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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Before You Go to Costco, Try This Grocery Strategy FirstA simple shift in how you plan meals could help you spend and waste less.
By Choncé Maddox
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Why Most Millionaires Don't Feel Wealthy — and What It Really Takes to Feel Financially SecureA growing share of Americans reach millionaire status yet still worry about money. Here's why wealth feels different today and how to build true financial confidence.
By Choncé Maddox
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Money Questions Couples Should Ask Before Combining Finances or Planning a Future TogetherHonest financial conversations can reduce stress, strengthen trust and help couples align long-term goals.
By Choncé Maddox
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The High Cost of Sunshine: How Insurance and Housing Are Reshaping Snowbird LivingThe snowbird lifestyle is changing as insurance and housing costs climb. Here’s how retirees are adapting and where they’re choosing to go.
By Choncé Maddox
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How Much It Costs to Host a Super Bowl Party in 2026Hosting a Super Bowl party in 2026 could cost you. Here's a breakdown of food, drink and entertainment costs — plus ways to save.
By Choncé Maddox
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The Cost of Leaving Your Money in a Low-Rate AccountWhy parking your cash in low-yield accounts could be costing you, and smarter alternatives that preserve liquidity while boosting returns.
By Choncé Maddox
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Are Costco Gold Bars Worth IT?How Costco's bullion program works, how to get the best deal and whether it makes sense for investors.
By Choncé Maddox
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Pay-As-You-Go vs. Monthly Plans: Which Saves More for Light Phone Users?Sponsored
Light phone users may be paying for data they never use. Here's how pay-as-you-go and low-cost monthly plans really compare.
By Choncé Maddox
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Do You Really Need All Those Phone Plan Perks?Sponsored
Unlimited data plans now come bundled with streaming, travel perks and device deals — but many people pay for extras they rarely use.
By Choncé Maddox
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Is the Housing Market's 'Lock-In Effect' Finally Starting to Ease?As mortgage rates stabilize and fewer owners hold ultra-low loans, the lock-in effect may be losing its grip.
By Choncé Maddox
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An Unexpected Way Your Insurance Can Get More ExpensiveHow insurers are using aerial imagery to assess homes, the backlash from policyholders and how state regulators are trying to rein in the practice.
By Choncé Maddox
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The Financial Details Every Couple Should Share (Before There’s an Emergency)From passwords to policy numbers, having shared access to key accounts can prevent financial chaos when life throws a curveball.
By Choncé Maddox
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What Bilt Cardholders Need to Know as Wells Fargo Exits the ProgramA major shake-up in the Bilt Rewards program could affect your credit card, rent rewards and points strategy in 2026.
By Choncé Maddox
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Countries That Will Pay You to Move: Cash Grants, Incentives and What to KnowExplore real relocation incentives — from cash grants and tax breaks to startup funding — that make moving abroad or to smaller towns more affordable and rewarding.
By Choncé Maddox
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How to Plan a Microvacation That Actually Feels RestfulHow a simple long weekend can boost your mood, reduce stress and make winter feel shorter.
By Choncé Maddox
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Builders Are Offering Big Mortgage Incentives — What Homebuyers Should Watch ForBuilder credits and below-market mortgage rates can ease affordability pressures, but the savings often come with trade-offs buyers should understand before signing.
By Choncé Maddox
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All That Cash in Your Checking Account Might Be Holding You BackKeeping too much cash in your checking account might seem safe, but it could be costing you in missed opportunities.
By Choncé Maddox
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How AI Is Changing the Way Americans Spend on Live EventsAI bots are reshaping ticket prices, resale markets and how fans shop. Here's what it means for your wallet and how to get the best deals on concerts, sports and shows.
By Choncé Maddox
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CD vs. Money Market: Where to Put Your Year-End Bonus NowFalling interest rates have savers wondering where to park cash. Here's how much $10,000 earns in today's best CDs versus leading money market accounts.
By Choncé Maddox
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Should You Tap Your Home Equity Before 2026?As borrowing rates and tax law shifts converge, here's what homeowners need to know before pulling equity out of their home.
By Choncé Maddox
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Frontier’s GoWild! Annual Flight Pass: Is the $349 All‑You‑Can‑Fly Deal Worth It?Frontier’s GoWild! Pass offers unlimited flights for $349, but blackout dates, standby rules and fees apply. See who benefits and if it’s worth it.
By Choncé Maddox
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Why This Year’s Black Friday Deals May Fall ShortFrom rising import duties to supply-chain cost creep, the discounts you expect may be smaller this year.
By Choncé Maddox
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6 Quick Money Moves to Make Before the Year EndsFinish the year strong with smart money moves that can boost savings, trim taxes and set you up for a better 2026.
By Choncé Maddox
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How Much Should You Spend on Holiday Gifts This SeasonWith U.S. consumers spending near record levels on holiday items, here's how much to allocate for gift-giving, how to avoid debt and how to fit your budget into your bigger financial picture.
By Choncé Maddox
