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.

Chase Secure Banking Account 2024 Review Learn all about the Chase Secure Banking Account, a checking-account alternative that doesn't offer paper checkwriting or overdrafts. Where to Find Personal Loans for First Responders Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Where to Find Personal Loans for First Responders Police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel (EMTs) are... How Do Early Withdrawal Penalties Apply to IRA CDs? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera How Do Early Withdrawal Penalties Apply to IRA CDs? Many people will agree that it’s never a good idea to put all your eggs in one... Should You Invest in Series I Savings Bonds or CDs? Find out whether it is a better financial decision to invest your money in a Series I savings bond or a certificate of deposit (CD). Vio Bank High-Yield CD Rates 2024 Review Find out whether the interest rates on Vio Bank's certificates of deposit (CDs) are able to compete with the CD rates offered by other online banks. The Best Teen Checking Accounts in 2024: For Managing Money at an Early Age Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera The Best Teen Checking Accounts in 2024: For Managing Money at an Early Age Opening a teen checking account is an important financial step for young... How to Place a Credit Freeze at the Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera How to Place a Credit Freeze at the Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion Your credit report contains highly sensitive information. Whether you’re... Should You Close Your First and Oldest Credit Card? Find out whether you should close your first credit card because you're often told that you should keep your oldest credit card for as long as possible to maintain a good credit score. Learn about the basics of calculating your own credit score so to understand exactly what will happen when you shut down a credit line. What Financial Documents Needed When Applying for a Mortgage Find out which financial documents will be needed by your mortgage broker when applying for a mortgage to buy a new home. Can You Get an Auto Loan for a Private Car Sale? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Can You Get an Auto Loan for a Private Car Sale? Getting a new set of wheels is an exciting feeling. But like so many, you might be...