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.

Upset woman worrying about a document
Medicare Bill Would Help Retirees With COBRA Avoid Penalties

on October 11, 2022

If you have COBRA health insurance and wait to enroll in Medicare, you could face a steep penalty – unless this bill passes.

Upset senior reading a document
4 Ways Medicare Advantage Would Improve Under New Bill

on September 20, 2022

More than 500 organizations support a bill that could make it easier for beneficiaries to receive care.

Couple meeting with a financial professional
9 Investments Most Recommended by Financial Advisers

on June 29, 2022

Not sure where to put your money? Here are the investments most commonly recommended by advisers.

Sad senior looking out a window from his sofa
Report: Some Medicare Plans Deny Valid Requests for Care

on June 20, 2022

A government review finds some Medicare Advantage plans may not be good for your health.

Senior woman earning grocery cash back rewards at the store
25 Ways to Spend Less on Groceries

on May 26, 2022

You can use these money-saving tips immediately, whether at home or in the store.

Senior with a walker
Here’s How Much Medicare Spends on Seniors of Every Age

on May 26, 2022

Not surprisingly, the older you are, the more the Medicare system spends on your health care.

Man sleeping
6 Things You Should Never Do Before Bed

on May 23, 2022

If you want a good night’s sleep, avoid these habits and activities before going to bed.

Man holding up his hand to stop a home purchase
7 Reasons Why You Should Not Buy a Home Right Now

on March 31, 2022

The real estate market has been sizzling, but don’t let fear of missing out lead you to make a bad decision.

Family talking to a lawyer or real estate agent about estate planning
6 Estate Planning Mistakes to Avoid

on March 30, 2022

Make these mistakes, and it could cost your loved ones money and grief.

Successful businesswoman
7 Key Social Security Tips for People Who Haven’t Claimed Yet

on March 23, 2022

If you haven’t started taking your Social Security benefits yet, don’t make a move until you read this advice.

Couple reviewing financial documents in their kitchen
5 Ways Retirees Can Lower Their Inflation Risk

on March 8, 2022

Don’t run out of money in retirement due to rising prices. Understand this risk and learn to manage it.

Woman with a stack of books
Where to Sell Your Stuff for Top Dollar

on March 4, 2022

Here’s where to get the best price for all your clutter.

Businessman studying technology jobs
The 10 Best Jobs in America for 2022

on February 17, 2022

If you’re looking to switch careers this year, these occupations score high on job satisfaction and earnings.

Unhappy woman with an apple
19 Purchases You Should Avoid at Warehouse Clubs

on February 9, 2022

Warehouse stores are packed with good deals — but these products are not among them.

Senior taking a COVID-19 test at home
On Medicare? 6 Ways to Get Free COVID-19 Tests

on January 28, 2022

Medicare won’t pay for at-home COVID-19 tests, but seniors can get them for free using these options.

Senior with diabetes measuring her glucose level
5 Medicare Changes Arriving in 2022

on January 25, 2022

Medicare comes with additional options – and higher costs – this year.

woman folding laundry
Target and Walmart Unveil Home Organization Product Lines

on January 7, 2022

Two of the nation’s major retailers want to help you get organized for the new year.

Woman buying toilet paper in bulk
10 Things You Should Always Buy in Bulk

on December 29, 2021

These items often are cheaper if you buy larger sizes or stock up during sales.

Satisfied couple holding a piggy bank for their IRA investment
8 Ways to Maximize Your Traditional or Roth IRA

on December 20, 2021

Use these suggestions to boost the balance in your retirement nest egg.

Roses on a casket at a funeral
How Debt Affects Survivors After a Loved One Dies

on December 9, 2021

Find out what you need to know about paying off the debt of a loved one after he or she dies.

81 - 100 of 419