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.

Woman watching TV in autumn with a cat and spooky coffee mug in her lap
The 11 Most Anticipated TV Series of This Fall

on October 7, 2022

Prepare for laughs, cyborgs and probably a Jedi or two.

Excited senior teacher in a classroom
Bill Would Increase Social Security for Public Workers

on October 5, 2022

For decades, millions of public workers have had their benefits reduced. That could change soon.

Shoppers in checkout lines at a Target store
How to Get One of the 140,000 Seasonal Jobs at Walmart and Target

on October 5, 2022

If you’re looking to pick up work for the holidays, now is the time to act.

Wawa
This Gas Station Is Offering 15 Cents Off Per Gallon Through November

on October 4, 2022

All you have to do is join the chain’s free rewards program and use its app.

Happy woman shopping with credit card in cool weather clothes in autumn
4 Cash-Back Cards to Maximize Holiday Savings

on October 4, 2022

All the seasonal spending could mean a big gift from your credit card.

Worried woman at home
12 Hidden Hazards in Your Home That You Should Not Ignore

on September 30, 2022

While you’ve probably heard of many of these, the danger may not always be visible or seem urgent enough for you to take preventive action.

Man with paint and paintbrushes
This Is the Worst Interior Paint Color by Far, Survey Says

on September 23, 2022

More than 40% of people would never let this color anywhere near the walls of their home.

Scam victim
10 Major U.S. Cities Where Inflation Has Surged

on September 22, 2022

The national annual inflation rate remains near a 40-year high, but all of these places have had it even worse.

Older couple talking to airline agent at the airport
5 Ways to Get a Better Airplane Seat for Free

on September 16, 2022

Seat selection fees may be normal now, but they’re not inevitable.

Senior man using smartphone
4 Other Ways Americans Are Using Their Smart TVs

on September 6, 2022

As the lines between computer and TV blur, alternative uses are becoming popular.

Skeptical senior looks worried or has a headache
Do Retirees Really Need $300,000 for Health Care? Probably Not

on September 2, 2022

New research based on the spending of actual people suggests health care in retirement is far less expensive than some experts estimate.

Businesswoman opening her business for the day
The 10 Best States to Start Your Own Business

on August 30, 2022

High incomes, low cost of living and reasonable taxes are key ingredients for successful entrepreneurship.

Skeptical, frustrated man with glasses and folded arms
9 Good Reasons to Cancel Netflix

on August 29, 2022

Don’t assume you’re getting your money’s worth — take a moment to think about it.

Women of multiple generations
The Most Popular Political Party of Every Generation

on August 25, 2022

Wonder how you compare with your peers? Polling data shows the trend for every age group.

The White House
Is Forgiven Student Debt Taxable?

on August 24, 2022

President Biden announced student loan relief for millions of Americans today. Is it going to hurt at tax time?

Tom Brady
Rich and Famous People Who Had PPP Loans Forgiven

on August 22, 2022

Celebrity-owned companies received millions in COVID-19 relief funds, often taking out multiple loans that were ultimately forgiven.

Excited couple purchasing a home and shaking hands
10 Cities Where Home Inventory Is Rising Fast

on August 22, 2022

These markets have shifted in favor of buyers over the past year faster than elsewhere.

Man peeking out window at neighbor's house
10 Cities Where Home Prices Are Predicted to Decline the Most

on August 19, 2022

The next two years are likely to cool off these housing markets, experts believe.

Woman showing her hearing aid to friends
No Prescription Necessary: Hearing Aids Soon Will Be OTC

on August 17, 2022

New and likely cheaper options will hit store shelves in the coming months.

Happy remote worker talking on the phone while working on laptop
10 Cities Where Remote Workers Drove up Home Prices

on August 17, 2022

Worker relocations during the pandemic have squeezed these major housing markets.

201 - 220 of 1,927