DEALING WITH DEBT COLLECTORS - Get a call from someone claiming to be a debt collector, and it’s easy to panic. Is the caller a legit or a scammer? It’s important to know the rules and your rights.
TRAVEL TROUBLES: THE HIGH COST OF FLYING - How to deal with the most unpredictable summer travel season since the pandemic. Tips to deal with higher airfares, steeper fees, and fewer flights.
Consumerpedia, Episode 108: THE TRAVEL SHOW 2026 - Responding to rising jet fuel prices, airlines around the globe are raising fares, adding fees, and cutting flights. In this episode, how airline passengers can handle the unique challenges facing them.
Consumerpedia, Episode 107: HOW TO CHOOSE A TREE CARE SERVICE - Do the trees on your property need more attention than you’ve been giving them? To keep your trees in good shape and remove any hazards, you’ll probably need professional advice and labor. Here’s how to find the right company to do the job.
Consumerpedia, Episode 106: AVOID A VACATION RENTAL NIGHTMARE - A recent Checkbook investigation found widespread problems with vacation rentals, including fake listings and stolen deposits. In this episode, tips on how to protect yourself when booking a vacation rental.
EMPLOYMENT SCAMS SOAR: HOW TO SPOT BOGUS JOB OFFERS - Fraudsters are increasingly luring job seekers to apply for fake jobs – positions that don’t exist – using online ads, job boards, social media, and newspapers. Victims are losing thousands of dollars.
Consumerpedia, Episode 105: 10 TIPS TO FIGHT FRAUD - Fraud is on the rise, and criminals around the globe are getting better at what they do. In this episode, we talk to two fraud experts about ways to reduce your chances of falling for a scam.
TIPS FOR BUYING A NEW CAR,TRUCK, OR SUV IN 2026 - With hundreds of new vehicles to choose from, and prices that are sky-high, how do you decide what to buy? Here’s advice from the auto experts at Consumer Reports.
CPSC BANS DANGEROUS WATER BEADS SOLD AS TOYS - These tiny, colorful pellets that expand when soaked in water are now subject to federal safety regulations designed to protect children from the hazards of ingesting them.
FRAUD PREVENTION: 10 WAYS TO PROTECT YOURSELF - Americans lose billions of dollars each year to consumer fraud. You need to take steps to protect yourself from the con artists who want to steal your money and identity. Here are 10 ways to reduce your chances of becoming a victim.
LAUNDRY DAY TIPS FROM A LAUNDRY EXPERT - Expert advice from a senior test engineer and laundry expert at Consumer Reports about detergents, fabric softeners, stain removers, washers, and dryers.
DON'T IGNORE THOSE DATA BREACH NOTICES COMPANIES SEND YOU - Congress made several major changes to the tax code that will affect most taxpayers’ returns – especially compared to last year, when the IRS made only routine inflation adjustments.
DEALING WITH DEBT: REAL-LIFE SUCCESS STORIES - Congress made several major changes to the tax code that will affect most taxpayers’ returns – especially compared to last year, when the IRS made only routine inflation adjustments.
Consumerpedia, Episode 101 - DEALING WITH DEBT - Americans are struggling to pay their bills; many rely on credit cards to make ends meet. Help is available for those drowning in debt. With hard work and proper guidance, you can be debt-free.
2026 TAX FILING SEASON: EXPECT THE BIGGEST CHANGES IN YEARS - Congress made several major changes to the tax code that will affect most taxpayers’ returns – especially compared to last year, when the IRS made only routine inflation adjustments.
AI BOOM TO RAISE PRICES FOR COMPUTERS AND SMART PHONES - Buying a computer or smartphone early in the year could save you hundreds of dollars, as manufacturers are forced to pay higher costs for memory chips in the months ahead.
HOW MARKETERS TRICK KIDS AND WHY PARENTS SHOULD WORRY - America’s children have enormous spending power. Marketers know this, which is why they spend billions of dollars a year targeting minors, sometimes in ways that are misleading, deceptive, or illegal.
VIRTUAL CREDIT CARDS HELP FIGHT FRAUD - These 16-digit numbers are a proxy for your actual card number when you shop online. The merchant or scammer who receives the virtual code never gets your credit card number.
Consumerpedia, Episode 98: THE BENEFITS OF SHOPPING LOCALLY - In this episode: The benefits of shopping at small, independent businesses, the challenges of shopping locally, ways to spend more in your community, and whether it costs more to avoid the big chain stores.
UNSAFE TOYS: HOW TO SPOT THE HIDDEN RISKS - The annual "Trouble in Toyland" report from U.S. PIRG highlights hidden dangers ranging from toxic chemicals to artificial intelligence that can engage in “disturbing conversations” with kids. A must-read before you go toy shopping.
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIPS 2025: SAVE TIME, SAVE MONEY - Checkbook asked shopping experts for their advice on how to find the best deals and avoid the bogus sales. Plus, the smart ways (and the really costly ways) to pay for your holiday purchases.
CRYPTOCURRENCY IS MAINSTREAM BUT STILL INCREDIBLY RISKY - Despite warnings about volatility, scams, and lax regulatory oversight, digital currencies have become part of the financial mainstream. While this modern-day gold rush has made people (mostly insiders) incredibly rich, many others have lost money to scams.
LENGTHLY CAR LOANS CAN COST YOU THOUSANDS - To lower their monthly payments, many car buyers are taking out longer loans. But that will drive up the total interest paid, and keep you upside-down on that loan for much longer.
Consumerpedia, Episode 95: CRYPTOCURRENCY: COINS, CONS & CHAOS - It’s a modern-day gold rush. Millions of Americans are buying digital currencies despite the known risks. Crypto is virtually unregulated, highly volatile, and not backed by any government or tangible asset. And, of course, digital money can be hacked.
SCAM ALERT: FAKE LOAN APPROVAL ROBOCALLS - Identity thieves have found a new way to steal our personal financial information: By calling with an “update” on a loan you never applied for. These scammers are aggressively targeting consumers nationwide.
Consumerpedia, Episode 94: OUR EDITORS' FAVORITE WEBSITES & APPS - The editors and researchers at Checkbook use a variety of consumer-oriented websites and apps to get accurate and unbiased information. In this episode, we’ll highlight some of our favorites and why we find them to be valuable tools.
NEW ATTEMPT TO STOP ROBOCALL EPIDEMIC - Nomorobo, a robocall blocking service, has taken the unusual step of suing four companies—all debt collectors—it claims are “significant violators” of a federal law that bans most robocalls.
HOME INSURANCE CRISIS: SOARING PREMIUMS & INADEQUATE PAYOUTS - The skyrocketing cost of home insurance far exceeds the rate of inflation. As a result, millions of homeowners are cutting back on coverage or going without, putting their finances at risk. Some insurance companies are also “lowballing” claims.
FTC SECURES HISTORIC $2.5 BILLION SETTLEMENT FROM AMAZON - Amazon will pay a civil penalty of $1 billion and refund $1.5 billion to approximately 35 million customers harmed by what the FTC described as "deceptive Prime enrollment practices," and make it easier for customers to cancel in the future.
Consumerpedia, Episode 92: THRIFT STORE SHOPPING ADVICE - Shopping at thrift stores can save you money and keep used stuff out of landfills. It’s also fun! In this episode: Tips on buying pre-owned furniture, clothing, and antiques, plus the scoop on how to find great deals on hidden treasures.
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT WILL STOP ISSUING PAPER CHECKS - After September 30, all government benefits – including Social Security, VA payments, and tax refunds – will be distributed electronically via direct deposit to bank accounts, digital wallets, or government-issued prepaid debit cards. Here’s what to do if you still get paper checks.
FEDERAL JUDGE KILLS CFPB RULE BANNING MEDICAL DEBT IN CREDIT REPORTS - The consumer-friendly rule would have removed $49 billion in medical debt from the credit reports of 15 million Americans and prohibited lenders from considering medical information when making future lending decisions.
COURT CANCELS CONSUMER-FRIENDLY 'CLICK-TO-CANCEL' SUBSCRIPTION RULE - A federal appeals court has blocked enforcement of an FTC rule that prohibits companies from making it more difficult for consumers to cancel unwanted subscriptions and memberships than it was to sign up for them.
Consumerpedia, Episode 91: CHECKBOOK’S LIFE HACKS - At Checkbook, we’re all about saving you time and money. In this episode, staffers share their favorite life hacks to help you shop smarter, spend wiser, and stay one step ahead. Listen and you might pick up a new go-to trick.
ELECTRONIC VEHICLE TAX CREDIT ENDS ON SEPTEMBER 30 - These short-term loans are convenient, but consumer advocates warn that they make it easy for some people to purchase items they can’t afford, which can result in late fees and costly bank charges.
KROGER MAKES IT EASIER TO USE DIGITAL-ONLY COUPONS - Grocery shoppers can celebrate a small victory this week after Kroger, one of the nation’s largest supermarket chains, improved its much-maligned digital coupon policy at some of its stores.
Consumerpedia, Episode 89: AVOID A HOTEL HORROR SHOW - In this episode: Tips for booking a hotel room or vacation rental, so you don’t end up having a nightmarish experience. Plus, what to do if you wind up staying at the Bates Motel.
AI MAKES CYBER SCAMS HARDER (OR IMPOSSIBLE) TO DETECT - Criminals are leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the credibility of their scams. It’s increasingly difficult to distinguish between what’s real and what’s fake. Here’s how to protect yourself.
WHY PASSKEYS PROVIDE BETTER SECURITY THAN PASSWORDS - Even the best passwords are no match for today's international crime rings. Passkeys are encrypted digital keys that cannot be lost, stolen, or hacked.
STUDY CLAIMS U-HAUL USES 'BAIT-AND-SWITCH' ADVERTISING - An investigation by the consumer watchdog group Truth in Advertising (TINA.org) found that U-Haul uses a “deceptive bait-and-switch pricing scheme” that hides the true cost of its truck rentals by omitting mandatory fees and charges from the advertised price.
NEW FEDERAL RULE BANS HIDDEN HOTEL AND TICKET JUNK FEES - The FTC’s Rule on Unfair or Deceptive Fees took effect on May 12, requiring booking websites for hotels, vacation rentals, concert and sports tickets to disclose all mandatory fees in advertised prices.
Consumerpedia, Episode 89: DON'T GET BURNED BY SOLAR SCAMMERS - In this episode: The tricks door-to-door con artists use to sell high-priced solar systems, the facts about solar incentives and tax credits, plus tips on how to find a good solar contractor.
SOLAR ENERGY INSTALLATION SCAMS ON THE RISE - Scammers are going door-to-door, pitching "free" solar energy systems that are not free and can result in massive debt. In many cases, victims claim, the installation work was shoddy, at best.
SUMMER TRAVEL TIPS FROM CHRISTOPHER ELLIOTT - Travel expert Christopher Elliott says this might be the year to travel domestically. With foreign travel to the U.S. down, airlines and hotels may have to lower prices.
FEDS RESTART COLLECTION ON DEFAULTED STUDENT LOANS - After a pause of more than five years, the federal government resumes collecting on defaulted student loans. Here are the options for borrowers in default or close to it.
MY TWO CENTS: WHY THE MARKETPLACE NEEDS RULES - I almost never share my personal opinions about politics, but I’m concerned that a "Wild West" marketplace will result from weakening federal regulations and regulators.
Consumerpedia, Episode 84: FREE PERKS YOU DIDN'T KNOW YOU HAD - The staff at Checkbook sifted through member benefits for credit cards, warehouse clubs, health plans, and AAA. We discovered dozens of money-saving perks that are often overlooked.
DON'T FALL FOR BOGUS 'UNPAID TOLL' TEXT MESSAGES - If you receive a text message requesting payment for outstanding toll charges, assume it’s a scam. The volume of these fake messages has surged recently.
TRUMP MOVES TO SHUT DOWN IMPORTANT CONSUMER WATCHDOG AGENCY - Employees at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) have been locked out of the building and ordered to halt all work. The CFPB was formed to fight financial fraud and deceptive lending practices.
SAVE ON PRESCRIPTION DRUGS: PAY LESS THAN YOUR INSURANCE COPAY - Various websites and apps, such as GoodRX and SingleCare offer discounts so steep that you might pay less for your prescription medicines than what you’d pay using your health insurance plan.
WHY DO AMERICANS PAY MORE FOR PRESCRIPTION DRUGS? - The average American spends more than $1,400 a year on prescription medications – a budget buster for many. Why are prescription drug prices in the U.S. nearly three times higher than most other countries?
GROCERY STORE DIGITAL DISCOUNT ERRORS CREATE PROBLEMS FOR SHOPPERS - Digital coupons are supposed to make it easier to get discounts at the supermarket – no more paper coupons to clip. But unless you check the receipt, there’s no way to be sure you were charged the sale price. Why is this happening?
DEALING WITH DEBT: REAL-LIFE SUCCESS STORIES - Erasing a mountain of debt may seem impossible, but it can be done with hard work, discipline, and guidance from a non-profit credit counselor.
Consumerpedia, Episode 80: DEBT BUSTERS: REAL-LIFE SUCCESS STORIES - Meet two people who were drowning in credit card debt and got their finances back in order. Also, a certified nonprofit credit counselor explains how debt consolidation works and the dangers of using a for-profit debt settlement company.
Consumerpedia, Episode 79: TIPS FOR BUYING & SENDING FLOWERS - Where to find the lowest prices on flowers, how to choose a good florist, and the best way to send flowers out of town. Plus, tips on how to keep those flowers looking fresh for longer.
IDENTITY THEFT AND FRAUD: HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF - Hackers continue to steal astonishing amounts of customer data from corporate and government databases. You should assume criminals already have your data and act accordingly.
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM TAX RETURN IDENTITY THEFT - Hundreds of thousands of Americans become victims of tax-related identity theft each year. The average time for the IRS to resolve tax-return-theft claims is 22 months.
IT'S TAX TIME! WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW - No new credits or deductions available this filing season. However, the IRS did make inflation adjustments for more than 60 tax provisions, including tax rate schedules and standard deductions.
Consumerpedia, Episode 78: CLOTHING RENTAL SUBSCRIPTIONS - Clothing rental is an easy way to keep your wardrobe fresh without spending much money. In this episode, we’ll share tips on navigating the clothing rental world, including when and how to use fashion-for-hire sites.
Consumerpedia, Episode 77: AMAZON FLOODS SEARCH RESULTS WITH ADS - Amazon is convenient, but too often it steers customers toward items it gets paid to promote. What’s the deal with all these ads and can you trust Amazon to show you the best products and prices?
NEW FEDERAL RULE BANS HIDDEN HOTEL & TICKET JUNK FEES - The Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) new Junk Fees Rule, which was announced in mid-December and takes effect in mid-2025, requires all-in pricing for short-term lodging and live-event ticket sales.
WATCH OUT: FAKE REVIEWS ARE EVERYWHERE - The growing problem of deceptive reviews makes it challenging to get objective information about the products or services you plan to buy. Here’s what you can do to spot dishonest reviews.
BUYING TOYS ON OVERSEAS WEBSITES CAN BE RISKY - Cost-conscious consumers have discovered the crazy low prices offered by overseas sites, such as Temu and Shein, but the safety of these products is not guaranteed.
FRAUD ALERT: WATCH OUT FOR WORTHLESS GIFT CARDS - You’ve made your list and checked it twice. And when you go shopping, you want to get the most for your money and avoid trouble. Checkbook’s tips will help you find the best deals and avoid a holiday debt hangover.
BUY NOW, PAY LATER OFTEN A DEBT TRAP - When used wisely, these short-term loans can help you deal with cash flow problems without turning to more expensive credit. When misused, they can turn into high-cost debt with serious consequences.
IT'S TIME TO DITCH PASSWORDS AND SWITCH TO PASSKEYS - Even the best passwords are no match for today’s international crime rings. Many companies now offer logins with digital passkeys, which provide better security. Here’s how they work and what to expect.
NEW 'CLICK TO CANCEL' RULE MAKES STOPPING SUBSCRIPTIONS EASIER - The FTC’s new rule requires businesses to makes canceling a subscription as easy as signing up. No more runarounds, no more unanswered customer service lines, no more hidden links on websites.
NEW RULES CHANGE THINGS FOR HOMEBUYERS AND SELLERS - The National Association of Realtors has changed the rules for its 1.5 million members. The new procedures, resulting from a lawsuit, are designed to promote competition and make the commission structure transparent.
Consumerpedia, Episode 71: REDO YOUR KITCHEN OR BATH FOR LESS - Kitchen and bathroom remodels can be mighty expensive. If the layout of your kitchen or bath already works for you, and its cabinets and other features are in decent shape, you might be able to save a bunch of cash by doing what’s called a "light remodel."
WHY DO AMERICANS PAY MORE FOR PRESCRIPTION DRUGS? - Prescription drug prices in the U.S. are significantly higher than other countries. The average American spends more than $1,400 a year on prescription medications. For many, that’s a budget buster. Who’s to blame for this?
Consumerpedia, Episode 69: FREE AIRLINE STOPOVERS - With these tickets, you can visit two places for the price of one – stay in the hub city for a few days or weeks, and then continue onward to your final destination.
HOME TITLE MONITORING SERVICES MISLEAD ABOUT A RARE CRIME - Home title protection is marketed as a way for homeowners to protect themselves from a real but rare crime called "home title theft" – where an identity thief forges the paperwork and takes legal possession of the victim’s home. Is title protection worth $100 or $200 a year?
CREDIT CARD REWARD PROGRAMS UNDER SCRUTINY BY FEDERAL REGULATORS - As credit card reward programs have become more complex and confusing, frustrated cardholders are complaining to federal regulators. Are new rules needed to protect consumers who use these cards?
FTC ORDERS ONLINE USED CAR DEALER VROOM TO REFUND CUSTOMERS $1 MILLION - Vroom promised a better way to buy used cars, but customers complained that the supposedly “inspected” vehicles they received had all sorts of mechanical problems and body damage, including bald tires, worn brakes, and broken tail lights.
BUYER BEWARE: STRAIGHT TALK ABOUT NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS - Most supplements are manufactured and sold with no oversight to ensure quality, safety, and effectiveness. Consumer advocates caution that many of these products are marketed with dubious claims.
Consumerpedia, Episode 65: HOW TO FIND RELIABLE MOVERS - In this episode: Tips on choosing a moving company that provides fair and reliable pricing, gets the job done on time, and takes good care of your belongings. Plus: Why to avoid moving brokers and how to spot moving scams.
CFPB WANTS TO BAN MEDICAL DEBT FROM CREDIT REPORTS - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau wants to reduce the financial fallout from unpaid medical debt for millions of Americans. If enacted, its proposed rule would remove medical debt from most credit reports.
Consumerpedia, Episode 64: EV UPDATE 2024 - In this episode: How to decide which non-conventional vehicle might be right for you? Do EVs live up to their range promises? And why are they less reliable than conventional vehicles?
CFPB TIGHTENS RULES FOR BUY NOW, PAY LATER PLANS - Beginning later this year, consumers who use Buy Now, Pay Later services should have an easier time disputing charges or getting refunds when they have problems with their purchases.
AIRLINES SUE TO BLOCK NEW RULE REQUIRING UPFRONT DISCLOSURE OF FEES - The nation’s airlines want to kill a new federal rule that would require them to disclose “ancillary” fees—extra costs for baggage, canceling a reservation, or changing a reservation—along with ticket prices.
NEED A NEW CAR? HERE'S HOW TO FIND ONE THAT'S RELIABLE AND AFFORDABLE - Buying a car is the second biggest expense for most Americans. A smart way to reduce the cost of ownership is to choose a brand and a model with a proven track record for reliability. Here are the latest results from Consumer Reports annual Auto Reliability Report.
Consumerpedia, Episode 63: THE CAR SHOW 2024 - In this episode we talk to Consumer Reports about their latest new-vehicle reliability ratings, the right way to take a test drive, and how to get the best deal on that new car. Plus, should you use a buying service, like Costco, to simplify the process?
FEDERAL COURT BLOCKS RULE TO CAP CREDIT CARD LATE FEES AT $8 - The new rule from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) would have capped most credit card late fees at $8. The CFPB estimates this ruling will cost consumers $800 million in late fees for each month the rule is delayed.
NEW DOT RULE WILL SPEED UP AND SIMPLIFY AIRLINE REFUNDS - To simplify and speed up the process of getting refunds when flights are canceled or significantly delayed, the U.S. Department of Transportation issued a new rule that will require airlines to promptly provide passengers with refunds when owed.
SUMMER VACATION SURPRISE: PRICES FOR DOMESTIC TRAVEL - It’s not summer yet, but the season for booking vacations is already in full swing. What can you expect to pay for your summer getaway? So far, prices are holding fairly steady for many U.S. destinations, but they’re on the rise for getaways to Europe.
Consumerpedia, Episode 62: THE TRAVEL SHOW 2024 - It’s going to be a busy summer for travel, especially for those headed abroad. In this episode: What you can expect to pay for airfare, hotel rooms, and rental cars. Plus tips on dealing with the crowds and other peak-season hassles.
MEDICAL DATA BREACHES HIT RECORD HIGH: HERE'S HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF - The medical records of 133 million Americans—about 1 in 3—were compromised last year, according to the federal government. Find out how hackers are getting their hands on this highly sensitive personal information, what they’re able to do with it, and what you can do to protect yourself.
FCC REQUIRES INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDERS TO USE 'BROADBAND FACTS' LABEL - A new FCC rule requires internet service providers to use standardized “Broadband Facts” labels that display complete and accurate information on costs and typical speeds. The goal is to bring transparency to the broadband market and increase competition.
STUDY: FINANCIAL ANXIETY IMPACTS ATTITUDES ABOUT DEBT - Despite the strong U.S. economy, many Americans feel left behind; they’re stressed about trying to make ends meet, according to a new Harris Poll. This anxiety is making more people feel comfortable with taking on too much debt.
Consumerpedia, Episode 60: USING YOUR CELL PHONE ABROAD - We compare what the major U.S. wireless phone companies charge to use their international roaming services, and how to pay less by switching to a local wireless carrier or using a Wi-Fi pod at your destination.
WHY ARE GROCERY PRICES STILL SO HIGH? - Prices at the grocery store have been running well above the overall inflation rate. And once food prices go up, they tend to stay there. A variety of factors, including corporate profit-taking, are pushing prices higher.
PRODUCT SAFETY RECALLS ON THE RISE REFUNDS OFTEN DIFFICULT TO GET - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced 323 product recalls in 2023—the most in seven years—involving tens of millions of products, including toys, clothing, and home appliances.
Consumerpedia, Episode 58: MARKETING TRICKS THAT GET YOU TO BUY NOW - Comparison shopping saves money, but sometimes you’re in a rush and don’t have time to search for the best deal. Some buyers don’t compare prices because they’ve been duped into thinking they already found a great deal. In this episode, some of the common manipulative marketing tricks retailers use that get you to pay too much.
COMCAST WILL STOP USING MISLEADING 'XFINITY 10G NETWORK' BRANDING - In response to recommendations from an industry watchdog group, Comcast has reluctantly agreed to change the way it describes its high-speed-internet service which was found to be confusing and potentially misleading.
Consumerpedia, Episode 57: WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO CUSTOMER SERVICE? - Frustrated with the way companies treat you? If so, you’re not alone. Many consumers are fed up with long waits on the phone, customer service agents who can’t solve their problems, unintelligible billing statements, poorly designed websites, and inexperienced or indifferent sales staff.
NEW REPORT: CREDIT UNIONS & SMALL BANKS OFTEN OFFER THE BEST CREDIT CARD RATES - Looking for a credit card? Be sure to shop around. A new report from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau finds that large banks tend to offer “worse credit card terms” and “substantially higher interest rates” than credit unions and small banks.
FTC FORCED TO HIT THE BRAKES ON NEW RULE TO PROTECT CAR BUYERS - The FTC has postponed the effective date for its Combating Auto Retail Scams (CARS) Rule due to a court challenge from car dealers. The Rule targets bait-and-switch sales tactics that lure buyers to dealerships. It would also ban hidden junk fees that are often buried in lengthy contracts.
Consumerpedia, Episode 56: A CRASH COURSE ON AUTO INSURANCE - In this episode: Which insurance companies have the best prices? Which ones provide the best customer service? Do price comparison websites work? Plus, why do many insurance companies use credit scores to set their rates?
HOW TO START YOUR EMERGENCY SAVINGS FUND - Life happens. Maybe it’s an unexpected medical bill, car repair, or home appliance on the fritz. We all need to build a rainy-day fund, because sooner or later it’s going to rain - but many people don’t have this crucial safety net. Here’s how to get started.
CONSUMER ADVOCATES WANT FTC RULE: THE RIGHT TO REPAIR PRODUCTS WE BUY - When you buy a product and it breaks, your ability to fix it yourself - or send it to an independent repair shop - is often limited or prevented by the manufacturer. Consumer advocates want the Federal Trade Commission to create a rule that would protect your right to repair the products you buy.
PROPOSED FEDERAL RULE WOULD LIMIT BANK OVERDRAFT FEES - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) wants to limit how much financial institutions can charge customers for overdraft protection plans. The CFPB’s proposed rule would drive down overdraft fees, capping them at just $3, in some cases.
WHAT TO EXPECT AS YOU PREPARE YOUR TAX RETURN THIS YEAR - Most taxpayers won’t notice any major changes this filing season. However, the IRS did make larger-than-usual adjustments to account for inflation, including changes to the tax brackets and higher amounts for the standard deduction.
HOW TO FIND A GOOD GYM AND GET THE BEST PRICE - Our expert tips will help you find a good gym, get the best price, and avoid common marketing tricks. Plus, what to look for before you sign a contract.
LOOKING TO SAVE MONEY? AUDIT YOUR DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS - Subscription-based digital services are the ultimate in convenience, but their fees can add up to hundreds of dollars in wasted money if you don't cancel unused or unwanted ones.
3 WAYS TO TUNE-UP YOUR FINANCES FOR THE NEW YEAR - The start of the new year is a good time to review your finances and make needed adjustments. Here are three things you can do to find out where you are and what you might need to do.
HOW TO PROPERLY WIPE YOUR DATA BEFORE GETTING RID OF DIGITAL DEVICES - Get a new digital device? Before you get rid of that old smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer, wipe it clean. Simply deleting unwanted files and emptying the recycle bin, does not permanently destroy the data.
MANY RETAILERS HAVE TWEAKED THEIR HOLIDAY RETURN POLICIES - Some big-name retailers have changed their return policies this year by adding or raising return-by-mail fees or shortening the return window for holiday purchases, according to the 2023 Return Policy Survey by Consumer World.
DON'T LET PORCH PIRATES PLUNDER YOUR PACKAGE DELIVERIES - The growth in online shopping has spawned a surge in package thefts that impact millions of Americans each year. There are various ways to stop porch pirates from stealing your packages.
ARE THOSE HI-TECH SMART TOYS SPYING ON YOUR KIDS? - Smart toys can do some amazing things, but they often collect personal information about your child and share it. So, parents who buy smart toys need understand the risks and how to mitigate them.
ZELLE IMPROVES ITS FRAUD PROTECTION POLICY, BUT IS IT ENOUGH? - Earlier this year, Zelle quietly expanded its fraud protection policy to include some victims of imposter fraud. Consumer advocates want the company to do more, and federal regulators to require better fraud protection for all peer-to-peer payment apps.
SHOP SAFELY ONLINE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON AND ALL YEAR LONG - U.S. consumers reported losing $358 million to online scams last year. The holiday shopping season is especially lucrative for scammers, so you need to be especially careful.
Consumerpedia, Episode 51: HOW TO HIRE A RELIABLE ROOFER - In this episode, we’ll explain how to find a reliable roofing company, how to review proposals for that job, and how to compare warranties. Plus, ways to avoid getting ripped off by a shady contractor.
WATER BEADS POSE DEADLY DANGER TO CHILDREN IF SWALLOWED - These colorful balls, which resemble candy, are sold in sizes as small as ice cream sprinkles. When they absorb water, they can grow to the size of a golf ball – causing a choking hazard or blocking the intestines. Thousands of children have already been injured, and one has died.
THE COSTLY PITFALLS OF BUY NOW, PAY LATER FINANCING - Buy Now, Pay Later makes purchases seem more affordable by splitting up costs into smaller installments. But what may seem like free financing can turn into a high-cost loan.
HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT CREDIT CARD - The market is flooded with credit card offers; some have sizeable sign-up bonuses. The trick is to ignore the marketing hype, compare the offers, and find a card that works for you.
UPDATE: XFINITY'S '10G' INTERNET SERVICE IS MARKETING MUMBO JUMBO - The BBB’s National Advertising Division has determined Comcast “did not provide a reasonable basis for its 10G claims,” and it recommends they be discontinued, or modified so that they are not “false or misleading.”
HOW CRIMINALS ARE USING AI TO IMPROVE THEIR FRAUD ATTACKS - Fraudsters are already using this supercomputing power to scam people. AI-based programs can create better phishing emails and bogus text messages, and write malicious code.
WHY AM I GETTING EMAIL MESSAGES IN MY TEXT FOLDER? - Cybercriminals are now sending their emails via text messaging to circumvent spam filters. They’re also hoping this different format will make catch your eye and get you to respond.
Consumerpedia, Episode 47: GUIDE TO BUYING NEW WINDOWS - Window companies generate numerous complaints about high-pressure sales tactics and substandard installation. In this episode, how to cut through the marketing hype, decide which type of windows to buy, and find a reliable contractor.
NEW LAW TARGETS ONLINE SALE OF STOLEN AND COUNTERFEIT MERCHANDISE - The bipartisan INFORM Consumers Act (Integrity, Notification and Fairness in Online Retail Marketplaces), which took effect in June, should make it harder for crooks to sell stolen or counterfeit items—and make it more difficult for online marketplaces to ignore the growing problem.
HEALTH TRACKING APPS AND OTHER TECH MIGHT BE INVADING YOUR PRIVACY - Wearable devices and medical websites collect highly personal information. In most cases, they can share and sell the info they collect to data brokers or other companies to use for targeted marketing or other purposes. Here’s how to protect yourself.
BOYCOTT STUDENT LOAN PAYMENTS? EXPERTS SAY THAT'S A BAD IDEA - The resumption of federal student loan payments, which begins in October, will be a financial stretch for many borrowers. Some are looking for a way to push back. Experts say a boycott is a bad idea.
FEDERAL STUDENT LOAN PAYMENT PAUSE ENDS AUG. 31 - After more than three years, the pause on federal student loan payments ends on August 31. Here’s how to prepare for the restart. Plus, the options available for those who can’t afford to make payments.
Consumerpedia, Episode 45: Why Good Companies Treat Customers Poorly - Even “reputable” businesses treat consumers unfairly, often by using new technologies. In this episode, we discuss how many companies prioritize profits ahead of their customers—and what you can do to fight back.
FAKE CHATGPT APPS COMMONPLACE IN APP STORES - App stores are flooded with bogus versions of ChatGPT, the popular new artificial intelligence tool. Here’s how to make sure you download the real one.
FRAUD ALERT: IRS REFUND LETTER IS BOGUS - While the IRS does contact taxpayers by mail, it never sends letters about refunds. Criminals impersonating the IRS are trying to steal sensitive personal information.
STAY SAFE IN THE SUN: TOP-RATED SUNSCREENS - A good sunscreen, when used properly, can dramatically reduce your skin cancer risk, and lower your chances of getting melanoma by 50%. Here are CR’s top-rated products for 2023.
Consumerpedia, Episode 43: HOW THE CFPB PROTECTS YOU - Learn about the agency’s initiatives and proposed rules in the pipeline. Also, how the CFPB is working to eliminate junk fees, and how it might be able to help if you feel cheated or deceived by a company it regulates.
EV UPDATE: MORE CHOICES, BETTER BATTERIES, BUT STILL PRICEY - The U.S. finally has a robust market for electric vehicles, with more manufacturers offering models that are stylish, roomy, and fun to drive. Unfortunately, high sticker prices remain a deal-breaker for many drivers who want to make the switch.
Consumerpedia, Episode 42: ELECTRIC VEHICLE UPDATE - Auto experts discuss the latest EV options, reliability data, battery improvements, and federal tax credits. Also why leasing an EV or buying a used model might be a smart move.
FTC ACCUSES AMAZON OF TRICKING MILLIONS INTO JOINING PRIME - In its lawsuit against Amazon, the Federal Trade Commission claims the company enrolled customers into its Prime program without their consent—and then making it difficult for them to cancel.
FRAUD ALERT: TICKET SCAMS ARE SKYROCKETING - If you’re determined to get tickets to a sold-out concert or sporting event – no matter what – you might jump at any offer that comes along. Scammers are counting on that desperation to steal your money.
Consumerpedia, Episode 41: HOTEL INTEL: FINDING THE BEST RATES - Consumers’ Checkbook did nearly 2,000 searches looking for the best hotel rates. Find what our researchers discovered when shopping for hotel rooms. How do you get an honest-to-goodness lower price?
AMAZON AND MICROSOFT CHARGED WITH VIOLATING CHILDREN'S PRIVACY LAW - The Federal Trade Commission is putting tech companies on notice that it plans to go after them if they violate federal rules protecting children’s privacy, as it claims Amazon and Microsoft did.
Consumerpedia, Episode 40 - INSURING YOUR HOME - How much insurance coverage do you really need, how do insurance companies set their rates, and why it’s so important to shop around for new coverage every few years.
WHAT THE AIRLINES MUST DO IF YOUR FLIGHT IS CANCELED OR DELAYED - In the U.S., if your flight is delayed or canceled, the airlines aren’t required to do much for you. But it’s important to know your rights—however limited—if an airline strands you, delays you for hours, or loses your luggage.
AMERICANS ARE KEEPING THEIR CARS LONGER THAN EVER - Unable to get decent deals on new vehicles, or find used ones they can afford, millions of motorists are keeping their cars longer. Need help finding a good mechanic?
Consumerpedia, Episode 39: GOT A GRIPE? - Companies always say their top priority is customer service, but all too often they fall short of that goal. What bugs you as a consumer? Here are a few to consider.
FCC ORDERS PHONE COMPANIES TO BLOCK SOME ILLEGAL ROBOTEXTS - After years of focusing on illegal robocalls, the Federal Communications Commission is trying to stop the flood of spam robotexts with new rules that should take effect next year.
DON'T LET PASSPORT PROBLEMS WRECK YOUR FOREIGN TRIP - If you’re planning a trip outside the U.S. this summer and don’t already have a valid passport - or have one that will expire soon—you may have a problem. The current passport processing time is 10 to 13 weeks.
WHY CAR PRICES - BOTH NEW AND USED - KEEP GOING UP - With inventory abnormally low, prices historically high, and interest rates continuing to go up, it’s harder for many Americans to afford a new set of wheels. Are things going to get better?
Consumerpedia, Episode 37: WHY YOU SHOULDN'T BUY A HOME WARRANTY - Home warranty companies promise to save you thousands of dollars if you need an expensive repair. But Checkbook found these plans are terrible deals for most homeowners, filled with fine-print exclusions that can create major headaches.
IRS MAKES SIGNIFICANT INFLATION ADJUSTMENTS FOR TAX YEAR 2023 - With this year’s tax filing season in the rear-view mirror, it’s time to look at the major changes that will impact your 2023 federal tax return: The standard deduction is larger, and the thresholds for tax brackets were adjusted.
FTC RULE WOULD MAKE IT EASIER TO CANCEL UNWANTED SUBSCRIPTIONS - Thousands of consumers complain to the FTC each year about problems cancelling subscriptions. The FTC has just proposed a rule that would require companies to provide a “click to cancel” option, making it easier to end unwanted subscriptions.
Consumerpedia, Episode 36: SALES TACTICS DESIGNED TO DECEIVE - Some companies try to boost business by doing things that are meant to mislead and manipulate customers. The FTC is cracking down on these illegal “dark patterns,” but you need to know what to look for to protect yourself.
SOME AIRLINES FINALLY OFFER FREE 'KID-FRIENDLY' SEATING - One of the biggest challenges when flying with children is trying to book adjacent seats. Some major U.S. airlines now guarantee family seating—if possible—at no additional cost. Consumer advocates say more needs to be done..
Consumerpedia, Episode 35: AGING IN PLACE - Most Americans want to stay in their house as they grow older. Learn what’s important when remodeling/retrofitting your house, as well as other options available in some communities.
CHECK WASHING MAKES A COMEBACK - HERE'S HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF - Check washing has been around for decades, but it’s made a comeback in the last few years. Victims report losses ranging from a few hundred to tens of thousands of dollars. As mail thefts increase, you need to do a few things to foil the thieves.
EXPERT ADVICE: 7 TIPS TO HELP YOU BE A BETTER CONSUMER - To celebrate National Consumer Protection Week Checkbook asked five experts to share some of their wisdom. Their advice will help you be a better consumer all year long.
FTC WARNS DOCTORS: PROVIDE FREE PRESCRIPTIONS, AS REQUIRED BY LAW - In late February, the FTC sent cease and desist letters to 24 eye care prescribers warning them that, based on customer complaints, they appear to have violated the Contact Lens Rule, and in some cases, the Eyeglass Rule. Prescribers found to be violating these rules steep financial penalties.
Consumerpedia, Episode 33: PROS & CONS OF USAGE-BASED AUTO INSURANCE - Thinking about giving up your privacy to save on auto insurance? Here are some things to think about before you decide to let the insurance company track where, when and how you drive in order to save some money.
SHOULD YOU GIVE UP YOUR PRIVACY TO SAVE ON AUTO INSURANCE? - Many auto insurance companies offer to reduce customers’ premiums by as much as 30 or 40 percent if they allow their insurer to monitor how, when, and where they drive, with little oversight on how they can use the data.
FTC CHARGES GOODRX WITH ILLEGALLY DISCLOSING USERS' HEALTH INFORMATION - Millions of Americans have saved money on their prescription drugs by using coupons from GoodRx. But at what cost? Federal regulators have accused the discount drug provider sharing users’ health information with other companies without permission.
PROPOSED RULE WOULD CURB EXCESSIVE CREDIT CARD LATE FEES - The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has proposed a rule that would cap ever-increasing credit card late fees at $8 each and require financial institutions to justify any future price hikes. The move would save American consumers $9 billion a year.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM IDENTITY THEFT AND CYBER FRAUD - Hackers across the globe are breaking into corporate databases and stealing record amounts of personal information that can be used to commit identity theft. Here’s how you can fight back.
MOST DATA BREACH NOTICES LACK DETAILS VICTIMS NEED TO PROTECT THEMSELVES - You probably received a data breach notice last year—possibly more than one. Unfortunately, only 34% of those breach notices included specific details about what was obtained from attacks, critical information victims needed to protect themselves.
FEDERAL REGULATORS CRACK DOWN ON UNLAWFUL HIDDEN 'JUNK' FEES - Many companies use hidden fees to make more money without having to increase their advertised prices. These junk fees cost consumers tens of billions of dollars each year, make comparison shopping difficult, and leave consumers feeling powerless and cheated.
Consumerpedia, Episode 31: BUYER BEWARE - WATCH OUT FOR THESE COMMON TRICKS & TRAPS - Anyone, even a savvy consumer, can get swindled by professional con artists. The best way to fight back is to understand the tricks the fraudsters use to manipulate you. In this episode of the Consumerpedia podcast, we’ll talk to Sam Levine from the Federal Trade Commission.
TAX SEASON IS UNDERWAY: HERE IS WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW - Millions of Americans will be disappointed to learn that they’ll get less money back than last year—or even owe money—as they prepare their federal tax returns for 2022.
AVOID GETTING STUCK WITH A FLOOD-DAMAGED USED CAR - Buy a used vehicle that’s been inundated by flood waters, and you’re going to have problems down the road—no matter how nice it looks. Here’s how to protect yourself from getting stuck with a waterlogged lemon.
FRAUD ALERT: CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPOSTER SCAMS - To gain your confidence, con artists lie about who they are. They impersonate debt collectors, bankers, and IRS agents. These days, they’re also finding it lucrative to pose as customer service agents. Here’s how to protect yourself.
Consumerpedia, Episode 30: FINDING GOOD HVAC CONTRACTORS & EQUIPMENT - Keeping your house comfortable requires a properly installed and maintained HVAC system. When it breaks, you want a repair company you can trust to do quality work at a fair price. In this episode, things you should do before having your HVAC system serviced or new equipment installed. We’ll also answer the question: Is it time to consider getting a heat pump?
PASSENGERS HAVE LIMITED RIGHTS WHEN FLIGHTS ARE DELAYED OR CANCELLED - In the U.S., if your flight is delayed or canceled, or your baggage gets lost or damaged, airlines aren’t required to do much for you. But it’s important to know your rights—however limited—if an airline strands you, delays you for hours, or loses your stuff.
Consumerpedia, Episode 29: HOME SECURITY: INSTALLERS, EQUIPMENT & DIY - It seems like every big company now sells home security services and equipment. But does any of this tech do any good? In this episode, the pros and cons of professional systems vs. inexpensive DIY options.
ARE THOSE SMART TOYS SPYING ON YOUR KIDS? - Smart toys are cool. But toys equipped with microphones, cameras, or sensors create all sorts of privacy and security issues. Here's what parents need to know.
Consumerpedia, Episode 28: BEING A BETTER CONSUMER OF SOCIAL MEDIA - Social media was designed to bring us together, but it doesn’t always work that way. In this episode of Consumerpedia, I talk to Emmy-award winning sportscaster and journalist Bob Costas about how to become a better consumer of social media.
STUDY: SOME RECALLED TOYS ARE STILL BEING SOLD ONLINE - Recalled products are not allowed to be sold, but a recent study found that some new toys that had been recalled due to known safety hazards were still being sold online.
WATCH OUT: MORE ONLINE RETAILERS CHARGE RETURN FEES - Better check the return policy before buying online. A growing number of retailers are charging shipping fees that they deduct from the refund amount.
WHY STUDENT LOAN REPAYMENT PAUSE WAS EXTENDED YET AGAIN - After a federal appeals court stopped the Biden administration’s plan to forgive student loan debt for millions of Americans, the Dept. of Education extended the payment pause until the end of June 2023.
HOW BUY NOW, PAY LATER CAN QUICKLY BECOME A DEBT TRAP - These point-of-sale loans may seem like a responsible way to pay, but they can result in costly fees and damaged credit. Complaints about late fees, unexpected withdrawals from bank accounts, and problems returning merchandise are on the rise.
CONSUMER ADVOCATES URGE SUPERMARKETS TO STOP DIGITAL DISCOUNT DISCRIMINATION - A coalition of consumer advocates is urging supermarkets to create workarounds for “digital-only” discounts that they say “discriminate” against millions of seniors and lower-income shoppers who are not connected or tech savvy.
CAN YOU TRUST ONLINE REVIEWS FOR WARRANTY COMPANIES? - ConsumerWorld.org found something curious when it looked into online reviews for one of the largest home warranty companies. Ratings were significantly higher on websites that were paid a commission for sales generated from their site.
FTC MAY REQUIRE FUNERAL HOMES TO DISCLOSE PRICES ON THEIR WEBSITES - The FTC is updating its Funeral Rule, first enacted in 1984. One proposed change: Require funeral homes to display their price information online and by other electronic means, such as text and email.
Consumerpedia, Episode 24: HOW TO FIND A GOOD AUTO BODY SHOP - Learn about the collision repair process from the estimate to the guarantee, and the differences between the three types of parts that might be used. Also, how to deal with the insurance company—especially if the shop wants to do one thing and they want to do something else.
UPDATE: BANKS OFTEN REFUSE TO HELP CUSTOMERS WHO GET SCAMMED USING ZELLE - Use a payment platform provided by your bank or credit union, and you probably assume your financial institution will be there to help if there's a problem. Don't count on it. Customers tricked into sending money to scammers via Zelle are learning that lesson the hard way.
Consumerpedia, Episode 23: FREQUENTLY FRUSTRATED FLYERS - Long-time consumer advocate Bill McGee talks about this country’s broken airline system and how the US Dept of Transportation has failed to create consumer-friendly rules to protect the flying public.
PROPOSED RULE WOULD REQUIRE AIRLINES TO DISCLOSE THE 'TRUE COST' OF TICKETS - The U.S. Department of Transportation is considering a rule that would make it easier for consumers to see the true cost of flying—airfare, plus any fees—when booking trips. The rule would help provide customers with the information they need to choose the best deals upfront, the first time airfares are displayed.
Consumerpedia, Episode 22: HOW TO FIND A TOP DOC - Learn how to find good doctors, how to take charge of your medical care, and what Checkbook has learned by analyzing data on tens of thousands of doctors across the country.
CONSUMER ADVOCATES WANT DOT TO FIX OUR BROKEN AIRLINE SYSTEM - Consumer advocates say U.S. airlines are failing their customers by putting profits ahead of realistic schedules – resulting is too many cancelations and long delays. They believe more could and should be done to protect passengers.
Consumerpedia, Episode 21: AUTO GLASS CLASS - No matter how big or small the job, you if you have a damaged cad windshield, you want the work done quickly and for a fair price. Here’s how to choose a good shop, and how to deal with the insurance company.
FRAUD ALERT: SCAMMERS USING HACKED FACEBOOK ACCOUNTS - Con artists are now using social media to breathe new life into the old government grant scam. Many victims, who think they’ve been contacted by a friend or family member, report losing thousands of dollars.
DEADLINE IS AUG. 31 FOR SCAM VICTIMS TO APPLY FOR REFUNDS FROM WESTERN UNION - Western Union has agreed to return $586 million to consumers who used its money transfer service to wire money to criminals from 2004 through 2017. To get your share of the money, you must file a claim by August 31. The FTC is now suing Walmart for similar alleged lack of oversight.
NEW LAW CHANGES EV TAX CREDITS: FEW MODELS WILL QUALIFY AT FIRST - The new Inflation Reduction Act provides billions of dollars in tax incentives for “clean-car” buyers, new and used. But the law includes restrictions that could make it difficult or impossible those who buy an EV to take advantage of the tax break anytime soon.
CHILD IDENTITY THEFT: ARE YOU PROTECTING YOUR KIDS? - Identity thieves don’t just victimize adults; they also target children. About 1.4 million children in the U.S. become ID fraud victims each year. Parents need to be aware of this very real threat, and take steps to protect their kids.
FTC PROPOSES NEW AD GUIDELINES TO STOP MISLEADING ENDORSEMENTS - Today’s consumers rely on endorsements. All too often, these endorsers don’t disclose that they are compensated for their praise. The FTC plans to strengthen its guidelines for traditional media, as well as social media influencers.
Consumerpedia, Episode 20: WHATEVER HAPPENED TO TRUTH IN ADVERTISING? - False or deceptive advertising costs American consumer billions of dollars a year. In this episode, we’ll explore some of the tricks advertisers use to fool us, explain why some big-name celebrities are on the group’s Wall of Shame, and provide tips on how to spot misleading ads.
GOOD NEWS: CREDIT BUREAUS CHANGE HOW THEY REPORT MEDICAL DEBT - Tens of millions of Americans have seen their creditworthiness plummet in recent years due to unpaid medical bills. That could change, now that the three major credit bureaus voluntarily decided to significantly change how they treat medical debt.
ROBOCALLS ON THE RISE: HOW YOU CAN FIGHT BACK - For years, we’ve been promised that new technology would solve the problem – but the phones keep ringing! Right now, almost one-third of all calls are robocalls.
Consumerpedia, Episode 19: ESTATE PLANNING TASKS AND TIPS - Most Americans don’t even have simple wills, and even fewer have living wills or designated healthcare surrogates. In this episode, some basic do’s and don’ts when it comes to planning what happens after you leave this world. We hope these tips will save you hassles and money – and enable you to avoid some common mistakes.
BUYING YOUR LEASED CAR COULD BE A SMART MOVE RIGHT NOW - At the end of their lease, many people turn in that old vehicle and lease another one. They like driving something new – and it doesn’t make economic sense to buy that old ride. A shortage of new and used cars has changed that economic equation, at least for now.
FORD NO LONGER ALLOWS CUSTOMERS TO BUY THEIR ELECTRIC VEHICLES AT END OF LEASE - Lease an all-electric vehicle from Ford and you no longer have the option to buy that car or truck when your agreement ends. As of June 15, Ford eliminated the purchase option for new leases on the F-150 Lightning, E-Transit Van, and Mustang Mach-E.
'INTEREST-FREE' CAR REPAIR LOANS CAN TURN OUT TO BE VERY COSTLY - Many auto repair shops work with third-party lenders to offer on-the-spot “free financing.” Unfortunately, these offers can turn out to be costly loans, with interest rates sometimes as high as nearly 200 percent.
FREE WAY TO OPT-OUT OF POPULAR PEOPLE-SEARCH WEBSITES - Discover’s “Online Privacy Protection” program makes it easy for its customers to remove their personal information from 10 popular data-collecting websites. My test drive found that it did a good job.
Consumerpedia, Episode 17: HOW TO FIND THE BEST DEALS ON AIRFARE - Rising demand for fewer seats has ticket prices soaring. Here’s how to find the best fares and avoid common problems when searching for deals. Also: When is the best time to book? Should I avoid basic economy tickets?
WHICH CREDIT CARDS OFFER THE BEST DEAL ON GAS? - One way to reduce pain at the pump is to use a rewards credit card. But which one? Does it make sense to get the card offered by a big oil company?
ZELLE SCAMS SPIKE, BANKS OFTEN REFUSE TO HELP - Use a payment platform provided by your bank or credit union, and you probably assume your financial institution will be there to help if there’s a problem. Don’t count on it. Customers tricked into sending money to scammers via Zelle are learning that lesson the hard way.
Consumerpedia, Episode 16: PLANNING AND PAYING FOR A FUNERAL - What is a funeral home required to do about price disclosure? What are the marketing tricks sometimes used to push unnecessary or high-end products? Plus, the importance of pre-planning your funeral.
DRIVERS BEWARE: MOST STATES STILL ALLOW PREDATORY TOWING SCHEMES - “Predatory towing,” where towing companies pay kickbacks to private businesses or law enforcement, is banned in only 17 states, and is creating needless problems for drivers, according to a new report from the consumer advocates at the U.S. PIRG Education Fund.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR END OF STUDENT LOAN PAYMENT PAUSE - Payments are set to resume in September for the 37 million borrowers who’ve benefited from the pandemic-related pause. Here’s what to do now to get ready.
Consumerpedia, Episode 14: HOW TO BUY PLANTS & GET GOOD LAWN CARE - Even the greenest of thumbs sometimes needs help sometimes. In this episode: How to find a great lawn care service, and what to consider when hiring a landscaper. Plus, for DIYers, how big-name garden centers rate for price and quality.
IS IT TIME TO BUY AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE? - Electric vehicle sales are still a tiny part of the U.S. auto market. But surging gas prices are driving up demand, and automakers are racing to get new plug-in hybrids and all-electric models to market.
FRAUD ALERT: CRIMINALS PITCH BOGUS CRYPTOCURRENCY INVESTMENTS - A gold-rush mentality created by the cryptocurrency craze has people sending money to companies that promise huge returns in days or weeks without first checking them out. Often, they’re scams – cyber criminals are increasingly luring victims who hope to get rich quick.
DO I OWE THE IRS TAXES ON MY CRYPTOCURRENCY INVESTMENTS? - If you sold or exchanged any virtual currency last year – including using it to buy goods or services – and the value of that crypto was higher than when you acquired it, you likely made a taxable capital gain, subject to federal taxation.
Consumerpedia, Episode 12: HOW TO FIND THE BEST VET FOR YOUR PETS - While most vets get high marks for competency and caring, undercover shoppers at Checkbook.org found huge differences in prices for the same procedures. Also: The pros and cons of pet insurance.
ESCALATED THREAT OF CYBER ATTACK MAKES GOOD COMPUTER HYGIENE CRITICAL - Your digital devices are vulnerable to a malware attack anytime they’re connected to the internet, but the war in Ukraine has raised this risk. It is more important than ever to break bad computing habits.
WAYS TO SAVE MONEY AT THE PUMP, AND BOOST YOUR CAR'S GAS MILEAGE - Unless you can park your car and drive less, there are three ways to deal with soaring gasoline prices: Hunt for the lowest price; chose the best way to pay; and then squeeze the most miles out of every gallon you buy. Here’s how to do all three.
Consumerpedia, Episode 11: PROTECT YOURSELF FROM IDENTITY THEFT - Identity theft is a serious and growing crime – and we’re all at risk. Eva Velasquez, at the Identity Theft Resource Center, explains how criminals get your personal information, how they use it, and how to fight back.
SOCIAL MEDIA SCAMS SKYROCKET - HERE'S HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF - FRAUD ALERT: Cyber crooks are increasing their use of social media to troll for victims. About 1/4 of all fraud losses reported to the Federal Trade Commission last year resulted from scams that started with social media ads, posts, or messages.
DON'T GET LEFT BEHIND WHEN YOUR AIRLINE TRAVEL CREDITS EXPIRE - Millions of Americans who had flights canceled during the pandemic are sitting on billions of dollars in unused airline credits. The clock is ticking: Many vouchers expire soon. Unfortunately, airlines often make it complicated, if not impossible, to use them.
CREDIT SCORES - MYTH VS. REALITY: DISPELLING COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS - Good credit is important for so many reasons. And yet, many people don’t understand how the system works, and make decisions based on misinformation. Don’t let these common misconceptions hold you back.
Consumerpedia, Episode 9: UNDERSTANDING HOW CREDIT SCORES WORK - Good credit is important, but few people truly understand how the system works. In this episode Liz Weston with NerdWallet will demystify the process, separate credit facts from credit myths, and explain ways to boost your score.
3G WIRELESS SERVICE ENDS THIS YEAR DISABLING MILLIONS OF MOBILE DEVICES - U.S. wireless carriers will turn off their old 3G networks this year. As they do, older devices that rely on 3G – including some cellphones, home security systems, wearable medical alert devices, and vehicle SOS systems – will no longer work.
COURT APPROVES $425 MILLION EQUIFAX BREACH SETTLEMENT - Equifax will pay up to $425 million in restitution to those directly impacted by the massive data breach of the credit bureau in 2017. Settlement notices are now being sent to those who previously filed claims for monetary compensation or free credit monitoring.
AMAZON ENDS 'SOLD BY AMAZON' PROGRAM TO SETTLE PRICE-FIXING INVESTIGATION - Amazon settled a lawsuit brought by Washington state’s Attorney General by permanently shutting down its “Sold by Amazon” program. The lawsuit alleged Amazon used the program to unlawfully fix prices to boost profits.
WA CARES LONG-TERM CARE PROGRAM DELAYED UNTIL SUMMER OF 2023 - Washington state’s first-of-a-kind long-term care program has been put on hold until 2023 while lawmakers figure out a host of problems, including who must pay into the program and who is eligible to collect benefits.
Consumerpedia, Episode 8: SAVING ENERGY AT HOME - With energy prices soaring, making your home energy efficient can really save a bundle – and reduce the amount of greenhouse gasses you create. Here are some simple repairs and improvements that should yield big energy savings.
HIGHER INTEREST RATES ON THE WAY - HERE'S HOW TO PREPARE - To combat inflation, the Federal Reserve is poised to hike interest rates two or three times in 2022. Here’s a look at how these increases are likely to affect consumer borrowing and saving.
THE PUSH TO END OVERDRAFT FEES - Of all the fees financial institutions charge their customers, the overdraft fee is among the most hated and expensive. Now, some banks are finally adopting fairer policies.
IMPORTANT TAX LAW CHANGES THAT MAY AFFECT YOUR 2021 TAX RETURN - In 2021, as in most years, tax laws were revised and tweaked, possibly impacting your return. You may get a larger or smaller refund than you were expecting, or owe money you weren’t planning to pay.
AUTOMAKERS REV UP COSTLY SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES - When you buy or lease your next car, you might be required to pay a monthly or yearly subscription fee to activate some of its features, even if they are pre-installed in the vehicle.
UPDATE: PREMIUM COLLECTION FOR WA CARES FUND PUT ON HOLD - Washington state will not require employers to start deducting premiums for the new WA Cares long-term insurance program this week, as planned. The delay is designed to give state lawmakers time to decide whether modifications are needed.
Consumerpedia, Episode 6: FINDING A DENTIST WHO WILL MAKE YOU SMILE - Checkbook finds astounding price differences from practice to practice for the same procedure with no relationship between price and quality. In this episode, we’ll also discuss the pros and cons of dental insurance.
HOW TO HANDLE HOLIDAY GIFT RETURNS - Most major retailers still have very liberal return policies with extended holiday deadlines, so you don’t have to run back to the store the day after Christmas.
NEW FEDERAL RULES: WHAT DEBT COLLECTORS CAN & CANNOT DO - The new rules focus on communications and disclosures from debt collectors, including what a collector can say, how often they can contact the consumer, what information must be provided, and what qualifies as harassment.
Episode 4: HOW TO BUY A CAR DURING THE PANDEMIC - The inventory shortage caused by the pandemic has turned the car market upside down. Jack Gillis, author of The Car Book, has advice on how to navigate your way to a good deal.
MARRIOTT WILL INCLUDE 'RESORT FEES' IN ADVERTISED ROOM RATES - In a major victory for travelers, Marriott International has settled a consumer protection lawsuit brought by the Pennsylvania Attorney General and agreed to begin disclosing upfront any mandatory fees, including resort fees.
Episode 3 - BUYER'S BEWARE: SNEAKY MARKETING TRICKS - Companies use an arsenal of marketing tricks to convince customers they’re scoring bargains, often duping them into spending more or paying right away without checking the competition.
ATTENTION HOLIDAY SHOPPERS: GET READY FOR A WEIRD BLACK FRIDAY - Inflation, supply chain disruptions, and the pandemic are shaping this year’s Black Friday promotions, limiting the number of products retailers can advertise and the size of discounts they can offer.
CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT FILED TO STOP WA CARES PROGRAM - The lawsuit, filed on behalf of three businesses and six individuals, asks the court to block the mandatory premium payroll deductions and declare the program illegal.
ATTENDING COLLEGE NEXT YEAR? TIME TO FILE YOUR FAFSA FORM - FAFSA is the gateway to your share of the nearly $150 billion in federal aid available from the U.S. Department of Education, plus assistance from state governments and most colleges and universities.
LONG-TERM CARE PROGRAM FOR WASHINGTON WORKERS STARTS SOON - Washington is the first state in the country to create a fund to help its aging population pay for long-term care. Payroll deduction start in January, unless you opt out.
BUYING YOUR LEASED CAR COULD MAKE SENSE (RIGHT NOW) - The advice has changed about buying your car at the end of the lease. Right now, because used car prices are so high (driven up by the pandemic), it could be a smart move to buy that leased car.
MALICIOUS QR CODES USED BY ONLINE SCAMMERS - The rapid acceptance of QR codes during the pandemic has been good for restaurants and retailers, but it’s also provided cyber criminals with a powerful new tool.
ARE YOU SHARING YOUR WI-FI WITH AMAZON? IF SO, SHOULD YOU BE CONCERNED? - Amazon Sidewalk, the retail giant’s new shared wireless network, is now up and running across the United States. If you have an Echo smart speaker or Ring security device, you may be powering Amazon’s “mesh network” without realizing it.
FTC SAYS CUSTOMERS HAVE RIGHT TO REPAIR BROKEN PRODUCTS - When you buy a product and it breaks, your ability to repair it is often limited or prevented by the manufacturer or seller. The FTC says it is going to fix this broken system by cracking down on illegal repair restrictions.
MONEYGRAM REFUNDS $125 MILLION TO SCAM VICTIMS - The FTC is trying to return $125 million to victims who wired money to con artists between 2013 and 2017 using MoneyGram. Here’s how to file a claim.
COMPLAINTS ABOUT P2P PAYMENT APPS SOAR DURING PANDEMIC - As the number of people using Venmo, CashApp, and Zelle have gone up, so have the complaints. People report having problems opening, closing, and managing their accounts.
THE PROS & CONS OF 'BUY NOW, PAY LATER' FINANCING FOR TRAVEL - These plans can help with cash flow, and they are easy work-arounds for those who don’t have credit cards. But as with all financing options, it’s important to read the fine print.
FRAUD ALERT: CRYPTOCURRENCY INVESTMENT SCAMS SKYROCKET - Cryptocurrency investment schemes have skyrocketed during the pandemic, as criminals leverage the current gold-rush mentality, promising huge returns in just days or weeks.
THE PITFALLS OF GETTING A REALLY LONG CAR LOAN - When selecting vehicles and loan terms, most consumers focus on the monthly payments. It seems like a simple way to make sure the car and financing fits their budget. But it can be a pricey mistake.
FRAUD ALERT: BOGUS COVID-19 VACCINE SURVEY - These fake surveys, which offer a free gift for completing, are nothing more than a clever phishing attack designed to steal your personal information.
RENTAL CAR PRICES SKY-HIGH AT MANY VACATION DESTINATIONS - Due to unprecedented lack of inventory and significantly higher-than-expected demand, rental car prices are sky-high at many vacation destinations across the country. And the problem is expected to get worse.
AIRLINE 'CHANGE FEE' RULES ARE ABOUT TO CHANGE AGAIN - Last year, the major U.S. airlines dropped their dreaded “change fees” for all classes of service, even the cheap seats. As of April 1, passengers with basic economy tickets cannot change their travel dates.
MOST UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS EXEMPT FROM FEDERAL INCOME TAX - The $1.9 trillion COVID stimulus package, which President Biden signed into law on March 11, provides a tax break for the millions of Americans who received unemployment compensation last year.
MILLIONS OF TAXPAYERS BENEFIT FROM COVID RELIEF REGISTRATION - The Biden Administration’s American Recuse Plan Act expanded two tax credits designed for working families: The Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Care Credit. See if you qualify.
SOCIAL SECURITY IMPOSTERS USE FAKE BADGES TO FOOL VICTIMS - The fraudsters who steal money and personal information over the phone keep finding new ways to deceive us. Now, these scam artists have added fake government ID badges to their bag of tricks.
ID THIEVES WHO STOLE UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS MUCK-UP TAX SEASON FOR MILLIONS - Millions of people who did not apply for state unemployment compensation last year—and did not get any money—are now dealing with the consequences of being identity theft victims. Cybercriminals used stolen credentials to file fake unemployment claims, got the money, and left their victims stuck with the tax liability.
90 TOP-RATED VEHICLES FOR SAFETY-CONSCIOUS CAR BUYERS - Whether it’s an SUV for you, or a compact car for the teenage driver in the house, you want any new vehicle you buy to be as safe as possible. The latest IIHS safety awards can point you in the right direction.
HOW TO RESPONSIBLY DISPOSE OF UNWANTED ELECTRONICS - It’s now quite easy to recycle old electronic devices. Unfortunately, a lot of things can happen to that e-waste once it’s collected, and not all of them are good.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM ID THEFT & CYBER FRAUD - Cyberthieves work nonstop to hijack your identity and steal your money. They’re really good at what they do, so you need to take the threat seriously and act accordingly. Here are the things you can do to protect yourself and stop the cyberthieves from ruining your life.
BLACK DOLLAR INDEX RATES CORPORATE COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY - Corporate America raced to publicly embrace the social justice movement during this summer’s Black Lives Matter protests. But are they? Is anyone keeping score? The new Black Dollar Index (BDI) aims to hold these companies accountable for their promises.
EVERYONE NEEDS A RAINY-DAY FUND. HERE'S HOW TO START YOURS - Ready to file your tax return? The IRS isn’t ready for it and has delayed the start of the tax filing season. The agency says it needs more time to reprogram and test its computers based on the COVID Relief Act, which wasn’t signed into law until December 27.
IRS DELAYS START OF TAX FILING SEASON UNTIL FEB. 12 - Ready to file your tax return? The IRS isn’t ready for it and has delayed the start of the tax filing season. The agency says it needs more time to reprogram and test its computers based on the COVID Relief Act, which wasn’t signed into law until December 27.
WHAT YOU CAN DO WHEN AN ONLINE PURCHASE DOESN'T ARRIVE - Millions of Americans are still waiting for their federal stimulus payments. Some will be surprised to learn they won’t get it unless they claim a rebate on their 2020 tax return! What’s going on here and how can you find out about your payment status?
WHERE IS MY STIMULUS MONEY? - Millions of Americans are still waiting for their federal stimulus payments. Some will be surprised to learn they won’t get it unless they claim a rebate on their 2020 tax return! What’s going on here and how can you find out about your payment status?
FRAUD ALERT: ONLINE PET SCAMS SOAR DURING THE PANDEMIC - Pet adoptions have skyrocketed during the pandemic, as people stuck at home decided it was a good time to add a furry family member. Scammers are trolling the internet looking for people who will pay hundreds of dollars to buy a pet that doesn’t exist.
AUTO INSURERS PROVIDE 'TINY' REFUNDS WHILE MAKING WINDFALL PANDEMIC PROFITS - The pandemic has been a financial boon for the auto insurance industry. Since the outbreak, Americans have been driving less – resulting in fewer wrecks, fewer claims, and bigger profits. Few companies are sharing their windfalls with loyal customers.
SHOULD YOU UPGRADE TO A 5G PHONE? LET'S CUT THROUGH THE MARKETING HYPE - 5G is breakthrough technology, but right now, in most parts of the country, it hasn’t yet arrived—and it won’t for several years. That hasn’t stopped wireless companies from spending heavily on ads urging their customers to buy new smartphones.
AVOID SKY-HIGH OVERDRAFT FEES ON YOUR CHECKING ACCOUNT - We all make mistakes, but overdrawing your checking account is going to cost you more than ever before. The average overdraft fee hit a record high this year, increasing to $33.47. OUCH!
WHY CREDIT CARDS ARE SAFER THAN DEBIT CARDS - Some people find using debit cards, rather than credit cards, help them stick to their budgets and avoid going into debt. But credit cards offer stronger consumer protections, especially important when you shop online.
HOW TO SHOP SAFELY ONLINE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON - Because of the pandemic more people will do their holiday shopping shop online this year. This increases the chances of falling victim to cybercriminals. Here’s how to protect yourself whenever you shop online.
NEW FTC WEBSITE MAKES IT EASIER TO REPORT SCAMS & FRAUD - The Federal Trade Commission’s new site streamlines the process for reporting scams, fraud and bad business practices. It also provides the next steps to take if you’ve been victimized.
THE PROS & CONS OF TRADITIONAL LAYAWAY AND THE NEW 'BUY NOW, PAY LATER' SERVICES - The holiday shopping season is underway. For people without savings or credit, or who have credit cards maxed out because of the pandemic, layaway or new buy now, pay later plans may be the only way to buy everything on their gift-giving lists.
DATA BREACH IMPACTS MILLIONS OF DONORS AT HUNDREDS OF NONPROFITS - Donors and members of more than 240 organizations recently had their personal information compromised during a breach at Blackbaud, a company hired by many nonprofits to manage their data. Unfortunately, Blackbaud hasn’t shared much info about who was affected.
GROCERY PRICES ARE UP: HOW TO SAVE $$$$ AT THE SUPERMARKET - If you do the grocery shopping in your family, you’ve probably noticed that the grocery bills keep going up. Blame the pandemic for pushing up the prices of many staples. Here are some simple tips to help lower your food bills.
WHY DID I GET A SMALL, UNEXPECTED PAYMENT FROM THE IRS? - About 14 million taxpayers who filed their 2019 federal income tax returns by the pandemic-delayed July 15th deadline, are owed a refund that may be in an odd amount, like $7.89.
IS THAT EMAIL REALLY FROM THE CENSUS BUREAU OR A CYBER-THIEF - The Census Bureau is emailing more than 20 million households to encourage participation. Top digital security experts interviewed by Checkbook agreed that this is a bad idea that creates an opportunity for cyber-criminals.
DEALING WITH DEBT COLLECTORS: KNOW THE RULES AND YOUR RIGHTS - If you get a call from someone claiming to be a debt collector, it’s not always easy to tell if the caller is a real debt collector or a scammer. That’s why it’s important to go slowly and know your rights.
DROWNING IN DEBT? YOUR OPTIONS: GOOD & BAD - The number of people saddled with excessive debt is growing. Help is available in the form of debt management, debt settlement, consolidation loans, and bankruptcy attorneys. Some are good choices; others could make your financial situation worse.
FRAUD ALERT: SCAMMERS POSE AS COVID-19 CONTACT TRACERS - Contract tracing is one of the critical tools state and local health departments are using to help stop the spread of the coronavirus. Unfortunately, it’s also given criminals a new way to scam people.
FINANCIAL TOOLKIT: HOW TO SURVIVE THE COVID-19 RECESSION - Stimulus payments, expanded unemployment benefits, government loans, and payment accommodations from lenders have helped keep many families and businesses afloat so far. But as these programs end, millions will find their budgets stretched to the breaking point.
IS THAT REALLY CUSTOMER SERVICE...OR DID YOU JUST DIAL AN IMPOSTER? - Fraudsters have created fake customer service numbers for many well-known companies and wait for you to slip up and call them, so they can steal your money or personal information. This scam is often difficult to spot.
HOW TO AVOID A MOVING HORROR STORY - Hire a mover and you’re trusting them to get your possessions from here to there on time, without damage, and at the agreed upon price. All too often that doesn’t happen, especially for long-distance interstate movers.
CONSUMER ADVOCATES BLAST FEDS FOR 'GUTTING' PAYDAY LENDING RULES - At a time when American consumers need more protection than ever from predatory loans, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has issued a final rule on payday loans that rolls back important protections.
BE SAFE IN THE SUN: TOP-RATED SUNSCREENS - A good sunscreen, used properly, can dramatically lower your risk of skin cancer. Here are the latest sunscreen ratings from Consumer Reports.
COMPLAINTS SOAR ABOUT COVID-19 PAYMENT ACCOMODATIONS - Many lenders let their customers make reduced payments or skip payments altogether, without damaging their credit histories. But, in many cases, companies haven’t held up their end of the deal.
THE TOP 10 CONSUMER BRANDS CRIMINALS SPOOF IN PHISHING ATTACKS - Phishing is one of the most popular techniques used by cyber criminals because it’s simple and effective. The typical phishing attack involves creating an email that appears to be from a reputable company or organization and encourages potential victims to click on a link.
GETTING HOME REPAIRS DONE DURING THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK - For months now, you’ve been limiting the number of people coming into your house. But life happens, and at some point, you’ll need a pro to come to the house to fix something. Having someone breach your safe space is not without risk, so it needs to be done carefully.
IS THIS A GOOD TIME TO BUY A NEW OR USED CAR? - Car manufacturers and dealers are promoting some steep discounts and special financing right now. Here’s how to get the best deal on that new set of wheels.
A RETAILERS RESPOND TO COVID-19 BY EXPANDING RETURN WINDOWS - As stores across the country reopen, customers will soon be able to return some unwanted merchandise they’ve been stuck with during the coronavirus shutdown. Some retailers have already made changes to accommodate the inconvenience.
A NEW RELIGIOUS TWIST TO THE OLD GIFT CARD SCAM - Warning: Con artists are sending out email and text messages that look as if they originated from someone at your church, synagogue, or mosque asking you to buy some gift cards to give to needy congregants or others in the community.
THE BEST (AND WORST) CELL PHONE COMPANIES - Every wireless company claims to be the best, but consumer surveys tell a different story – some carriers are clearly doing a better job of delivering network quality, customer service, and value.
MY GYM IS CLOSED & STILL BILLING ME. CAN IT DO THAT? - What happens when your gym is forced to close because of a pandemic? Should you get a refund for the time you were locked out? And what can you do if the company wants to keep your money and credit your membership account, instead of processing a refund?
LOOKING TO SAVE MONEY? AUDIT YOUR DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS - Subscription-based digital services are the ultimate in convenience, but their fees can add up to hundreds of dollars in wasted money if you don’t cancel unused or unwanted ones.
CREDIT CARD COMPANIES CUT CREDIT LIMITS AND CANCEL CARDS - To deal with the ongoing economic crisis, the banks that issue credit cards are taking defensive action by closing accounts and reducing credit limits. This could have a negative impact on your credit scores.
SCAMMERS CASH-IN ON COVID-19: HERE'S HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF - The coronavirus pandemic is a dream come true for con artists across the globe: Millions of people are afraid of getting sick and struggling to make ends meet, just as trillions of dollars in stimulus funds make their way into the economy.
NOW YOU CAN CHECK YOUR CREDIT FILES WEEKLY FOR FREE - During the coronavirus crisis, the three major credit-reporting agencies are making it easy for you to track what’s happening to your credit history in real time. Here’s what to look for when you check your credit reports.
HOW TO CREATE & EASILY STORE SECURE PASSWORDS - Password management software helps you create strong and unique passwords for all your online accounts. Consumer Reports tests some of the most popular password managers and recommends a few of them.
DEALING WITH DEBT COLLECTORS - Get a call from someone claiming to be a debt collector, and it’s easy to panic. Is the caller a legit or a scammer? It’s important to know the rules and your rights.
TRAVEL TROUBLES: THE HIGH COST OF FLYING - How to deal with the most unpredictable summer travel season since the pandemic. Tips to deal with higher airfares, steeper fees, and fewer flights.
Consumerpedia, Episode 108: THE TRAVEL SHOW 2026 - Responding to rising jet fuel prices, airlines around the globe are raising fares, adding fees, and cutting flights. In this episode, how airline passengers can handle the unique challenges facing them.
Consumerpedia, Episode 107: HOW TO CHOOSE A TREE CARE SERVICE - Do the trees on your property need more attention than you’ve been giving them? To keep your trees in good shape and remove any hazards, you’ll probably need professional advice and labor. Here’s how to find the right company to do the job.
Consumerpedia, Episode 106: AVOID A VACATION RENTAL NIGHTMARE - A recent Checkbook investigation found widespread problems with vacation rentals, including fake listings and stolen deposits. In this episode, tips on how to protect yourself when booking a vacation rental.
EMPLOYMENT SCAMS SOAR: HOW TO SPOT BOGUS JOB OFFERS - Fraudsters are increasingly luring job seekers to apply for fake jobs – positions that don’t exist – using online ads, job boards, social media, and newspapers. Victims are losing thousands of dollars.
Consumerpedia, Episode 105: 10 TIPS TO FIGHT FRAUD - Fraud is on the rise, and criminals around the globe are getting better at what they do. In this episode, we talk to two fraud experts about ways to reduce your chances of falling for a scam.
TIPS FOR BUYING A NEW CAR,TRUCK, OR SUV IN 2026 - With hundreds of new vehicles to choose from, and prices that are sky-high, how do you decide what to buy? Here’s advice from the auto experts at Consumer Reports.
Consumerpedia, Episode 104: TIPS FOR BUYING A NEW OR USED CAR - The editors at Consumer Reports share their Top Picks for 2026. Also, how to choose a vehicle you really like, and what to consider before buying a used car or truck.
CPSC BANS DANGEROUS WATER BEADS SOLD AS TOYS - These tiny, colorful pellets that expand when soaked in water are now subject to federal safety regulations designed to protect children from the hazards of ingesting them.
FRAUD PREVENTION: 10 WAYS TO PROTECT YOURSELF
Consumerpedia, Episode 103: SHADY HOME IMPROVEMENT FINANCING
LAUNDRY DAY TIPS FROM A LAUNDRY EXPERT
DON'T IGNORE THOSE DATA BREACH NOTICES COMPANIES SEND YOU
DEALING WITH DEBT: REAL-LIFE SUCCESS STORIES
Consumerpedia, Episode 101 - DEALING WITH DEBT
2026 TAX FILING SEASON: EXPECT THE BIGGEST CHANGES IN YEARS
AI BOOM TO RAISE PRICES FOR COMPUTERS AND SMART PHONES
Consumerpedia, Episode 100: COLLEGE OF CONSUMER KNOWLEDGE
HOW MARKETERS TRICK KIDS AND WHY PARENTS SHOULD WORRY
VIRTUAL CREDIT CARDS HELP FIGHT FRAUD
Consumerpedia, Episode 98: THE BENEFITS OF SHOPPING LOCALLY
UNSAFE TOYS: HOW TO SPOT THE HIDDEN RISKS
Consumerpedia, Episode 97: SALE PRICES ARE USUALLY FAKE DISCOUNTS
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIPS 2025: SAVE TIME, SAVE MONEY
CRYPTOCURRENCY IS MAINSTREAM BUT STILL INCREDIBLY RISKY
LENGTHLY CAR LOANS CAN COST YOU THOUSANDS
Consumerpedia, Episode 95: CRYPTOCURRENCY: COINS, CONS & CHAOS
SCAM ALERT: FAKE LOAN APPROVAL ROBOCALLS
Consumerpedia, Episode 94: OUR EDITORS' FAVORITE WEBSITES & APPS
NEW ATTEMPT TO STOP ROBOCALL EPIDEMIC
HOME INSURANCE CRISIS: SOARING PREMIUMS & INADEQUATE PAYOUTS
FTC SECURES HISTORIC $2.5 BILLION SETTLEMENT FROM AMAZON
DELTA'S BIZARRE CREDIT CARD POLICY NEARLY STRANDED ME IN LONDON
TRUMP ADMINISTRATION PLANS TO GUT AIRLINE PASSENGER PROTECTIONS
Consumerpedia, Episode 92: THRIFT STORE SHOPPING ADVICE
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT WILL STOP ISSUING PAPER CHECKS
FEDERAL JUDGE KILLS CFPB RULE BANNING MEDICAL DEBT IN CREDIT REPORTS
COURT CANCELS CONSUMER-FRIENDLY 'CLICK-TO-CANCEL' SUBSCRIPTION RULE
Consumerpedia, Episode 91: CHECKBOOK’S LIFE HACKS
ELECTRONIC VEHICLE TAX CREDIT ENDS ON SEPTEMBER 30
Consumerpedia, Episode 90: THE POSSIBLE PITFALLS OF BUY NOW, PAY LATER
BUY NOW, PAY LATER PAMENTS COULD SOON IMPACT CREDIT SCORES
KROGER MAKES IT EASIER TO USE DIGITAL-ONLY COUPONS
Consumerpedia, Episode 89: AVOID A HOTEL HORROR SHOW
AI MAKES CYBER SCAMS HARDER (OR IMPOSSIBLE) TO DETECT
STUDY CLAIMS U-HAUL USES 'BAIT-AND-SWITCH' ADVERTISING
NEW FEDERAL RULE BANS HIDDEN HOTEL AND TICKET JUNK FEES
Consumerpedia, Episode 89: DON'T GET BURNED BY SOLAR SCAMMERS
SOLAR ENERGY INSTALLATION SCAMS ON THE RISE
Consumerpedia, Episode 86: TRAVEL TIPS: HOW TO FIND DEALS & AVOID SCAMS
SUMMER TRAVEL TIPS FROM CHRISTOPHER ELLIOTT
STUDY: HALF OF AMERICANS FEEL 'FINANCIALLY ADRIFT' DUE TO UNCERTAIN ECONOMIC CLIMATE
FEDS RESTART COLLECTION ON DEFAULTED STUDENT LOANS
Consumerpedia, Episode 85: HOW WE'RE ENCOURAGED TO BUY, BUY, BUY
MY TWO CENTS: WHY THE MARKETPLACE NEEDS RULES
CONGRESS KILLS RULE THAT WOULD HAVE CAPPED BANKING OVERDRAFT FEES AT $5
FEDERAL JUDGE REMOVES $8 CAP ON CREDIT CARD LATE FEES
Consumerpedia, Episode 84: FREE PERKS YOU DIDN'T KNOW YOU HAD
Cosumerpedia, Episode 83: TIPS FOR BUYING A NEW OR USED VEHICLE
WHY PRICES FOR USED VEHICLES ARE EXPECTED TO INCREASE IN 2025
DON'T FALL FOR BOGUS 'UNPAID TOLL' TEXT MESSAGES
AI & ALGORITHMS INCREASINGLY CONTROL OUR FINANCIAL FATES
Consumerpedia, Episode 82: GETTING RID OF HOUSEHOLD PESTS
TRUMP MOVES TO SHUT DOWN IMPORTANT CONSUMER WATCHDOG AGENCY
Consumerpedia, Episode 81: ALGORITHMS SECRETLY CONTROL YOUR FINANCIAL FATE
SAVE ON PRESCRIPTION DRUGS: PAY LESS THAN YOUR INSURANCE COPAY
WHY DO AMERICANS PAY MORE FOR PRESCRIPTION DRUGS?
GROCERY STORE DIGITAL DISCOUNT ERRORS CREATE PROBLEMS FOR SHOPPERS
DEALING WITH DEBT: REAL-LIFE SUCCESS STORIES
Consumerpedia, Episode 80: DEBT BUSTERS: REAL-LIFE SUCCESS STORIES
Consumerpedia, Episode 79: TIPS FOR BUYING & SENDING FLOWERS
IDENTITY THEFT AND FRAUD: HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM TAX RETURN IDENTITY THEFT
IT'S TAX TIME! WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Consumerpedia, Episode 78: CLOTHING RENTAL SUBSCRIPTIONS
Consumerpedia, Episode 77: AMAZON FLOODS SEARCH RESULTS WITH ADS
NEW FEDERAL RULE BANS HIDDEN HOTEL & TICKET JUNK FEES
GOVERNMENT LAWSUIT ALLEGES 3 BIG BANKS ALLOWED 'FRAUD TO FESTER' ON ZELLE
WATCH OUT: FAKE REVIEWS ARE EVERYWHERE
Consumerpedia, Episode 75: CHECKBOOK'S COLLEGE OF CONSUMER KNOWLEDGE
BUYING TOYS ON OVERSEAS WEBSITES CAN BE RISKY
FRAUD ALERT: WATCH OUT FOR WORTHLESS GIFT CARDS
Consumerpedia, Episode 74: WHY PASSKEYS ARE BETTER THAN PASSWORDS
Consumerpedia, Episode 73: CHECKBOOK'S HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIPS 2024
BUY NOW, PAY LATER OFTEN A DEBT TRAP
AIRLINES MUST PROVIDE AUTOMATIC REFUNDS FOR CANCELED OR SIGNIFICANTLY DELAYED FLIGHTS
IT'S TIME TO DITCH PASSWORDS AND SWITCH TO PASSKEYS
NEW 'CLICK TO CANCEL' RULE MAKES STOPPING SUBSCRIPTIONS EASIER
NEW RULES CHANGE THINGS FOR HOMEBUYERS AND SELLERS
Consumerpedia, Episode 71: REDO YOUR KITCHEN OR BATH FOR LESS
CARSHIELD WILL PAY $10 MILLION TO SETTLE DECEPTIVE ADVERTISING CHARGES
Consumerpedia, Episode 69: FREE AIRLINE STOPOVERS
WHICH GAS REWARDS CREDIT CARDS OFFER THE BEST DEALS AT THE PUMP?
HOME TITLE MONITORING SERVICES MISLEAD ABOUT A RARE CRIME
CREDIT CARD REWARD PROGRAMS UNDER SCRUTINY BY FEDERAL REGULATORS
Consumerpedia, Episode 67: BUYING EYEGLASSES & CONTACT LENSES
FTC ORDERS ONLINE USED CAR DEALER VROOM TO REFUND CUSTOMERS $1 MILLION
BUYER BEWARE: STRAIGHT TALK ABOUT NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS
Consumerpedia, Episode 65: HOW TO FIND RELIABLE MOVERS
CFPB WANTS TO BAN MEDICAL DEBT FROM CREDIT REPORTS
FRAUD ALERT: BOGUS TEXT MESSAGES CLAIM YOU OWE 'UNPAID TOLLS'
Consumerpedia, Episode 64: EV UPDATE 2024
CFPB TIGHTENS RULES FOR BUY NOW, PAY LATER PLANS
NEED A NEW CAR? HERE'S HOW TO FIND ONE THAT'S RELIABLE AND AFFORDABLE
Consumerpedia, Episode 63: THE CAR SHOW 2024
FEDERAL COURT BLOCKS RULE TO CAP CREDIT CARD LATE FEES AT $8
NEW DOT RULE WILL SPEED UP AND SIMPLIFY AIRLINE REFUNDS
Consumerpedia, Episode 62: THE TRAVEL SHOW 2024
MEDICAL DATA BREACHES HIT RECORD HIGH: HERE'S HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
FCC REQUIRES INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDERS TO USE 'BROADBAND FACTS' LABEL
STUDY: FINANCIAL ANXIETY IMPACTS ATTITUDES ABOUT DEBT
Consumerpedia, Episode 60: USING YOUR CELL PHONE ABROAD
WHY ARE GROCERY PRICES STILL SO HIGH?
PRODUCT SAFETY RECALLS ON THE RISE REFUNDS OFTEN DIFFICULT TO GET
BANKERS SUE TO BLOCK NEW RULE THAT CURBS CREDIT CARD LATE FEES
Consumerpedia, Episode 58: MARKETING TRICKS THAT GET YOU TO BUY NOW
COMCAST WILL STOP USING MISLEADING 'XFINITY 10G NETWORK' BRANDING
Consumerpedia, Episode 57: WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO CUSTOMER SERVICE?
NEW REPORT: CREDIT UNIONS & SMALL BANKS OFTEN OFFER THE BEST CREDIT CARD RATES
FTC FORCED TO HIT THE BRAKES ON NEW RULE TO PROTECT CAR BUYERS
Consumerpedia, Episode 56: A CRASH COURSE ON AUTO INSURANCE
HOW TO START YOUR EMERGENCY SAVINGS FUND
CONSUMER ADVOCATES WANT FTC RULE: THE RIGHT TO REPAIR PRODUCTS WE BUY
WHAT TO EXPECT AS YOU PREPARE YOUR TAX RETURN THIS YEAR
HOW TO FIND A GOOD GYM AND GET THE BEST PRICE
LOOKING TO SAVE MONEY? AUDIT YOUR DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS
3 WAYS TO TUNE-UP YOUR FINANCES FOR THE NEW YEAR
HOW TO PROPERLY WIPE YOUR DATA BEFORE GETTING RID OF DIGITAL DEVICES
MANY RETAILERS HAVE TWEAKED THEIR HOLIDAY RETURN POLICIES
DON'T LET PORCH PIRATES PLUNDER YOUR PACKAGE DELIVERIES
ARE THOSE HI-TECH SMART TOYS SPYING ON YOUR KIDS?
ZELLE IMPROVES ITS FRAUD PROTECTION POLICY, BUT IS IT ENOUGH?
SHOP SAFELY ONLINE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON AND ALL YEAR LONG
Consumerpedia, Episode 51: HOW TO HIRE A RELIABLE ROOFER
WATER BEADS POSE DEADLY DANGER TO CHILDREN IF SWALLOWED
THE COSTLY PITFALLS OF BUY NOW, PAY LATER FINANCING
HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT CREDIT CARD
MAJOR WIRELESS PHONE COMPANIES DISCOURAGE CREDIT CARD PAYMENTS
WHY AM I GETTING EMAIL MESSAGES IN MY TEXT FOLDER?
Consumerpedia, Episode 47: GUIDE TO BUYING NEW WINDOWS
NEW LAW TARGETS ONLINE SALE OF STOLEN AND COUNTERFEIT MERCHANDISE
HEALTH TRACKING APPS AND OTHER TECH MIGHT BE INVADING YOUR PRIVACY
AMAZON RAISES MINIMUM PURCHASE FOR FREE SHIPPING IN SOME ZIP CODES
BOYCOTT STUDENT LOAN PAYMENTS? EXPERTS SAY THAT'S A BAD IDEA
FEDERAL STUDENT LOAN PAYMENT PAUSE ENDS AUG. 31
Consumerpedia, Episode 45: Why Good Companies Treat Customers Poorly
FAKE CHATGPT APPS COMMONPLACE IN APP STORES
Consumerpedia, Episode 44: REPAIR OR REPLACE THAT BROKEN APPLIANCE?
STAY SAFE IN THE SUN: TOP-RATED SUNSCREENS
Consumerpedia, Episode 43: HOW THE CFPB PROTECTS YOU
PUBLISHERS CLEARING HOUSE SETTLES FTC LAWSUIT ABOUT ITS POPULAR SWEEPSTAKES
FTC ACCUSES AMAZON OF TRICKING MILLIONS INTO JOINING PRIME
FRAUD ALERT: TICKET SCAMS ARE SKYROCKETING
Consumerpedia, Episode 41: HOTEL INTEL: FINDING THE BEST RATES
AMAZON AND MICROSOFT CHARGED WITH VIOLATING CHILDREN'S PRIVACY LAW
Consumerpedia, Episode 40 - INSURING YOUR HOME
WHAT THE AIRLINES MUST DO IF YOUR FLIGHT IS CANCELED OR DELAYED
AMERICANS ARE KEEPING THEIR CARS LONGER THAN EVER
Consumerpedia, Episode 39: GOT A GRIPE?
FCC ORDERS PHONE COMPANIES TO BLOCK SOME ILLEGAL ROBOTEXTS
DON'T LET PASSPORT PROBLEMS WRECK YOUR FOREIGN TRIP
Consumerpedia, Episode 38: TRAVEL TIPS FROM A TRAVEL EXPERT
WHY CAR PRICES - BOTH NEW AND USED - KEEP GOING UP
Consumerpedia, Episode 37: WHY YOU SHOULDN'T BUY A HOME WARRANTY
COMPANY ACCUSED OF 'UNFAIRLY THWARTING' CONSUMERS' CREDIT CARD CHARGE DISPUTES
IRS MAKES SIGNIFICANT INFLATION ADJUSTMENTS FOR TAX YEAR 2023
FTC RULE WOULD MAKE IT EASIER TO CANCEL UNWANTED SUBSCRIPTIONS
Consumerpedia, Episode 36: SALES TACTICS DESIGNED TO DECEIVE
SOME AIRLINES FINALLY OFFER FREE 'KID-FRIENDLY' SEATING
Consumerpedia, Episode 35: AGING IN PLACE
CHECK WASHING MAKES A COMEBACK - HERE'S HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
EXPERT ADVICE: 7 TIPS TO HELP YOU BE A BETTER CONSUMER
FTC WARNS DOCTORS: PROVIDE FREE PRESCRIPTIONS, AS REQUIRED BY LAW
Consumerpedia, Episode 33: PROS & CONS OF USAGE-BASED AUTO INSURANCE
SHOULD YOU GIVE UP YOUR PRIVACY TO SAVE ON AUTO INSURANCE?
FTC CHARGES GOODRX WITH ILLEGALLY DISCLOSING USERS' HEALTH INFORMATION
Consumerpedia, Episode 32: PROS & CONS OF GROCERY DELIVERY SERVICES
PROPOSED RULE WOULD CURB EXCESSIVE CREDIT CARD LATE FEES
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM IDENTITY THEFT AND CYBER FRAUD
MOST DATA BREACH NOTICES LACK DETAILS VICTIMS NEED TO PROTECT THEMSELVES
FEDERAL REGULATORS CRACK DOWN ON UNLAWFUL HIDDEN 'JUNK' FEES
Consumerpedia, Episode 31: BUYER BEWARE - WATCH OUT FOR THESE COMMON TRICKS & TRAPS
TAX SEASON IS UNDERWAY: HERE IS WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
AVOID GETTING STUCK WITH A FLOOD-DAMAGED USED CAR
FRAUD ALERT: CUSTOMER SERVICE IMPOSTER SCAMS
Consumerpedia, Episode 30: FINDING GOOD HVAC CONTRACTORS & EQUIPMENT
PASSENGERS HAVE LIMITED RIGHTS WHEN FLIGHTS ARE DELAYED OR CANCELLED
Consumerpedia, Episode 29: HOME SECURITY: INSTALLERS, EQUIPMENT & DIY
ARE THOSE SMART TOYS SPYING ON YOUR KIDS?
Consumerpedia, Episode 28: BEING A BETTER CONSUMER OF SOCIAL MEDIA
STUDY: SOME RECALLED TOYS ARE STILL BEING SOLD ONLINE
WATCH OUT: MORE ONLINE RETAILERS CHARGE RETURN FEES
Consumerpedia, Episode 27: CHECKBOOK’S TOP HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIPS
WHY STUDENT LOAN REPAYMENT PAUSE WAS EXTENDED YET AGAIN
HOW BUY NOW, PAY LATER CAN QUICKLY BECOME A DEBT TRAP
CONSUMER ADVOCATES URGE SUPERMARKETS TO STOP DIGITAL DISCOUNT DISCRIMINATION
Consumerpedia, Episode 26: SALE PRICES ARE RARELY REAL DEALS
DOT FINES 6 AIRLINES AND ORDERS THEM TO REFUND $600 MILLION TO STRANDED PASSENGERS
CAN YOU TRUST ONLINE REVIEWS FOR WARRANTY COMPANIES?
FTC MAY REQUIRE FUNERAL HOMES TO DISCLOSE PRICES ON THEIR WEBSITES
Consumerpedia, Episode 24: HOW TO FIND A GOOD AUTO BODY SHOP
COURT RULING PUTS TEMPORARY HOLD ON STUDENT LOAN FORGIVENESS PROGRAM
STOP THIEF! PROTECT YOURSELF FROM IDENTITY THEFT
UPDATE: BANKS OFTEN REFUSE TO HELP CUSTOMERS WHO GET SCAMMED USING ZELLE
Consumerpedia, Episode 23: FREQUENTLY FRUSTRATED FLYERS
PROPOSED RULE WOULD REQUIRE AIRLINES TO DISCLOSE THE 'TRUE COST' OF TICKETS
Consumerpedia, Episode 22: HOW TO FIND A TOP DOC
CONSUMER ADVOCATES WANT DOT TO FIX OUR BROKEN AIRLINE SYSTEM
Consumerpedia, Episode 21: AUTO GLASS CLASS
FRAUD ALERT: SCAMMERS USING HACKED FACEBOOK ACCOUNTS
DEADLINE IS AUG. 31 FOR SCAM VICTIMS TO APPLY FOR REFUNDS FROM WESTERN UNION
NEW LAW CHANGES EV TAX CREDITS: FEW MODELS WILL QUALIFY AT FIRST
CHILD IDENTITY THEFT: ARE YOU PROTECTING YOUR KIDS?
FTC PROPOSES NEW AD GUIDELINES TO STOP MISLEADING ENDORSEMENTS
Consumerpedia, Episode 20: WHATEVER HAPPENED TO TRUTH IN ADVERTISING?
GOOD NEWS: CREDIT BUREAUS CHANGE HOW THEY REPORT MEDICAL DEBT
ROBOCALLS ON THE RISE: HOW YOU CAN FIGHT BACK
Consumerpedia, Episode 19: ESTATE PLANNING TASKS AND TIPS
BUYING YOUR LEASED CAR COULD BE A SMART MOVE RIGHT NOW
FORD NO LONGER ALLOWS CUSTOMERS TO BUY THEIR ELECTRIC VEHICLES AT END OF LEASE
'INTEREST-FREE' CAR REPAIR LOANS CAN TURN OUT TO BE VERY COSTLY
FREE WAY TO OPT-OUT OF POPULAR PEOPLE-SEARCH WEBSITES
Consumerpedia, Episode 17: HOW TO FIND THE BEST DEALS ON AIRFARE
WHICH CREDIT CARDS OFFER THE BEST DEAL ON GAS?
Consumerpedia, Episode 15: WHY CAN'T THEY STOP THOSE #@%*! ROBOCALLS
DRIVERS BEWARE: MOST STATES STILL ALLOW PREDATORY TOWING SCHEMES
HOW TO PREPARE FOR END OF STUDENT LOAN PAYMENT PAUSE
Consumerpedia, Episode 14: HOW TO BUY PLANTS & GET GOOD LAWN CARE
IS IT TIME TO BUY AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE?
IRS HAS $1.5 BILLION IN REFUNDS FOR TAXPAYERS WHO DID NOT FILE A 2018 RETURN
Consumerpedia, Episode 13: THINKING ABOUT BUYING AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE?
DO I OWE THE IRS TAXES ON MY CRYPTOCURRENCY INVESTMENTS?
Consumerpedia, Episode 12: HOW TO FIND THE BEST VET FOR YOUR PETS
ESCALATED THREAT OF CYBER ATTACK MAKES GOOD COMPUTER HYGIENE CRITICAL
WAYS TO SAVE MONEY AT THE PUMP, AND BOOST YOUR CAR'S GAS MILEAGE
DATA BREACHES SKYROCKET IN 2021 - HERE'S HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
Consumerpedia, Episode 11: PROTECT YOURSELF FROM IDENTITY THEFT
SOCIAL MEDIA SCAMS SKYROCKET - HERE'S HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
DON'T GET LEFT BEHIND WHEN YOUR AIRLINE TRAVEL CREDITS EXPIRE
Consumerpedia, Episode 10: THIS MAY BE THE BEST TIME TO GO SOLAR
CREDIT SCORES - MYTH VS. REALITY: DISPELLING COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS
Consumerpedia, Episode 9: UNDERSTANDING HOW CREDIT SCORES WORK
3G WIRELESS SERVICE ENDS THIS YEAR DISABLING MILLIONS OF MOBILE DEVICES
COURT APPROVES $425 MILLION EQUIFAX BREACH SETTLEMENT
AMAZON ENDS 'SOLD BY AMAZON' PROGRAM TO SETTLE PRICE-FIXING INVESTIGATION
WA CARES LONG-TERM CARE PROGRAM DELAYED UNTIL SUMMER OF 2023
Consumerpedia, Episode 8: SAVING ENERGY AT HOME
EXPERIAN, EQUIFAX & TRANSUNION RARELY RESPOND TO ERROR COMPLAINTS
HIGHER INTEREST RATES ON THE WAY - HERE'S HOW TO PREPARE
Consumerpedia, Episode 7: THINGS YOU (PROBABLY) SHOULDN'T PAY FOR
IMPORTANT TAX LAW CHANGES THAT MAY AFFECT YOUR 2021 TAX RETURN
AUTOMAKERS REV UP COSTLY SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES
Consumerpedia, Episode 6: FINDING A DENTIST WHO WILL MAKE YOU SMILE
Episode 5: FORMER ID THIEF EXPLAINS HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
NEW FEDERAL RULES: WHAT DEBT COLLECTORS CAN & CANNOT DO
MARRIOTT WILL INCLUDE 'RESORT FEES' IN ADVERTISED ROOM RATES
ATTENTION HOLIDAY SHOPPERS: THE PROS AND CONS OF RETAIL CREDIT CARDS
ATTENTION HOLIDAY SHOPPERS: GET READY FOR A WEIRD BLACK FRIDAY
CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT FILED TO STOP WA CARES PROGRAM
SHOULD YOU USE BUY NOW, PAY LATER FOR YOUR HOLIDAY SHOPPING THIS YEAR?
FRAUD ALERT: HOW SCAMMERS TARGET PEOPLE LOOKING FOR WORK
ATTENDING COLLEGE NEXT YEAR? TIME TO FILE YOUR FAFSA FORM
SUPPLY SHORTAGES MAKE SHOPPING EARLY A SMART MOVE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
NEW MORTGAGE UNDERWRITING PROGRAM COULD HELP RENTERS BECOME HOMEOWNERS
MALICIOUS QR CODES USED BY ONLINE SCAMMERS
DATA BREACHES ARE SKYROCKETING. HOW TO PROTECT YOUR ONLINE ACCOUNTS
FTC SAYS CUSTOMERS HAVE RIGHT TO REPAIR BROKEN PRODUCTS
MONEYGRAM REFUNDS $125 MILLION TO SCAM VICTIMS
NEW FEDERAL RULE TARGETS FRAUDULENT 'MADE IN USA' CLAIMS
2021 CHILD TAX CREDIT PAYMENTS START ARRIVING IN MID-JULY
COMPLAINTS ABOUT P2P PAYMENT APPS SOAR DURING PANDEMIC
NEW SURVEY: CREDIT BUREAU MISTAKES ARE STILL A PROBLEM
A SNEAKY WAY TO RAISE PRICES WITHOUT UPSETTING THE CUSTOMERS
BEST CARS FOR TEENS: VEHICLES THAT ARE SAFE, RELIABLE, AND AFFORDABLE
HOW TO WIPE ALL YOUR DATA BEFORE DISPOSING OF DIGITAL DEVICES
FCC OFFERS SUBSIDIES TO HELP FAMILIES STAY CONNECTED DURING THE PANDEMIC
SHORTAGE OF NEW CARS MEANS FEWER CHOICES & HIGHER PRICES
FRAUD ALERT: BOGUS COVID-19 VACCINE SURVEY
RENTAL CAR PRICES SKY-HIGH AT MANY VACATION DESTINATIONS
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT WILL HELP PAY FOR COVID-RELATED FUNERAL EXPENSES
AIRLINE 'CHANGE FEE' RULES ARE ABOUT TO CHANGE AGAIN
MOST UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFITS EXEMPT FROM FEDERAL INCOME TAX
MILLIONS OF TAXPAYERS BENEFIT FROM COVID RELIEF REGISTRATION
SOCIAL SECURITY IMPOSTERS USE FAKE BADGES TO FOOL VICTIMS
90 TOP-RATED VEHICLES FOR SAFETY-CONSCIOUS CAR BUYERS
'DO I OWE TAX ON MY STIMULUS CHECKS?' - ANSWERS TO COMMON 2020 TAX QUESTIONS
HOW TO RESPONSIBLY DISPOSE OF UNWANTED ELECTRONICS
BLACK DOLLAR INDEX RATES CORPORATE COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY
EVERYONE NEEDS A RAINY-DAY FUND. HERE'S HOW TO START YOURS
IRS DELAYS START OF TAX FILING SEASON UNTIL FEB. 12
WHAT YOU CAN DO WHEN AN ONLINE PURCHASE DOESN'T ARRIVE
WHERE IS MY STIMULUS MONEY?
THESE 2021 VEHICLES HAVE HEADLIGHTS THAT PROVIDE BETTER SAFETY PROTECTION
FRAUD ALERT: ONLINE PET SCAMS SOAR DURING THE PANDEMIC
AUTO INSURERS PROVIDE 'TINY' REFUNDS WHILE MAKING WINDFALL PANDEMIC PROFITS
SHOULD YOU UPGRADE TO A 5G PHONE? LET'S CUT THROUGH THE MARKETING HYPE
AVOID SKY-HIGH OVERDRAFT FEES ON YOUR CHECKING ACCOUNT
WHY CREDIT CARDS ARE SAFER THAN DEBIT CARDS
WHY YOU SHOULD DELETE ONLINE ACCOUNTS YOU DON'T USE
HOW TO SHOP SAFELY ONLINE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
NEW FTC WEBSITE MAKES IT EASIER TO REPORT SCAMS & FRAUD
THE PROS & CONS OF TRADITIONAL LAYAWAY AND THE NEW 'BUY NOW, PAY LATER' SERVICES
SAVE ON PRESCRIPTION DRUGS: PAY LESS BY NOT USING INSURANCE
THINKING OF REFINANCING? IT MAY BE TIME TO GET OFF THE FENCE
GROCERY PRICES ARE UP: HOW TO SAVE $$$$ AT THE SUPERMARKET
WHY DID I GET A SMALL, UNEXPECTED PAYMENT FROM THE IRS?
IS THAT EMAIL REALLY FROM THE CENSUS BUREAU OR A CYBER-THIEF
DEALING WITH DEBT COLLECTORS: KNOW THE RULES AND YOUR RIGHTS
FRAUD ALERT: SCAMMERS POSE AS COVID-19 CONTACT TRACERS
FINANCIAL TOOLKIT: HOW TO SURVIVE THE COVID-19 RECESSION
IS THAT REALLY CUSTOMER SERVICE...OR DID YOU JUST DIAL AN IMPOSTER?
HOW TO AVOID A MOVING HORROR STORY
CONSUMER ADVOCATES BLAST FEDS FOR 'GUTTING' PAYDAY LENDING RULES
THE TOP 10 CONSUMER BRANDS CRIMINALS SPOOF IN PHISHING ATTACKS
GETTING HOME REPAIRS DONE DURING THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK
IS THIS A GOOD TIME TO BUY A NEW OR USED CAR?
YES, THE GOVERNMENT IS MAILING OUT DEBIT CARDS LOADED WITH STIMULUS MONEY
THE BEST (AND WORST) CELL PHONE COMPANIES
MY GYM IS CLOSED & STILL BILLING ME. CAN IT DO THAT?
LOOKING TO SAVE MONEY? AUDIT YOUR DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS
CREDIT CARD COMPANIES CUT CREDIT LIMITS AND CANCEL CARDS
HOW TO CREATE & EASILY STORE SECURE PASSWORDS