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.
6 of the Cheapest Places to Live in Florida
Maryalene LaPonsie on April 17, 2024
Florida is pulling in new residents, but the sun and sand can be expensive. Try these cities for more affordable living in the Sunshine State.
13 Features That Can Make Your Home Sell Faster in 2024
Maryalene LaPonsie on April 12, 2024
Homebuyers want these features most of all.
It’s Worth Spending More on These 14 Purchases
Maryalene LaPonsie on April 12, 2024
Going for the cheapest price isn’t the smartest move on these items.
10 Things You Need for Lifelong Financial Success
Maryalene LaPonsie on April 8, 2024
Each of these products is essential to the financial stability you need through life’s ups and downs.
6 Ways to Make Cheap Foods Taste Delicious
Maryalene LaPonsie on April 3, 2024
Here are some ways to give less-expensive foods a flavor boost.
17 Things to Stop Buying If You Want a Clutter-Free Home
Maryalene LaPonsie on March 29, 2024
If you like to keep things simple, avoid these purchases.
14 Surprising Things That Expire — or Become Dangerous
Maryalene LaPonsie and Marilyn Lewis on March 25, 2024
Some common items do go bad — or worse — even if you thought they would last forever.
7 Things Every Woman Should Know About Social Security
Maryalene LaPonsie on March 15, 2024
Social Security is a gender-neutral program, but here’s a look at factors that may be especially pertinent to women.
11 Huge Retirement Costs That Are Often Overlooked
Maryalene LaPonsie and Dori Zinn on March 12, 2024
Does your retirement budget account for all of these costs?
8 Things Costco Members Can Get for Free
Maryalene LaPonsie on March 11, 2024
Your Costco membership comes with a variety of free services and perks that can save you money.
The 10 Best Places to Retire in Europe, Ranked for Affordability
Maryalene LaPonsie on March 6, 2024
A recent ranking reveals the best European countries for retirees. But which is most affordable?
9 Shopping Mistakes to Avoid at Costco
Maryalene LaPonsie on March 5, 2024
Are you missing out on serious savings at your favorite warehouse club?
12 Tax Deductions You Can Claim Without Itemizing
Maryalene LaPonsie on February 26, 2024
You don’t have to itemize to claim these deductions on your tax return.
5 Ways the IRS Can Fine You
Maryalene LaPonsie on February 14, 2024
How could you end up owing the IRS a penalty? There are more reasons than you might realize.
18 Great Warm and Sunny Places To Retire in the U.S.
Maryalene LaPonsie on February 10, 2024
You don’t need to leave the country to find the perfect warm and sunny retirement spot.
10 Things to Stop Doing If You Want to Live a Long Life
Maryalene LaPonsie on February 9, 2024
If you want to hit age 100, kick these habits to the curb ASAP.
9 Reasons Renting Is Better Than Buying a Home
Maryalene LaPonsie on February 5, 2024
Owning a home has its benefits. But there are compelling reasons — cost, for one — why renting may be smarter.
21 of the Best Things to Buy at the Dollar Store
Maryalene LaPonsie on February 2, 2024
Dollar stores have great bargains on both everyday and occasional purchases.
7 Social Security Benefits You May Be Overlooking
Maryalene LaPonsie on January 31, 2024
There’s more to Social Security than retirement benefits.
9 Awful Things That Can Happen If You Don’t Pay Your Taxes
Maryalene LaPonsie on January 30, 2024
IRS penalties can range from the mildly costly to the truly horrific.
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