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Devon Delfino

San Francisco, United States of America
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About Devon
I am a journalist based in the Bay Area (Calif.). I write about culture, race, gender, the environment, personal finance, lifestyle and careers as a freelancer.

I graduated from Boston University’s College of Communication (‘15) and was subsequently handpicked to participate in NerdWallet’s Writer Startup Program. I ended up working at the company for nearly two years, putting my service-journalism skills to use first in the higher education and student loan beat and later as a general personal-finance reporter.

I took the opportunity to write about the issues affecting women, minorities, low-income individuals and first-generation students as often as I could. I pioneered new content formats and even started a social-media ready series of profiles about people who’ve paid off student debt. I covered financial news and dug into 1,000-line spreadsheets, immersed myself in the shady world of paid surveys, talked to presidents of lending companies and financial planners as well as debt advocates and people struggling with debt and fluctuating incomes.

My work has been featured in the LA Times, Mashable, Business Insider, MarketWatch and USA Today, among others. Feel free to reach out regarding article assignments, project proposals or if you have any questions. (Email works best — ************)
Languages
English
Services
Feature Stories Content Writing Research
+2
Skills
Business Finance Politics
+10
Portfolio

Here's How Much the Average 30-Year-Old Has in Their 401(k)

29 Mar 2024  |  fool.com
The average 30-year-old has $30,000 in their 401(k), with a median balance of $11,357, according to Vanguard. Without further contributions, this amount could grow to about $231,000 by age 65, which is below the estimated $1.8 million needed for a comfortable retirement. The article suggests having one's annual salary saved by age 30 and three times that by age 40. It offers tips for catching up on retirement contributions, such as calculating retirement needs, securing employer contribution matches, considering an IRA, and taking advantage of catch-up contributions for those 50 or older.

Cash App Banking Review 2024

20 Feb 2024  |  businessinsider.com
Cash App, known for peer-to-peer money transfers, offers a banking platform with a debit card and savings account. The Cash Card, issued by Sutton Bank, has no minimum deposit or monthly fees and is FDIC-insured through Wells Fargo Bank. Cash App Savings offers a high APY of up to 4.50% if certain conditions are met. The article compares Cash App's services with Chime and Capital One 360, highlighting the lack of fees and minimum balance requirements. Cash App is rated highly on mobile app stores and provides customer support via phone and live chat.

How to use Instagram, the wildly popular photo-sharing app with more than a billion users

20 Sep 2023  |  businessinsider.com
Instagram is a free social media platform for sharing photos and videos, boasting over a billion registered accounts. It offers a variety of features including short-form videos, live streaming, and private messaging. The article provides a comprehensive guide on how to sign up, set up a profile, customize notifications, and use Instagram's various features such as Stories, Live, Reels, and Shopping. It also covers privacy and security settings, tips and tricks like scheduling posts, saving videos, and managing who can see your posts. Instagram is described as an indispensable marketing tool for businesses, brands, and influencers, as well as a platform for personal expression and connection.

Buying a car with no down payment: What to know

01 Aug 2023  |  cnn.com
The article discusses the considerations and strategies for buying a car without a down payment, given the high average transaction prices for used and new cars. It outlines five strategies: maximizing trade-in value, choosing a less expensive vehicle, applying with a cosigner, improving credit score, and postponing the purchase to save for a down payment. The pros and cons of not making a down payment are examined, with the cons including higher interest rates and the risk of being upside down on the loan due to depreciation. Cait Howerton, a certified financial planner, suggests that even a small down payment can save money in the long run.

15 Thoughtful Birthday Messages

06 Jun 2023  |  grammarly.com
The article provides a variety of birthday message examples suitable for different relationships and occasions. It includes simple, milestone, funny, and heartfelt messages for friends, significant others, and family members. The messages range from light-hearted to serious, with tips on personalizing them to make them more special. The article emphasizes the importance of context and the relationship with the recipient when crafting a birthday message.

Consolidating student loans with your spouse

05 May 2023  |  nypost.com
Consolidating student loans with a spouse can simplify repayment by combining multiple loans into a single payment. Federal consolidation loans are available for individuals, not couples, and offer fixed interest rates and various repayment plans. Private refinancing options for couples are based on combined creditworthiness and may offer lower rates. However, federal loan consolidation may extend repayment terms and result in higher total costs. Private loans typically lack origination fees and prepayment penalties but offer fewer repayment plans. PenFed is one of the few lenders offering spousal consolidation loans. Adding a cosigner can improve refinancing eligibility and terms.

CFPB Finds Student Loan Servicers Denying Access to Repayment Plans

05 Apr 2023  |  Los Angeles Times
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has identified issues with servicers of federal student loans, noting that borrowers are being denied access to income-driven repayment plans or facing delays in application approvals. These plans are designed to make monthly payments more manageable by setting them as a percentage of the borrower's income, with the promise of loan forgiveness after 20 to 25 years of qualified payments. The CFPB's report also addresses problems in the servicing of private student loans, auto loans, mortgages, and fair lending practices. Issues include misinformation about interest accrual for advance payments, lack of choice in payment allocation, and system errors prolonging repayment. The report emphasizes the need for servicers to properly inform borrowers about their options, particularly income-driven repayment plans. Lauren Asher, president of the nonprofit Institute for College Access & Success, echoed the importance of borrowers being aware of these options.

What is guaranteed life insurance?

07 Mar 2023  |  usatoday.com
Guaranteed life insurance, which does not require a medical exam, is an option for those in poor health or who want to avoid a lengthy application process. It typically has smaller death benefits, higher premiums, and may impose a waiting period before beneficiaries can collect. Certified Financial Planner Steven Fox notes these policies are more expensive per unit of coverage and are often capped at $25,000, suitable for covering funeral or final expenses. While it can be a good option for those who cannot qualify for traditional policies or only need a small amount of coverage, it is not recommended for those who can obtain more substantial coverage through other life insurance policies.

Home improvement tips for all your spring upgrade ideas

03 Mar 2023  |  mediafeed.org
Spring home improvement projects offer a chance for homeowners to add value and appeal to their property. Focusing on high-traffic areas, conducting thorough project research to control costs, and knowing when to hire professionals are key strategies. Simple changes like a fresh coat of paint or new landscaping can significantly impact a home's attractiveness to potential buyers. Planning and understanding the scope of a project can prevent costs from escalating and ensure safety and quality in more complex tasks.

Tax prep: 3 things to help you get your return done on time

22 Jan 2023  |  mediafeed.org
Matt Schulz, LendingTree's chief credit analyst, offers advice on preparing for tax filing, emphasizing the importance of starting early. He provides three tips: updating your address with your employer to ensure timely receipt of tax forms, gathering all necessary information such as income records and deductible expenses, and considering the use of a tax professional, especially for complex tax situations. Schulz also mentions the availability of free tax prep services for those with low income. The article suggests being proactive to avoid delays and potential confusion during tax season.

4 financial resolutions that will make you wealthier in 2023

26 Dec 2022  |  mediafeed.org
The article suggests four financial resolutions for 2023: tackling high-interest debt using methods like the snowball or avalanche strategies, setting small and specific savings goals such as monthly contributions to a high-yield savings account, increasing credit scores by focusing on payment history and credit utilization, and consulting with a financial professional to audit finances and develop a solid financial plan. It emphasizes the importance of specific, manageable goals and the benefits of financial stability and improved credit access.

3 ways to force quit apps or programs on a Windows PC

07 Dec 2022  |  businessinsider.com
The article provides three methods to force quit unresponsive applications on a Windows computer: using the Alt + F4 keyboard shortcut, Task Manager, and Command Prompt. It includes step-by-step instructions for each method and notes that Command Prompt has been replaced by PowerShell in recent versions of Windows, although users can switch back if desired.

12 ways to fix your iPhone's voicemail when it isn't working properly

02 Dec 2022  |  businessinsider.com
The article provides a guide on how to fix an iPhone's voicemail when it is not functioning correctly. It suggests checking if voicemail is set up, ensuring the use of a custom greeting, verifying call forwarding settings, dialing voicemail directly, toggling cellular service, enabling Wi-Fi calling, emptying the mailbox, turning on cellular data, restarting the Phone app, checking for carrier settings updates, resetting network settings, and contacting the carrier for further assistance.

How to reset an iPhone without knowing your password

21 Oct 2022  |  businessinsider.com
To reset an iPhone without a password, one can use recovery mode via Finder on a Mac or iTunes on a PC, or erase the device using the Find My service. The process involves turning off the iPhone, entering recovery mode by pressing a specific button combination, connecting to a computer, and selecting 'Restore' in Finder or iTunes. Alternatively, using Find My on iCloud's website allows for remote erasure by selecting the device and confirming the action with an Apple ID password.

How to create and set a live wallpaper on your iPhone or Android

20 Oct 2022  |  businessinsider.com
Live wallpapers can be set on iPhones using live photos from the Settings app, but this feature is removed in iOS 16. Android users require third-party apps like Video to Wallpaper to set live wallpapers. Videos and GIFs can be converted to live photos on iPhones using apps like TikTok, GIPHY, and VideoToLive, after which they can be set as wallpapers.

Keeping silent about money means giving up our power and financial autonomy — that’s a dangerous practice.

05 Jun 2018  |  The Establishment
The article discusses the pervasive issue of financial abuse within the context of domestic violence. Dr. Ludy Green, influenced by her mother's experience, founded Second Chance Employment Services to help women at risk of financial abuse. The article highlights how economic abuse is a form of control that abusers use to maintain power over their victims, making it difficult for them to leave abusive situations. Financial abuse is often invisible and intertwined with cultural taboos around discussing money. The piece emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and open conversations about finances as tools for empowerment and a means to combat domestic violence. It also features insights from Christine Hennigan, a financial planner, and Angela Schultz from ROW, who stress the need for financial education and support for victims of financial abuse. The article advocates for breaking the silence on financial matters to help prevent economic abuse and empower individuals to escape abusive relationships.

Why College Financial Aid Varies From Year to Year

02 Apr 2018  |  Teen Vogue
The article discusses the unpredictability of financial aid for college students in the United States, highlighting personal experiences. Justin Maggio from Rochester Institute of Technology faced an unexpected increase in student debt due to changes in his living situation and family dynamics. Audrey Fisher, a Marylhurst University graduate, dealt with fluctuating financial aid, resulting in significant student loans. Derek Dillinger from Missouri University of Science and Technology lost a scholarship due to a slight GPA shortfall, leading to increased debt and stress. Delisa Falks from Texas A&M University acknowledges that changes in financial aid circumstances are common among students. The article underscores the challenges students face with varying financial aid packages and the impact on their education and well-being.

How to Save for a Vacation

19 Mar 2018  |  www.nerdwallet.com
The article provides a guide on how to save for a dream vacation. It suggests starting by understanding your cash flow and adopting the 50/30/20 budget rule, which allocates income into necessities, wants, and savings. The 'wants' category should fund the vacation. It recommends using travel search engines like Expedia, Kayak, and Travelocity to estimate costs for transportation, accommodation, and activities, such as visiting the Louvre in Paris. The article advises setting spending limits on souvenirs and food, considering currency exchange and cell phone costs abroad, and using a calculator to determine monthly savings needed. If the vacation savings exceed the 'wants' budget, adjustments to the travel plan or monthly expenses may be necessary, including finding cheaper services or taking a side job to afford the trip.

8 Places to Sell Stuff Online

19 Mar 2018  |  www.nerdwallet.com
The article provides a comprehensive guide to various online selling platforms, detailing their fee structures and operational models. It compares major marketplaces like Amazon and eBay, which have higher fees but offer quick sales due to high traffic. Amazon's fees vary by selling plan, with individual sellers paying per item plus a referral fee, while professional sellers pay a monthly subscription. eBay charges a final value fee, insertion fees, and optional promotion fees. Bonanza has a simpler fee structure with no listing fees but takes a percentage of the final sale. Local sales platforms like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace offer fee-free transactions but lack the protections of online marketplaces. For niche items like clothes and crafts, Poshmark, Ruby Lane, and Etsy are suggested, each with their own fee policies. Lastly, electronics can be sold through Swappa or Gazelle, with Swappa allowing sellers to set prices and Gazelle acting as a reseller.

Money Management: 4 Tips for Mastering Your Finances

19 Mar 2018  |  www.nerdwallet.com
The article provides a comprehensive guide on money management, emphasizing the importance of creating a financial plan to maximize the use of one's money. It covers various aspects such as budgeting, saving, reducing debt, and investing for the future. The article suggests taking inventory of one's finances, building a money management blueprint, and making the most of savings. It recommends the 50/30/20 budget plan, tracking spending, finding ways to save, using separate accounts for spending and savings, paying off debt strategically, developing good credit habits, and investing in one's financial future, such as through a 401(k) or IRA. The article also stresses the importance of persistence and the understanding that financial stability is a gradual process.

Free-Money Offers Can Be Alluring, but Watch for Snags

19 Mar 2018  |  Fox Business
The article discusses the allure of 'free money' offers and the potential pitfalls that come with them. It highlights three common ways to get free money: banking sign-up bonuses, credit card sign-up bonuses, and online surveys. The author warns that banking bonuses may come with hidden fees and requirements that could negate the initial offer. Credit card bonuses can be lucrative but come with commitments and could affect credit scores. Online surveys may offer low returns for the time invested. The article suggests alternatives like using money-saving browser extensions or cash-back sites, and re-examining monthly expenses or taking on side jobs for long-term financial stability. The article emphasizes the importance of reading the fine print and understanding the true cost of these 'free money' opportunities.

Don’t make this costly error with student loans

05 Apr 2017  |  MarketWatch
The article explains the differences between student loan refinance and student loan consolidation, emphasizing that while both processes combine multiple loans into one, they are distinct in their functions and consequences. Federal consolidation is a government process that simplifies federal loan payments and can help qualify for certain repayment plans and forgiveness programs, but may extend the loan term and total interest. Refinancing through a private lender can lower interest rates and save money but may result in the loss of federal borrower protections. The article advises borrowers to understand their goals, consider potential drawbacks, and apply through the correct channels. It also clarifies that applying for consolidation, refinance, or federal loan repayment plans should be free.
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