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 5 Trusts You Need to Understand
You can use these trusts to cement your legacy, organize your estate and limit your exposure to estate and gift taxes.
By Donna LeValley
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Six Changes to Social Security in 2026
Big changes come to Social Security every year, impacting everything from the size of your benefit check to your full retirement age. Here's what you need to know.
By Donna LeValley
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How Alaska Became the Only State With No Medicare Advantage
While the Lower 48 shift to private plans, Alaska is proving that original Medicare can still deliver high-quality care at the edge of the world.
By Donna LeValley
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Estate Planning Quiz: Are You Making These 10 Common Errors?
Quiz From "tax traps" to "safety deposit box blunders," discover the 10 most common mistakes people make when planning their estate.
By Donna LeValley
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5 Social Security Myths That Can Cost You Thousands
Before you collect Social Security benefits, make sure you don't believe any of these falsehoods.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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When Will Social Security and Medicare Run Out of Money?
Social Security and Medicare trust funds, which help pay benefits, are projected to run dry. What will happen then?
By Elaine Silvestrini
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Quiz: Could You Age in Place Today? Test Your Readiness
Your home, your life, your rules. Master the basics of aging in place and take control of your future with our 10-question home safety knowledge check.
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
