Emma Kerr

Editor

Emma Kerr is the personal finance editor at U.S. News. Previously, her reporting focused on education finance topics including college financial aid, student loan debt and employment. In her current role as personal finance editor, Kerr reports and writes about taxes, family finance, banking, credit, debt, spending and other topics related to financial health and smart money management. She also oversees the Your Money Decisions newsletter, delivered to inboxes twice weekly.

Kerr's work has appeared in the Frederick News-Post, the Chronicle of Higher Education and the Daily Beast, among others. She graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in English Language and Literature and Middle East Studies. She also served as the managing news editor of The Michigan Daily. Kerr has been featured in numerous television, radio and print interviews as a personal finance expert. Follow her on Twitter @emmarkerr and connect with her on her website, on LinkedIn or via email at ekerr@usnews.com.

Recent Work by Emma Kerr

Your Guide to 2021 Tax Deductions

Claim these common tax deductions to reduce your tax bill or increase your tax refund.

Dec. 14, 2021

Tipping Guide for the Holiday Season

Stay within your budget but be generous with holiday tips if you can, experts say.

Dec. 13, 2021

A Guide to College Financial Aid

Financial aid is any form of funding that helps a student pay for college, such as a Pell Grant or merit-based scholarship.

Dec. 9, 2021

Financial Fresh Start Newsletter

This money challenge will be the New Year’s resolution you actually keep.

Dec. 2, 2021

Should You Buy Tuition Insurance?

Tuition insurance pays out if a student needs to suddenly withdraw from college, and some policies cover coronavirus.

Nov. 30, 2021

20 Cheap Christmas Gifts for 2021

These gifts under $100 are affordable without sacrificing quality.

Nov. 18, 2021

Q&A on the Racial Wealth Gap

In his new book, Brooks traces the history of the racial wealth gap and paves a path forward.

Nov. 16, 2021

Steps for Being Independent on the FAFSA

A student age 24 or older by Dec. 31 of the award year is considered independent for federal financial aid purposes.

Nov. 15, 2021

Try This Inflation Calculator

Since September 2020, prices have risen 5.4% according to the Consumer Price Index, with some sectors hit harder than others.

Nov. 11, 2021

Guide to DIY Money Management

Avoid excess fees and risks by creating your own financial plan and portfolio.

Nov. 11, 2021