With more than 15 years of journalism expertise, Jon stays apprised of finance trends, influential companies, and financial literacy resources for subprime consumers. He is most knowledgeable in the areas of budgeting, loans, and responsible credit use, and his articles have appeared in publications produced by The New York Times.
Guide
1,008 views
7 min read
Imagine you’re at a department store. As the cashier finishes ringing you up, they proceed to ask whether you want to apply for a store credit... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 9/17/24
Study
1,950 views
7 min read
What are the things that keep you up at night? You know, those little stresses and anxieties that burrow into your thoughts like a splinter. For... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 9/12/24
Guide
3,791 views
9 min read
With all the multitasking life often requires, important tasks can often fall by the wayside. I know if I don’t set reminders, many things will... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 9/10/24
Study
7,416 views
3 min read
Inflation has taken its toll on the United States. Basic staples like gas and groceries have skyrocketed in price, yet wages haven’t risen to... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 8/27/24
Study
6,552 views
3 min read
Having children is one of life’s greatest decisions you can make, but it’s not for everyone. Whether you’re single and want to eventually settle... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 8/26/24
Guide
7,480 views
11 min read
Every once in a while, life can throw us all curveballs. You may run over a stray nail and get a flat tire, or a medical emergency may come up.... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 8/22/24
Study
9,744 views
11 min read
Whether it’s a vacation destination or simply a rest stop on a road trip, people on a budget have long recognized the value of motels. These... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 8/21/24
Study
23,161 views
3 min read
In a perfect world, when Americans hit 65, they retire, travel the world, and do all the things they wish they had time for while working.... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 7/29/24
Study
27,642 views
5 min read
Air conditioning has become an essential feature in American homes, providing relief from the sweltering summer heat and contributing to comfort... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 7/18/24
Study
19,922 views
9 min read
Many Americans are turning to unconventional financial strategies to manage their finances. With the cost of living rising and salaries not... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 6/27/24
Study
35,712 views
9 min read
Have you ever bought something you probably didn’t need without planning to? As it turns out, many of us have. According to the results of our... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 6/26/24
Study
20,280 views
13 min read
Spending money on food can be a challenge for those with limited financial resources, often leading to a reliance on inexpensive but unhealthy... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 6/26/24
Study
32,958 views
3 min read
Finances can strain relationships. Whether deciding how much to spend on a major life purchase together or determining who should pay the tab on... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 6/12/24
Study
28,652 views
3 min read
In a significant blow to the wedding industry, recent research conducted by BadCredit.org reveals that an estimated 580,862 couples will not be... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 6/6/24
Study
37,335 views
3 min read
You should spend no more than 30% of your gross income on rent, according to many financial experts. But with rental rates increasing on what... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 6/4/24
Study
35,191 views
3 min read
Summer is a historically busy time. Across the U.S., people are getting outside, going on road trips, and socializing together with fun summer... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 5/16/24
Study
52,902 views
3 min read
Owning a home is a big part of the American Dream, representing financial security and personal accomplishment. But for minimum-wage workers,... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 5/15/24
Study
37,604 views
3 min read
In today’s digital world, online shopping is a major part of American consumer culture. It’s hard to top the convenience and accessibility that... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 5/7/24
Study
40,139 views
3 min read
In today’s world, scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, preying on people’s vulnerabilities and financial hardships. According to the... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 4/30/24
Study
46,873 views
3 min read
Credit Invisibility describes people whose credit history is so limited that they don’t even have a credit score. According to our recent study,... read more »
By: Jon McDonald • 4/24/24