Author: Brandon Ballenger
I'm a freelance journalist living in South Florida. If I'm not writing, I'm playing video games or at the beach. My favorite spice is oregano, and I thought you should know. I got my bachelor's degree in English and public communication from Florida Atlantic University in 2008.
Most Fast-Food Workers Are Not Teens
Brandon Ballenger on August 8, 2013
Many are raising kids on these low-wage jobs, and the vast majority make less than $10 an hour.
Would You Pay for Mobile Banking? You Might Have To
Brandon Ballenger on August 7, 2013
Mobile could soon become yet another moneymaker for banks, rather than a free convenience for customers.
You’ll Probably Pay More for a Mortgage Soon
Brandon Ballenger on August 7, 2013
Congress has plans to end or scale back government involvement in the mortgage market. It could cost new borrowers tens of thousands more over the life of the loan.
Where Are the Best Schools?
Brandon Ballenger on August 7, 2013
Does your city or state have the most online schools or the highest median income for high school grads?
The Average Checking Account Has 30 Separate Fees
Brandon Ballenger on August 6, 2013
Bank fees are not always openly disclosed on bank websites, either. Find out which banks are best and worst at this.
Getting Rid of a Computer? Use a Hammer
Brandon Ballenger on August 6, 2013
I’m not sure how to hammer this point home, so I’ll put it as forcefully as I can: Protect your data!
3 Ways to Escape a Cellphone Contract
Brandon Ballenger on August 6, 2013
You don’t always have to spend hundreds of dollars to break a phone contract.
What to Do With a Wet Credit Card
Brandon Ballenger on August 5, 2013
Can you still use a credit card if it gets wet? Of course.
How to Watch CBS Shows During the Blackout
Brandon Ballenger on August 5, 2013
Bickering between CBS and Time Warner Cable means about 3 million cable customers are missing some channels now. Here’s what’s going on, and what you can do.
How to Go On Vacation Without Email Guilt
Brandon Ballenger on August 5, 2013
Keep the stress of communication backlog out of your “me” time with one simple trick.
Do You Mind Big CEO Paychecks? Because You’re Helping Pay Them
Brandon Ballenger on August 2, 2013
The U.S. tax code lets businesses deduct billions of dollars for executive compensation. Two senators want that to stop. What do you think?
More Families Shunning Pricey Colleges
Brandon Ballenger on August 2, 2013
Families are being more selective about schools and students are working harder to find scholarships. It’s saving them thousands, even though prices aren’t dropping.
Cruise Lines Reveal Crimes Reported Onboard
Brandon Ballenger on August 2, 2013
Ever wondered what cruise ship operators weren’t telling you about alleged criminal incidents on their vessels? Now you can find out.
Why A Stolen European Credit Card Is Worth 5 American Cards
Brandon Ballenger on August 1, 2013
Crime rings like to use credit cards stolen from around the world in the U.S., but, oddly enough, our stolen cards aren’t worth as much to them as foreign ones.
How Much Would Big Macs Cost If McDonald’s Paid $15 an Hour?
Brandon Ballenger on August 1, 2013
Would you be willing to pay more for McDonald’s food if it meant employees made a living wage?
Joblessness Lasts Longer When You’re Older
Brandon Ballenger on August 1, 2013
Many baby boomers encountered long stretches of unemployment during the economic downturn, and many are still having a tough time finding work.
The Best and Worst Prepaid Cards
Brandon Ballenger on July 31, 2013
Prepaid cards are known for coming with a lot of fees — but some aren’t so bad, Consumer Reports says.
How Will Your Retirement Compare With a Congressman’s?
Brandon Ballenger on July 31, 2013
Members of Congress get a hefty Social Security benefit, a pension, subsidized retiree health benefits, and a 401(k)-like plan. Do you think they deserve it?
The Future of Health Care: Empty Hospitals?
Brandon Ballenger on July 31, 2013
One medical expert thinks most doctor-patient conversations will someday happen over the phone or through video.
Don’t Take That Call From 800-000-0000
Brandon Ballenger on July 30, 2013
Verizon is warning about a phishing scam that promises an account credit.
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