Get consumer advice on product purchases, financial planning, recalls, scams, fraud and more. Take a look at our articles, blog posts, Q&As, videos and radio shows for consumer advice on a wide variety of topics.
Should I Finance My Car Through The Dealer?
When you are buying a car, chances are you have questions about your financing options.
What Should I Be Cautious Of When Buying A Used Car?
When you're looking at used automobiles, there are certain red flags you need to be aware of.
What Type Of Warranty Options Are There?
You have many warranty options when you're buying a car. This guide will help you pick the option that is right for you.
How To Get Rid Of Junk Mail And Phone Solicitors
Many people are fed up with the amount of junk mail and calls they receive. If you want to stop junk phone calls, you can go to donotcall.gov and register your telephone numbers. Companies that do not abide by the Do Not Call list can be fined a substantial amount of money for each violation.
Increasing Rental Car Prices
Renting a car? Rental car prices are on the rise. Consumers walking into car rental companies later this year are more likely to find higher prices, older cars, and an alternative mix of rental vehicles.
Pacemaker Recall Alert
Guidant Corporation recently recalled some of their pacemakers due to a potentially fatal flaw. 78,000 Guidant pacemakers manufactured between 1997 and 2000 are suspected to have this defect, with 18,000 still in use in the United States.
VOIP Phone Service
Are you ready for a VoIP phone? VoIP is coming of age, and it's time to consider abandoning your existing phone service in favor of a more affordable VoIP service.
Illinois Wineries
The wine business is booming. For the first time since the Gallup Poll began keeping track in 1992, more Americans say their alcoholic beverage of choice is wine, not beer. A recent Supreme Court ruling is loosening the rules for interstate wine sales. All of this is good news for Illinois wineries.
How To Download Passport Application Forms
You may download passport forms from the U.S. Department of State travel web site. Forms are also available at public offices like Post Offices, courthouses or municipal offices where passport applications are accepted.
Avoid Fraud With Electronic Passport
Several years ago the federal government started issuing electronic passports, which contain a microchip to help prevent identity theft and scams. When you're traveling to your vacation home or your second home outside of the U.S. you may need to carry an electronic passport. Electronic passports are also supposed to reduce fraud.