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.
Latest articles by Donna LeValley
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CDs vs Bonds: Which Is Better for You?
Comparing the benefits of CDs and bonds
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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Fans vs Air Conditioners: Which Is the Cheaper Way to Cool Off?
Fans are cheaper than air conditioners but significantly less effective when the temperature and humidity soar.
By Donna LeValley Published
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NYC Congestion Pricing Is On Hold. What It Means For You
The NYC congestion pricing plan is on indefinite hold and will not take effect on June 30, following a U-turn from NY's Governor.
By Donna LeValley Published
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What Home Equity Is and Why It's a Valuable Long-Term Investment
Understanding what home equity is and why it's such a valued long-term investment.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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Nine Things to Keep in a Home Safe
Put these valuables in a home safe, not a bank safety deposit box (or under a mattress). You'll be glad you did.
By Donna LeValley Published
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Costco Will Limit Access to $1.50 Hot Dogs
After April 7, you must be a Costco member to buy the $1.50 hot dog soda combo.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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How to Protect Your Home From Deed Theft
Scams Protect yourself from deed theft with these free steps. You don’t need to pay a company to protect your your home title.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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Graceland Targeted for Deed Theft by Cons Disguised as Lenders
A fraudulent foreclosure of Graceland was attempted using forged loan documents.
By Donna LeValley Published
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In-Ground vs. Above-Ground Pools: Which Is the Best Investment?
A pool is an expensive home improvement project that will likely improve your quality of life, but it doesn’t necessarily add value to your home.
By Donna LeValley Published
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Starbucks Deals: Summer Specials Available Now
Starbucks is offering exclusive in-app offers every Monday and Friday in May as part of its summer App-y Days promo.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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How to Stay Cool Without Air Conditioning: 12 Tips
No AC? No problem. These tips will keep your home cool and comfortable in summer, reduce energy use and save on energy costs.
By Donna LeValley Published
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The 25 Cheapest Places to Live: U.S. Cities Edition
places to live Have a look at the cheapest places to live in America for city dwellers. Is one of the cheapest places to live in the U.S. right for you?
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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Best Cities to Start a Career 2024 — and the Worst
The best cities for starting a career also provide substantial income growth potential and pleasant work conditions.
By Donna LeValley Published
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Free Things to Do in New York City
Seven free things to do in New York City, so you can better enjoy the most expensive city in the country.
By Donna LeValley Published
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Should You Buy Life Insurance? Four Cases When You Should or Shouldn't
insurance If no one depends on your income for support, you probably don't need life insurance at all.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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What Does Medicare Not Cover? Seven Things You Should Know
Healthy Living on a Budget Medicare Part A and Part B leave gaps in your health care coverage. But Medicare Advantage has problems, too.
By Donna LeValley Published
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The Benefits of I Bonds vs EE Bonds To Store Your Savings
All of the information you'll need to choose between Series I and EE savings bonds.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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NYC Congestion Pricing Makes Traveling By Car More Expensive
The congestion pricing fee schedule has been finalized and it will begin on June 30.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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What Is Collision Insurance and What Does It Cover?
insurance Collision insurance is often optional, but there are many good reasons to include it in your policy.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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What You’ll Pay for Medicare in 2024
Medicare premiums are updated yearly and in 2024 premiums for Part B and Part B increased slightly after falling in 2023.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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What Is Comprehensive Auto Insurance and What Does It Cover?
insurance This grab bag of coverages can protect you and your vehicle from theft, fire and forces of nature.
By Donna LeValley Last updated
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Social Security Earnings Tests: 5 Things You Must Know
social security If you’re still working and claim Social Security early, your benefits could be reduced, at least temporarily.
By Jackie Stewart Last updated
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How to Save on Energy Bills: Get an Audit
With rising energy prices and inflation, now's a great time to check the efficiency of your home.
By Patricia Mertz Esswein Last updated
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How to Declutter Your Home If You're Moving or Downsizing
Planning to declutter your home — whether you're moving or downsizing — can be overwhelming. Here's how to do it.
By Dawn Wotapka Last updated