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

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 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 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 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.
A car at the pump at the gas station.

How to Keep Your Credit Card Safe at the Gas Pump

The next time you pull into a gas station, think twice about how you pay for fuel.
A couple looks at house listings on Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com

How to Get Preapproved for a Mortgage

These simple steps will help you through the process of getting a preapproval letter from a lender.
woman on her mobile phone looking at damage to her car

Are You Really Covered by Your Insurance?

Ask your agent about these common insurance gaps.