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 Decisions That Can Make or Break Your Retirement
Maryalene LaPonsie on December 9, 2021
Your golden years might not be so golden if you don’t carefully weigh these decisions.
10 Things to Let Kids Pay for Themselves
Maryalene LaPonsie on December 1, 2021
You aren’t doing your kids or grandkids any favors by buying everything they want. Let them pick up the tab for these items.
The 6 Worst Mortgage Mistakes You Can Make
Maryalene LaPonsie on November 11, 2021
A house may be the most important purchase of your life. Don’t blow it by making one of these dumb mistakes.
13 Ways to Sharpen Your Memory at Any Age
Maryalene LaPonsie on September 29, 2021
Research shows that these simple actions can help keep your mind in shape.
9 Hidden Ways to Get More Out of Amazon
Maryalene LaPonsie on September 22, 2021
You don’t have to be a Prime member to take advantage of these little-known perks of shopping on Amazon.
7 Ways to Boost Your Credit Score Fast
Maryalene LaPonsie on September 16, 2021
Your financial security might soon depend upon the strength of your credit score.
How to Save Up to 70% on 7 Everyday Purchases
Maryalene LaPonsie on August 17, 2021
Stop getting sucked into paying a premium when good alternatives are available at huge savings.
16 High-Paying Jobs You Can Get With a 2-Year Degree
Maryalene LaPonsie on August 3, 2021
You can find a career with a good salary — without having to earn a bachelor’s degree.
Stop Making These 10 Dumb Money Moves
Maryalene LaPonsie on July 30, 2021
Even smart people make some of these money-losing moves. Here’s what to do instead.
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?
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.
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.
10 Places You Can Find Free Audiobooks
Maryalene LaPonsie on April 22, 2021
These sites and services (legally) offer audiobooks for free.
How Much Police Make in Every State
Stacy Johnson CPA, Maryalene LaPonsie and Kari Huus on April 21, 2021
Police and sheriff’s officers risk their lives to protect and serve. Here’s how much they get paid to do it, state by state.
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.
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.
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.
Cutting Cable? These 5 New TV Services Launch in 2021
Maryalene LaPonsie on January 6, 2021
You have new streaming options for the new year.
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