Welcome to Consumers’ Notebook, where we feature news-you-can-use and other timely information to help you become a more informed consumer. Check back often to read the latest pieces in our Notebook.
Why Did I Get a Small, Unexpected Payment From the IRS?
By law, the IRS owes interest on refunds that accrued between the original April 15th filing deadline and whenever the refund was actually paid.
Dealing with Debt Collectors: Know the Rules, Your Rights, and How to Spot a Scammer
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.
Many Consumers Enrolled in COVID-19 Payment Modification Programs Find Their Credit Files Erroneously Tarnished
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 Well-Known Brands Criminals Most Often 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.
My Gym Is Closed and 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?...
Scammers Cash-In on COVID-19: 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.
Stimulus Payment Glitches: Why Millions of Taxpayers Will Get Their Payments Late
Millions of Americans who filed their tax returns via tax preparation services haven’t received their stimulus payments yet.
How to Create and Easily Store Secure Passwords
Password management software helps you create strong and unique passwords for all your online accounts.
Is Your Auto Insurer Offering Help During the Coronavirus Outbreak?
Most of the largest U.S. insurance companies have announced plans to give their auto policyholders some form of relief. Some insurers are offering a lot more help than others.
Higher Interest Rates Are on the Way; Here’s How to Prepare
To combat inflation, the Federal Reserve is expected to increase the federal funds rate three times during 2022, and possibly more in 2023. Here’s a quick look at how these increases are likely to affect consumer borrowing and saving.
Holiday Shopping Tips: Gift Yourself Less Stress and Lower Spending
For the 2021 holiday shopping season, brace yourself for shortages, shipping delays, changes to retailers’ traditional discounting practices, and more. But there are still plenty of ways to save money and make sure you cover everyone on your “nice” list. Here are our top tips for holiday shopping.
New Mortgage Underwriting Program Could Help More Renters Become Homeowners
As of September 18, Fannie Mae will consider rental payment history as part of its risk assessment for loan approval.
New Federal Rule Targets Fraudulent ‘Made in USA’ Claims
“Made in USA” claims are often meaningless and sometimes outright deceptive. This month the Federal Trade Commission finalized a new rule to crack down on marketers using false labeling about where their products were made.
Complaints Against P2P Payment Apps Soar
It’s easy to make mistakes when paying on your phone and difficult to get help if something goes wrong.
The Pros and Cons of ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ Financing for Travel
The travel industry has a solution for those who want to book a vacation but have limited budgets: Buy now, pay later (BNPL) financing. 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.
Credit Bureau Mistakes Still a Problem, New Survey Shows
A unique study by Consumer Reports, released this week, found that errors in credit reports are all too common.
Downsizing: A Sneaky Way to Raise Prices Without Upsetting Customers
Most shoppers don’t notice when packaged goods are downsized ever so slightly. This inconspicuous shrinkage—fewer sheets on a roll of toilet paper, skinnier paper towels, and less coffee in the can—has been going on for decades. And there’s no end in sight.
Cryptocurrency Investment Scams Skyrocket
Cryptocurrency investment schemes have skyrocketed during the pandemic, as criminals leverage this gold-rush mentality, promising huge returns in just days or weeks.
FCC Offers Subsidies to Help Families Afford Computers and Connect to the Internet
Starting today, the Federal Communications Commission’s Emergency Broadband Benefit Program will provide financial assistance to families who need help paying for internet access or buying a computer.
Fraud Alert: Bogus COVID-19 Vaccine Survey
Fraudsters have figured out another way to exploit the pandemic. They’re sending out emails and text messages asking people to complete a bogus COVID-19 survey about the Pfizer, Moderna, or Johnson & Johnson vaccines. There’s even a fake survey for AstraZeneca, which hasn’t even been approved for use in the U.S.