
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 15 Most Expensive Cities to Live in the US
Real estate From metro areas on both coasts to the middle of the Pacific Ocean, these are the most expensive cities to live in the U.S.
By Dan Burrows Last updated
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Quiz: Do You Know What Medicare Gives You for Free?
Quiz This quiz tests your knowledge of the services that Medicare provides at no cost to you.
By Donna LeValley Published
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Are COVID Shots Still Covered By Medicare?
Getting the new COVID-19 vaccine covered by Medicare isn't as easy this year as it was in the past. Here's what you need to know before you take a trip to your pharmacy.
By Donna LeValley Published
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The Average Monthly Social Security Check: August 2025
The average monthly Social Security check amount might surprise you. Here's a look at the numbers and why they matter.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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What’s the Best Medigap Plan for You?
Medicare The 10 Medigap plans offer different levels of benefits that pay for expenses, such as co-payments, not covered by original Medicare.
By Jackie Stewart Last updated
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Where to Move Your Money Before the Next Fed Meeting
Savings rates remain high for now. But with the Fed likely to cut rates at its September meeting, it's time for savers to lock in rates now.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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How Medigap Insurance Is Affected by Preexisting Conditions
insurance Delaying enrollment in a medigap policy can lead to higher premiums and denial of coverage in most states.
By Kimberly Lankford Last updated
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Don't Toss It! Why Your Medicare Annual Notice of Change Matters
If you have Medicare Part D or a Medicare Advantage plan, reviewing your Annual Notice of Change is crucial. It can save you money and ensure you can still see your preferred doctors and hospitals.
By Donna LeValley Published
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Quiz: Social Security Basics
Quiz Test your basic knowledge of the Social Security program in our quick quiz.
By Donna LeValley Published
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Medicare Prior Authorization Expands to Ambulatory Surgical Centers
Starting in December, Medicare will begin requiring prior authorization for certain procedures when performed in ambulatory surgical centers.
By Donna LeValley Published
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Medicare Premiums 2026: Projected IRMAA Brackets and Surcharges for Parts B and D
Will you have to pay the monthly Medicare premium surcharge next year? It depends on a few factors.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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Delay Social Security Benefits — Even by a Month — to Boost Your Check
social security You don't need to wait an entire year beyond your full retirement age to earn delayed retirement credits.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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IRA and SEP Rules at a Glance: Contribution Limits, Income Limits and Rollover Options
Here are IRA contribution limits, income limits and rollover rules for Roth, traditional, SIMPLE and SEP IRAs at a glance.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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Is Your Estate at Risk? The Five Trusts You May Be Missing
You can use these trusts to cement your legacy, organize your estate and limit your exposure to estate and gift taxes.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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How Your Social Security Check Changes at Ages 62, 65, 66, 67 and 70
The longer you wait, the bigger your Social Security check. We break it down by the most common ages at which people claim their benefits.
By Donna LeValley Published
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Vaccines Medicare Covers for Free in 2025
The U.S. is experiencing an outbreak of measles and is on track to have the most whooping cough cases since 1948; these vaccines Medicare covers for free can keep you safe.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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Why Is My First Medicare Bill So High?
Your first Medicare bill may be higher than expected for several reasons. If your premiums aren't taken out of your Social Security benefit, the bill can be huge.
By Donna LeValley Published
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What Is the Par Value of Bonds?
Understanding par value will help you determine the value of a bond.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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Ten Cheapest Small Towns to Live In
The cheapest small towns might not be for everyone, but their charms can make them the best places to live for plenty of folks.
By Dan Burrows Last updated
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How to Get a Refund For a Water Leak
real estate Refunds for water leaks are available from municipalities if you report and fix the problem.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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Six Changes Coming to Social Security in 2026
Big changes are coming to Social Security in the year ahead, impacting everything from the size of your benefit check to your full retirement age. Here's what you need to know.
By Donna LeValley Published
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Medicare Premiums Projected to Jump in 2026
In 2026, Medicare participants will pay more for their health care. Part B costs are expected to rise more than 10%. Here's what you can do.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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Social Security Turns 90 — Five Important Things to Know
Social Security has become a cornerstone of the American retirement system and works to keep over 16 million retirees above the poverty line. Here are five key facts about the program as it turns 90.
By Donna LeValley Published
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How Much Will Social Security's 2033 Shortfall Cost You?
The Social Security trust fund will be insolvent in 2033 and by 2035 will have to reduce benefits by 23%. Here is now much more you need to save to cover the potential shortfall.
By Donna LeValley Last updated