Rachel DePompa 554h3i

Investigative reporter 236e
n5n5t
Rachel DePompa

Rachel DePompa is Director of Investigations and a mid-day anchor for 12 On Your Side. 2v1cz

Rachel’s been a staple of Richmond television for more than 17 years. She’s won numerous Emmys and has served on the board of the Capital Chesapeake Bay Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. Rachel grew up in Waldorf, Md., and graduated from the University of Maryland with a degree in broadcast journalism.

Rachel also hosted and edited our How We Got Here Podcast. You can now catch her series Watching Your Wallet here at 12 On Your Side and at most of our TV stations across Gray Television.

She got her start in TV anchoring newscasts in Harrisonburg, Virginia. She also worked in Bristol and Roanoke before ing WWBT in March of 2008. Rachel met her husband here in Richmond and loves spending time with her family, which includes twins - a boy and a girl.

Education 96e6q
  • University of Maryland, Journalism
    • Affiliations 2d1663
  • Member of the Investigative Reporters and Editors
    • Awards 5x174s
  • 5 Edward R Murrow Awards for Investigative Reporting
  • 2016 Most Outstanding Effort by an Individual Reporter from the Virginia Associated Press Broadcasters
  • 4-time Emmy winner and 10-time nominee
  • 7 first place honors from the Virginia Association of Broadcasters

    • National
    Many experts find renting may be a better long-term choice

    Many experts find renting may be a better long-term choice 2c511h

    Updated: Jun. 10, 2025 at 2:13 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Rent or buy? One could save you hundreds of thousands over time. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa goes over the numbers with This Old House that can help you make the smarter move.

    National
    Text scams continue to rise in 2025

    Text scams continue to rise in 2025 3j505y

    Updated: Jun. 9, 2025 at 1:37 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Think that text from your bank is real? Think twice. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Virginia Credit Union about how to spot when something's just not quite right.

    National
    Americans using emergency savings to cover everyday bills

    Americans using emergency savings to cover everyday bills 3s4a10

    Updated: Jun. 5, 2025 at 2:08 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Experts say emergency funds are meant for surprises, not your everyday bills. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Bankrate about why more Americans are draining their savings just to stay afloat.

    National
    How to curb ‘retail therapy’

    How to curb ‘retail therapy’ 4oh6z

    Updated: Jun. 3, 2025 at 1:25 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Feeling the urge to click "buy" when you're bored or blue? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to NerdWallet about ways to shop smarter and dodge regret before retail therapy wrecks your budget.

    National
    Two easy tips to boost your credit score

    Two easy tips to boost your credit score 2h5v1e

    Updated: Jun. 2, 2025 at 2:12 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Want a better credit score without the guesswork? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa shares two simple moves that could boost your number and your financial future.

    National
    New 401(k) limits let you save more for retirement

    New 401(k) limits let you save more for retirement 3b4w2v

    Updated: May 29, 2025 at 11:20 AM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    We're almost halfway through the year, so it's time to check in on your 401(k). Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to CW Advisors who say it's always a good idea to revisit how much money you're setting aside for retirement.

    National
    Data-Driven: Consumers raise concerns about automakers’ data collection practices

    Data-Driven: Consumers raise concerns about automakers’ data collection practices 631v3e

    Updated: May 28, 2025 at 8:27 AM CDT
    |
    By Daniela Molina and Rachel DePompa
    As automobiles grow more advanced, privacy concerns arise over whether car makers use your vehicle’s data to for third-party sales

    National
    Tips to manage your financial mental health

    Tips to manage your financial mental health 6w5m63

    Updated: May 27, 2025 at 2:14 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Money woes are weighing on minds more than work or even relationships. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Bankrate about ways to manage your mental health when it comes to your finances.

    National
    How to recession-proof your finances

    How to recession-proof your finances k2973

    Updated: May 26, 2025 at 1:47 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    2025 is off to a rocky financial start. Recent dips in consumer confidence reflect growing unease over inflation, continued market volatility, and broader economic uncertainty. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert about recession-proofing your life.

    National
    Unemployment overpayment: When too much money is a problem

    Unemployment overpayment: When too much money is a problem 5c4u6q

    Updated: May 24, 2025 at 7:38 AM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. And that's definitely the case with collecting too much in unemployment benefits. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Bankrate about what to do if you receive too much money and why you have to pay it back.

    National
    Most people fear data breaches, but few take action, survey finds

    Most people fear data breaches, but few take action, survey finds 3b2z5q

    Updated: May 22, 2025 at 1:50 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    64% of internet s worry about data breaches—but a new survey finds most still aren’t taking the right steps to protect themselves. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks with cybersecurity experts about simple ways you can steer clear of cyber criminals.

    National
    Solo travel on the rise

    Solo travel on the rise 2gr6v

    Updated: May 20, 2025 at 2:14 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Need some time for yourself? Solo travel is growing globally. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa caught up with a travel expert who has some ways to save, and places solo travelers may want to consider.

    InvestigateTV
    Fewer than half of Americans plan to travel this summer, survey finds

    Fewer than half of Americans plan to travel this summer, survey finds 2s1110

    Updated: May 19, 2025 at 1:40 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa and Daniela Molina
    A recent Bankrate survey revealed that just 46% of Americans plan to travel this summer, with cost cited as the biggest barrier.

    National
    Tips to avoid ongoing cycle of consumer debt

    Tips to avoid ongoing cycle of consumer debt 2n6l3c

    Updated: May 15, 2025 at 1:46 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    According to a new NerdWallet survey 14% of Americans plan to pay less on their debt over the next year. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds out why paying the minimum may not be the best plan.

    National
    Debt vs. savings? Why you don’t have to choose just one

    Debt vs. savings? Why you don’t have to choose just one 2j5hb

    Updated: May 13, 2025 at 2:02 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    It's a question financial experts get all the time, should I save and build up my emergency fund or should I use any extra money to pay down debt? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to The Responsible Homegirl to find out.

    National
    Ways to handle market volatility

    Ways to handle market volatility 616v3j

    Updated: May 12, 2025 at 2:11 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    An up and down stock market can be scary, but many experts say your 401(k) is part of a long game so you shouldn't worry. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert about ways to protect your retirement in a volatile market.

    National
    How to vacation without breaking the bank

    How to vacation without breaking the bank 5f1pb

    Updated: May 8, 2025 at 1:41 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    It’s summer vacation time! One in 3 people still have credit card debt from their last vacation according to WalletHub. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to them about how to avoid going into debt on your vacation.

    National
    Why switching bank s could earn s more money

    Why switching bank s could earn s more money 3q3l5c

    Updated: May 6, 2025 at 2:13 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Have you had the same bank for what it feels like forever? You are not alone, according to a new Bankrate study. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds out how to decide if it's time to switch banks.

    National
    Dying without a will: What happens next?

    Dying without a will: What happens next? 2a5n2j

    Updated: May 5, 2025 at 2:05 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Many Americans do not have a will, likely meaning their state will decide how their property and assets are distributed upon their death. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to LourdMurray about why creating a will should be top priority.

    National
    Price matching 101: What to know before you shop

    Price matching 101: What to know before you shop 6a27k

    Updated: May 1, 2025 at 1:49 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Think price matching is a hassle? It might actually pay off if you play it smart. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Virginia Credit Union about whether making the extra effort is worth your time.

    InvestigateTV
    Unfiltered Access: Teens are bying age restrictions on buying e-cigarettes

    Unfiltered Access: Teens are bying age restrictions on buying e-cigarettes 3u71z

    Updated: Apr. 30, 2025 at 5:40 PM CDT
    |
    By Daniela Molina and Rachel DePompa
    More teens are obtaining vapes illegally, purchasing them online and through social media. InvestigateTV uncovers loopholes retailers are exploiting.

    National
    Emergency savings 101

    Emergency savings 101: how to prevent unnecessary debt when the unexpected happens 375p2a

    Updated: Apr. 29, 2025 at 2:41 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    When life throws the unexpected your way, will you be ready or reaching for your credit card? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert about why building an emergency savings is one of the most important steps you can take.

    National
    Consumers leaning more on credit cards to pay household bills, survey finds

    Consumers leaning more on credit cards to pay household bills, survey finds 1ul5j

    Updated: Apr. 28, 2025 at 2:04 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Credit card delinquencies are the highest they've ever been since the great recession in 2008. This often leads to higher debt through credit cards. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to NerdWallet about ways to manage overdue bills.

    National
    How to protect your digital footprint

    How to protect your digital footprint 2dj1j

    Updated: Apr. 24, 2025 at 1:58 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Scammers are banking on your digital footprint – the trail of data you create while using the Internet. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to a social media expert about how to shut the door before they walk through it.

    National
    Camp for Kids, Bills for Parents: Planning ahead for costs of summer activities

    Camp for Kids, Bills for Parents: Planning ahead for costs of summer activities 5p363o

    Updated: Apr. 22, 2025 at 1:46 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Do you find yourself with summer camp sticker shock? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to NerdWallet about booking early and other ways to cut costs.

    National
    How to avoid financial scams

    How to avoid financial scams 27y3r

    Updated: Apr. 21, 2025 at 1:49 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    More than a third of Americans have experienced some type of financial fraud or scam in the past year, according to Bankrate. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to them about what you can do to stay safe from fraud.

    National
    Dream home on hold? Here’s how to save smarter and buy sooner

    Dream home on hold? Here’s how to save smarter and buy sooner 1r6t2s

    Updated: Apr. 17, 2025 at 1:47 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Having a down payment for a new home continues to be the stumbling block for a lot of people. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Bankrate about their new survey showing other obstacles buyers are facing.

    National
    Unlocking your dream home: Expert tips for navigating mortgage rates

    Unlocking your dream home: Expert tips for navigating mortgage rates 3m2m7

    Updated: Apr. 15, 2025 at 1:42 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Mortgage rates are soaring, but don't shelve your dream home just yet. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Virginia Credit Union about key strategies to lock in savings, even in an uncertain market.

    National
    Tips to avoid the shock of high energy bills

    Tips to avoid the shock of high energy bills 6n4b21

    Updated: Apr. 14, 2025 at 2:08 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Slashing your power bill might be easier than you think, if you know where your energy’s leaking. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to the Home Energy Club about ways you can reduce your energy bills throughout the year.

    National
    High yield savings s

    Why a high-yield savings can be a better place for you to save versus a traditional 4d3v2b

    Updated: Apr. 10, 2025 at 3:01 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa and Daniela Molina
    Making your money work for you in a savings is now more possible than ever, especially if you get a high-yield savings .

    National
    How to financially prepare for a trip to the ‘Happiest Place on Earth’

    How to financially prepare for a trip to the ‘Happiest Place on Earth’ 55o2m

    Updated: Apr. 8, 2025 at 1:49 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    “I’m going to Disney!” Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa looks at an eye-popping new study from NerdWallet about the cost of a Disney vacation for a family of four and gets advice on how to save.

    National
    Expert advice on home tax deductions

    Expert advice on home tax deductions 3m3332

    Updated: Apr. 7, 2025 at 2:07 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Own a home? You could be missing out on big tax breaks. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to the folks from This Old House to get some tax filing advice.

    National
    Expert advice to weather uncertain financial times

    Expert advice to weather uncertain financial times o5u6t

    Updated: Apr. 3, 2025 at 1:33 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    When the economy feels shaky, your budget can be your anchor. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Tayne Law Group to find out ways you can trim your budget and temper your anxiety.

    National
    Tax Tips 2025: How to file for free, make the most of your refund this tax season

    Tax Tips 2025: How to file for free, make the most of your refund this tax season 3wa14

    Updated: Apr. 3, 2025 at 6:48 AM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa, Caresse Jackman, Daniela Molina and Wade Smith
    InvestigateTV Consumer Investigative Reporters Rachel DePompa and Caresse Jackman detail a number of tax season topics to help you before and after filing in 2025.

    National
    Many taxpayers missing out on chance to file for free, analysis finds

    Many taxpayers missing out on chance to file for free, analysis finds 47y53

    Updated: Apr. 1, 2025 at 1:56 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Free File – millions qualify, but barely anyone takes advantage. Are you paying to file your taxes when you don’t have to? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to NerdWallet about what you need to know to file your taxes for free.

    National
    Love, lies, and bank s: 40 percent of couples it to financial infidelity

    Love, lies, and bank s: 40 percent of couples it to financial infidelity 3581d

    Updated: Mar. 31, 2025 at 1:40 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    40% of partners it to financial infidelity in a recent Bankrate survey. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds out some of the money secrets people are keeping.

    National
    Expert: Plan ahead to avoid tax refund

    Expert: Plan ahead to avoid tax refund 2a4u1x

    Updated: Mar. 27, 2025 at 2:29 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    A new @WalletHub survey reveals nearly half of Americans rely on their tax refund just to make ends meet. Consumer Investigator @RachelDePompa digs into what's behind this financial strain and what you can do if you end up owing money instead.

    National
    Being in debt not a dealbreaker for many singles, study shows

    Being in debt not a dealbreaker for many singles, study shows 2y448

    Updated: Mar. 25, 2025 at 2:05 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    A new NerdWallet survey found 90% of Americans are willing to date someone with debt. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa looks into the financial dating world with them to find out more.

    InvestigateTV
    Examining the differences in how men, women handle their finances

    Examining the differences in how men, women handle their finances 2n1t6v

    Updated: Mar. 24, 2025 at 1:45 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    The way men and women handle finances can be drastically different. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Black Mammoth about the differences and best practices.

    National
    ‘It’s really bad’: Experts concerned about housing market

    ‘It’s really bad’: Experts concerned about housing market w663t

    Updated: Mar. 20, 2025 at 1:56 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    15% of Americans plan to buy a home in 2025, according to a new NerdWallet study. Consumer Rachel DePompa talks to them about the state of the housing market nationwide.  https

    National
    Expert tips to spring clean your finances

    Expert tips to spring clean your finances 543j50

    Updated: Mar. 18, 2025 at 1:53 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Spring is in the air which means it's the perfect time to take another hard look at your budget. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Leslie Tayne about how to spring clean your finances.

    National
    How to build up your emergency fund

    How to build up your emergency fund 4m3510

    Updated: Mar. 17, 2025 at 1:43 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Alarming trend: Bankrate found Americans are falling behind when it comes to building an emergency. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to them about how to build up your emergency savings.

    National
    Swipe and earn: How to take advantage of credit card rewards

    Swipe and earn: How to take advantage of credit card rewards 44552p

    Updated: Mar. 13, 2025 at 1:52 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Credit cards can offer valuable rewards, but only if you're smart about how you use them. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa gets advice from VA Credit Union on how to make rewards work for you.

    National
    Money mistakes to avoid in 2025

    Money mistakes to avoid in 2025 1k2bp

    Updated: Mar. 11, 2025 at 2:05 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Are money mistakes holding you back in 2025? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to The Responsible Homegirl to learn the four biggest pitfalls and how to avoid them.

    National
    Better on a budget: How to gamble without risking your financial future

    Better on a budget: How to gamble without risking your financial future 5a4x1a

    Updated: Mar. 10, 2025 at 2:17 PM CDT
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    A new study reveals gamblers are spending thousands yearly. Consumer Reporter Rachel DePompa talks to NerdWallet about tips to keep your wagers in check.

    National
    Tips to make the most of your tax refund

    Tips to make the most of your tax refund 4z153j

    Updated: Mar. 6, 2025 at 2:07 PM CST
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    It's tax time, which means many of you will soon be seeing tax refunds in your back s. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has a few ideas from Tayne Law Group on how to make that money most effective in your household.

    National
    Expert advice to save on cruise vacations

    Expert advice to save on cruise vacations 2s4233

    Updated: Mar. 4, 2025 at 1:54 PM CST
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    19 million Americans are expected to take a cruise this year, according to new data from AAA. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to them about how to ensure good prices and smooth sailing.

    National
    Renovation Nation: Homeowners set to spend more in 2025

    Renovation Nation: Homeowners set to spend more in 2025 3j1t5p

    Updated: Mar. 3, 2025 at 2:21 PM CST
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Renovating your home isn't just about improving the aesthetics. It's also about making sure your biggest financial asset is going to thrive. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to This Old House for tips and trends for home renovations in 2025.

    National
    Love & Money: Banking advice for couples

    Updated: Feb. 27, 2025 at 1:51 PM CST
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Love and money don’t always mix but talking about it can save your relationship and your wallet. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa sits down with Virginia Credit Union to go over how couples can find the right balance for them.

    National
    Tips to help you get into your top college

    Tips to help you get into your top college 44e4j

    Updated: Feb. 25, 2025 at 1:45 PM CST
    |
    By Rachel DePompa
    Many seniors will be thinking about college applications soon and we wanted to find out what many colleges are looking for in students. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to The College Investor about the issions process to save you time in money.

    Latest News 4k694z

    It’s been almost a month since the tornado devastated parts of the city. FEMA is boots on the...
    City leaders and FEMA explain next steps for people impacted by May 16 tornado 4ux2q
    96% of fireworks sold in the U.S. are imported from China. Fireworks retailers say tariff’s on...
    Tariffs on China could raise some fireworks costs 5l4o22
    Grill fire displaces Wentzville family
    Grill fire displaces Wentzville family; fire crews issue summer safety tips d46b
    Colton's Cause
    St. Louis mother continues son’s mission after his death 4a4p5m
    She says 19-year-old Damien Zancha died after being shot at Silver Lake on May 22nd.
    Death investigation underway in Highland, Illinois after incident at Silver Lake 3ql4o

    Latest News 4k694z

    A "No ICE Demonstration" on the Tamm Ave. over.
    Dozens in St. Louis protest against immigration enforcement 2i1o4
    Marco Zomphier, is accused of sex crimes in St. Louis County and Jefferson County.
    St. Louis County YMCA coach accused of sex crimes against student 4p3i5w
    June is a time dedicated to raising awareness about infertility.
    Health Alert: Infertility awareness 185m6q
    Pedestrian Struck
    Man dies after being hit by vehicle in St. Louis County 3c3m2l
    Red Cross generic
    American Red Cross opens new shelter in St. Louis 1ex1a
    Charging an electric school bus
    East St. Louis School District marks next phase in electric bus project 31d2h