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.

How to Upgrade from the Chase Sapphire Preferred to Reserve Find out how Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card customers can upgrade to the Chase Sapphire Reserve card, which has a much higher annual fee but better perks. Buying a House With Friend or Family Member: A Bad Idea? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Buying a House With Friend or Family Member: A Bad Idea? Saving your money can be a job in and of itself when you're trying to put away... How to Deposit a Check on the Mobile App Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera How to Deposit a Check on the Mobile App Can’t remember the last time you stepped foot inside a bank? You’re not... Health Insurance Plan Comparison: HMO, PPO, EPO Differences Explained Compare the different types of health insurance plans that are available, including HMOs, PPOs, EPOs, and POS plans and their network coverages and costs. 13 Ways to Lower Your Homeowners Insurance Premiums Learn about the different ways that you can lower the premiums on your homeowners insurance and save money in the long run. Taking a Gap Year Before College: How to Plan for It Financially Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Taking a Gap Year Before College: How to Plan for It Financially While it’s common to start college a few months after graduating high school,... How to Prepare Financially and Save for Maternity Leave Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera How to Prepare Financially and Save for Maternity Leave Being pregnant is an exciting time. You might spend your free time planning the... Can You Get a Savings Account With an ATM Card? Find out whether or not you can get a savings account that comes with an ATM card, which could allow you to withdraw cash in the cash of an emergency. Choosing and Opening a Baby Savings Account Opening a baby savings account comes with many advantages. Here we provide everything you need to know about choosing and opening your baby's first savings account. Savings Account vs. Money Market Account: Which Is Better? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Savings Account vs. Money Market Account: Which Is Better? Savings accounts and money market accounts are options if you’re looking for a...