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.
Get Your Free COVID-19 Test Kits Now
Brandon Ballenger on January 18, 2022
The new federal website for mail-order COVID-19 tests launched earlier than expected. Order yours now to avoid delays.
6 States That Just Lowered Their Tax Rates
Brandon Ballenger on January 18, 2022
The 2022 tax year will bring lower income taxes for a handful of states, thanks to recently enacted laws.
The 16 Most Popular Housing Markets of 2021
Brandon Ballenger on January 13, 2022
These places have the most-viewed real estate listings, high housing inventory and good price appreciation, according to a new study.
Social Security Increases This Month — Here’s What You Should Know
Brandon Ballenger on January 7, 2022
Temper your expectations: The biggest increase to Social Security benefits in decades comes with positives and negatives.
4 Social Security Payment Quirks That No One Warns You About
Brandon Ballenger on January 6, 2022
These details may not affect how much you get, but they’re still important to know.
How I Saved $924 a Year on my Phone Bill
Brandon Ballenger on January 4, 2022
You might think it required some major hassle and sacrifices. It didn’t.
9 Costly Mistakes to Avoid While Grocery Shopping
Brandon Ballenger on December 27, 2021
Shop smarter and turn your grocery receipts into something to smile about.
These 10 Housing Markets Are ‘Hidden Gems’
Brandon Ballenger on December 22, 2021
Even as home prices have risen at the fastest rate in decades, experts say properties in these cities remain undervalued.
21 States Where Inflation Hits Harder at Tax Time
Brandon Ballenger on December 21, 2021
Inflation puts a tighter squeeze on your after-tax purchasing power if you live here.
The 15 Best Cities to Retire in Florida
Brandon Ballenger on December 10, 2021
With excellent activities, health care and quality of life, these places are a retirement dream come true for many.
8 Ways Amazon Snoops on Customers
Brandon Ballenger on December 4, 2021
The shopping giant may know far more about your family than you realize.
6 Tax Breaks in Biden’s Build Back Better Bill
Brandon Ballenger on November 29, 2021
If the current version of the bill becomes law, Americans could enjoy some of these tax credits and deductions for years to come.
The 4 Best Internet Router Brands, According to Shoppers
Brandon Ballenger on November 29, 2021
Is your Wi-Fi not working as well as you’d like? Maybe it’s time to try one of these brands.
5 Secrets of Seniors Who Keep Their Minds ‘Young’
Brandon Ballenger on November 26, 2021
Here is why some seniors’ brains work as well as those of people who are decades younger.
14 Things That Are ‘Free’ With Medicare
Maryalene LaPonsie and Brandon Ballenger on November 26, 2021
These services could save you money and help prevent costly health problems.
8 Black Friday Deals on Streaming Services
Chris Kissell and Brandon Ballenger on November 26, 2021
Now is a great time to try a new TV, music or audiobook service.
5 Home Services You Should Not Pay For
Brandon Ballenger on November 23, 2021
Some can be had for free, and others are of dubious value.
8 Easy Ways to Cut Back on Meat
Marilyn Lewis and Brandon Ballenger on November 23, 2021
You don’t have to go cold turkey to enjoy the savings and health benefits of eating less meat.
5 Countries Projected to Have the Most Early Retirees
Brandon Ballenger on November 19, 2021
By 2050, the average retiree here will be able to enjoy most — or all — of their 60s without having to worry about work.
New Bill Would Create ‘Retirement Lost and Found’
Brandon Ballenger on November 17, 2021
This proposal could solve a problem for millions of Americans.
1 - 20 of 1,705