
Choncé Maddox
Choncé Maddox is a contributor to Kiplinger, where she writes about smart ways to manage money, including how to save wisely, find deals on everyday purchases, and make confident financial decisions. She’s especially passionate about helping readers understand the practical steps they can take to pay off debt, build a budget that works, and create a financial plan that supports their goals.
With more than nine years of experience as a personal finance writer, Choncé has written about mortgages and mortgage refinancing for Fox Business, covered investing topics for Business Insider, and contributed to sites such as LendingTree, Credit Sesame, Barclaycard, and the New York Post.
In 2017, she became a Certified Financial Education Instructor through the National Financial Educators Council. Her interest in how life insurance plays a role in family finances led her to briefly work as a licensed life insurance agent in Illinois before returning to her full-time writing career.
Choncé holds a B.A. in Journalism and Communications from Northern Illinois University.
Latest articles by Choncé Maddox
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Cruise Insurance and Crime at Sea: Are You Covered for the Unexpected?
Understand how to protect your cruise investment from crime, chaos and the unexpected at sea.
By Choncé Maddox Last updated
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Taste the Nation: Five James Beard Award–Winning Restaurants Worth Traveling For
From coastal kitchens to mountain towns, these celebrated restaurants don't just serve meals — they anchor destination-worthy trips for food lovers.
By Choncé Maddox Published
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A Cruiser’s Guide to Carnival’s Revamped Rewards Program
With Carnival launching a revamped dual‑earning loyalty program in June 2026, learn how to rack up points and tier status more strategically — aboard and ashore.
By Choncé Maddox Published
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How Amazon Will Deliver Your Prime Day 2025 Orders — From Vans to Drones
Amazon Prime Day returns July 8–11 with 96 hours of deals, and a wide range of high-tech and flexible delivery options to match the shopping surge.
By Choncé Maddox Published
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Student Loan Delinquencies Are Hurting Credit Scores — Even for Parents and Grandparents
Millions of borrowers are falling behind on student loan payments, triggering steep credit score drops. If you or your family carry student debt, here's what you need to know now.
By Choncé Maddox Published
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Alaska Airlines Charts First Non-Stop Transatlantic Route: Seattle to Rome
Alaska Airlines announces its inaugural nonstop flight to Europe, connecting Seattle to Rome starting May 2026, marking a significant milestone in the airline's international expansion.
By Choncé Maddox Published
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Seven Rules Frequent Flyers Swear By
From dodging long lines to avoiding bad coffee, these clever travel rules can help you save time, stay healthy and reduce stress every time you fly.
By Choncé Maddox Published
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Ford Recall 2025: Rearview Camera Glitch Affects 1.1 Million Vehicles
Over 1 million Ford and Lincoln vehicles are being recalled due to a software issue affecting rearview cameras. Here's what models are impacted and how owners can address the problem.
By Choncé Maddox Published
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Stacked but Stagnant: All That Cash in Your Checking Account Might Be Holding You Back
Keeping too much cash in your checking account might seem safe, but it could be costing you in missed opportunities.
By Choncé Maddox Published
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Swipe Surcharge: How to Avoid Gas Station Credit Card Surcharges
Some gas stations are charging up to $1 more per gallon for credit card payments. Learn how to spot these fees and save on fuel.
By Choncé Maddox Published
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United Airlines Raises the Bar with New Business Class Suites
Discover how United's new Polaris Studio suites redefine luxury and comfort on long-haul flights.
By Choncé Maddox Published
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Is Flying in America Still Safe? Navigating the Turbulence in U.S. Air Travel
With outdated systems and staffing shortages causing disruptions, here's what travelers need to know to stay safe and protect their plans.
By Choncé Maddox Published
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Google Wallet Expands Digital ID Support Across More States and Services
From TSA checkpoints to online verification, we dive into Google Wallet's growing role in digital identification.
By Choncé Maddox Published
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Ford Sticker Shock: Tariffs Trigger Price Hikes on Popular Models
Why Ford is raising prices on three of its popular models and what it means for car buyers.
By Choncé Maddox Published
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Walmart Scan & Go Review: Does It Really Save Time?
Is Walmart’s Scan & Go really faster? Learn how this Walmart+ feature works, its pros and cons, and whether it actually saves you time and hassle at checkout.
By Choncé Maddox Published
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Amazon Prime Day 2025: Tariff Troubles and What Shoppers Should Expect
Amazon Prime Day 2025 is happening this July, but new tariffs and supply chain issues could affect deals and availability. Here’s what shoppers need to know before they load their carts.
By Choncé Maddox Published
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Walmart+ Week 2025: Top Deals, Streaming Perks and Member-Only Savings
Walmart+ Week runs April 28 –May 4 with fuel savings, free express delivery and six months of Paramount+ with SHOWTIME. See all the perks.
By Choncé Maddox Published
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Verizon’s Free iPhone Deal: What to Know Before You Switch or Upgrade
Verizon is offering a free smartphone — including the latest iPhones — with any myPlan, plus a three-year price lock. But is it really the best deal for you?
By Choncé Maddox Published
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Read, Reset, Repeat: Six Books to Clear Your Mind (or Totally Escape It)
From breakthrough habits to beach-worthy thrillers, these summer reads will help you refocus your mind or blissfully forget what day it is.
By Choncé Maddox Last updated
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Three Simple Ways to Live Greener This Earth Day
Celebrate Earth Day with three simple, impactful habits — save energy, go green at home and give back to nature.
By Choncé Maddox Last updated
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Looking for the best Easter deals of 2025? We’ve rounded up 20 can’t-miss savings from Amazon, Target, Walmart and Best Buy.
These Easter deals from popular retailers are perfect for filling baskets, decorating your home and scoring last-minute gifts without overspending.
By Choncé Maddox Published