Donna LeValley
Donna joined Kiplinger as a personal finance writer in 2023. She spent more than a decade as the contributing editor of J.K.Lasser's Your Income Tax Guide and edited state specific legal treatises at ALM Media. She has shared her expertise as a guest on Bloomberg, CNN, Fox, NPR, CNBC and many other media outlets around the nation.
Latest articles by Donna LeValley
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12 Things You Must Know About Claiming and Maximizing Your Social Security Benefits
Social Security Claiming Social Security benefits at the right time means more money for you. Here’s a guide to everything from knowing your retirement age to spousal benefits.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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Leap Day: Financial Pros and Cons
2024 is a leap year and this Thursday February 29 a leap day, giving you one more day to achieve your goals — and pay interest on your loans.
By Donna LeValley Published
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Boost Your Social Security Benefit Every Month You Delay
social security You don't need to wait an entire year beyond your full retirement age to earn delayed retirement credits.
By Kimberly Lankford Last updated
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Reverse Mortgages: 10 Things You Must Know
Mortgages Reverse mortgages can be complicated so it’s imperative that you understand how the loan is repaid, the monthly costs and potential scams to look out for.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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Social Security Earnings Tests: 5 Things You Must Know
social security If you’re still working and claim Social Security early, your benefits could be reduced, at least temporarily.
By Jackie Stewart Last updated
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11 Costly Medicare Mistakes You Should Avoid Making
Medicare If you don't make the right choices, you could end up with high Medicare premiums and big out-of-pocket costs.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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Get Free Pancakes on National Pancake Day February 13
Celebrate National Pancake Day and Shrove Tuesday with some free pancakes.
By Donna LeValley Published
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5 Financial Red Flags to Watch for in Relationships
Financial red flags can impact whether you and your mate can have a financially sound future together.
By Donna LeValley Published
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7 Things Medicare Doesn’t Cover
Healthy Living on a Budget Medicare Part A and Part B leave some pretty significant gaps in your health-care coverage. But Medicare Advantage has problems, too.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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How Moving Might Impact Your Medicare Coverage
Your Medicare plan’s coverage area will determine if you need to make changes after a move.
By Donna LeValley Published
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The 10 Most Expensive Cities to Live in the U.S.
real estate From metro areas on both coasts to the middle of the Pacific Ocean, these are the most expensive cities to live in the U.S.
By Dan Burrows Last updated
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Best Time of Year to Buy A House
You can potentially find a good deal at any time of year, but certain seasons or even months have the perfect blend of inventory, supply and price. Here's when to look.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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The Fed's Latest Move Is Good News for Homebuyers
A steady Fed rate means mortgage rates might stabilize in a tight housing market.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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The 25 Cheapest Places to Live: U.S. Cities Edition
places to live Have a look at the cheapest places to live in America for city dwellers. Is one of the cheapest places to live in the U.S. right for you?
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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Starbucks 2024 Deals: BOGO Weekends, $3 Drinks, Triple Stars
Starbucks is extending its January 2024 deals through the end of the week, offering triple stars day, $3 grande drinks and BOGO weekends.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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When to Expect Your First Social Security Check of 2024
The Social Security monthly payment schedule is based on your birthday.
By Donna LeValley Published
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The Benefits of I Bonds vs EE Bonds To Store Your Savings
All of the information you'll need to choose between Series I and EE savings bonds.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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U.S. Postage Stamp Prices to Rise to 68 cents from 66 cents
USPS price increases will take effect on January 21, 2024. The price of First-Class Mail will increase to 68 cents from 66 cents.
By Donna LeValley Published
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USPS Change of Address Policy: What You Need to Know
The new USPS address change policy requires you to verify your identity before a change request is granted. Learn about how it works.
By Donna LeValley Published
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Checklist of 5 Things You Can Do In 2024 To Improve And Secure Your Finances
Checklist of 5 Things You Can Do In 2024 To Improve And Secure Your Finances
By Donna LeValley Published
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Smart Money Moves to Make Before Year End
Financial Planning You can take action now to lower your taxes, save money and enhance your finances for 2024.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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What You’ll Pay for Medicare in 2024
Medicare premiums are updated yearly and in 2024 premiums for Part B and Part B increased slightly after falling in 2023.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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Medicare Premiums 2024: IRMAA for Parts B and D
The income related monthly adjustment amount (IRMAA) for 2024 Medicare Part B & Part D Premiums.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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The Pros and Cons of Fixed-Rate Loans
real estate Consider these pluses and minuses before jumping into a loan you'll be paying for the next 15 to 30 years.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
real estate