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Senior Writer

Julie Rains

Mortgage-free homeowner, reformed rule follower

Julie Rains's bio

Latest articles by Julie Rains

Begin Your Investing Career Right With Some Mutual Fund Basics

Buying mutual funds is a simple way to build an investment portfolio. Here are the basics to get you started.

by: Julie Rains | channel: Investment

22 Fun and Free Summertime Exercise Ideas

Summer is the perfect time to have fun outside and get fit. Here are more than 20 ways to enjoy yourself and exercise at the same time.

by: Julie Rains | channel: Health and Beauty

10 Ways to Lower Medicare Part D Costs

Learn how speaking with a pharmacist can help you save hundreds of dollars each year.

by: Julie Rains | channel: Health and Beauty

How to Compare Medicare Part D Plans: A Beginner’s Guide

Not all Medicare Part D plans are created equal. Find out how to save up to 75% on prescription copays.

by: Julie Rains | channel: Health and Beauty

5 Best Online Brokerages

Investing is easier than you might imagine, especially with help from the right online brokerage. Get started with one of these brokerages for $500 or less.

by: Julie Rains | channel: Investment

7 Places Teens (and Adults) Can Learn About Money

Opportunities to develop financial literacy are closer than you think. Here are seven nearby places to gain practical skills with lifelong benefits.

by: Julie Rains | channel: Personal Finance, Family

9 LinkedIn Changes Every Job Hunter Should Make

Recruiters and hiring managers are looking for you on LinkedIn. Follow this advice to ensure that when they find your profile, they'll like what they see.

by: Julie Rains | channel: Job Hunting, Technology

Simple Ways to Get the Healthcare You Need Without Overspending

Navigating health insurance can be intimidating — and expensive. But with a few simple steps, you really can get the healthcare you need without overspending.

by: Julie Rains | channel: Consumer Affairs, Health and Beauty

Get the Response You Want With Friendly, Professional Email

If you want to influence people and get what you want — at work and beyond — learn the art of writing friendly, professional emails.

by: Julie Rains | channel: Career and Income, General Tips

4 Ways Your IRA Beats Your Savings Account

You already know that you should save for retirement, but it's important to understand why that money should be in retirement-specific account.

by: Julie Rains | channel: Investment, Taxes

53 Fun Nights Out for $10 or Less

You really can have a fun night out without digging deep into your wallet. Sample local offerings, get creative, and have a great time with these activities.

by: Julie Rains | channel: Entertainment

Easy, Frugal Ways to Have People Over (Even If You Don't Cook and Clean)

Don't get intimidated by hosting dinner parties. Instead, discover great ways to gather people together that require minimal cooking and cleaning.

by: Julie Rains | channel: Food and Drink, Home, Lifestyle

12 Ways to Improve Your Performance at Work

Apart from the satisfaction of a job well done, becoming better at your job can lead to a raise or a promotion (or both!). Here's how to make it happen.

by: Julie Rains | channel: Career Building

101 Useful Things You Can Do in 15 Minutes or Less

In 15 minutes or less you can boost your career, strengthen a relationship, manage your finances, prep a meal, and lots more!

by: Julie Rains | channel: Productivity

6 Valid Reasons Not to Contribute to Your 401(k)

Depending on your situation and your goals, opting out of your 401(k) plan can be a smart financial decision.

by: Julie Rains | channel: Investment, Retirement

Staying Fit and Beautiful in Mind, Body, and Wallet

Your fitness regimen can leave you looking less than your best. Feel beautiful inside and out with these frugal tips.

by: Julie Rains | channel: Health and Beauty, Style

How to Step Out of Your Comfort Zone and Try Something New

Trying something new can feel exhilarating — and completely terrifying. Learn how to get over your fear to do something fresh and exciting.

by: Julie Rains | channel: Personal Development

To Stay on Financial Track, Perform a Yearly Earnings Review

If you want to make sure you're on the right financial track, add a review of your earnings to your annual tax-time financial routine.

by: Julie Rains | channel: Organization, Retirement

Unconventional Career Advice From "Parks and Recreation"

Watching "Parks and Recreation" is great way to have a good laugh — and pick up a few lessons that can help your career soar.

by: Julie Rains | channel: Career Building, Personal Development

6 Ways to Get Paid for Saving Money

Interest, dividends, and investment earnings aren't the only ways to make money by saving. Get paid to save with these rewards, tax credits, prizes, and more.

by: Julie Rains | channel: Banking, Investment, Organization

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