Taryn Phaneuf

Lead Writer

Taryn Phaneuf is a lead writer/content strategist covering personal finance news and other topics at NerdWallet. She previously spent more than a decade reporting on business, education and public policy. Most recently, she worked as a data reporter and researcher for the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal. She also taught journalism as an adjunct instructor at her alma mater, the University of Minnesota.

She lives in Minnesota.

Education: B.A. in journalism from University of Minnesota
Previous experience: Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal, Adjunct instructor at University of Minnesota Hubbard School of Journalism and Mass Communication, MinnPost, Bowling Green Daily News

Taryn's picks

Housing Shortage Can’t Be Fixed With Polite Nudges, Pocket Change

by Holden Lewis

The federal government is skirting the housing shortage timidly instead of tackling it boldly.

The Student Loan ‘On-Ramp’: Should You Delay Payments for a Year?

by Eliza Haverstock

For many borrowers, the new IDR plan could be a better option.

Striking Writer: ‘This Fight Is a Fight That Is Deep’

by Anna Helhoski

A late night TV writer spells out what’s at stake in the ongoing WGA strike.

The latest from Taryn

What Is the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau?

The CFPB oversees banks, lenders and other financial institutions on consumers’ behalf.

Looking Under the Hood: What Determines the Price of Gas

Prices are influenced by a complex set of factors that are at work long before the gas gets to your local station.

CFPB Will Distribute $1.8B to Victims of Credit Repair ‘Scheme’

Two companies were found to have charged illegal advance fees. Refunds will average $435.

What $20 Gets You at Gas Stations in Each State

Gas prices are falling toward four-year lows — but vary widely across the country.

CFPB Fines Apple, Goldman Sachs Over Apple Card ‘Failures’

The companies have been ordered to pay almost $90 million over their handling of disputed charges and other issues.

Looking for Deals? You Might Need an App for That

In-app deals and rewards aren’t new, but they’ve become the perfect place to tempt inflation-weary customers in search of a good deal.

Social Security Will Raise Benefits by 2.5% in 2025

On average, monthly payments to recipients will increase to $1,976.

Mega Millions Will Raise Ticket Price to $5 Per Play in April

An overhaul of the game is expected to improve players’ odds and give away big jackpots more frequently.

What Is a Tariff?

The government might impose a tax on imported goods to raise revenue or protect domestic industries.

State Gas Taxes: What They Are And How Much You Pay

State taxes vary widely but average 33 cents per gallon.

Gig Workers Left High and Dry When It Comes to Benefits

A new study finds that independent workers often face financial instability.

Dynamic Pricing: What It Is And Where Consumers Run Into It

Companies can automatically change prices depending on factors like supply, demand and competitor pricing.

What Is Surge Pricing?

Companies use technology to raise prices in real time when demand outstrips supply.