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.
16 of the Worst Things to Buy at a Dollar Store
Maryalene LaPonsie on July 23, 2021
Not everything sold at dollar stores is a great bargain or a safe purchase.
5 Ways Retirees Can Lower Their Inflation Risk
Maryalene LaPonsie on July 20, 2021
Don’t run out of money in retirement due to rising prices. Understand this risk and learn to manage it.
Of All the Fees You Pay, This Is the Worst
Maryalene LaPonsie on July 19, 2021
What’s the most maddening fee you pay? To check your luggage? Use an ATM? Not even close.
How to Pay Off $10,000 in Debt Without Breaking a Sweat
Maryalene LaPonsie on July 12, 2021
With a few simple steps, paying off your debt can be a lot easier than you think.
This Is the Best Age to Buy Long-Term Care Insurance
Maryalene LaPonsie on July 6, 2021
If you wait too long to apply for coverage, you could be denied. So, when’s the sweet spot to apply?
9 Things That Can Get Your Home Insurance Canceled
Maryalene LaPonsie on June 30, 2021
Insurers may not want to cover your home for these reasons, but you usually have options.
10 Guaranteed Ways to Retire Rich
Maryalene LaPonsie on June 25, 2021
A little planning and a lot of self-discipline can put you on the path to wealth, even if your income is modest.
21 Things You Should Always Buy at a Dollar Store
Maryalene LaPonsie on June 25, 2021
Dollar stores have great bargains on both everyday and occasional purchases.
15 Dumb Ways You Are Ruining Your Home Value
Maryalene LaPonsie on June 16, 2021
Beware these mistakes that can drive away potential buyers.
9 Extreme Ways to Slash Your Everyday Expenses
Maryalene LaPonsie on June 14, 2021
These out-of-the-box ideas require big lifestyle changes, but they pay off with major savings.
8 Tips for Buying Your Next Car for Less
Maryalene LaPonsie on June 14, 2021
New-car fever can make you do crazy things. These tips inoculate you against paying too much for your next vehicle.
The Minimum Wage in Every State in 2021
Maryalene LaPonsie on June 1, 2021
The federal minimum wage may not change in 2021, but many states have increased their wage requirements.
9 Habits Happy People Use to Make Life Better
Maryalene LaPonsie on May 29, 2021
If you want to walk through life with a smile on your face, try these habits on for size.
10 Places Where Social Security Offers the Best Standard of Living
Maryalene LaPonsie on May 28, 2021
These U.S. counties offer retirees a chance to stretch their benefit checks while enjoying their golden years.
10 Freebies You Now Can Get With Your COVID-19 Vaccination
Maryalene LaPonsie on May 27, 2021
Your vaccination card could be your ticket to free food and more.
7 Mistakes Guaranteed to Ruin Your Retirement
Maryalene LaPonsie on May 22, 2021
Make even one of these money mistakes, and you might end up eating ramen noodles in your golden years.
15 Ways Retirees Can Make Their Savings Last Longer
Maryalene LaPonsie on May 17, 2021
Study these strategies to make your golden years gleam.
19 Things You Should Never Buy at a Grocery Store
Maryalene LaPonsie on April 30, 2021
These household necessities are overpriced at the grocery store. Get them cheaper at these places instead.
17 Things to Stop Buying If You Want a Clutter-Free Home
Maryalene LaPonsie on April 30, 2021
If you like to keep things simple, avoid these purchases.
10 Places You Can Find Free Audiobooks
Maryalene LaPonsie on April 22, 2021
These sites and services (legally) offer audiobooks for free.
1 - 20 of 377