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 Facts Most People Get Wrong About Social Security
Maryalene LaPonsie on January 29, 2024
A survey finds that people misunderstand key provisions of the program.
10 Places Where Social Security Offers the Best Standard of Living
Maryalene LaPonsie and Gillian Manning on January 27, 2024
If you don’t mind rural living, these counties can be ideal places to stretch your Social Security payments.
12 Ways Medicare Coverage Has Changed in 2024
Maryalene LaPonsie on January 27, 2024
Heads-up, Medicare recipients: Your costs have gone up, but your coverage has expanded.
The 10 Best Entry-Level Jobs That Don’t Require a Degree
Maryalene LaPonsie on January 26, 2024
No degree? No problem. You can still earn a good income with these jobs that don’t require a degree.
9 Things That Can Get Your Home Insurance Canceled
Maryalene LaPonsie on January 25, 2024
Insurers may not want to cover your home for these reasons, but you usually have options.
9 Dumb Ways You Are Ruining Your Home Value
Maryalene LaPonsie on January 23, 2024
Beware these mistakes that can drive away potential buyers.
9 Countries With the Most Powerful Passports in the World
Maryalene LaPonsie and Brandon Ballenger on January 16, 2024
People with passports from these nations can easily see more of the world, the latest annual Henley Passport Index finds.
6 Myths About Retirement, Debunked
Maryalene LaPonsie on January 16, 2024
You could be in for an unpleasant surprise if you have any of these misconceptions.
The Minimum Wage in Every State in 2024
Maryalene LaPonsie and Gillian Manning on January 10, 2024
The federal minimum wage may not be changing in 2024, but many states have increased their wage requirements.
7 Dumb Mistakes That Cost Homebuyers Tons of Money
Maryalene LaPonsie on January 8, 2024
Making any of these mistakes can add more to the price you pay for a house.
10 Surprising Things That Home Insurance Covers
Maryalene LaPonsie on January 5, 2024
You probably don’t realize just how much protection the typical homeowners insurance policy offers.
9 Extreme Ways To Slash Your Everyday Expenses
Maryalene LaPonsie on December 30, 2023
These out-of-the-box ideas require big lifestyle changes, but they pay off with major savings.
15 Ways Retirees Can Stretch Their Savings for 30 Years
Maryalene LaPonsie on December 27, 2023
Study these strategies to make your golden years gleam.
7 of the Best Things You Can Do Today To Avoid Cancer
Maryalene LaPonsie on December 27, 2023
Cancer is something no one wants to endure. Here are some ways to minimize your risk.
6 of the Worst Assets To Inherit
Maryalene LaPonsie on December 25, 2023
While you may think any inheritance is better than none, some of these assets may be more trouble than they are worth.
12 Expenses You May Be Tempted To Claim As Tax Deductions — but Shouldn’t
Maryalene LaPonsie on December 19, 2023
Claiming these as tax breaks could be a costly mistake.
12 Stocking Stuffers To Buy at Costco
Maryalene LaPonsie on December 18, 2023
You can get all the stocking stuffers you need at many Americans’ favorite warehouse store.
7 Unusual but Effective Ways to Declutter Your Home
Maryalene LaPonsie on December 16, 2023
Tired of possessions weighing you down? Consider these methods.
6 Reasons Not To Give Your Kid or Grandkid a Cellphone
Maryalene LaPonsie on December 11, 2023
Your kids may beg, but stay strong. Research indicates cellphones and children don’t mix.
10 Guaranteed Ways to Retire Rich
Maryalene LaPonsie on December 11, 2023
A little planning and a lot of self-discipline can put you on the path to wealth, even if your income is modest.
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