Articles by Valencia Patrice Higuera

Valencia Higuera is based in Virginia and she covers budgeting, credit cards, and student loan debt, with expertise in frugal living, general banking, and mortgages. She is a self-proclaimed personal finance junkie. Valencia has contributed to publications and outlets including MSN, The Huffington Post, CBS News, Investopedia, and more. Education: B.A. in English from Old Dominion University.

How to Deposit a Check on the Mobile App Learn how mobile check deposit works and see if there are any rules and tips that you should be aware of when using this innovative banking technology. Health Insurance Plan Comparison: HMO, PPO, EPO Differences Explained Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Health Insurance Plan Comparison: HMO, PPO, EPO Differences Explained Health insurance provides some financial protection for injury, illness, or... 13 Ways to Lower Your Homeowners Insurance Premiums Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera 13 Ways to Lower Your Homeowners Insurance Premiums Whether buying a single-family home, a townhouse, or a condominium, your home is... Taking a Gap Year Before College: How to Plan for It Financially Find out what you, as a young adult, should consider financially before taking a gap year before attending college full-time. How to Prepare Financially and Save for Maternity Leave Find out about how you can prepare financially and save for maternity leave as pregnancy enters the final stages -- preventing you from working for many weeks. Can You Get a Savings Account With an ATM Card? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Can You Get a Savings Account With an ATM Card? Many savings accounts do not come with an ATM card, which would be useful if you... Choosing and Opening a Baby Savings Account Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Choosing and Opening a Baby Savings Account Opening a savings account for your children lays the foundation for money... Savings Account vs. Money Market Account: Which Is Better? Learn the differences between a savings account and a money market account (MMA). Find out which one you should choose to grow your savings depending on fees, features, minimum opening deposits, check-writing capabilities, and debit card access. What is the Average Interest Rate on Savings Accounts? Find out what the national average interest rate is on savings account in the United States. Compare the APYs provided from different financial institutions, including national banks, online banks, and credit unions. Learn how to build your savings balance faster without facing expensive account fees. 5 Ways to Save for Retirement as a Full-Time Freelancer Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera 5 Ways to Save for Retirement as a Full-Time Freelancer So you’ve finally made the leap to full-time freelancer. For you, this means time...