Buying a used car can be a smart financial decision, especially if your budget is limited. However, failing to do your homework before you buy can put you in a disastrous or even dangerous situation...

If your basement is leaking or suffering from foundation issues, it can affect your whole house’s integrity, including structural decay, high humidity levels, and mold and mildew growth. It’s critical that you find a quality and trustworthy contractor to make these repairs -- particularly after a storm, when unscrupulous contractors sometimes prey on homeowners in need...

Looking for your next apartment, condo or house rental can be a time-consuming process, and it may feel as though you’ll never find the right place at the right price. Scammers know this feeling and can use it to exploit consumers. Consumers need to take their time and do their homework before signing a lease...

By now, many high school seniors have finished their college applications and are waiting for results. That means it’s time to start thinking about how a family or individual is going to pay for it...

Whether you’re getting ready to sell a house, move or just want to make more room where you live, a garage sale can be a good way to get rid of unwanted items while realizing some cash...

Winter has probably left your yard with some sticks or unsightly leaf litter to clean up. And grass already is turning green. Neighbors already may be mowing their lawns, disturbing your afternoon nap...

Keeping kids safe today goes far beyond looking both ways before you cross the street and keeping sharp objects out of reach. Parents also worry about keeping their kids safe online...

If you receive an unsolicited or unexpected communication asking you to provide personal information, download an attachment, or send money, beware -- it’s probably a phishing scam...

Many areas are experiencing bad weather this week. Natural disasters like snowstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, flooding, and wildfires often bring out the best in people, as strangers reach out to help others in need. Unfortunately, the aftermath of a crisis also brings out contractors taking advantage of those who have already been victimized. ...

According to the National Retail Federation’s annual survey, Valentine’s Day spending this year is expected to top $21 billion. Special dinners, jewelry and flowers all account for large percentages of the spending...

Video streaming services like Netflix have become essential for countless people stuck at home, whether because of the COVID-19 pandemic or the winter’s cold. Under such circumstances, an offer of free Netflix for a year might seem like a lifeline too good to ignore. Be wary of such a “deal,” as it is one of many ways scammers are cashing in on the demand for streaming platforms...

With tax scams drawing many reports on Better Business Bureau (BBB) Scam Tracker every year, consumers should be aware of the potential for fraud as they collect W-2 forms from their employers and prepare to file returns...

As COVID-19 vaccinations roll out across the country, a variety of scams are likely to appear in response to the vaccine initiative. Consumers should guard against fraudsters peddling phony treatments, phishing schemes, and other attempts to steal your money or personal information...

With tax season just getting under way, some consumers rush to file taxes as soon as their employers provide a W-2...

Hunting for a job is never easy, which is one good reason to be skeptical of emails or other solicitations appearing out of the blue, offering you employment or promising easy money...

Are you considering a New Year’s resolution to lose weight or save money for retirement? What about resolving to be a savvy consumer as well?...

Losing weight is a popular New Year’s resolution, but consumers should use caution when buying diet and weight loss products to aid them on their journey, especially products that advertise a free trial...

As 2020 comes to an end, you may be starting to plan home projects for 2021 – especially after spending so much time at home this year. Maybe you want to add a patio or deck, make over your kitchen or renovate a spare bedroom as a home office...

As the number of holiday shopping days ticks down, you may be considering gift cards for friends or relatives who have everything or those who live far away. Gift cards are an easy solution to people who are hard-to-please or already have everything. And they’re everywhere – at the drugstore, supermarket, quick shop and department stores. E-gift card options make it an even easier gift, not to mention a safer one during COVID-19...

For many Americans, giving to charities is almost as important during the holidays as celebrating with family. Consumers should give, but give wisely -- and do their homework before donating...