Josh Patoka

Josh Patoka

Writer, Fox Money

Writer

  • 5+ years covering personal finance
  • Bylines at USA TODAY Blueprint, MSN, and Forbes Advisor

Experience

Josh Patoka has more than five years of finance experience. He has worked as a mortgage writer at Forbes Advisor and is currently a contributing financial writer at Well Kept Wallet and USA TODAY Blueprint. Patoka's byline has also been featured by Fox Business, MSN, NewsBreak, Wallet Hacks, NewsBreak, Johnny Jet, and Frugal Rules.

Expertise

  • Mortgages
  • Refinancing
  • Credit cards
  • Debt
  • Investing

Education

Patoka has a bachelor's in international studies, with a minor in Spanish from the Virginia Military Institute.

Josh’s Latest Articles

Student loan forgiveness programs: Which one is best for you?
Student Loan RefinanceStudent loan forgiveness programs: Which one is best for you?

If you’re a federal student loan borrower and you have a certain occupation or income, you may qualify for one of several federal student loan forgiveness programs. These programs forgive all or some of your federal student loa...

By Josh Patoka

October 16, 2024

Homebuyers looking for a down payment shouldn't dip into these accounts
MortgageHomebuyers looking for a down payment shouldn't dip into these accounts

Mortgage interest rates are trending near record-lows for qualified homebuyers in today's housing market. Now can be one of the best times for interested buyers to secure a low rate and buy the perfect home.However, loan eligib...

By Josh Patoka

October 16, 2024

With home values high, this is how owners can benefit
Mortgage RefinanceWith home values high, this is how owners can benefit

The coronavirus pandemic has led many American households to reduce their expenses and prioritize saving money. A U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis report says the personal savings rate is higher than pre-pandemic levels due to ...

By Josh Patoka

October 16, 2024

Are you financially prepared for retirement? 8 steps to take
BankingAre you financially prepared for retirement? 8 steps to take

If you want to save more money in 2021, you’re not alone. A Fidelity Investments study found that 44% of Americans want to boost their savings rate.Increasing your retirement savings can be your ultimate money goal this year, a...

By Josh Patoka

October 16, 2024

How to move from nonstandard to standard auto insurance
Auto InsuranceHow to move from nonstandard to standard auto insurance

In addition to the type of car needing car insurance, a person’s driving history is a primary factor for calculating the cost of auto insurance.Having several recent accidents or being a new driver may require the driver to get...

By Josh Patoka

October 16, 2024

6 common credit mistakes to avoid
Credit Cards6 common credit mistakes to avoid

There are many benefits to having good credit. It's an essential factor in qualifying for the best rates for a mortgage, personal loan or private student loan. A higher credit score can also mean lower monthly premiums for cred...

By Josh Patoka

October 16, 2024

Is paying off your mortgage early always the best financial decision?
Mortgage RefinanceIs paying off your mortgage early always the best financial decision?

When comparing mortgage options, many home buyers look at upfront closing costs and monthly payments to determine if they have the right cash flow to afford their dream piece of real estate. After settling on the right mortgage...

By Josh Patoka

October 16, 2024

How to buy homeowners insurance
MortgageHow to buy homeowners insurance

It's a frequent question from those preparing to purchase a home: "Do I need homeowners insurance?" Buying proper homeowners insurance coverage provides financial peace of mind if an undesirable event like a fire, water leak, o...

By Josh Patoka

October 16, 2024

Want to retire early? Open a high-yield savings account
BankingWant to retire early? Open a high-yield savings account

Retirement is one of the most important financial goals to plan for. The average planned retirement age is 66, according to Gallup. With a national average life expectancy of 78.7 years, it’s vital to have over one decade of re...

By Josh Patoka

October 16, 2024

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Fox Money is a property of Credible Operations, Inc., which is majority-owned indirectly by Fox Corporation. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. All rights reserved. Use of this website (including any and all parts and components) constitutes your acceptance of Fox's Terms of Use and Updated Privacy Policy | Your Privacy Choices.