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.
The Best Apps to Get Your Taxes Done Right
Maryalene LaPonsie on January 20, 2020
These smartphone apps can help you file tax forms — and track your refund.
How to Get the Right Tax Pro at the Right Price
Maryalene LaPonsie on January 9, 2020
Beware: Almost anyone can hang out a shingle offering tax-preparation services.
The 11 Most Meaningful College Majors — and How Much You Can Earn With Them
Maryalene LaPonsie on December 27, 2019
You can do good – and earn good money – with an education in one of these fields.
14 Service Providers Most Likely to Lower Your Bill If You Ask
Maryalene LaPonsie on December 24, 2019
With these companies, it might be easier than you think to negotiate your monthly bill down.
Resolutions 2020: Budget Your Way to Financial Goals
Maryalene LaPonsie on December 19, 2019
Budgeting isn’t that bad. Here are a half-dozen easy steps to achieving your financial dreams.
Year-End Review: Evaluate Your Investments in 15 Minutes
Maryalene LaPonsie on December 18, 2019
Use these three simple steps to make sure you’re on track for 2020 — and beyond.
9 Simple Money Moves to Make Before 2019 Ends
Maryalene LaPonsie on December 16, 2019
Get your financial house in order — all during the commercial breaks of your favorite TV shows.
15 Affordable Gifts for Teachers
Maryalene LaPonsie on December 9, 2019
These inexpensive gift ideas let teachers know how much you appreciate them.
The 7 Best-Paying Jobs You Can Get Without a College Degree
Maryalene LaPonsie on December 2, 2019
With these careers, you can earn $80,000 a year or more with only a high school diploma.
5 Ways Department Stores Trick You Into Overspending
Maryalene LaPonsie on November 27, 2019
Understanding those tricks can help you keep more money in your wallet.
How to Protect Your Plumbing From Holiday Horrors
Maryalene LaPonsie on November 21, 2019
This is a busy and lucrative season for plumbers. Don’t be among their customers.
13 Thoughtful Kid Gifts for $10 or Less
Maryalene LaPonsie on November 20, 2019
If you have a lot of kids on your Christmas shopping list, we’ve got you covered.
6 Tips to Donate to Charity the Smart Way
Maryalene LaPonsie on November 18, 2019
Follow these steps to increase your odds of making a difference.
Don’t Get Scrooged by These 7 Holiday Scams
Maryalene LaPonsie on November 14, 2019
Be familiar with these scams so your shopping adventures don’t lead you down a dark alley.
4 Benefits and 4 Downsides of Store Credit Cards
Maryalene LaPonsie on November 13, 2019
Will applying for that store credit card come back to bite you?
5 Reasons You Should Move an Old 401(k)
Maryalene LaPonsie on October 30, 2019
Did you leave retirement money at an old job? That could be a costly mistake.
13 Cleaning Tricks That Save Time, Money and Grief
Maryalene LaPonsie on October 2, 2019
These tricks can save you cash and get you through chores more quickly.
12 Proven Ways to Appear Smarter Than You Really Are
Maryalene LaPonsie on September 24, 2019
Here are ways to look smarter even when you’re feeling a little out of your depth.
The Most Hated Company in Every State
Maryalene LaPonsie on September 23, 2019
These companies garner the most complaints by state on financial services and products.
7 Money Mistakes That Can Doom Your Relationship
Maryalene LaPonsie on September 16, 2019
Don’t let these common financial missteps derail your happily ever after.
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