Author: Karen Datko
A veteran of three decades in the newspaper business, I moved to online writing and editing in 2007, specializing in personal finance. I'm frugal but not cheap, have zero debt and paid off my mortgage in 11 years. I live with my two dogs in Havre, Mont.
FTC: These 7 Weight-Loss Claims Are Never True
Karen Datko on January 15, 2014
If you’re looking for a weight-loss product and you see these statements, move on. Plenty of false claims are being made.
How Have 300,000 West Virginians Made Do Without Running Water?
Karen Datko on January 14, 2014
What would you do if your access to safe running water was suddenly cut off? There are ways to make the experience more bearable.
Report: Only 10,000 Will Lose Out Under Obamacare
Karen Datko on January 3, 2014
A report out of Congress says claims that millions will lose health insurance coverage in 2014 are greatly exaggerated.
Using an Overseas ATM? Beware This Crazy Bank Fee
Karen Datko on December 31, 2013
I used my debit card at ATMs 4 times while traveling abroad. The fees totaled about $50. That’s way too much.
NYT’s Year-End News Quiz: How Many Can You Get Right?
Karen Datko on December 30, 2013
Some of the questions in The New York Times’ ‘The Year in Questions’ quiz are about money-related news. Here’s a sample.
Are You Satisfied With Your Netflix Service?
Karen Datko on December 25, 2013
The company has made it clear that the DVD side of the business isn’t as valued as video streaming. What do you think about that?
The Cost of a Stamp Will Jump 6 Percent
Karen Datko on December 25, 2013
The cost to mail a first-class letter will be 49 cents beginning Jan. 26. Here’s why.
Finally! I’ve Purchased Health Insurance Through Obamacare
Karen Datko on December 23, 2013
I made the Dec. 23 deadline to buy insurance that takes effect Jan. 1, and my new insurance reduced my monthly cost by 45 percent.
Can You Trust a ‘Made in America’ Label?
Karen Datko on December 13, 2013
The government doesn’t certify that “Made in America” claims on labels are true, so how can you tell if a product deserves to be called that?
Your Chance of Becoming an ID Theft Victim Is Greater Than You Think
Karen Datko on December 13, 2013
The probability that you’ll lose major money when someone steals your identity is low, but why not take measures to protect yourself?
More Companies Than Ever Offer Same-Sex Benefits
Karen Datko on December 12, 2013
More big U.S. companies are actively protecting LGBT employees from workplace discrimination and advocating for equal rights.
Medical Credit Card Must Refund $34 Million to Consumers
Karen Datko on December 12, 2013
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau cracked down on CareCredit after receiving hundreds of complaints.
Homicide Is a Leading Cause of Death at Work
Karen Datko on December 10, 2013
Is the threat enough to warrant training workers in case of an attack?
Surprise! There Are No Onions in Wise Onion Rings
Karen Datko on December 9, 2013
A new article from Consumer Reports exposes some foods that promise ingredients they don’t deliver.
In Honor of National Boss Day: Bad-Boss Stories
Karen Datko on October 16, 2013
Oct. 16 is Boss’s Day. What better way to celebrate this occasion than with stories about some of the worst bosses of our lives.
Obamacare State Marketplaces Open Today: How to Apply
Karen Datko on October 1, 2013
I’m shopping for an individual health insurance plan on a state insurance marketplace under Obamacare today. Here’s how the process worked.
Understanding Obamacare: Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum
Karen Datko on September 20, 2013
When Oct. 1 arrives, the state online marketplaces will enable people to shop among the four health insurance “metal” plans. Here’s what you need to know to make your selection.
I Checked My ‘Secret’ Marketing Profile Online: Here’s What I Found
Karen Datko on September 17, 2013
A major player in the consumer data collection business is letting people see some of what the company thinks it knows about their personal and financial lives.
Can You Learn a New Language by Watching Movies or TV?
Karen Datko on September 11, 2013
Watching TV or films in a language you’d like to learn is far from the only free or frugal method widely available to you.
Understanding Obamacare: 4 Things You Need to Know
Karen Datko on September 9, 2013
Will the newest changes to the health insurance landscape affect you, will Uncle Sam pick up part of the cost, what’s the penalty for not buying insurance, and how much will you have to pay to become insured?
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