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. She is a graduate of Brooklyn Law School and the University at Buffalo.
Latest articles by Donna LeValley
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The 9 Key Milestone Ages In Retirement
These nine milestone ages mark your eligibility for significant retirement benefits, including catch-up contributions and required actions, such as taking RMDs at age 73.
By Donna LeValley
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9 Upgrades That Transform Your Family Home Into a Retirement Oasis
Here's a look at the smart, luxury modifications that prioritize your recovery, relaxation and effortless entertaining.
By Donna LeValley
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The Surprising Monthly ‘Raise’ You Can Give Yourself Without Working Longer
social security You don't need to wait an entire year beyond your full retirement age to earn delayed retirement credits.
By Donna LeValley
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The IRMAA Income Trap Quiz: What Really Counts?
From municipal bonds to Roth conversions — take our quiz to find out if you know which income streams push you into higher Medicare brackets.
By Donna LeValley
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Why Your Medicare Premiums Are $200 Higher Than They Should Be
Here's how overpayments to Medicare Advantage plans are driving up Part B costs for every Medicare beneficiary.
By Donna LeValley
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The 10 Most Costly Social Security Mistakes to Avoid
Want to maximize your Social Security check? Learn the 10 most common Social Security filing errors and the steps you need to take to boost your guaranteed retirement income.
By Donna LeValley
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Turning 65 in 2026? Here Is Exactly How to Sign Up for Medicare
Don't miss the critical window for Medicare enrollment. This guide explains how to secure coverage and avoid costly mistakes.
By Donna LeValley
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Regret Your Move to Medicare Advantage? Two 'Safety Nets' Can Help
Discover the federal protections (one expires on April 1) and state-level hurdles you’ll face when switching from Medicare Advantage back to original Medicare.
By Donna LeValley
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Quiz: Can You Hit 'Reset' on Your Social Security Check?
Quiz Whether you're looking for a total "do-over" or just a temporary "pause," this quick quiz reveals exactly what is — and isn't — possible.
By Donna LeValley
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Quiz: Do You Understand the Social Security Earnings Test?
Quiz Take this quick quiz to test your knowledge of the Social Security earnings test and avoid being surprised by a smaller check than you expect.
By Donna LeValley
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Protect Your Retirement Wealth After Moving to a Cheaper State
While a move can protect your legacy, many retirees stumble at the finish line by ignoring the strict state residency tests used to challenge their new status.
By Donna LeValley
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9 Tips to Declutter Your Home Before Your Retirement Move
Planning to declutter your home — whether you're moving or downsizing — can be overwhelming. Here's how to do it.
By Dawn Wotapka
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Medicare and Moving: A Guide to Keeping Your Coverage
Your Medicare plan’s coverage area will determine if you need to make changes after a move.
By Donna LeValley
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6 Reasons to Disinherit Someone and How to Do It
Whether you're navigating a second marriage, handling an estranged relative or leaving assets to charity, there are reasons to disinherit someone. Here's how.
By Donna LeValley
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Social Security Garnishment Rules: What Retirees Need to Know
Do you know who can garnish your monthly Social Security benefit? Or take the funds from your bank account? Learn how to protect your benefits from creditors.
By Donna LeValley
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The Average Social Security Check in Every State
Do you live in this New England state with the heftiest check? Your Social Security benefit can be affected by where you live.
By Donna LeValley
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Social Security Payment Schedule for 2026
Find out when you can expect your 2026 Social Security payments and the date you get paid when your scheduled day falls on a holiday.
By Donna LeValley
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The Average Social Security Check by Age
Compare your average Social Security check with others of your age, and plan for the future.
By Donna LeValley
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Find Hidden Savings With A Home Energy Audit
With rising energy prices and inflation, now's a great time to check the efficiency of your home and find the most cost-effective fixes.
By Patricia Mertz Esswein
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The Average Monthly Social Security Check: February 2026
The average monthly Social Security check amount might surprise you. Here's a look at February's numbers and why they matter.
By Donna LeValley
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I want original Medicare, but my wife chose Medicare Advantage for us
We retired with $4.6 million. Even so, our Medicare Advantage plan limits coverage when we travel or want to see a specialist. How can I convince my wife to switch?
By Donna LeValley
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Where to Move Your Money Before the Next Fed Meeting
Savings rates remain high for now. But with the Fed's next move up on the air, it's time for savers to lock in rates now.
By Donna LeValley
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Which Airlines Have the Most Legroom — and Which Have the Least?
Care about legroom? This list ranks major airlines by legroom and tells you which of their fleet is the roomiest.
By Donna LeValley
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International Travel with Medications: Know Before You Go
When you travel with medications abroad, good planning can help avoid getting your prescriptions confiscated — or worse. Here's how to stay on the right side of the law.
By Donna LeValley
