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Last Updated: Apr 18th, 2022 - 21:02:25
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Consumer News
Getting Smart About Energy Bills
Despite growing concerns over rising energy costs, a lightbulb hasn't exactly gone off in consumers' heads when it comes to understanding what their potentially less expensive options are.
Sep 20, 2007, 19:10
Consumer News
Learning The Skills Required To Find That Special Gift Online
More parents are forsaking the crowds and going online to find that special gift. Along the way, they are saving time and money and, sometimes, finding an original or unique gift. While online holiday shopping takes different skills, they are easy to master.
Sep 17, 2007, 19:21
Consumer News
Deceptive Mortgage Ads: What They Leave Out
When shopping for a mortgage to buy a home or refinance an existing loan, you may see or hear ads with offers of low rates or payments.
Sep 16, 2007, 23:46
Consumer News
An Update On The USDA Allowing Non-Organic Items To Be Used In Organic Products
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved a proposal to allow 38 nonorganic ingredients to be used in foods that are certified "USDA Organic" even though they have received more than 1,000 complaints about this. The USDA is allowing this to happen because some manufacturers claim that the 38 items are minor ingredients that cannot be easily located in organic form.
Sep 11, 2007, 22:10
Consumer News
People Who Own (Or Owned) Land Underlying Or Adjoining Certain Railroad Corridors In California, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Michigan, Montana, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin And Wyoming May Be Entitled To Money
If you own or have owned land underlying or adjoining railroad corridors in California, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Michigan, Montana, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming, you may be entitled to money from the settlement of a pending class action lawsuit.
Sep 5, 2007, 21:02
Consumer News
Getting Out Of Debt: Know Your Alternatives
If your debts cause you to stress out and lose sleep, you may have a debt problem. Fortunately, help is available.
Aug 30, 2007, 23:30
Consumer News
Tips to Becoming a Technology-Savvy Shopper
Many adults grew up in a world without the Internet, cell phones or personal computers, and often find themselves lost in the ever-changing realm of technology.
Aug 28, 2007, 20:30
Consumer News
Consider Potential Tax Benefits Of Long-Term Care Insurance
Long-term care-whether it's in a nursing home, assisted living facility or even in your own home-is expensive. Without careful planning, you may exhaust your accumulated assets paying the bills.
Aug 22, 2007, 22:20
Consumer News
Your Homeowner's Policy-Does It Cover What You Think?
If you haven't looked at your homeowner's policy in a while, you may want to dust it off and give it a good read.
Aug 18, 2007, 22:08
Consumer News
Many Eyes On Your Credit Make Sure Yours Are Among Them
If you thought applying for a mortgage, auto loan or credit card were the only reasons to keep a watchful eye on your own credit standing, think again. Increasingly, more and more businesses are using credit data as part of their assessment of you as a potential customer.
Aug 18, 2007, 21:40
Consumer News
Selecting Life Insurance That's Right For You
Life insurance provides protection for those who depend on you and should be an essential part of just about any financial strategy.
Aug 18, 2007, 19:44
Consumer News
Smart Wireless Shopping: It's The Network
When shopping for a new wireless phone, some may start out thinking what's important is the "cool" factor: "What color phone can I get?" Or, "What phone do my friends like?" There are also more practical considerations, including whether the phone can take pictures, play music, get videos and the accessories that can be used with it. While these factors can be important, one consideration should be at the top of the list: reliability.
Aug 11, 2007, 17:50
Consumer News
Debt Doesn’t Have to be a Four Letter Word
For the average American, debt is a fact of life. But not all debt should be considered detrimental. Buying a house or a car, or funding your education can be positive, wealth-building steps even though they often require incurring some debt. The key, then, is not to avoid taking on debt at all costs, but to only take on specific, well-considered debts, and manage them wisely so that you control the debt, rather than letting the debt control you.
Aug 6, 2007, 23:28
Consumer News
Big Ten Fans Get A Television Network To Call Their Own
No matter what your obsession is-whether it's knitting, animation, pets, ethnic cooking or kayaking-chances are you can find a television channel that corresponds to your interest.
Jul 27, 2007, 21:38
Consumer News
Cards Celebrate Community Heroes
Americans across the country have found a way to thank community heroes who have touched the lives of friends and neighbors. They're sending greeting cards or notes as part of a national program that helps people recognize the heroes in their own lives.
Apr 25, 2007, 23:10
Consumer News
Tips on Finding a Qualified Financial Adviser
Retirement planning. Long-term care insurance. College savings. These complex financial topics can be downright baffling. As their financial needs change, many people find it a good idea to consult a qualified professional to help them navigate the nuances of financial planning.
Apr 10, 2007, 20:59
Consumer News
Ten Tips For Avoiding Identity Theft
It's important to protect your identity. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission reports that identity theft costs consumers, businesses and financial institutions more than $53 billion in one year alone. But not all identity crimes are the same.
Apr 7, 2007, 23:05
Consumer News
Health-Conscious Consumers Taking Charge
Today's consumers are taking a proactive approach to their health, partnering with physicians to take their physical performance to peak levels. So it should come as no surprise that such take-charge consumers are looking for an edge, whether it is using expertly built exercise equipment, choosing fresh foods over refined products or selecting the latest dietary supplements.
Aug 30, 2006, 11:47
Consumer News
What is a Debt Consolidation Loan?
If your objective is to reduce interest rates and lower your monthly payments, avoid bankruptcy, consolidate your bills and have one monthly payment, or simply get out of debt the fastest way possible, then a debt consolidation loan could provide the answer.
Are you feeling overburdened with debt? Are you paying out too much every month for your credit cards, store cards and loans? Then why not replace them all with one, lower, convenient repayment through a consolidation loan?
Aug 3, 2006, 22:54
Consumer News
Useful Tips When Choosing Credit Cards
Chances are you have received your share of "pre-approved" credit card offers in the mail, some with low introductory rates and other perks. Many of these solicitations urge you to accept "before the offer expires." Before you accept, shop around to get the best deal.
Aug 3, 2006, 22:54
Consumer News
Oil Crisis Affects More Than Just Gas Prices
Did you know that petroleum is used to manufacture an enormous number of products that we use in our everyday lives? Less than 20 percent of all recovered oil is used for any type of fuel. Over 30 percent is used for the creation of food via fertilizers. Nearly the same amount is used to manufacture plastics.
May 22, 2006, 22:15
Consumer News
Cost-Effective Ways to Cool Your Home
As the temperature rises, so does the cost of cooling your home. But a new federal law may help keep your home both cool and cost-effective. In January, the U.S. Department of Energy raised the minimum efficiency standards for air conditioners and heat pumps from 10 to 13 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio).
May 22, 2006, 22:10
Consumer News
If It Looks Too Good To Be True, It Probably Is
In today's virtual society, online fraudsters continue to devise new ways to reach unsuspecting consumers. According to the Internet Crime Complaint Center, online fraud is on the rise--up 67 percent in 2004. Awareness is the best protection against these cyber criminals.
May 8, 2006, 23:25
Consumer News
Cable Connects Consumers to the Latest Technology
Cable’s latest innovations are keeping consumers on the edge of their seats, connecting them to home entertainment and communications technologies that will simplify and enhance their lives. Following a recent visit to the industry’s national cable show, new products expert and Best Magazine senior editor David Gregg provides a glimpse of what’s now and what’s to come. Consumers can look forward to a future filled with products and services that deliver on the promise of choice, convenience and control from their cable companies.
May 6, 2006, 12:18
Consumer News
What '13 SEER' Means For Consumers
Is 13 unlucky? Not since 13 SEER became the standard for cooling comfort. Effective January 23, 2006, residential cooling units sold must be 13 SEER or higher. SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating, the method used to judge how efficiently an air conditioner performs.
Apr 4, 2006, 21:27
Consumer News
Helping Recover Losses Due To Investment Fraud
There may be hopeful news for investors who believe they have been the victim of investment fraud. A provision in the federal tax code called Section 165 may offer potential tax benefits. If your investment loss qualifies as a theft loss under Section 165, it may be possible for you to deduct the full amount of your loss immediately against ordinary earned income, all in one year.
Feb 26, 2006, 00:41
Consumer News
When Debt Mounts, Take Action To Prevent Foreclosure
If your bills are piling up and you're worried about losing your home, you're not alone. As rising foreclosure rates indicate, thousands of Americans are touched by foreclosure every year. But many could be prevented, if homeowners sought help sooner from their mortgage company or through a new toll-free, confidential hotline.
Feb 20, 2006, 10:51
Consumer News
Five Steps to Savvy Tech Purchases
The advancement of next generation wireless devices, flat panel displays, digital television, MP3 devices and gaming consoles will push consumer electronics sales to a new high of $135.4 billion dollars in 2006, according to the Consumer Electronics Association. Gone are the days of individual components for each function; audio receiver, television, CD player, DVD player, etc.
Feb 19, 2006, 01:50
Consumer News
Debunking Life Insurance "Myths"
Many life insurance myths confuse consumers and lead to poor choices, according to insurance experts at a national online insurance shopping service. The good news, however, is consumers can find the life policy that best suits their needs by doing a little homework.
Feb 6, 2006, 23:12
Consumer News
You’ve Invented the Next Big Idea! Now What?
Move over Thomas Edison! You’ve just had a eureka moment for the world’s next great modern marvel. Now, the hard part begins -- ensuring your brilliant idea comes to life. Here’s a five-step guide that will turn your big idea into the next big thing!
Jan 26, 2006, 22:26
Consumer News
H&R Block: Tax Changes to Affect Millions This Year
Major tax law changes and missed credits will affect millions of taxpayers this year. There are new guidelines for claiming child-related benefits and new tax breaks for hurricane victims and charitable donors. The alternative minimum tax (AMT) is on track to snare almost 4 million taxpayers this year, and millions more will fail to claim credits for their higher education expenses.
Jan 16, 2006, 15:13
Consumer News
Using Information Before Identity Thieves Do
A new service may mean more protection for consumers against identity theft-the fastest-growing crime in America. Identity theft costs U.S. businesses more than $50 billion annually. It takes the average consumer up to 60 hours to restore his or her good name and often years to restore his or her entire credit history, according to the Department of Justice. The crime has become so prevalent that an identity thief strikes on average every 3.5 seconds.
Nov 6, 2005, 00:14
Consumer News
What's Up With Natural Gas Prices?
Many homeowners have been wondering why natural gas prices will be so much higher this year-and if there's anything they can do about it. Here are some common questions answered by the experts at the American Gas Association.
Nov 6, 2005, 00:08
Consumer News
Reducing The Chance Of Identity Theft
If you've been a victim of identity theft or know someone who has, you're not alone. According to the Federal Trade Commission, the crime has grown so rapidly that nearly every person in the United States has experienced it or personally knows an identity theft victim.There are several ways to categorize identity theft.
Oct 22, 2005, 14:13
Consumer News
Check Cards Give Time-Pressed Americans Five Additional Hours A Year
You zip through the grocery store, quickly collecting the ingredients you need for dinner. Then you make a mad dash for the shortest checkout line only to find yourself stuck behind a check writer. According to a study released by Visa USA and National Market Measures, consumers are wasting approximately five hours a year standing in checkout lines. One big culprit-check writers.
Oct 18, 2005, 23:41
Consumer News
Consumers Have New Option to Prevent Debt
Credit cards are dangerous. In fact, credit card balances in America average $7,000, and interest rates average 29 percent. With personal bankruptcy at an all-time high, debt seems to be consuming the nation. Many economists say consumer debt drives the economy. This theory states that since a person has to keep working to pay off debts, employees work harder to make more money to make their payments.
Oct 2, 2005, 00:49
Consumer News
Tips to Help Consumers Choose the Right Shoes
With the fast-paced lifestyle that many Americans lead today, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of society. We're constantly on the go in an effort to accomplish the day's tasks and, in essence, "have it all." While this attitude is ambitious, it can also take its toll - particularly on your feet. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, the average person takes 8,000 to 10,000 steps a day. When you consider that adds up to 115,000 miles in a lifetime, matters of the foot are not to be taken lightly.
Sep 25, 2005, 21:14
Consumer News
Seven Tips for Redeeming Mail-in Rebates With Ease
Rebates can be great. After all, you are getting money back, and it's fun to get a check in the mail instead of bills every now and then. But rebates also can be time consuming. You have to remember all sorts of steps and you're never sure if you did everything correctly.
Sep 25, 2005, 21:13
Consumer News
Considering Bankruptcy? Free Guide Can Help You Decide
With continued high unemployment rates, a slow economy and increasing household debt, the number of personal bankruptcies in the United States continues to rise each year. More than 800,000 Americans filed for bankruptcy in the first six months of 2003. Bankruptcy can help consumers erase many of their financial obligations or establish a plan to repay them. It can also have a long-term negative impact on a consumer's ability to obtain credit, find a job, get insurance or rent a place to live. Certain debts, including child support, alimony and student loans, cannot be eliminated by bankruptcy, so it is important to understand what debts do and don't disappear.
Sep 25, 2005, 00:48
Consumer News
Identity Theft Plagues Consumers
A serious new e-mail scam is emerging called "phishing" or "carding." Internet scammers are using increasingly sophisticated lures as they "fish" for users' financial information and password data. In one common ploy, criminals pretending to be from legitimate businesses tell recipients that they need to confirm or validate their information to keep their accounts active and direct them to look-alike Web sites - tricking consumers into submitting sensitive personal data.
Sep 20, 2005, 20:23
Consumer News
Still Paying Bills By Mail? Five Reasons to Go Online
The tedious tasks of writing out checks for bills and making constant trips to the post office to mail them could soon be a thing of the past, experts say. More and more Americans - about 30 million households, according to recent findings - are discovering the advantages of paying bills online, where stacks of statements aren't waiting to be filed away in a crowded cabinet, and stamps are nothing more than collectors' items.
Sep 18, 2005, 17:52
Consumer News
Thinking About Buying Redwing Boots?
Redwing boots have been a favourite choice of workmen for years. They come in a variety of styles, including motorcycle boots, and cowboy boots. They're tough and durable and, with proper care, should last you a lifetime.
Sep 18, 2005, 02:00
Consumer News
Web Sites Teach Public About Bugs, Germs, DEET
What are the 10 most dangerous pests? What are antimicrobials and how do they protect us? What do the most effective insect repellents contain? Find answers to these questions and more on the Consumer Specialty Products Association's public information Web sites, DeetOnline.org, AboutBugs.com and AboutGerms.com.
Sep 17, 2005, 22:35
Consumer News
Prevent Identity Thieves from Stealing Your Golden Years
Identity theft can strike anyone at any time. For seniors who may have spent a lifetime building their nest egg and looking forward to retirement, identity theft can be especially devastating. In fact, according to the Federal Trade Commission, a growing number of seniors are being defrauded every year -- leaving many to face the difficult task of restoring their credit health and hard-earned financial well being.
Sep 17, 2005, 16:39
Consumer News
Online Shopping Safety Tips
Online shopping can be the best of all worlds: wider selections and bigger bargains that can be purchased from anywhere, at anytime. But while the majority of Internet merchants are honest and trustworthy, there is always an underlying risk when buying online.
And why shouldn’t consumers be scared? Last year, the Federal Trade Commission received tens of thousands of complaints about Internet shopping crimes. The issues ranged from undelivered products and gross misrepresentation of merchandise to identity theft and fraudulent e-commerce sites. Worse yet, the victims had little opportunity for recourse.
Sep 16, 2005, 21:18
Consumer News
Don't Get Hooked By Phishing Scams
You receive a seemingly legitimate e-mail from your bank asking you to update your personal information-social security, account number, mother's maiden name. You wonder why your bank would be asking for this information, especially your account number, but you trust your bank, so you comply. The next day you learn that your identity has been stolen and the thief has wiped out your checking account and maxed out all of your credit cards. You've just been "phished," along with millions of other Americans who use the Internet for shopping, banking or just surfing.
Sep 9, 2005, 02:05
Consumer News
Protecting Your Finances
More and more con artists are using e-mail to try to hijack your personal financial information. Scammers called "phishers" claim to be from a reputable company and send out thousands of fake e-mails in hopes that consumers will respond with the bank account information, credit card numbers, passwords or other sensitive information.
Sep 9, 2005, 02:03
Consumer News
Minimizing The Risk Of Identity Theft
There's good news for consumers concerned about the threat posed by identity thieves. Increasingly, the financial services industry is looking for ways to help consumers protect themselves from identity theft. Recent research conducted by the Better Business Bureau with Javelin Strategy & Research indicates that over nine million Americans became victims of identity theft in 2004.
Sep 9, 2005, 01:38
Consumer News
Club House Rules: Warehouse Shoppers Need To "Bulk Up" On Home Food Safety
While many say it's the value that keeps them coming back, more than half simply like stocking up on food. But properly storing and preparing bulk foods is a big concern among these shoppers, with two out of three asking for advice. "Consumers have embraced bulk-mania," says registered dietitian Jackie Newgent, national spokesperson for the ADA/ConAgra Foods Home Food Safety… It's in Your Hands™ program.
Sep 9, 2005, 01:31
Consumer News
What's In Your Drink?
You expect the labels on everything you eat or drink to carry all the basic information, such as carbs, calories, fat, protein and serving size. Currently, however, alcoholic beverages-including beer, wine and spirits-are the only consumable products that have been largely prohibited from including information such as alcohol per serving, calories, carbohydrates, fat and protein on their labels.
Sep 9, 2005, 01:19
Consumer News
Enjoying Life's Pragmatic Pleasures
More than ever, consumers want more out of their purchases. Affordable luxury is something consumers crave, and many retailers are responding. From high-end designers to the packaged-goods industry, companies are listening to consumers by creating products for shoppers who want the best of both worlds-high-end quality and good value in one product.
Sep 8, 2005, 22:57
Consumer News
Preserving Your Washer Dryer
Buying a new appliance is no small investment. You want a durable product that looks good and will last for years to come. But how can you be sure the appliance you choose will last? Many appliances on the market today have been electrocoated so your investment stays in showroom condition. Electrocoat is a paint coating applied in the factory to protect your product against moisture, high temperature, salt, chemicals, sunlight and pollution. If your investment isn't properly protected with an anti-corrosive coating like electrocoat, your hard-earned money can go right down the drain.
Sep 8, 2005, 20:05
Consumer News
The Best Invention Of The Last 75 Years
The most influential innovation of the past 75 years wasn't the cell phone. It wasn't the personal computer. It wasn't even television. It was air-conditioning. That's the finding of an online poll conducted by AOL and The Henry Ford historical institution. Since air-conditioning is so important, homeowners should consider several factors before replacing an old system.
Sep 8, 2005, 18:47
Consumer News
Using An Internet Auction To Help With Your Move
)-More than 40 million Americans move to a new address every year. If you're ever among them, you'll probably have to decide which treasures to keep and which ones to leave behind. That task may be less daunting (and more lucrative) than many realize, thanks to the Internet-and an ingenious idea. The Internet has auction sites, such as eBay, that offer an alternative to traditional garage sales. Selling items online can net you more money, save you trouble and reduce the pressure on you when you're pressed for time.
Sep 8, 2005, 15:10
Consumer News
Security Chests And Files Protect Important Documents And Valuables From Natural Disasters
Consumers concerned about safeguarding their important documents and other valuables from such disasters as wildfires and floods should know a few facts and statistics. Each year, wildfires ravage thousands of structures, claiming millions of dollars worth of damages. According to 2004 data from the National Interagency Coordination Center, more than eight million acres burned as a result of 65,461 wildfires.
Sep 8, 2005, 14:50
Consumer News
High-Quality Homes In Half The Time
The popularity of factory-built housing in America is on the rise. In fact, according to the Manufactured Housing Institute, there are 22.5 million people living in 10 million factory-built homes across the country today.
But what exactly does factory-built mean? A factory-built home is quite simply a home that is built indoors and then transported to the homeowner's lot.
Sep 8, 2005, 14:38
Consumer News
Laundry Rooms Are The New "Showpiece" For Homeowners
One of the most-used, but under-thought rooms in the home is getting more attention these days. The utility room was once a drab, dingy place most commonly found in a basement or garage. Now homeowners are building creative spaces that capitalize on the latest laundry innovations and address the specific needs of the individual family.
"The Clothing Doctor," laundry expert and author of "The Ultimate Guide to Shopping and Caring for Clothing," Steve Boorstein, says creating a functional utility room starts with the appliances.
Sep 8, 2005, 14:33
Consumer News
As Prices For Flat-Panel TV Sets Fall, Consumers Need Help Sorting Out Options
With prices of flat-panel TVs expected to continue to drop even for sets boasting the most cutting-edge technology, consumers looking to leap at the buying opportunity still seem confused by all their choices. Serious shoppers need to first understand that there are two types of those stylishly sleek flat-panel TVs that people have been gobbling up to the tune of what the Consumer Electronic Association says was $2 billion in 2004 alone.
Sep 8, 2005, 14:21
Consumer News
Garage Sales Move To The Internet
Building on the premise that one man's trash is another man's treasure, garage sales are experiencing a renaissance. What's interesting about this trend is that garage sales are no longer just a front-yard operation; they're moving to the Internet. Online auctions, free local classifieds and charity donation sites present great opportunities to get rid of unnecessary items and collect a few dollars in the process.
Sep 8, 2005, 13:42
Consumer News
Is Good Service Gone? Not When Companies Make A Commitment To It
In the battle to keep up with the hectic pace of modern life, good service-or service at all in some cases-is usually the first casualty. When was the last time you got something repaired in 24 hours without paying a premium?
The service economy that many tout as the new direction, is in many cases no service at all. Telephone answering services make it difficult to resolve issues. We bag our groceries. We pump our gas.
Sep 8, 2005, 00:47
Consumer News
Consumers Drive Market
Chances are the next big product you see was brought about, at least in part, by you-or the person next to you or the person next to her. American consumers help shape the marketplace. They influence price, how shelves are stocked and what they're stocked with. For instance, many consumers will tell you a top priority of theirs ia "a bigger bang for the buck." As a result, businesses have created innovative ways to satisfy that demand.
Aug 15, 2005, 20:59
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