James McClenathen

Editorial Strategist | TMFJammerz

NUMBER OF PUBLICATIONS: 254 | LAST PUBLISH DATE: 06-01-2026

Summary

James McClenathen is a full-time Managing Editor and Personal Finance Writer at Motley Fool Money, overseeing the production and quality of editorial content while also writing about credit cards, investing, and everyday money management. He has worked at The Motley Fool since 2012 and brings extensive experience as an editor, reporter, and finance expert. A graduate of the University of Michigan, James has spent more than a decade of his career helping readers make smarter financial decisions.

James's Recent Articles

• How to Open and Fund an IRA Before Tax Day -- in 10 Minutes
  Apr 7, 2026
  Contributing to an IRA before Tax Day could cut your 2025 tax bill by hundreds of dollars -- or more. Here's how to pick an …
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• Can You Add a Teenager to Your Credit Card? Here's What Parents Should Know
  Apr 6, 2026
  Adding a teenager to your credit card account can give them a head start on building credit. Here's what parents should know before making them …
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• Here's How You Can Still Lower Your 2025 Tax Bill
  Apr 5, 2026
  If you haven't filed your 2025 taxes yet, you may be able to save money by contributing to an IRA before April 15. Here's how …
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• T-Mobile vs. Verizon: Who Has the Best Family Plans?
  Apr 1, 2026
  See how T-Mobile and Verizon compare on cost, coverage, data, and more. Plus, learn about a limited-time deal that's too good to ignore.
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• Here's the Best Phone Plan for Families Who Use a Lot of Data
  Mar 31, 2026
  We compared the top family phone plans from T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T. This limited-time T-Mobile offer takes the cake.
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• Elon Musk's X Money Account Could Pay 6% APY. Here's What We Know
  Mar 17, 2026
  The upcoming X Money account may offer 6% APY. Here's what we know so far, plus two high-yield savings accounts paying 4%-plus that you can …
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• 6% APY: Is the New X Money Account Too Good to Be True?
  Mar 12, 2026
  Elon Musk's new X Money account could offer 6% APY on cash. Here's what we know so far -- and why you shouldn't wait to …
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• How to Choose a Financial Advisor
  Feb 27, 2026
  Learn how to compare credentials, fees, and specialties so you can find a qualified advisor that you trust.
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• Here's What It Really Means to Be 'Middle Class' Right Now
  Feb 27, 2026
  The "middle class" can't really be defined, but these numbers could help you see where you stand. Here are some key figures.
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• Discover it® Cash Back Review
  Feb 24, 2026
  Discover It® Cash Back offers 5% rewards on rotating categories, no annual fee, and a Cashback Match for new cardholders. See if it's right for …
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• Here's What Happens to Your Credit Cards When You Pass Away
  Feb 23, 2026
  When a cardholder dies, accounts stay open, balances must be settled, and rewards may be lost. Here's how to prepare and protect your loved ones.
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• If Your Finances Are Getting Complicated, These Cutting-Edge Tools Can Help
  Feb 19, 2026
  The right tech can save time and money when your finances get complex. Here's what helps high earners most.
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• Here's How AI Might Help You Get a Personal Loan -- and a Lower Rate
  Feb 12, 2026
  Some lenders use AI to look beyond your credit score. Here's how that could help you get approved and get the rate you deserve.
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• How AI Is Helping High Earners See Where Every Dollar Goes
  Feb 6, 2026
  As your wealth grows, money gets harder to track. Here's how AI tools are helping high earners see the full picture.
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• How a Series of Small Deposits in Your Bank Account Could Cause You Problems
  Jan 31, 2026
  Trying to avoid government reports by splitting a large cash deposit into smaller ones can get you in serious trouble. Here's what to do instead.
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• What Happens When You Hit an 850 Credit Score? Here's the Truth
  Jan 31, 2026
  Is an 850 credit score worth chasing? See why perfect credit does not unlock better deals than an excellent score -- and what matters more.
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• The Top AI Money Management Apps for High-Income Families
  Jan 29, 2026
  These AI-powered apps help families track their investments, net worth, cash flow, and more. Find out which one works best for you.
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• What Happens When You Withdraw $10,000 or More From Your Bank Account? Here's the Truth in 2026
  Jan 29, 2026
  Banks report cash withdrawals of $10,000 or more to the federal government. Here's why, and how to make sure your next big withdrawal goes smoothly.
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• Best Investment Apps for Beginners
  Jan 23, 2026
  The best investment apps for beginners are easy to use, with low fees and simple tools. Learn about our experts' picks for the best investment …
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• Best CD Rates Today, Jan. 17, 2026: Your Chance to Lock In up to 4.27% APY
  Jan 22, 2026
  Top CDs today offer up to 4.27% APY, making now a smart time to lock in a solid return before rates move lower.
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• $50K in the Bank? Here's When It's Too Much -- and What to Do Instead
  Jan 22, 2026
  Keeping too much money in savings means missing out on investment gains. Here's what to do if you have more cash than you really need.
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• These AI Wealth Tools Are Replacing Spreadsheets for Families With $2M+ to Invest
  Jan 22, 2026
  If your finances are getting too complex to manage on your own, these services can help. Here's how they simplify budgeting, investing, taxes, and more.
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• Best CD Rates Today, Jan. 22, 2026: Fewer 4.00%+ Options Left -- Act Fast
  Jan 22, 2026
  Today's CDs are paying up to 4.27% APY. It's a good time to secure a strong return before yields decline further.
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• Best CD Rates Today, Jan. 21, 2026: Only a Few Top APYs Still Standing
  Jan 21, 2026
  The Fed cut rates a total of three times in 2025, but today's top CDs still offer yields as high as 4.27% APY. Secure a …
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• Best CD Rates Today, Jan. 20, 2026: APYs Above 4.00% Are Fading -- Lock In Now
  Jan 20, 2026
  Top CDs today offer up to 4.27% APY -- consider locking in a strong return now before rates drift lower as we get further into …
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