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Alene Laney

Alene Laney

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

amex gold card review

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.

best credit cards for restaurants

Best Credit Cards for Restaurants and Dining in December 2024

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.

Mastercard Black Card

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.

Tax efficient investing

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.

tax deductions

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.

freedom unlimited card review

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

Best Mastercard Credit Cards in December 2024

These are the best of the best credit cards branded and processed by Mastercard. Will one make sense for your wallet?

credit cards for fair credit

Best Credit Cards for Fair or Average Credit in December 2024

What options do borrowers with fair credit have when it comes to picking a credit card? These are our recommendations.

best credit cards bad credit

Best Credit Cards for Bad Credit for December 2024

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 card

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

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

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

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.

United Club Infinite 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.

What Is a Solo 401(k)?

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

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

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 December 2024

Don’t get buried in fees when you’re traveling abroad. Keep one of these cards in your wallet instead.

best robo advisors

The 7 Best Robo-Advisors of December 2024

Robo-advisor investment portfolios vary more than you might expect. Here are our latest recommendations for the best robo-advisors.

fixed income investments

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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