Karen Datko

A veteran of three decades in the newspaper business, I moved to online writing and editing in 2007, specializing in personal finance. I'm frugal but not cheap, have zero debt and paid off my mortgage in 11 years. I live with my two dogs in Havre, Mont.

Is AAA Worth the Cost?
Is AAA Worth the Cost?

on September 6, 2013

Compared with, say, AARP, membership with AAA is pricey. Do you get your money’s worth? Let’s take a look.

I’ve Started Getting Ready for Obamacare — So Should You
I’ve Started Getting Ready for Obamacare — So Should You

on September 5, 2013

People will be able to apply for health insurance coverage on the state marketplaces beginning Oct. 1. There are steps you can take now to make that process easier.

Would You Pay Extra for a Child-Free Airline Seat?
Would You Pay Extra for a Child-Free Airline Seat?

on September 3, 2013

Travelers often cite screaming children as their top flying complaint, and some airlines are responding with sections where small kids aren’t allowed.

6 Solutions to Bad Smartphone Etiquette
6 Solutions to Bad Smartphone Etiquette

on August 6, 2013

Is it too late to repair the bad smartphone behavior that’s apparent just about everywhere you go – at the theater, over dinner or during a face-to-face conversation?

Ask an Expert: Do Any Cards Offer Bonus Cash Back on Utilities?
Ask an Expert: Do Any Cards Offer Bonus Cash Back on Utilities?

on July 18, 2013

Too bad more credit cards don’t offer bonus rewards points for paying utility bills because just about everyone has at least one a month. Only a few cards do.

Happy Financial Independence Day to Me
Happy Financial Independence Day to Me

on July 3, 2013

I’ve saved enough money that I now consider myself financially free. Here’s how I did it, along with some steps that will help you join me sooner, rather than later.

8 Purchases That Make Us Happy
8 Purchases That Make Us Happy

on June 25, 2013

Whether it’s a Harley-Davidson motorcycle or a mattress that provides the best sleep you’ve ever had, some things we’ve bought bring us joy long after the purchase date. What’s yours?

The Truth About Credit Card Debt
The Truth About Credit Card Debt

on June 17, 2013

Some reports seem to suggest that the average U.S. family is weighed down by more than $15,000 in outstanding credit card debt. Is it true?

Review: Upromise World MasterCard From Barclaycard
Review: Upromise World MasterCard From Barclaycard

on May 14, 2013

The card offers a generous cash-back plan that can enhance college savings or help pay off student loan debt.

How to Find a Summer Camp Your Kid Will Be Crazy About
How to Find a Summer Camp Your Kid Will Be Crazy About

on May 13, 2013

With the dizzying array of camps and costs, you need some help making the right decision. Here are some questions to ask that will help you uncover an experience your child will remember.

Would a Higher Cigarette Tax Get You to Quit?
Would a Higher Cigarette Tax Get You to Quit?

on April 22, 2013

A proposal to raise the federal cigarette tax would increase the per-pack rate to $1.95. That’s in addition to the state tax on cigarettes, which is already much higher in some states. Too expensive for you?

Is Walmart Letting You Down?
Is Walmart Letting You Down?

on April 17, 2013

Customers are complaining that Walmart has too little help to keep the shelves restocked. Has that been your experience?

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