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Laura

Laura Gariepy

Laura has been a freelance writer since 2018. Her work primarily focuses on managing your money, navigating your career, and running a successful business. Her words have been featured in U.S. News & World Report, Fortune Recommends, The New York Post, USA Today, and many other publications. She earned her MBA and a Bachelor's in Psychology during her previous career in human resources.

Posts by Laura Gariepy

Your 0% Intro APR Is Ending? Here's Your Action Plan to Save on Interest

0% intro APR ending soon? Here’s what happens when the promo ends and how to avoid costly interest: confirm your end date, set a payoff target, and choose the best next step, from faster payments to a balance transfer or rate reduction.
Read MoreJan 29, 2026
Your 0% Intro APR Is Ending? Here's Your Action Plan to Save on Interest

Travel During the Holidays? Unlock Big Savings with These Credit Card Perks

From free upgrades to trip protection, discover the hidden credit card benefits that make holiday travel smoother and more affordable.
Read MoreJan 27, 2026
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Travel Insurance Through Credit Cards: What You Need to Know

Credit card travel insurance offers financial protection against trip cancellations, delays, lost baggage, rental car damage, and travel accidents when you pay for your trip with an eligible card.
Read MoreJan 20, 2026
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0% APR on Purchases & Balance Transfers: Your Expert Guide to Making Smart Moves

A 0% APR offer can give you a break from high card interest, helping you pay down debt or cover a big purchase without interest for a limited time. The savings only stick if you follow the rules: pay on time, watch for fees, and plan to pay it off before the promo ends.
Read MoreJan 15, 2026
0% APR on Purchases & Balance Transfers: Your Expert Guide to Making Smart Moves

How Much Does a Vet Visit Cost? Understanding Pet Care Expenses in 2026

Pet ownership can be a joy, but it also comes with significant costs. Between diagnostic testing, vaccinations, and x-rays, a visit to the vet can quickly become expensive.
Read MoreJan 14, 2026
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12 Ways To Get a Lower Mortgage Rate

Even a 1% rate difference can translate into tens of thousands of dollars over the life of a loan. For example, on a $400,000 30-year mortgage, moving from 6.5% to 7.5% can mean roughly $95K–$100K in additional interest, depending on fees and exact loan terms.
Read MoreJan 11, 2026
A man and a woman standing in front of their house after learning how to get a lower mortgage rate.

Pet Insurance That Pays Vets Directly: Simplify Your Vet Visits

When your dog suddenly needs emergency surgery or your cat requires expensive diagnostics, the last thing you want to worry about is paying thousands upfront while your pet is in pain. Pet insurance that pays veterinarians directly eliminates this financial stress by settling covered bills at checkout, letting you focus entirely on your pet's recovery.
Read MoreDec 17, 2025
Pet Insurance That Pays Vets Directly: Hassle-Free Coverage for Your Pet's Care

Pet Insurance that Covers Pre-Existing Conditions: What You Need to Know

Understanding pre-existing conditions is crucial if you're considering pet insurance for your furry friend. This knowledge can help you choose among the best pet insurance companies and potentially save you from significant financial stress.
Read MoreDec 17, 2025
Everything You Need to Know About Pet Insurance That Covers Pre-Existing Conditions

The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express Review

The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express, our partner, could be a great addition to your wallet if you want a basic rewards card that gives you a solid return on all your company purchases. However, you should likely explore other options if you travel often or want a higher reward rate in select spending categories.
Read ReviewDec 12, 2025
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The Business Platinum Card® from American Express Review

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is known as a top-tier business rewards credit card. The card from our partner may be a good addition to your wallet if you plan to use it to book frequent business travel. On the other hand, you may want to explore different options if you won't fully use the card's benefits to offset the high annual fee.
Read ReviewDec 12, 2025
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American Express Platinum Card® Review

The American Express Platinum Card® is a popular travel rewards card from our partner. The card may be ideal for you if you book a lot of flights and hotel stays or want to enjoy a suite of travel-related perks. However, if you want to earn rewards for making everyday purchases, like groceries or restaurant meals, you may want to check out other cards, like the American Express® Gold Card.
Read ReviewDec 11, 2025
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American Express® Gold Card Review

The American Express® Gold is a solid rewards credit card, offering points for both everyday and travel purchases, from our partner. The card could be a great addition to your wallet if you use it regularly to buy groceries, pay for restaurant meals, or book flights. However, if you want a card with more luxurious travel benefits, you should probably look at other options, like the American Express Platinum Card®.
Read ReviewDec 11, 2025
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The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card Review

The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card from our partner is a solid cash back card for business owners who want to earn rewards without worrying about specific spending categories. However, other cards may be a better fit if you'd like a higher reward rate or would prefer to receive your cash back in your bank account.
Read ReviewDec 11, 2025
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American Express® Business Gold Card Review

The American Express® Business Gold Card from our partner rewards you generously for spending in select business-related categories and booking trips through American Express® Travel. Plus, being a cardholder gives you access to several travel-related perks that can protect and enhance each journey. However, the card has a high annual fee, so you'll need to ensure you get enough value from being a cardholder to justify the ongoing cost.
Read ReviewDec 11, 2025
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Your First-Time Homebuyer Guide: 12 Steps to Owning Your Dream Home

Buying your first house is a major life milestone and financial transaction.
Read MoreSep 9, 2025
A couple that bought their first home using a first-time homebuyer guide.

How to Choose the Best Mortgage Lender: 9 Steps to Save Thousands

Choosing the right mortgage lender is one of the most important financial decisions you'll make as a homebuyer.
Read MoreSep 9, 2025
A man talking to a mortgage lender.
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