Rachel DePompa
Investigative reporter
Rachel DePompa is Director of Investigations and a mid-day anchor for NBC12.
Rachel’s been a staple of Richmond television for more than 15 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 hosts, writes and edits our How We Got Here Podcast.
She got her start in TV anchoring newscasts in Harrisonburg, Virginia. She also worked in Bristol and Roanoke before joining 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
Affiliations
Awards
Updated: Nov. 23, 2023 at 10:00 AM CST
|By Rachel DePompa
It’s the giving time of year, meaning it’s also time to pay close attention to your budget. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa speaks to a financial advisor about ways you can stay on budget and still enjoy the holidays.
Updated: Nov. 21, 2023 at 1:51 PM CST
|By Rachel DePompa
About 9 in 10 workers would prefer a 4-day work week, according to a new survey from Bankrate. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert about finding a job that's right for you in this new working environment.
Updated: Nov. 20, 2023 at 1:53 PM CST
|By Rachel DePompa
Medicare open enrollment is underway now through December 7. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to a financial expert from Agili about how to find the best plan for you.
Updated: Nov. 16, 2023 at 2:06 PM CST
|By Rachel DePompa
Asking for a raise isn’t easy, but you won’t know the answer if you don’t ask. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert from Shapiro Negotiations Institute for advice on how you can get paid more.
Updated: Nov. 14, 2023 at 2:02 PM CST
|By Rachel DePompa
With the holidays quickly approaching you may be looking for some ways to save money this Thanksgiving. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa spoke to the folks at Eventbrite for some low-cost ideas to celebrate.
Updated: Nov. 13, 2023 at 1:53 PM CST
|By Rachel DePompa
A quality resume can be the difference between a call back and disappointment. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa spoke with Top Employers Institute about how to make your resume stand out from the crowd.
Updated: Nov. 9, 2023 at 2:01 PM CST
|By Rachel DePompa
More than three quarters of Americans drove or carpooled to work in 2022, nearing pre-pandemic levels. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa spoke to NerdWallet about ways to cut down on your vehicle costs.
Updated: Nov. 7, 2023 at 1:56 PM CST
|By Rachel DePompa
The new version of the free application for Federal Student Aid is expected to open in December. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa tells us why it was delayed this year and shares expert advice from The College Investor.
Updated: Nov. 6, 2023 at 1:52 PM CST
|By Rachel DePompa
It doesn’t take a natural disaster to set your budget back. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert from Bankrate about how you can prepare for strains on your budget caused by the forecast.
Updated: Nov. 2, 2023 at 2:00 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Weddings are expensive, and a new study shows more than half of engaged Americans don’t agree with their partner on financial goals. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa speaks to NerdWallet about ways couples can make smart money decisions.
Updated: Oct. 31, 2023 at 1:58 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
So-called phantom debt schemes have cost consumers millions of dollars over the years. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to the CFPB about how you can avoid falling victim.
Updated: Oct. 30, 2023 at 2:13 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Very few young adults are combining their bank accounts with their romantic partner, a stark shift from older generations. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Bankrate about the new ways couples are navigating their finances.
Updated: Oct. 26, 2023 at 1:56 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Balance transfers could be a good option for some to pay down credit card debt. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa spoke with an expert from MoneyTips about the pros and cons of moving debt to a different credit card.
Updated: Oct. 24, 2023 at 1:44 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
It's the American dream to own a home but affordability rates keep falling. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Money & Mimosas about finding affordable housing programs across the nation.
Updated: Oct. 23, 2023 at 2:01 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Americans plan to spend a combined $184 billion this holiday season. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert about ways you can spend wisely.
Five Star Fakes: Federal government proposes new rule to hold companies accountable for fake reviews
Updated: Oct. 23, 2023 at 11:17 AM CDT
|By Daniela Molina and Rachel DePompa
The federal government is looking to crack down on fake reviews for products and services you buy online. The Federal Trade Commission is proposing a new rule to help consumers make better decisions.
Updated: Oct. 19, 2023 at 2:29 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Experts say the real estate market over the past couple of years has made a lot of buyers rush into decisions. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an industry analyst from Bankrate about how to avoid buyer’s remorse with big purchases.
Updated: Oct. 17, 2023 at 2:00 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Buying or building a home is a process, particularly in the current housing market. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa speaks with an expert from Virginia Credit Union about ways you can plan for the uncertain.
Updated: Oct. 16, 2023 at 1:55 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Some travelers are using vacations as an opportunity to test drive an electric vehicle. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to AAA about the benefits and drawbacks of renting an EV on your next trip.
Updated: Oct. 12, 2023 at 1:50 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Americans’ credit card balances recently hit $1 trillion, according to the New York Fed – a new record high. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert from Bankrate about ways to get your credit card debt under control.
Updated: Oct. 10, 2023 at 2:20 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Borrowers are feeling the pinch of student loan payments resuming this month. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa speaks with an expert from NerdWallet about ways to manage repayments.
Updated: Oct. 9, 2023 at 2:07 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
An amazing date doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa spoke with an expert from Eventbrite to help you find unique, budget-friendly date night options.
Updated: Oct. 5, 2023 at 2:07 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Believe it or not, early holiday shopping is already underway and we’re not talking about Halloween. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert from Bankrate for tips to combat the holiday scares.
Updated: Oct. 3, 2023 at 2:04 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Over half of Americans report their finances cause stress and other negative mental health symptoms. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa speaks with a financial coach from Virginia Credit Union to point out ways to recognize and reduce your financial stressors.
Updated: Oct. 2, 2023 at 2:14 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Interest rates are at an all-time high, making credit card debt extra expensive. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa spoke with an expert from MoneyTips on how to combat credit card debt.
Updated: Sep. 28, 2023 at 12:29 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Ransomware attacks against educational institutions are on the rise. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds out what schools and parents can be doing to protect their child's personal information.
Updated: Sep. 26, 2023 at 1:35 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
The real estate market is tough right now whether you’re looking to buy or build. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa speaks to a real estate investing expert about the pros and cons of building a new home.
Updated: Sep. 25, 2023 at 2:15 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Payments on federal student loans are set to resume next month for the first time in three years. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa caught up with an expert from The College Investor about ways you can better prepare.
Updated: Sep. 21, 2023 at 1:49 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Early retirement is a dream for many. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to a financial expert from Money & Mimosas about strategies to make that dream come true.
Updated: Sep. 19, 2023 at 1:55 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Understanding the difference between a traditional 401(k) and a Roth 401(k) can have a big impact on your wallet. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert from Bankrate about the differences between them.
Updated: Sep. 18, 2023 at 1:44 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Good credit scores make it easier and cheaper to borrow money. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has expert advice on how to raise your score.
Updated: Sep. 14, 2023 at 1:49 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
The cost of some goods and services is outpacing some people’s income, putting an extra strain on single-income families. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa shares four money moves to help single income families brighten their financial future.
Updated: Sep. 12, 2023 at 1:09 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
It can happen in a split second and a thief nabs your purse or wallet. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa goes over the five things you should never carry on your person to protect yourself from identity theft.
Updated: Sep. 11, 2023 at 3:13 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Co-signing on a loan can be a great tool to help someone buy a house or a car, but there’s a catch. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa weighs the pros and cons.
Updated: Sep. 7, 2023 at 3:16 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Student loan payments are set to resume soon but there’s a new way that might help you save. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa explains how the SAVE plan works.
Updated: Sep. 5, 2023 at 3:08 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
What happens with your finances if you unexpectedly pass away? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert from Agili about the importance of wills and estate planning.
Updated: Sep. 4, 2023 at 3:37 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
The White House says Americans spend almost $65 billion per year in junk fees. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert from Bankrate about what these fees are and what you can expect to see over the next year.
Updated: Aug. 31, 2023 at 3:05 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Looking to enjoy the long Labor Day weekend without breaking the bank? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert from Eventbrite who has plenty of low-cost ideas for your family.
Updated: Aug. 29, 2023 at 4:33 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
When someone passes away, we typically think about handling their physical assets. But what happens with their social media presence and other digital assets? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Trust & Wills about digital estate planning.
Updated: Aug. 28, 2023 at 3:07 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
A simple trick that could lead to a treat. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa explains why you might want to press pause before you complete your online purchase.
Updated: Aug. 22, 2023 at 3:58 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
If you’re looking for ways to give back, why not start with the people closest to you? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Money&Mimosas to find out all you need to know about the rise in popularity of giving circles.
Updated: Aug. 21, 2023 at 3:48 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
ITRC reported a record number of data breaches in Q2. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to them about what's going on and how you can protect yourself.
Updated: Aug. 17, 2023 at 3:19 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
If you’ve ever been envious of someone else’s financial situation, you’re not alone. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa shares how to recognize your triggers and reflect on what actually brings you joy.
Updated: Aug. 15, 2023 at 3:59 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
With student loans restarting soon some employers are now helping employees tackle their debt. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to the CEO of Dolr, a site that helps people pay down their debt.
Updated: Aug. 14, 2023 at 3:36 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
43% of Americans are withholding or lying about money to their partner. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to NerdWallet about other findings from their study and more money secrets.
Updated: Aug. 10, 2023 at 2:56 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Job burnout is real, causing many to look for a reprieve from the hustle. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to the founder of Money & Mimosas about taking a break from work via mini retirements.
Updated: Aug. 8, 2023 at 2:32 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
You’re told never to touch your 401(k) but sometimes you may be left without a choice. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to the Virginia Credit Union about the pros and cons of a 401(k) loan.
Updated: Aug. 7, 2023 at 2:19 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
Fewer people use paper checks but check fraud has surged in the last year. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to a financial expert from Agili about an old scam making the rounds you need to know about.
Updated: Aug. 7, 2023 at 12:29 PM CDT
|By Daniela Molina, Rachel DePompa and Payton Romans
Hospitals across the country are supposed to post their prices online to make it easier for consumers to shop around and choose the best option. But more than two years after federal transparency rule went into effect, consumers still have trouble finding prices on hospital websites.
Updated: Aug. 3, 2023 at 3:41 PM CDT
|By Rachel DePompa
People are itching to get out and travel after the pandemic, but the vast majority of travelers are experiencing issues. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to Bankrate about what you can do to make your trips a little smoother.