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.
8 Tips to Turn Your Vacation into a Tax Deduction
Brandon Ballenger on June 13, 2011
Vacation budgets are down, and IRS audits are up. But that doesn’t mean combining a family vacation with business travel is a bad idea – just that you have to be careful and do it right.
How to Make Dishwasher Detergent (And More)
Brandon Ballenger on June 8, 2011
Wondering how to make dishwasher detergent? Good news, it’s really simple – and cheap – to brew your own detergents.
6 Steps to Prevent Identity Theft of the Dead
Brandon Ballenger on June 6, 2011
Dealing with the loss of a loved one is tough enough without being forced to untangle a complicated web of fraudulent charges. Here’s what to do if you’re in charge of an estate.
5 Top Credit Tips for College Students
Brandon Ballenger on June 3, 2011
The CARD Act made it tougher for college students to get credit cards. But some banks – and students – are finding ways around the rules.
3 Steps to Get the Raise You Deserve
Brandon Ballenger on June 1, 2011
The average salary increase last year was 2 percent, which probably won’t even cover spikes in food and gas prices. Time to ask for a raise? Here’s how…
25 Top Tips to Save on Weddings
Brandon Ballenger on May 25, 2011
Weddings: one of life’s great moments, and quite likely the most expensive party you’ll ever throw. Here’s how to make sure this important milestone doesn’t usher in years of debt.
7 Ways to Save on Car Insurance
Brandon Ballenger on May 23, 2011
When it comes to car insurance, where you live is a factor in what you’ll pay. Here’s a list of the most expensive, and cheapest, cities to insure a car. Plus, how to lower your bill wherever you live.
5 Tips to Save on Summer Camp
Brandon Ballenger on May 20, 2011
Summer camp can be expensive, especially with multiple kids – but cost isn’t the only factor to consider, and there are more options than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step to finding your best camp value.
Monday’s Money Deals: Shoes, Makeup, and Free Shower Gel
Brandon Ballenger on May 16, 2011
Today in deals: shower heads, ceiling fans, Disney merch, and plenty more at good discounts.
Do Gas Saving Devices Work?
Brandon Ballenger on May 16, 2011
Gas-saving devices have been around as long as cars, and they become especially popular when prices edge up. But do any of them really work?
6 Signs of a Housing Rescue Scam and Where to Get Free Help
Brandon Ballenger on May 13, 2011
The mortgage crisis has created a new breed of scammer — one that charges up-front fees and tells you to lie to your lender. Need help with a mortgage problem? Here’s where to turn for free, honest help.
15 Tips to Find, Buy, and Rent Real Estate
Brandon Ballenger on May 11, 2011
With home values down and rents up, renting out sounds smart. But it’s not as easy as you think — so learn how to avoid bad tenants who can cost you money instead of making it.
Monday’s Money Deals: Clothes, Food, and Free Ice Cream
Brandon Ballenger on May 9, 2011
Great deals to kick off the week include Juicy Couture swimwear, Planters peanuts, and San Francisco hotel discounts.
How to Get VIP Treatment When You Travel
Brandon Ballenger on May 9, 2011
The cost of travel is heading higher, even as hotels and airlines are more desperate for your business. Want to use that to your advantage and get the VIP treatment at no extra cost? Here’s how.
7 Steps to Cheaper Airfares
Brandon Ballenger on May 6, 2011
Airfares are up, up, and away! Already 15 percent higher than last year, it’s getting tough to find a bargain – but we can help.
Used Cars That Are Better Than New?
Brandon Ballenger on May 4, 2011
Buying a used car versus new is definitely a money-saver, but there’s a trade-off: Used cars aren’t as reliable. Or are they? Here’s a list of used cars that Consumer Reports claims aren’t just cheaper than new, they’re better.
Monday’s Money Deals: Beach Hotels, Watches, and Free Wipes
Brandon Ballenger on May 2, 2011
Today you’ll find savings for Mother’s Day, great Amazon discounts, plus sales ending today on clothing and electronics.
4 Reasons Mortgage Costs Are Going up
Brandon Ballenger on April 29, 2011
Mortgage rates are still near historic lows, but the cost of getting a mortgage is on the rise. Here’s why, and how you can get the best possible loan.
5 Better Ideas Than Skipping a Loan Payment
Brandon Ballenger on April 27, 2011
Maybe you’ve gotten an offer from your lender: Pay a small fee, skip a monthly payment. It may sound enticing, but you should always pay if you can. Here’s a better idea.
Monday’s Money Deals: Food, Clothes, and a Free e-Book
Brandon Ballenger on April 25, 2011
Start off this week with discounts from Old Navy, Hollister, Juicy Couture, and many other clothing retailers. Plus, get coupons for subs and Chinese.
1,801 - 1,820 of 1,930