Author: Lauren Bennett

Lauren Bennett is a core contributing expert to the MoneyPantry team, specializing in practical financial strategies for everyday life. Below you will find all the articles she has authored for our site.

With over a decade of experience in the personal finance space, she writes detailed, actionable guides on mastering a budget, navigating the world of frugal living, and launching effective side hustles.

Lauren shares MoneyPantry’s core belief that financial advice is only useful if it’s clear, easy to understand, and grounded in real-world experience. Her work perfectly embodies our mission to demystify personal finance for everyone.

To maintain our high standards, every article by Lauren is personally reviewed and fact-checked by our founder, Saeed Darabi, ensuring the advice is always accurate, trusted, and aligned with our values.

To learn more about our editorial process and the full story behind MoneyPantry, please visit our main About Page.

How to Endorse a Check: 3 Ways to Do it Correctly!

When somebody writes you a check, in order to cash a check or deposit it into your account, you will usually need to endorse it. If you’ve never ... - Continue -

Top Places to Get Free 55-Gallon Drum Near Me

There are many places that offer free 55-gallon plastic drums near me. This is so useful because 55-gallon drums come in handy for so many ... - Continue -

West Elm Sale Schedule: Annual Sales & Seasonal Discounts

Knowing the West Elm sale schedule can be a real money saver if you shop at this popular home decor store. West Elm is a brand owned by ... - Continue -

Does Walmart Make Keys? Yes, Here’s the Cost & What to Know

If you are thinking about getting keys made near you, the question of "Does Walmart make keys?" may not even cross your mind. But with ... - Continue -

Does Home Depot Make Keys? (Yes! Cost, Types & Times)

Ever found yourself standing in your hallway, keys in hand, thinking, “Can Home Depot make keys for me?” The answer is yes, Home Depot does make ... - Continue -

Where Can I Buy an IKEA Gift Card? (The Best Options!)

Many of us like shopping at IKEA either at our local store or online, which is why IKEA gift cards can make for great presents for holidays, ... - Continue -

15 Places to Get Wooden Crates for Free (Near You!)

Wooden crates, juts like wooden pallets, can be used for storage, DIY projects, home décor and much more. But can you get wooden crates for free? ... - Continue -

43 Places to Buy Ice Near You (Cheap Cube, Crushed or Bulk Ice)

If you’re hosting a party or gathering, you need ice, right? Or perhaps you have a side hustle to make extra money and you need to keep food and ... - Continue -

30 Gas Stations that Take Apple Pay (& How to Find More Near You!)

While many gas stations take Apple Pay, some only allows you to pay at the pump while others let you also pay for other items you buy ... - Continue -