Author: Maryalene LaPonsie
After 13 years as a staffer for a Michigan legislator, I decided it was time to quit the commute and work from home instead. For the past three years, I’ve been penning articles on everything from personal finance to parenting, although politics remains my passion. I’m a numbers geek who loves helping others find the right balance between frugal finances and living life deeply. When I’m not writing, I’m busy trying to raise my and my late husband’s five children to be compassionate people, critical thinkers and lifelong learners.
5 Medicare Marketing Tactics That Are Red Flags
Maryalene LaPonsie on September 22, 2023
Insurers and brokers selling Medicare plans desperately want your business – and some employ shady practices to get it.
15 States Where Many People Go Without Any Health Insurance
Maryalene LaPonsie on September 21, 2023
These are the states with the biggest share of residents who reported having no health coverage at all.
13 States That Still Tax Groceries
Chris Kissell and Maryalene LaPonsie on September 19, 2023
Residents of these states pay a tax rate of as much as 7% on food.
The 5 Worst Domestic Airlines — and the Best Ones
Maryalene LaPonsie on September 14, 2023
Planning a trip? There are several airlines you may want to avoid when booking a flight.
10 Things To Stop Doing if You Want To Live a Long Life
Maryalene LaPonsie on September 5, 2023
If you want to hit 100, kick these habits to the curb.
19 Things You Should Never Buy at a Grocery Store
Maryalene LaPonsie on September 1, 2023
These household necessities are overpriced at the grocery store. Here’s where to get them cheaper.
18 Great Warm and Sunny Places To Retire in the U.S.
Maryalene LaPonsie on September 1, 2023
You don’t need to leave the country to find the perfect warm and sunny retirement spot.
16 Things That Used To Be Free but Now Cost Money
Maryalene LaPonsie on August 30, 2023
At one time, these things were provided free of charge. If you want them now, you may have to open your wallet.
21 of the Best Things To Buy at the Dollar Store
Maryalene LaPonsie on August 30, 2023
Dollar stores have great bargains on both everyday and occasional purchases.
7 Mistakes Guaranteed To Ruin Your Retirement
Maryalene LaPonsie on August 28, 2023
Make even one of these money mistakes, and you might end up eating ramen noodles in your golden years.
6 Facts Most People Get Wrong About Social Security
Maryalene LaPonsie on August 24, 2023
A survey finds that people misunderstand key provisions of the program.
11 Tax Deductions You Can Claim Without Itemizing
Maryalene LaPonsie on August 17, 2023
You don’t have to itemize to claim these deductions on your tax return.
7 Ways to Ensure You Never Have Enough Money to Retire
Maryalene LaPonsie on August 9, 2023
Make these errors, and the task of retiring goes from “difficult” to “impossible.”
The 15 Best Things to Buy at Warehouse Stores
Maryalene LaPonsie on August 7, 2023
Warehouse stores save their best bargains for certain types of products. Here’s what to shop for at Costco, Sam’s Club and BJ’s.
The 10 Fastest-Growing Jobs, According to LinkedIn
Maryalene LaPonsie on August 4, 2023
If you are worried about job security, maybe consider one of these fast-growing positions.
5 Ways to Earn Cash Back on Gas
Maryalene LaPonsie on August 2, 2023
If gas prices are taking a bite out of your budget, you may be able to get relief with one of these cash-back options.
11 Free Things That Used To Cost Us Money
Maryalene LaPonsie on August 1, 2023
Not everything is getting more expensive.
6 of the Best Assets To Pass On to Your Heirs
Maryalene LaPonsie on July 27, 2023
If your dearly departed leaves you one of these things, you’ve hit the jackpot.
7 Things That Never Expire – and How to Store Them
Maryalene LaPonsie on July 20, 2023
You can safely stock up on these household items, which should never go bad if stored properly.
6 Myths About Retirement, Debunked
Maryalene LaPonsie on July 17, 2023
You could be in for an unpleasant surprise if you have any of these misconceptions.
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