and take advantage of South Florida's perennial summer at the beach.
Posts by Brandon Ballenger

Unlocking Your Phone Is Now Illegal
Jan 28, 2013 - Unless you have permission from your carrier, you can't use your phone on another network, including overseas.

6 Things That Will Cost Less This Year
Jan 28, 2013 - Used cars will be more of a bargain in 2013. Guess what else? (Hint: not "last year's model" stuff.)

Washington D.C. Cabs Must Take Credit Cards
Jan 28, 2013 - Starting March 31, the city will force taxis to take plastic.

Thief Calls Cops to Get Back What He Stole
Jan 28, 2013 - A second thief robbed the first of an iPhone he had just stolen. How do you like them Apples?

Watch for Credit Card Skimming Scams
Jan 28, 2013 - ATMs can be used to rip off customers if a criminal tampers with them. Here's what to do.

How to Get a Degree Without Taking Any Classes
Jan 25, 2013 - It's possible at the University of Wisconsin, if you're smart enough.

Consumer Bureau Chief Renominated
Jan 25, 2013 - President Obama isn't done wrangling with Republicans over consumer rights, and wants Richard Cordray to stay.

Heavy Multitasking Makes You Worse At It
Jan 25, 2013 - That's the conclusion of a new scientific study.

Apple Supplier Used Child Labor
Jan 25, 2013 - One Chinese manufacturer had dozens of employees under 16. Apple ditched them.

The Pay-What-You-Can Panera
Jan 25, 2013 - A non-profit version called Panera Cares lets you set your own price for a meal. No strings attached, no weird looks.

Study Shows How Much Speeding Hurts Fuel Efficiency
Jan 24, 2013 - A lead foot may be costing you hundreds of dollars for little benefit.

How Good Is Your Credit Score?
Jan 24, 2013 - Is 790 great or just OK? That depends on who's scoring you.

Credit Card Penalty Fees Fall
Jan 24, 2013 - A 2009 law has saved consumers billions in harsh fees over the past few years.

Two Men Sue Over Short Subs
Jan 24, 2013 - New Jersey and Pennsylvania residents may try to get money from Subway for their less-than-Footlongs.

Mail Prices Go Up Slightly This Weekend
Jan 24, 2013 - The U.S. Postal service is raising stamp prices on Jan. 27, but you can dodge future price increases by stocking up now.