Rachel DePompa

It’s a spending strategy that’s been around for a while and now it’s making a bit of a comeback. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks with an expert about the do’s and don’ts of layaway plans.

For many Americans, a trip to the doctor is determined by the cost of the visit, instead of the medical need. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds out ways you can keep your appointments, while still finding ways to save.

This time of year costs can quickly add up and leave you in a financial bind. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has advice from experts on what to do if you must take out a personal loan.

Holiday shopping season is in full swing and experts say the best way to avoid spending stress is make a plan and stick to it. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has your shopping and spending strategies.

If you’re struggling to overcome the financial stress of your debt reaching out for help could be the answer. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa speaks to a woman who paid off $37,000 in just two years with the help of a nonprofit debt management company.

“Buy Now, Pay Later” – is a type of short-term loan that has taken the American marketplace by storm. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, U.S. consumers borrowed $2 billion via “BNPL” in 2019. In 2021 that number grew by more than 1,000 percent to $24.2 billion. Companies like Affirm, Afterpay, Klarna and PayPal have created these loans for borrowers to purchase everything from high-end electronics and jewelry to everyday staples like groceries and utilities.

According to the Consume Financial Protection Bureau Buy Now, Pay Later apps grew over 1,000% from 2019 to 2021. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa speaks to a financial expert about their pros and cons and best way to use this payment method.

Social Security benefits will go up in January by 8.7%, the largest cost of living increase in 40 years. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa shares how much extra money you could see, plus expert advice on how you can best manage it.

As people rush to capitalize on President Biden's Federal Student Loan Debt Relief, con artists are ramping up efforts to target your money. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert who has advice on how you can avoid being ripped off.

Holiday Shopping Season is here and so are the Black Friday sales. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks with a financial coach about how you can avoid breaking your holiday budget in this Watching Your Wallet.

Investing is an important way to put your money to work for you and build wealth, but it can be intimidating to get started. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa shares expert advice on the five ways you can get started in building your financial future.

Holiday travelers are planning to spend on average more than $1,500 for flights and hotels, according to a new survey from NerdWallet. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert to find out ways you can cut travel costs this season.

Looking to jump into the housing market next year? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa shares what you need to know about inflation’s impact on interest rates.

There’s always “an app for that”, but your new download could be a security nightmare. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds out the rules you should follow before you head to the app store

Federal student loan payments are set to resume in January and the Student Debt Crisis Center estimates almost 9 in 10 borrowers are not financially prepared for payments to return. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has expert advice on how to adjust your budget for the restart.

Overdraft fees are an unwelcome addition to your budget and according to a new Bankrate study most banks are still hitting customers with the charge. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has some simple ways you can avoid that extra expense.

Credit card balances can be scary and overwhelming at times. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa explains how pulling your credit report and closely examining your spending can help you plan your way out of debt.

With inflation hitting its highest rate in decades, saving money is top of mind. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert who explains why cash might be the key to saving money.

Managing your credit card debt can be a tough fight, especially with high interest rates adding to the bill… Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has expert advice on how to negotiate a lower rate with your credit company.

The Bureau of Labor and Statistics reported a 10.3% increase in motor vehicle insurance in the last year. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa explains why and what you need to do now to make sure your policy has you covered.

From flights to hotels and even trip insurance, industry experts say the cost of travel has seen a significant increase. Before you book your trip Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has a few ways for you to save.

According to a new study American optimism about the economy is low, only 13%, but Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds out the steps you can take to strengthen your financial situation.

According to the World Economic Forum, fake online reviews cost businesses and consumers $152 billion a year. BrightLocal research found 82% of consumers have read a fake review in the last year. Now, one of the largest retailers in the world is fighting back, as Amazon is suing the administrators of more than 11,000 Facebook Groups.

In a 2022 study presented to the National Bureau of Economic Research, data showed that phony testimonies cost customers an extra $0.12 cents for each dollar spent – meaning you could spend up to an extra 12 percent because of fake reviews. But fake online reviews don’t always have an immediate financial impact, some small businesses are seeing their reputations damaged from a barrage of untrue testimonials.

It’s a day filled with fright, but Halloween doesn’t have to scare your savings. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds some ways to easily save money by October 31st.

From California to Iowa and Texas, school districts across the US are facing an increase in ransomware attacks. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa explains the high-tech attacks and what parents can do to help protect their child's personal information.

Autumn isn't just about the changing leaves. Experts say it's also the perfect time to update your budget for holiday spending. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa shares best practices in this Watching Your Wallet.

Are you already making your list and checking it twice? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa reports on why experts suggest you should start your holiday shopping now.

Looking for ways to improve your portfolio but also invest with a purpose? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to a financial expert about how investing around a cause could help do both.

With groceries likely costing you more every month because of inflation, it's probably time to re-visit your household budget. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa speaks with an expert from NerdWallet on budget changes to make now.

Juggling credit card balances across multiple cards? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa shares expert ways to get your credit card debt under control.

Parents of college-aged teens listen up! Enrollment for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA opens on October 1. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa breaks down what you need to know.

Only 33% of Americans have an estate plan according to a recent survey from caring.com. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks with experts about why creating a will should be a top priority.

Rising prices and inflation continue to make it difficult for first time home buyers to find affordable properties, according to a new report from NerdWallet. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds out why not all hope is lost for those trying to get into the housing market.

Rental housing prices are still seeing significant increases from last year. According to Rent.com the monthly cost of a one-bedroom apartment is up about 25% nationally. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa explains why this might be the time to stay put.

The impact of inflation now has another number. According to a new study by Nerdwallet household spending could increase by more than $11,500 this year. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa explains ways you can fight back against rising costs.

A low credit score could have a major impact on your financial future. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa shares expert tips on how you can raise your score.

For first time investors, getting into the real estate market can be intimidating. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has the expert info you need if you’re looking to start investing

Life online is the norm for kids and teens, but are you up to speed on how to keep them safe? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has the expert’s advice on how to make your child’s online experience safer.

The average cost of a wedding in the U.S, is $22,500 according to WeddingWire. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to a financial expert on saving money as you plan the perfect wedding.

The Rule of 72 explains how you can double your investments over time. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa explains how to leverage this rule to grow your investments over time.

Billions of dollars in student loan cancellations are available, but the deadline to apply is approaching. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa explains “Public Service Loan Forgiveness” and how you might qualify.

Understanding your credit score can be a challenge, and when people have questions, they often turn to Google. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa looks at some of the top questions and gets some answers in this Watching Your Wallet.

A 529 plan is a great way to save for college, but if your child decides they don’t want to go you’ll need to need to make plans for those funds.Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa explains the rules of the 529 account and how that money must be spent.

2.5 million couples are expected to tie knot this year, according to Wedding Market Research. For some those new marriages mean first-time talks about money. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert about ways newlyweds can ease into financial discussions in this Watching Your Wallet.

Budgeting for big-ticket purchases can be intimidating. Whether it’s a new refrigerator, time to upgrade your TV, or an unexpected item, these big costs can take a bite out of your budget. In this Watching Your Wallet, Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa gets advice from the experts on the best times to buy.

President Biden on Wednesday extended the moratorium on student loan payments and canceled $10,000 in debt for borrowers making $125,000 a year or less. In this Watching Your Wallet, Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds out what experts say your next step should be if you have student loans.

Rising interest rates and a competitive marketplace have had major impacts on home sales. Now there’s a new factor: cancelled contracts. In this Watching Your Wallet, Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to a housing expert about why more people are breaking purchase agreements and why it’s still a sellers market.

TransUnion says the average American has $5,000 in credit card debt and with rising interest rates that amount could grow. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds out how the recent fed rate hikes will impact your credit card rates.

In a recent energy industry survey, 85 percent of homeowners say they’ve noticed significant price increases on at least one utility bill. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa examines rising utility costs, plus gets expert advice on ways to cut back on your bill.