Kathleen Pender

Contributing Writer, Via
Photo of AAA Via Magazine Contributor Kathleen Pender

Kathleen Pender has been writing about money for more than four decades. Before starting a freelance career, she worked for the San Francisco Chronicle as a business writer, editor and "Net Worth" columnist. She enjoys reading, biking, swimming, wine tasting and camping around the West in her teardrop trailer.

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Her work has also appeared on MSN, SFGate, Houston Chronicle, and San Francisco Chronicle.

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Articles by Kathleen Pender

A couple shop for a new vehicle at a car dealership.

12 Most Common Car-Buying Mistakes

And how to avoid them.
A calculator and two car key remotes placed on a table in a new car dealership.

What to Do if You’re Underwater on Your Car Loan

Negative car equity is reaching record highs due to a shifting car market.
A woman sits outside on a dock with her computer and a coffee.

8 Tips to Avoid Fraud and Scams While Traveling

Watch out for these common traveler scams.
AAA Member does her taxes at the dining room table.

How to Protect Your Tax Refund from Thieves

Take steps to prevent—and recover from—tax-related identity theft.
A woman calculates the real cost of using a BNPL app.

What You Should Know Before Clicking 'Buy Now, Pay Later'

Is it safe to use installment plans when shopping?
A man admires his new white car.

Should You Pay Off Your Auto Loan Early?

Thinking about paying off your car? Here’s what to know first.
A woman reviews her credit report on her computer.

How to Read a Credit Report Line by Line

Make a habit of regularly checking your credit report to ensure every detail is accurate.
A couple signs a legal document with a notary.

What is a Notary and When do You Need One?

Before you hire a notary, use these tips to find the right service and the right provider.
A couple tape up a box while packing up their home.

Don’t Believe These 10 Money Myths

Is buying a home always better than renting?
A woman looks at her retirement accounts on her computer.

10 Common Retirement Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Prepare for retirement and get the most out of your benefits and accounts with these expert tips.
A family tours a house with a real estate agent.

How to Detect and Prevent Real Estate Fraud

Both buyers and renters should be aware of these common scams.
A man takes a picture of his red sedan to sell it.

How to Sell Your Car Online

It’s a seller’s market and companies are vying for your used car.
A couple hold the keys to their new red car in the dealership.

Should You Buy or Lease a Car?

The pandemic brings new considerations on car financing.
A woman calculates her income taxes

5 Things to Know About 2021 Taxes Before You File

Many popular pandemic-related tax breaks changed last year.
A college student does homework in the library on campus.

Key Tips to Protect Against Identity Theft in College

From financial aid and loan applications to using public Wi-Fi, here's how students can protect their identity.

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