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Kimberly Palmer

Senior Writer/Spokesperson | Personal finance, budgeting, family finances

Kimberly Palmer is a personal finance expert at NerdWallet. She is also the author of three books about money: "Smart Mom, Rich Mom," "The Economy of You" and “Generation Earn.” Kimberly's work also appears at NerdWallet Canada.

In addition to writing a column published in outlets across the U.S., Kimberly takes readers behind the scenes and shares how she follows personal finance advice in her own life. Read Kimberly's first-person pieces.

Education: B.A. in history from Amherst College, M.P.P. from The University of Chicago
Awards: Henry Luce Foundation Fellowship, Journalists in Aging Fellowship, Gerontological Society of America
Previous experience: US News & World Report, AARP Magazine

Featured video

Should I Lend Money to Friends?

3:14

Should I Lend Money to Friends?

If your best friend suddenly loses their job and is falling behind on rent or mortgage payments, how can you best help them out?

Kimberly's picks

Your Financial Health

by Courtney Neidel

Understand where you are in your journey so you know what steps to take next.

NerdWallet Podcasts

by Arielle O'Shea

How to Protect Your Spending Power From Inflation

by Hal M. Bundrick, CFP®

Kimberly has also nerded out in...

Quotes and interviews

The New York Times. Prepping for the Year of Many, Many Weddings.
Good Morning America. Tips to skip shipping this holiday season and get products faster.

Other publications

The Washington Post, The Associated Press, MarketWatch

The latest from Kimberly

4 Ways to Become Your Own Consumer Advocate

With consumer protection agencies scaling back, consumers can take steps to protect their financial well-being.

Asked on Reddit: How Do I Recover From a Big Money Mistake?

Moving past a regrettable financial move starts with the right mindset.

7 Ways to Keep the Summer Spending Craze Under Control

Curb higher spending during the hotter months by planning ahead. It's not too late.

4 Ways to Keep Your Financial Data Safe

While it’s impossible to scam-proof your life, you can take steps to limit exposure to scammers.

Asked on Reddit: Should I Repair or Replace My Broken Appliance?

Weigh the cost of a replacement, age of the appliance and how much you like it.

Practical Ways to Tackle Overspending

Try setting limits for yourself and saving before you spend.

7 Things Financial Experts Wish They Knew in High School

If financial experts were to have coffee with their younger selves, they’d focus on cash management and grace for mistakes.

Asked on Reddit: How to Stop Obsessing About Money

Creating a financial plan can help bring the focus back to things you can control.

6 Ways to Reduce Financial Stress During Uncertain Times

Stress related to money is pervasive, but there are ways to handle it.

What Kindergartners Should Know About Money

After teaching a class about money to kids, I walked away with the most valuable lesson.

Asked on Reddit: How Should I Trim My Monthly Budget?

When your budget is tight, experts suggest applying temporary measures to eke out savings.

Why ‘Intuitive Budgeting’ Might Be Your New Favorite Budgeting Tool

Following your intuition may be more sustainable than a regimented budgeting approach.

4 Steps to Take Toward Financial Spring Cleaning

This year, preparation includes checking in on your spending and money goals, and making sure your insurance policies cover enough.

Asked on Reddit: Where Should I Put an Unexpected Inheritance?

A windfall from a family member opens up many options, but sometimes simply saving is the best strategy.

4 Ways to Make Learning About Money a Blast

Turn financial literacy lessons into a game to make them more engaging.