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.
Don’t Steal Software: 4 Free Alternatives to Piracy
Brandon Ballenger on September 13, 2011
Half of the world is overrun by software pirates, according to one industry trade group. But given the number of free alternatives out there, why risk a lawsuit?
Getting Micro Loans for Your Small Business
Brandon Ballenger on September 12, 2011
Getting a business off the ground and keeping it running requires a lot of things, but a big one is money. Here’s how small businesses can bypass the banks and get thousands in low-interest loans.
The Most Important Thing You Can Do Today
Brandon Ballenger on September 9, 2011
Put this on top of your “to do” list: a home inventory. Most people don’t have one, and when a disaster strikes they won’t get their money’s worth from the insurance company.
6 Tips for Safer Pet Travel
Brandon Ballenger on September 9, 2011
Traveling with your pet can be fun, but there are additional safety factors to consider. Check out these tips to keep you and your furry pal safe.
How to Make Money Blowing Whistles
Brandon Ballenger on September 7, 2011
If you want a personal bailout from the government, just give them some credible info on financial fraud. Your tips could be worth millions from the new Office of the Whistleblower.
Going to School Online: Better Education, Lower Cost?
Brandon Ballenger on September 7, 2011
If your children could attend school from home, for free, would you sign up? K12 is one online charter school getting taxpayer support: See if it sounds right for your kids.
More $99 HP TouchPads and Other Tablet Alternatives on the Way
Brandon Ballenger on September 6, 2011
Tablet computers are a hot commodity, but their prices are steep – unless HP holds another fire sale, or other major players jump into the market soon.
The New Face of Community College and 5 Things to Consider Before Applying
Brandon Ballenger on August 29, 2011
Community colleges have always been a cheaper alternative to universities, and now some are changing to better serve those seeking a higher education at a lower price.
What to Do If You Drop Your Cell Phone in Water
Brandon Ballenger on August 26, 2011
There’s nothing like a cool dip in the swimming pool on a hot summer day – until you realize you brought your phone in with you. Here are the steps for electronic CPR.
The 10 Strangest Things You Can Do With a Smartphone
Brandon Ballenger on August 24, 2011
Smartphones are fast becoming as indispensable as car keys, especially when combined with useful apps. But there are also apps that are just bizarre. Here are 10 of the most useful, along with 10 of the weirdest.
The Best Way to Pay Off Debt
Brandon Ballenger on August 22, 2011
Debt: Most of us have (lots of) it, and few of us want to talk about it. That may mean we’re throwing away money, because the intuitive way to pay debts off is not the best.
Banks Make Millions Selling Your Shopping Habits
Brandon Ballenger on August 19, 2011
Banks have another idea to make money – and strangely enough, this new tactic might even save you a few bucks.
Many Prescription Drugs Are Getting Cheaper Soon
Brandon Ballenger on August 15, 2011
Prescription drugs are a huge medical expense for many, but the doctor has good news: Some major brand names are going generic in the next year.
How to Live in Luxurious Homes for Free
Brandon Ballenger on August 10, 2011
Living rent-free isn’t something many of us can do past our teenage years – but for the right kind of person, it’s possible. Learn how and see if you have what it takes to be a house-sitting pro.
9 Ways to Save on Back-to-School
Brandon Ballenger on August 8, 2011
It’s the time of year when kids return to school and you return to the mall. Minimize the damage by harnessing these 9 tips to save on back-to-school shopping.
Can I Get Better Insurance Rates Through an Association?
Brandon Ballenger on August 5, 2011
Want better insurance rates? Join the club – just don’t expect a membership discount. A recent Consumer Reports investigation found that policies quoted through associations like AARP were sometimes cheaper and sometimes pricier than the non-membership rates.
Rent-to-Own: The Most Expensive Way to Buy?
Brandon Ballenger on August 3, 2011
Think paying 30 percent interest on a credit card is hard to swallow? It’s chickenfeed compared to buying the rent-to-own way.
New Tools for Do-It-Yourself Car Diagnosis
Brandon Ballenger on August 1, 2011
Your mechanic sounds sympathetic as he explains you need an $800 repair – should you believe him? New computer diagnostic tools can help you decide whether you’re being led astray, and track other useful info about your car.
Is Dental Insurance Worth It? 5 Ways to Save on Care
Brandon Ballenger on July 29, 2011
Dental coverage is usually separate from health insurance, and your employer may not offer it. If that’s the case, is it worth getting? At least one dentist says no.
Are Tattoos at Work OK? Advice for the Inked
Brandon Ballenger on July 27, 2011
While tattoos are becoming more mainstream, they can still put a damper on your career. Here are some fun facts about tattoos, along with some advice that will help you get ahead and stay there.
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