Michelle Smith

United States

Journalist at Finance Buzz

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Articles

10 Ways to Avoid Being Scammed by Your Home Security Company

1 week ago | financebuzz.com | Michelle Smith |Brittany Brown

Advertiser Disclosure FinanceBuzz is an independent, advertising-supported website. Some or all of the offers that appear on this page are from third party advertisers from which FinanceBuzz receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). FinanceBuzz does not include all financial or credit offers that might be available to consumers nor do we include all companies or all available products.
8 Amazing Costco Buys for Under $50

1 week ago | financebuzz.com | Michelle Smith

Costco is a frugal shopper's dream. Whether you're shopping for the perfect gift or just need something affordable, you'll find it at the warehouse retailer, where you can unlock the true value of your membership. And even better, some of the best deals at Costco are under $50. So grab your credit card, head to a location near you, and grab these bargains today. Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.
8 Oregon Towns Where You Can Actually Live on Nothing but Social Security

1 week ago | financebuzz.com | Michelle Smith

Can't decide between a seaside retirement in Florida or a sunny second home in Arizona? With its miles of coastline, sweeping views of the Columbia Gorge, breathtaking volcanoes, and southeastern desert landscapes, Oregon is an incredibly biodiverse state that appeals to all types of people — which could be one reason why more and more seniors are making it a key part of their retirement plan. But Oregon has more to recommend it than its beautiful scenery and rich history.
3 Long-Term Care Tax Deductions That Retirees Often Miss

2 weeks ago | financebuzz.com | Michelle Smith |Chris Kissell

Advertiser Disclosure FinanceBuzz is an independent, advertising-supported website. Some or all of the offers that appear on this page are from third party advertisers from which FinanceBuzz receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). FinanceBuzz does not include all financial or credit offers that might be available to consumers nor do we include all companies or all available products.
10 Arizona Cities Where You Can Actually Live on Nothing but Social Security

2 weeks ago | financebuzz.com | Michelle Smith |Amanda Machado

Earn a $250 travel bonus with this incredible card There's a credit card that's making waves with its amazing bonus and benefits. The Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card has no annual fee and you can earn 25,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
13 Signs You're Doing Well Financially Now That You're Past 50

2 weeks ago | financebuzz.com | Michelle Smith

Once you enter your 50s, retirement suddenly feels like it is around the corner. But how should you know if you are on track to meet the challenges of this time of life? Your 50s are a good time to take stock of how well you are preparing for retirement and how much more you need to build your wealth before you can live the lifestyle you want. Following are some signs that you have planned well in your 50s and are headed for a solid retirement.
11 Medicare Scams All Retirees Need To Watch Out For

2 weeks ago | financebuzz.com | Michelle Smith

Medical costs can escalate quickly once you retire, which makes accessing affordable health care services through Medicare an essential part of your retirement plan. Unfortunately, scammers often target Medicare patients. Unless you're aware of the most common scams, it's easy to become a victim. Here are some common Medicare schemes that could throw a wrench in your retirement plans.
Wegmans' Under $6 Orange Chicken Is Delicious (Plus 9 Other Chinese Foods)

2 weeks ago | financebuzz.com | Michelle Smith

Rather than looking for ways to stretch your takeout budget for Chinese food, consider shopping at Wegmans, where you'll find several delicious dishes and starters. The next time you're craving sweet-and-sour chicken, fried rice, or pork dumplings, you don't have to splurge on P.F. Chang's or Panda Express. Keep these delicious options from Wegmans at hand, and you'll kill your cravings for Chinese food without emptying your wallet.
10 Hidden Living Costs in Florida That Could Wreck Your Retirement Plan

2 weeks ago | financebuzz.com | Michelle Smith

Whether you've recently retired to Florida or you're a lifelong resident, you know there is plenty to enjoy about life in the Sunshine State. However, Florida's above-average cost of living can take a toll on your ability to keep more money in your bank account. That is especially true when it comes to these 10 crucial costs. Homeownership oldmn/Adobe Housing costs in Florida are above the nationwide average.
13 Social Security Survival Tips for Those Living on Benefits Alone

2 weeks ago | financebuzz.com | Michelle Smith

Whether through choice or circumstance, you might find yourself in a situation where living mainly on Social Security is your only option. But since Social Security typically replaces no more than 40% of your pre-retirement income, it can require a lot of lifestyle adjustments, from becoming a savvy shopper to downsizing to a different home.