Becca Stanek, The Week US
Becca Stanek has worked as an editor and writer in the personal finance space since 2017. She previously served as a deputy editor and later a managing editor overseeing investing and savings content at LendingTree and as an editor at the financial startup SmartAsset, where she focused on retirement- and financial-adviser-related content. Before that, she was a staff writer at The Week, primarily contributing to Speed Reads.
She currently works as a freelance writer and editor while she earns her MFA in creative writing from Queens University in Charlotte, North Carolina. Becca earned her bachelor's degree in English Writing at DePauw University. During her freelance tenure, her work has appeared in publications including Forbes, SoFi, Credible, Atticus, Policygenius, MoneyMade, and Finance of America Mortgage, among others. She has covered a wide range of financial topics, including investing, saving and budgeting, banking, retirement, mortgages, student loans, personal loans, insurance, financial advisers, the Federal Reserve, and credit cards.
Becca lives in Valatie, New York, with her husband and their dog, Matilda, where you can most often find her at the yoga studio, the library or outdoors.
Latest articles by Becca Stanek, The Week US
-
When does it make sense to refinance your mortgage?
The explainer You may be able to secure a lower interest rate — but it's not a good move for everyone
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The explainer -
How can students and young people start building credit?
the explainer Young adults usually don't have a credit score — but there are several ways they can begin to build credit in preparation for their financial future
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
the explainer -
5 tips to save on back-to-school shopping
The Explainer Kids will soon be heading back to school, which can mean a major shopping bill for parents
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
4 ways to lower your property tax bill
The Explainer You can't escape property taxes, but you can make the bills a bit more manageable
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
What to do with that extra paycheck in a three-paycheck month
The Explainer If you get paid on a bi-weekly basis, every year has two months in which you'll receive three paychecks
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
The personal check is on the way out. Here's what to use instead.
The Explainer A growing list of retailers, including Target and Whole Foods, no longer accept personal checks as payment
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
Is it worth switching banks for a sign-up bonus?
The Explainer An immediate cash bonus may sound great, but there is a lot to consider before jumping ship
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
5 books to read to brush up on your personal finance knowledge
The Explainer These books won't bore you with indecipherable financial jargon
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
The pros and cons of buying a fixer-upper
The Explainer Does it make sense to buy a home in need of a little TLC?
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
What financial impacts can you expect when the Fed finally cuts rates?
The Explainer The Federal Reserve is poised to slash interest rates in the coming months
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
When is pet insurance worth it?
The Explainer Decide if it makes more sense to brace for big vet bills or pay a regular premium
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
Should you fly or drive on your next trip? Here's how to decide.
The Explainer Make the best choice for your wallet
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
The midyear financial check-in: why it matters and what to review
The Explainer This year is halfway over. Have you checked your finances?
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
What to do if you're worried about running out of money in retirement
The Explainer Inflation is putting more retirees at risk
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
4 different budgeting methods — and how to choose one that works
The Explainer Pick something you'll actually stick to
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
4 tips to have fun this summer without breaking the bank
The Explainer Prices are climbing, so keep your wits about you
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
How much do you really need to set aside for retirement?
The Explainer Be smart about saving for your golden years
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
4 ways to cover college without taking on debt
The Explainer Federal loans are not your only option when it comes to paying for school
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
Zombie mortgages are on the rise again. Here's what to know about them.
The Explainer Second mortgages homeowners thought were settled can cause some serious problems
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
Should you try a 'no-spend' month?
The Explainer Set yourself up for success with spending less
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
How to deal with medical debt
Speed Read You can negotiate, ask for a payment plan, or find a medical bill advocate
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
Speed Read -
How safe driving discounts work and how much they can save you
The Explainer Pay less for car insurance as a reward for driving safely
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
4 tips if you struggle to stay on budget this summer
The Explainer Make sure your budget is realistic and keeps your long-term goals in mind
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer -
Do you really need to put down 20% when buying a home?
The Explainer It may be the standard down payment, but that does not mean it's the right amount for you
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
The Explainer