Karla Bowsher Writer

I'm a freelance journalist living in South Florida. Before going into journalism, I spent close to 10 years as a medical office administrator.

My work has appeared in top-50 daily newspapers and on national news websites. My awards include a national prize from the Society of Professional Journalists' Mark of Excellence Awards.

I studied language and literature at Florida Atlantic University, where I earned my bachelor's and ran the student newspaper.

Posts by Karla Bowsher

Why It Might Be Time to Leave Your Bank – and 3 Steps to Replace It

Apr 19, 2011 - As more banks increase their fees and create new ones, more and more consumers are ready to switch. Here's where they're taking their business - and how you can find a new bank too.

Unemployment Is Down – and Employees Wanting to Leave Their Jobs Is Up

Apr 14, 2011 - The national unemployment rate has dropped a full percentage point in the last four months, and employees are feeling more confident in their future job prospects. Read on to find out which states have the most jobs and which fields are expanding the most right now.

3 Tips to Prevent Identity Theft on Social Networks

Apr 12, 2011 - Do you share your birthday and birthplace on Facebook? Do you "friend" strangers? Then you may as well friend identity thieves too. A new study shows they're exploiting social networks, so read on to find out whether you're fully protecting yourself online.

Extended Warranties: Worth the Cost?

Apr 07, 2011 - Are you considering buying a new car? What about an LCD TV, mp3 player, or laptop? If so, be sure to read this before you let the cashier talk you into buying that extended warranty too.

3 Tuition-Saving Tips – Plus a New Tool From Congress

Apr 06, 2011 - As the recession lingers, more high schoolers are considering the economy when looking at colleges. Find out how a new congressionally mandated calculator may help them - and how you can save on tuition.

3 Tips to Deal With Higher Gas Prices (Yes, They’re Going to Get Worse)

Apr 05, 2011 - Gas is expected to get as high as $4/gallon this summer, but consumers' options for saving money at the pump are as varied as their reactions to the price hike.

6 Tips and 14 Products for Cleaning Tough Stains

Mar 30, 2011 - Want clean and clear drains and pet-stain-free carpets without resorting to smelly chemical cleaners? How about grout that sparkles and a microwave that's free of baked-on food spills?

Will the Government Protect You From Debt Collector Abuse?

Mar 29, 2011 - The Federal Trade Commission's recently released 2011 annual report paints a grim picture of the current state of debt collection abuse - but has high hopes for a new government agency that will potentially add a new layer of protection for consumers.

6 Tips to Protect Your Computer From New Security Threats

Mar 24, 2011 - A recent report shows that malware strains are on the rise - and make us more vulnerable to identity theft in the process. Are you sure your computer is as protected as possible?

New Government Complaint Site Empowers Consumers

Mar 22, 2011 - Until now, the federal government has kept product safety complaints to themselves. But now they're publicly available through a searchable database that also allows consumers to file complaints of their own.

How Not to Plan a Costly Wedding

Mar 17, 2011 - Despite the lingering recession, brides-to-be aren't willing to sacrifice luxury to save money on their big day: The average wedding cost $27,000 last year. Read on to learn what else the fourth annual Real Weddings Survey discovered.

The Tooth Fairy as an Economic Indicator?

Mar 16, 2011 - A new poll claims that the Tooth Fairy's recently increased generosity confirms that the economy is on the mend.

5 Tips to Pay Off Your Holiday Debt

Mar 15, 2011 - The average person with active credit still owed more than $4,000 at the end of last year. If you're carrying any debt, check out these expert tips for paying it off before the holidays come back around.

Smartphone Addiction: How to Save Yourself – and Your Wallet

Mar 08, 2011 - Smartphone addiction might sound funny, but it can have serious consequences. Read on to find out how you can treat your own smartphone addiction and possibly save some money in the process.

Americans More Loyal to Their Service Providers

Mar 08, 2011 - For the first time in years, fewer customers are switching service providers like utilities and telephone companies. But that doesn't mean we're getting the best deals for our money.