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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What Is an Assumable Mortgage and Could It Save You Thousands?Learn how assumable mortgages work, who qualifies and when taking over a seller's loan could save you money.
By Choncé Maddox
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Cruise Insurance and Crime at Sea: Are You Covered for the Unexpected?Learn what cruise insurance covers including medical issues, theft, trip delays and whether it protects against piracy or crime at sea.
By Choncé Maddox
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New Microsoft Scam Targets Outlook and Microsoft 365 UsersThis phishing scam doesn't rely on a fake website. Instead, it tricks users into approving access themselves.
By Choncé Maddox
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You Survived 'Maycember.' Here are 8 Ways to CelebrateParents spend May juggling packed calendars, emotional labor and rising costs. Here are a few worthwhile ways to finally splurge on themselves this summer.
By Choncé Maddox
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10 Things You Should Not Keep in a Storage UnitBefore you rent a storage unit, learn which 10 items you should never store in one.
By Choncé Maddox
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The Astounding Amount Parents are Spending on Kids' SportsFamily spending on youth sports has surged as year-round leagues, training and travel become increasingly common.
By Choncé Maddox
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What TSA Gold+ Means for Your Next TripThe TSA's expanding use of private airport security contractors. U.S. Here's how TSA Gold+ might affect wait times, consistency and future air travel.
By Choncé Maddox
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How to Avoid Overpaying for Flights in 2026 as Prices Keep ClimbingAirfare is climbing. Learn when to book flights and smart ways to save on tickets in 2026.
By Choncé Maddox
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How to Relist Your Home After a Sale Falls Through: What to Change on Price, Agent and Home IssuesA failed home sale isn't the end. Learn how to relist your home, reset pricing and marketing and improve your chances of closing.
By Choncé Maddox
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One Financial Detail That Can Cost You After a DivorceDivorce does not separate credit card debt. Here is what can follow you and how to protect your credit.
By Choncé Maddox
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3 Ways to Lower Your Car Payment Without Buying a New CarSponsored
Learn how to lower your monthly bill without trading in your vehicle.
By Choncé Maddox
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Gas Prices Are Climbing — Should You Rent an EV for Your Road Trip?With gas prices trending higher, electric vehicles are getting a second look. Here's how to compare total costs before you book.
By Choncé Maddox
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Sell, Borrow or Stay? How to Use Home Equity in RetirementLearn how to preserve your property's value, tap equity for income and make smart choices about downsizing, renting or leaving a legacy.
By Choncé Maddox
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When Does Refinancing Make Sense?Thinking about refinancing your mortgage? Here's what you need to consider.
By Choncé Maddox
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Why retirees are spending more on travel nowHere is what the SKI trend means for your retirement plan.
By Choncé Maddox
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Are T-Mobile's Prepaid Perks a Home Run or a Strikeout?Sponsored
T-Mobile's prepaid lineup promises MLB.TV, T-Mobile Tuesdays and hotspot data. But do the perks make it worth switching?
By Choncé Maddox
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Mortgage Rates Are Rising Again — Here's What You Should DoGeopolitical tension, inflation pressure and shifting demand are pushing rates higher. Here's how the housing market is reacting and what it means if you're planning to buy, sell or refinance.
By Choncé Maddox
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The Goods That Get More Expensive as Oil Prices RiseFrom groceries to flights, higher oil prices ripple through your budget. Here's how the chain reaction works and when you might start to feel it.
By Choncé Maddox
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The Best Week to Sell Your Home in 2026 Could Boost Your PriceNew data reveal the best week to sell your home in 2026 and how timing could boost your sale price.
By Choncé Maddox
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Used EV Prices Are Falling — Here's How They Compare to Gas Cars NowFuel savings can add up quickly, but insurance, charging access and driving habits still matter.
By Choncé Maddox
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Paramount+ Slashes Prices — Should You Upgrade to Premium?Sponsored
A rare promotion discounts both plans to $2.99, but the long-term cost matters more than the headline price.
By Choncé Maddox
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What Your Tax Refund Could Earn Instead of Sitting With the IRSMany taxpayers celebrate a large refund. But that same money might have quietly earned interest or investment returns all year long.
By Choncé Maddox
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7 Rules Frequent Flyers Swear ByFrom 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
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Buying a Home This Year? 3 Moves to Make Before the Next Fed MeetingA few smart financial moves now can help you qualify for better mortgage terms and act quickly if the market shifts.
By Choncé Maddox
