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.

A young woman at her desktop computer searching for the best insurance companies for her car
4 Ways to Find the Best Insurance Companies for Your Cars

on June 3, 2020

Finding good auto insurance for drivers like you with vehicles like yours shouldn’t be a time-consuming chore.

Money mistake
7 Crucial Money Mistakes You Must Avoid

on May 25, 2020

Here are seven boneheaded money moves nearly everyone makes — and how you can avoid them.

retired couple reviewing tax documents
An Easy Way to Avoid a Tax Day Bill on Your Social Security Income

on May 14, 2020

Even if your Social Security retirement benefits are taxable, you can avoid owing money at tax time.

A woman holding a pair of scissors
7 Ways to Cut Your Costs During the Coronavirus Crisis

on April 18, 2020

We’re all feeling the pandemic’s squeeze. Here’s how to save money on many of your recurring costs.

A mother and daughter meditating on a couch
7 Easy Ways to Save Money and Limit Exposure to Coronavirus

on April 8, 2020

You may remember the belt-tightening of the Great Recession — but there are lots of new ways to save we didn’t have then.

Yard sale
15 Tips for a Super Profitable Yard Sale

on April 7, 2020

Start preparing for your yard sale now, so you’ll be ready to go when the lockdown ends.

Woman with cellphone
2 New Ways to Slash Your Cellphone Bill

on April 4, 2020

You could be paying $5 a month for basic service, with your current phone and no contract.

How to Find the Right Financial Adviser
How to Find the Right Financial Adviser

on March 31, 2020

Here are three important questions to ask a potential adviser, plus where to find one.

7 Ways to Retire — Even When the Economy Is Heading South
7 Ways to Retire — Even When the Economy Is Heading South

on March 20, 2020

The market is wildly unpredictable right now. Here’s how to keep this from turning your golden years into a rickety roller coaster ride.

Woman reading resume
6 Tips to Age-Proof Your Resume

on March 9, 2020

Sometimes, it feels like too much experience actually counts against you. These tips will help.

Disappearing dollar
6 Ways to Dodge Inflation in 2020

on January 2, 2020

Inflation is a fact of life. But you don’t have to fall for rising prices. Here’s how to fight back.

Worried retiree
6 Tax Audit Red Flags for Retirees

on November 3, 2019

The odds of being audited are low — but these situations could make it more likely.

The State of the Job Market for Veterans
The State of the Job Market for Veterans

on November 1, 2019

Americans who served in the military can find tailored jobs programs and many organizations that are eager to help them start a business or find a job.

Woman with money
8 Foolish and Costly Financial Fouls — and How to Avoid Them

on October 23, 2019

These common money mistakes can cost you thousands. Sidestep them with these simple tips.

A man holds a jar of olives at the grocery store
24 Products From Europe That Soon Will Be Pricier Due to Tariffs

on October 15, 2019

With U.S. tariffs on European imports set to start Friday, the cost of many groceries and household items could jump.

Girl with braces
10 Ways to Save Money on Braces

on September 23, 2019

Here are a few ways to take a bite out of the orthodontist’s bill.

Older couple using a tablet
5 Things You Need to Know Before You Buy a Second Home

on August 22, 2019

Getting your second home might be more fun than the first — but only if you’re truly prepared.

College student
3 Types of Insurance Every College Student Needs

on August 21, 2019

Here’s how to get students the coverage they need at the best price.

man in glasses is surprised by something on his smartphone
22 Things You Better Buy Now Before Tariffs Make Them More Expensive

on August 9, 2019

President Trump’s latest tariffs on Chinese goods could make the holiday season — and beyond — much more expensive.

Man with boxes
Have Too Much Stuff? 10 Ways to Cut the Cost of Self-Storage

on July 17, 2019

Don’t spend thousands to keep stuff you don’t really care about.

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