Personal Finance
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Alene Laney is an award-winning personal finance writer with over ten years of experience in media. She writes about optimizing money choices when it comes to credit, award travel, saving, investing, real estate, mortgages and taxes.
Articles by Alene Laney
Best Credit Cards for Restaurants and Dining in February 2025
If you want to earn rewards for dining, you’ll need the right card. These are our recommendations for the best credit cards for restaurants.
American Express Gold Card Review 2024
Is the American Express Gold card worth its annual fee? Read about the rewards structure, features, and alternatives in our review of this popular card.
United Club Infinite Card Review 2024
United’s premium credit card, the United Club Infinite, is jam-packed with features and benefits, but it may not hold enough value for infrequent travelers.
Mastercard Black Card Review 2024
Is the Mastercard Black Card worth the $495 annual fee? See if it makes sense for you in our review.
Everything You Need to Know About Tax-Efficient Investing
Tax-efficient investing can help keep more money in your pocket. Here are the accounts, investments, and strategies you should look at.
What Is the Standard Tax Deduction?
Taking the standard deduction is easy when you’re filing your taxes, but is it the right option for your situation? Take a look at how much it is for 2024 and 2025.
Chase Freedom Unlimited Review 2024
The Chase Freedom Unlimited’s 1.5% cash back on everyday purchases is made even more valuable by its connection to the Ultimate Rewards program.
Best Mastercard Credit Cards in February 2025
These are the best of the best credit cards branded and processed by Mastercard. Will one make sense for your wallet?
Best Credit Cards for Fair or Average Credit in February 2025
What options do borrowers with fair credit have when it comes to picking a credit card? These are our recommendations.
Best Credit Cards for Bad Credit for February 2025
The best credit cards for bad credit can help you build your credit score for a better financial future. These are our recommendations. See why they were chosen.
Business Credit Cards: How to Get One in 5 Simple Steps
Wondering how to get a business credit card? Your personal credit score can help if you’re looking to get one of the best small business credit cards out there.
Prosper Card Review 2024
The Prosper card only offers basic features, but it doesn’t require a security deposit and is geared toward borrowers with low credit scores. Will this work for you?
How to Get a Loan With Bad Credit
It can be difficult to get a loan with bad credit. The right lenders and sufficient income will go a long way to help.
Common Stock vs. Preferred Stock: What’s the Difference?
Common stock offers voting rights and exposure to the market. Preferred stock offers a fixed-rate dividend, but more modest capital appreciation. They have different risks, returns, and purposes. What to know before you invest.
What is a solo 401(k)?
A solo 401(k) is a retirement account for self-employed individuals who need higher limits to fast-track their retirement savings.
What Is an IRS 1099 Form
Form 1099 reports income from sources other than employment. It’s filed differently than Form 1040 for wages, so you may need help in understanding all the requirements.
World of Hyatt Credit Card Review 2024
The World of Hyatt credit card enhances the World of Hyatt loyalty program with strong category bonus earnings, accelerated status, and a free night every year.
Best Credit Cards With No Foreign Transaction Fees in February 2025
Don’t get buried in fees when you’re traveling abroad. Keep one of these cards in your wallet instead.
The 7 Best Robo-Advisors of February 2025
Robo-advisor investment portfolios vary more than you might expect. Here are our latest recommendations for the best robo-advisors.
Best Fixed Income Investments in 2024
The best fixed-income investments help your money grow with less risk than stocks. Here are some top options, with tips on how to get started.
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