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.
7 Ways to Get Your FICO Credit Score for Free
Maryalene LaPonsie on April 14, 2021
You no longer need to pay for a look at this widely used credit score.
It’s Worth Spending More on These 14 Purchases
Maryalene LaPonsie on April 13, 2021
Here’s where to find the sweet spot at the intersection of price and quality.
12 Features That Can Make Your Home Sell Faster
Maryalene LaPonsie on April 7, 2021
Homebuyers want these features most of all.
Here’s How Much Your Peers Get in Social Security
Maryalene LaPonsie on March 30, 2021
See how your Social Security benefits compare with those of other people your age.
10 Things That Can Ding Your Social Security Payments
Maryalene LaPonsie on March 30, 2021
Here are 10 things that could mean less money in your pocket during retirement.
10 Things to Stop Buying If You Want a Clutter-Free Home
Maryalene LaPonsie on March 29, 2021
If you like to keep things simple, avoid these purchases.
How to Pick the Best Medicare Supplement Plan in 4 Steps
Maryalene LaPonsie on March 25, 2021
Here is a step-by-step guide to Medigap plans.
10 Places Where Social Security Offers the Best Standard of Living
Maryalene LaPonsie on March 25, 2021
These U.S. counties offer retirees a chance to stretch their benefit checks while enjoying their golden years.
7 Ways to Ensure You Never Have Enough Money to Retire
Maryalene LaPonsie on March 25, 2021
Make these errors, and the task of retiring goes from “difficult” to “impossible.”
12 Expenses You May Be Tempted to Claim as Tax Deductions — but Shouldn’t
Maryalene LaPonsie on March 24, 2021
Claiming these tax breaks could be a costly mistake.
9 Tax Deductions Anyone Can Claim
Maryalene LaPonsie on March 23, 2021
You don’t have to itemize to claim these deductions on your tax return.
10 Surprising Things That Home Insurance Covers
Maryalene LaPonsie on March 22, 2021
You probably don’t realize just how much protection the typical homeowners insurance policy offers.
8 of the Worst Things to Buy at a Dollar Store
Maryalene LaPonsie on March 2, 2021
Not everything sold at dollar stores is a great bargain or a safe purchase.
9 Shopping Mistakes to Avoid at Costco
Maryalene LaPonsie on February 26, 2021
Are you missing out on serious savings at your favorite warehouse club?
9 Dumb Ways You Are Ruining Your Home Value
Maryalene LaPonsie on February 25, 2021
Homeowners, beware these mistakes that can drive away potential buyers.
14 Stores With the Best Return Policies
Maryalene LaPonsie on February 24, 2021
When you shop, it’s smart to plan for purchases that might not work out. These stores make returns easy.
21 Things You Should Always Buy at a Dollar Store
Maryalene LaPonsie on February 23, 2021
Dollar stores have great bargains on both everyday and occasional purchases.
19 Things You Should Never Buy at a Grocery Store
Maryalene LaPonsie on February 23, 2021
These household necessities are overpriced at the grocery store. Get them cheaper at these places instead.
8 Things That Can Happen If You Don’t Pay Taxes
Maryalene LaPonsie on February 17, 2021
IRS penalties can range from the mildly costly to the truly horrific.
New Ways to Save Money on Insurance of Every Kind
Maryalene LaPonsie on February 17, 2021
Tech startups are making it easy to find the best rates for all kinds of insurance policies.
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