Rachel DePompa
Consumer Investigative Reporter
Rachel is an investigative journalist with more than 20 years’ experience. She works for both InvestigateTV and WWBT 12 On Your Side in Richmond, VA. She’s been named best reporter in the Virginias by the AP for Broadcasters and has won numerous Murrow and Emmy awards over the years.
Her stories have exposed complicated Ponzi schemes, police corruption and misuse of tax dollars, leading to several federal investigations with convictions. She also loves telling consumer investigative stories. You can catch her series Watching Your Wallet on most of our TV stations across Gray Television. She resides in Richmond, is a twin mom, Maryland native and huge sports fan. She graduated from the University of Maryland.
Debt in Money Management International's debt management plans tops $1 billion, the most in 13 years. Here is what a credit counselor says is driving it.
More than one in three Americans think going into debt for the latest phone is worth it, a new WalletHub survey finds. Here are some ways to save on one.
The average planned holiday gift budget is $880, down 21% from last year, NerdWallet finds. A personal finance expert shares tips for planning ahead.
About 10% of Gen Z and Millennials are putting off having children over cost concerns. A Northwestern Mutual partner explains how to plan for IVF costs.
Gen Z carries more debt than Millennials did at the same age, per TransUnion data. A credit counselor explains the pressures and how to stay on track.
A Virginia Credit Union expert shares how to use AI tools to build a holiday budget, plan meals and find gift ideas without sharing personal information.
"Moneymaxxing" is a viral trend about making every dollar work harder. A wealth advisor explains how to get started, and when to know you've gone too far.
63% of Gen Z would move to a cheaper area to buy a home, a new study finds. Here is what's driving the shift and how builders are helping.
Worried about juggling two mortgages during a move? A NerdWallet expert explains three financing options that can help bridge the gap.
Avoid a holiday debt hangover in January. A debt relief attorney shares why now is the time to audit your budget and start comparison shopping.
Outlet malls can still save you money, but only if you know the tricks. A ConsumerAffairs writer shares how to spot real deals versus outlet-made items.
A new LendingTree survey finds 30% of Americans admit to shoplifting, up from 23% a few years ago. Most blame inflation and financial strain.
Millions of SAVE plan borrowers are getting 90-day notices to choose a new repayment plan. Here is what happens if you ignore it, and why acting early helps.
More than a third of Americans plan to cut back on football spending this season, a new LendingTree survey finds. Here is how to budget for it anyway.
AI is making it easier for hackers to target personal devices, a cybersecurity CEO warns. Here are simple changes that could protect your money and privacy.
Personal bankruptcy filings are up nearly 50% since 2022, a new LendingTree analysis finds. Here is what's driving the surge and how to get help.
Nine of the 10 most "car poor" states are in the South, a new ConsumerAffairs analysis finds. Here is what's driving the trend and how to fight back.
Nearly a third of Americans who followed AI chatbot financial advice say it hurt their money situation. A NerdWallet expert explains the risks and safer alternatives.
Major grocery chains are switching to digital price tags. A ConsumerAffairs writer explains why checking your receipt matters more than ever.
Student loan borrowers have until Sept. 30 to enroll in autopay and lock in a bigger interest rate discount. Here is what you need to know before the deadline.
Homeowners are overpaying more than $3,300 a year on their mortgage, a new Bankrate analysis finds. Here is how to compare rates the right way.
Using a personal loan to pay off credit card debt can backfire if spending habits don't change, a credit counseling expert warns. Here is what to know.
Feeling uncomfortable about your bills? A debt relief attorney explains the warning signs it may be time to ask for help before your credit score takes a hit.
Planning to retire in the next few years? A financial education expert shares six steps to protect your savings, from checking benefits to watching for scams.
Probate can be a long, costly process for families. A financial advisor explains how trusts, beneficiary designations and joint ownership can help you avoid it.
