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Consumer Poll Finds Risky Behavior is Common Consumer Reports survey reveals how often Americans take risks.

Fiber-Optic Providers Are Leading Choices for Broadband Verizon FiOS, AT&T U-verse lead latest Consumer Reports survey.

Too Much Retirement Planning May Be As Bad As Too Little Suggestions to rebuild the nest egg and secure the future.

Consumers Have Growing Leverage with Credit Card Companies Massive worldwide debt may actually help borrowers negotiate better terms.

Tips To Cope With the Economy in 2009 Bankrate's senior financial analyst explains the best way to approach your finances in the coming year.

Gas Prices Inch Up in New Year But average remains low as buyers begin stockpiling.

Erectile Dysfunction Drugs Can Lead to Dangerous Interactions WorstPills.org finds 56 medications that can cause problems.

Roth IRA Beats 401(k) in Key Ways A young worker may find a Roth IRA to be superior to a 401(k) when saving for retirement.

Indiana Puppy Breeder Shut Down Some animals put down as state seizes company assets.

6 Ways To Save on Continuing Education When it comes to applying for college scholarships, retirees have some advantages.

The Complex World of Washing Machines Picking the wrong brand can put you in the spin cycle.

13 Smart Insurance Moves for 2009 Insurers and employers will be trimming coverage in the coming year. Here's how to avoid gaps in insurance.

Don't Let Just Anyone Do Your Taxes Poor choices in preparers could lead to trouble.

Court Scolds Gerber Over Marketing Practices Poor choices in preparers could lead to trouble.

Recalls...

Reader Poll: Surviving in the New Economy How will you adjust your spending habits in lean times?

Buyer Waiting for Car May Cancel Deal A dealer who has failed to deliver a car may be jeopardizing the sale.

Car Payments Can Help Rebuild Credit Making car payments on time will help rebuild a credit score.

Mortgage Rates Drop Way Down The benchmark 30-year fixed-rate mortgage fell 20 basis points, to 5.64 percent.

How Important is Credit to You? Take this online quiz to see how your feelings about credit cards stack up against those of other Americans.

Understand Annuity Before You Sign The wrong time to learn more details about your annuity contract is after you sign on the dotted line.

The High Cost of High-Tech Teens For parents, drawing the line on being cool is a cost-cutting lesson for teenagers.

January 2, 2009

H&R Block to Stop Selling Refund Anticipation Loans in California Company settles suit charging it with deceptive practices.

How the Grinches Stole Christmas ... Again Flying bakeware, failed returns, bungled deliveries once more mar the holiday.

Sex In the Digital Age Internet changing sexual attitudes among the young.

Consumers Union Buys Consumerist.com Axes ads but says no other changes planned.

December 31, 2008

Consumer Confidence Sinks to Historic Low Survey reflects worries, fears about economy.

5 Tips for Eating Right in 2009 Best ways to stay healthy on a budget.

Make The Best of Lower Card Limits Credit card issuers seem to be cutting card limits arbitrarily. Here's what to do if this happens to you.

Burritos Recalled Due to Possible Listeria Contamination Colorado company recalls 172 pounds of products.

Home Prices Plunge in October Values drop to levels not seen since 2004.

Rules for Claiming Dependents A student with high medical bills can be claimed as a dependent if the criteria are met.

Moderate Drinking Can Reduce Risks of Alzheimer's Low consumption can prevent "mini-strokes" that lead to dementia.

What's $29,000 Worth After 18 Years? A bank deposit of $29,000 loses some of its purchasing power after 18 years.

December 30, 2008

Chinese Companies Pay $160 Million Over Melamine Scandal Dairy companies settle with families of sickened children.

Groups Warn Against Life Insurance Rule Change New proposals could massively cut reserves for payouts.

Managing Retirement Savings If you're feeling shakier than the stock market, take some time to re-evaluate your portfolio positions.

Ford Plans Car That Parks Itself New technology guides cars into parking spots.

Smart Moves for CDs, Checking and Savings Investors are hoping 2009 will provide respite from 2008's economic spiral. Three experts weigh in.

5 Digital Ways to Store Money Documents There are five key options for safely storing important financial records digitally.

Doctors' Groups Settle Price-Fixing Charges Physicians accused of gouging insurance providers to raise fees.

1918 Flu Virus Offers Clues to Prevent Pandemics Studies of historic strain yield genetic breakthroughs.

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Tax Preparers Tighten Up on 'Instant Refund' Loans Refund anticipation loans almost always a bad idea.

Some Hybrid Tax Breaks Will Soon Disappear If you want a Honda hybrid and a tax break, you better head to your local dealership now.

High Credit Scores Get Top Loans Credit score has always been important. Now it must be even higher to get a low rate.

Tips to Cope with the Economy in 2009 Here's the best way to approach your finances in the coming year.

12 Steps to Credit Card Success Follow these rules to beat credit card issuers at their own game.

Oil Rises But Gas Keeps Sinking OPEC looks to cut production, buyers want to increase inventories.

Over-the-Counter Contraceptive Pill May Not Work British researchers claim irregular usage hinders effectiveness.

New GPS Navigators Earn High Marks Consumer Reports rates best brands.

Common Food Additive Linked to Lung Cancer Inorganic phosphates in processed foods may trigger disease.

Researchers Study Wii's Impact on Fitness "Whole body movement" games may help families get healthy.

December 28, 2008

Top 10 Scams Of 2008 Financial meltdown creates opportunities for scammers.

December 27, 2008

Mortgage Refis Surge Mortgage rates went up this week from near-record lows, as brokers scrambled to keep up with applications.

5 Great Used Cars for Bargain Hunters Five used-car gems that are easy on both fuel and your wallet.

Use Cash for Refinance or Debt Paydown? Should you apply extra cash to a refinancing, or use it to pay down debt?

Save On Home Improvements Habitat for Humanity offers home improvement bargains.

December 26, 2008

Navigating the Mortgage Modification Maze Getting a home loan altered is no easy task.

GMAC Becomes a Bank Automaker's financing arm could access bailout funds.

Wal-Mart to Sell iPhone Starting Sunday 3G model on sale in 2,500 locations.

Notebooks Outsell Desktops for First Time HP, Dell, Acer, top rankings.

Coke Gets FDA Warning Letter About Coke Plus Agency says soda label claims false nutritional value.

Not All Sports Drinks are Created Equal Protein alleged to make the difference in performance.

"Brain Starvation" May Trigger Alzheimer's Restricted blood flow in arteries may lead to degeneration.

December 25, 2008

Spirit of Christmas Thrives, Even in Hard Times In the bleak Midwestern mid-winter, we found some Christmas angels.

Mortgage Rates Surge Mortgage rates went up this week from near-record lows, as brokers scrambled to keep up with applications.

Interest Rate Roundup Here are the latest interest rates from Bankrate.com's weekly national survey of large banks and thrifts.

5 Ways to Outlast Deflation Deflation can devastate the economy. Here are five ways to fight falling prices.

Elevated CRP Can be a Sign of Infection, Or Worse High levels can also indicate increased heart attack risk.

December 24, 2008

Consumers Resolve To Kick Credit Card Habit Tightening of limits spurs borrowers to turn their backs.

Boomers Facing Tough Social Security Choices Many stuck between reduced payouts now or gambling for later.

Credit Card Issuers Changing the Rules Lenders look to make money before new regulations take effect.

Mortgage Rates Reach 37-Year Low 30-year fixed mortgage hits 5.14 percent.

Credit "Repair" Company Agrees to Settle FTC Charges Agency handcuffs company for making deceptive claims.

December 23, 2008

Is It Safe to Buy a House? Foreclosures and sinking home prices may signal a new era for buyers.

Mortgage Modification Meltdown The bailout program still isn't reaching homeowners.

Video: Debt Consolidation May Make Things Worse Unscrupulous companies prey on struggling consumers.

Cheap Gas Prices Provide Holiday Cheer National average of $1.65 invokes ghosts of cheap fuel's past.

FDA Warns of Tainted Diet Pills 25 products could lead to heart problems, depression, and worse.

Fed Urged to Beef Up Overdraft Rules Loopholes could mean business as usual for banks.

Feds Developing Positive Train Control Regulations New rules could help prevent train collisions.

Got The Shakes? Botox Can Help! Cosmetic treatment can stabilize muscle spasms and tremors.

FDA Halts Illegally Medicated Animal Feed Missouri court claims company did not store feed properly.

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December 22, 2008

Mortgage Defaults Still Rising But foreclosures decrease slightly through 2008.

New Jersey Man Arrested in Ponzi Scheme Investment broker accused of bilking clients out of $1.3 million.

6 Key Ways Car Shopping Has Changed The financial meltdown has changed car shopping in six key ways. Some of the shifts may be permanent.

Target Launches In-Store Recall System Retailer teams up with safety agency to notify shoppers.

All Credit Cards Not Created Equal There are still plenty of tricks card issuers can legally play on their customers.

Sour Economy May Affect Eating Habits Bigger emphasis on nutrition, value for dollars.

The Quest for Retirement Income Annuities are good for providing income in retirement. Companies looking for newer, better ways.

Online Technology Sales Surge Even in bad economy, e-commerce rakes in big bucks.

"All You Can Eat" A Ticket to Obesity Lower incomes, buffet-centric diets combine for bad health.

Media May Have Gotten Alcohol Study Wrong Claim that pregnant women can drink safely is erroneous, researchers say.

December 21, 2008

Topaz Wafer Rolls Recalled on Melamine Fears Industrial chemical contaminates more food products.

Melamine Triggers Recall of Cocoa from Canada Products were sold at Big Lots, Shopko stores.

Pet Owners Warned about Chicken Jerky Products Small dogs at particular risk from jerky strips.

What To Do About Unauthorized Charges It's a common problem and can be very frustrating.

6 Common Car-Shopping Mistakes Avoiding these six mistakes will keep you out of car-buying trouble.

Drivers Won't Give Up Extras to Save Fuel Fuel-sipping cars that skimp on extras won't capture a driver's heart.

Early Mortgage Payment Could Cut Tax Bill Make your January mortgage payment by Dec. 31 and you'll have extra interest to deduct on your upcoming tax return.

December 20, 2008

White House to Loan Carmakers $17.4 Billion Bush says letting Big 3 collapse is "not responsible".

Credit Card Rules Implemented Too Slowly, Groups Say 2010 deadline gives lenders plenty of time to gouge consumers.

Vietnam Company Recalls Biscuits Due to Melamine Latest product to be tainted with dangerous chemical.

Falling Gas Prices Finally Level Off But another slide may be coming soon.

FTC Proposes Ways to Reduce Identity Theft Five steps to protect Social Security numbers.

Fast Food May Have Fewer Calories Than Traditional Restaurant Meals New study claims fast food portions are smaller and more "energy dense".

Can a Monthly Shot Keep Holiday Drinkers on the Wagon? Injections of naltrexone may help reduce desire to drink.

December 19, 2008

Feds Crack Down on Credit Card Companies New rules ban unfair practices against consumers.

Foreclosures Rising Despite Prevention Programs Voluntary industry guidelines a failure, bankruptcy lawyers charge.

Mortgage Rates Take Another Sudden Drop 30-year fixed loan hits 5.94 percent.

Chrysler Closing Car Plants for 30 Days Ford, GM to follow suit while waiting for bailout.

Wal-Mart Dominates Christmas Shopping Retail giant dwarfs competition for wary consumers' dollars.

MillerCoors Dumps Sparks in Settlement Brewer shelves controversial teen-marketed energy drink.

End of Model Year Car-Buying Tips What's the better value: last-year's model discounted or this year's model?

States on High Alert for Investment Fraud Madoff Ponzi scheme rattles securities officials.

Interest Rate Roundup Here are the latest interest rates from Bankrate.com's weekly national survey of large banks and thrifts.

Cash Today Hit with FTC Complaint Company did not properly disclose terms of its payday loans, feds charge.

Borrowing from Family, Friends, Strangers Borrowing money from people you know or complete strangers can be better, or worse, than dealing with institutions.

Do's and Don'ts of Holiday Decorating Safety agency urges caution for festive festooning.

Recalls...

December 17, 2008

Smart Moves to Make After the Fed Rate Cut Take advantage of the action by the Federal Reserve with these money moves.

New Jersey Finds Recalled Toys in Four Stores Investigators on the hunt for unsafe items.

Who Wins, Who Loses with the Fed's Decision? The Federal Reserve made its decision on the federal funds rate. How will this affect your bottom line?

Christmas Travel Expected to Decline First decline in holiday travel since 2002.

FDA Requires Suicide Warning on Epileptic Drugs Agency also mandates guides for proper medical use.

Drug Companies' Medical Information Not Useful FDA raps businesses for not providing good information.

Equifax Settles Consumer Protection Charges in Indiana Attorney General accuses credit bureau of not providing security freezes.

End-of-Year Auto Deals Auto manufacturers are offering great deals to move inventory off dealer lots.

Check Out Charities Before Opening Your Wallet Research organizations thoroughly before donating.

Recalls...

December 16, 2008

Fed Slashes Rates to Near Zero Rate cut is the lowest in history.

Consumer Prices Plunge in November Retail posts biggest 30-day decline in 61 years.

Supreme Court Clears Suits Over Light Cigarettes Majority says federal law does not block state litigation.

Airborne Agrees to Stop 'Cold Remedy' Claims Company will pay $7 million to 33 states.

Toyota Parks Plans For New Prius Plant Low gas prices and car sales means factory will sit vacant.

Cut Your Holiday Costs This Year Trim your gift-giving, yuletide travel and holiday party planning with these tips from Bankrate.

Ohio Settles with Companies over Student Credit Cards Attorney General accused firms of deceptive advertising.

Internet Explorer Has Serious Security Flaw Exploit enables hackers to steal users' passwords.

Video: Gift Cards for the Holiday Watch out for fees, expiration dates and bankruptcies when choosing a gift card.

Pool And Spa Safety Law Takes Effect This Week New law designed to better protect swimmers.

Condo vs. Co-op There are pros and cons to buying a condo or a co-op in the present real estate market.

December 15, 2008

Mattel Agrees to Lower Lead Paint Levels in Toys Toymaker settles with 39 Attorneys General, agrees to stricter standards.

Fed to Vote on Sweeping Credit Card Rule Changes Rules changes will ban retroactive rate hikes.

USDA Will Test Meat Products for Melamine Agency determines that testing is "prudent".

Survey Finds Americans Lacking Money Knowledge "Economic illiteracy" highlighted as reason for current crises.

Home Values May Fall More in 2009 Homes lost $2 trillion in value in 2008.

Massachusetts Company Recalls Cream Cheese Due to Listeria Possible contamination risk for specialty food products.

Software Offers Alternative to Direct Deposit Cutting-edge technology called "remote deposit capture" offers help for employees who don't have direct deposit.

FHA Loans: What You Need to Know FHA loans lagged during the boom but they're back skyrocketing now.

Video: The Cheapest Way to Mail Gifts Last-minute shoppers will find big differences in overnight shipping charges.

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December 14, 2008

Devil Is In the Details of Foreclosure 'Bargains' Buying foreclosed properties isn't a game for beginners.

Comparing Loan Products for Pricey Items Bankrate helps take the guesswork out of borrowing money.

Hedging Your Retirement Bet These days retirees get few guarantees. But you can take steps to ensure your money lasts.

Video: Avoid Holiday Scams Holiday scammers are out in force, so watch out!

December 12, 2008

New York Financier Allegedly Ran 'Giant Ponzi Scheme' Losses may reach $50 billion; many prominent families affected.

How Retirees Can Survive the Bear Market Reorganize your life, not just your portfolio.

Americans Cut Driving by 100 Billion Miles Lower gas prices don't seem to be restoring driving habits.

Bankrupt KB Toys Closing All Stores Weak sales push venerable toy seller into the red.

Gas Prices Fall Nearly 12 Cents in a Week National average down to $1.65 a gallon.

Americans Passing Up Flu Shots Survey claims myths about immunization are causing low numbers.

Good Time to Buy a New Car? A shrinking domestic auto industry will bring about many changes in the next few years -- which could work for or against you.

Gene May Make You Crave Fast Food Variant gene may drive some to eat unhealthy meals.

Safe Places to Park Your Cash Fixed-income investments can provide a safe haven for cash and modest interest income during today's economic crisis.

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December 11, 2008

Americans' Net Worth Plunges Nearly $3 Trillion Economics predict the recession will begin to ease in June 2009.

Foreclosures Rise 28 Percent in November Total actions slow from previous month, but still at record levels.

Mortgage Modification Help Need to modify your mortgage? Here are some valuable tips.

Mortgage Modification: Chase, WaMu, EMC Mortgage modification info for three big lenders.

Car Key Jams Teen Drivers' Cell Phones University of Utah licenses the device to private marketers.

4 Keys to Buying a Car Online Buying a car on the Internet involves challenges. Here are four ways to make the experience profitable.

Sony BMG to Pay $1 Million for Violating Children's Privacy Company illegally collected information on its Web sites, FTC charged.

Vitamins Don't Cut Prostate Cancer Risk Large trial casts doubt on earlier studies.

Alternative Medicine Use on the Rise Survey studies usage among adults, children.

Feds Quash 'Scareware' Scheme Bogus 'scans' tricked more than 1 million consumers.

Overweight Children at Increased Risk in Car Accidents Weaker bone strength may lead to more injuries.

Interest Rate Roundup Latest interest rates from Bankrate.com's weekly national survey.

Video: Real estate Auction Rip-Off? Know all the rules before you bid on a foreclosure at auction.

Recalls today...

December 10, 2008

Australian Company Recalls Chicken Strips After Dogs Fall Ill Symptoms may be similar to those from Nutro Pet Foods.

Credit Unions Come to Aid of Troubled Automakers Buyers of U.S. vehicles could get low-cost loans, cash discounts.

Video: Credit Cards for College Students Credit card offers abound on college campuses. Here's what students need to know.

Are Men Hardwired to Overspend? Financial overconsumption may be designed to attract mates.

Feds, BMW Tussle Over Hot Mini Cooper Tailpipe BMW resists NHTSA's call for a recall.

7 Do-It-Yourself Car Maintenance Tips You don't have to be a mechanic to make these simple checks.

Surge in Mortgage Applications Doesn't Last But low interest rates may spur more loans.

7 Freaky Home Threats: Are You Covered? If your home is trampled by stampeding wildebeests will your homeowners insurance cover the repairs?

Shopping Poll Holds Bad News for Retailers Consumer sentiment continues to drop as economic concerns increase.

Fraudsters Masquerading as Well-Known Companies Kansas Attorney General takes on impersonators.

Avoiding Short-Term Gains on Investments You can get favorable capital gains treatment by rolling over profits in investment property.

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December 9, 2008

Get Your Mortgage Rate Lock Ready Solidify your loan terms when you have the chance.

Pending Home Sales Slide in October Improvements in late summer give way to fears in fall.

House Committee Slams FCC Chairman for "Deception and Distrust" 110-page investigative report exposes "broken" agency culture, process.

Wal-Mart Reportedly To Sell iPhone Megastore remains mum as rumors swirl.

Banking Report Errors Can Be Harmful A consumer banking report may have errors that make it difficult to open a checking account.

Electronic Prescribing System Could Save Patients Money Doctors using e-prescribing tend to favor lower-cost medications.

Joan Claybrook Resigns as Head of Public Citizen Longtime president of consumer advocate agency fought for safer auto standards.

Shopping for a Student Loan When you search multiple loan options, you could be damaging your credit report.

New Tax Rules Could Cost Second-Home Owners If you hope to get the most tax savings on a second-home sale, you've only got a few weeks to act.

What to Expect from Medicare This primer on the government health plan for those 65 and up explains your options.

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December 8, 2008

How To Have a Bailout Just for You The world crisis can show the way to personal growth.

Melamine Found in Walgreens Chocolate Bars Candy sold with teddy bears recalled after high levels of chemical detected.

Modifying Mortgages Isn't Slowing Default Rate Homeowners with modified loans fall back into delinquency, official says.

What Would a Washington-Designed Car Industry Look Like? As bailout takes shape, Congress, White House, Obama weigh in.

Obama Promises to "Renew Information Superhighway" Broadband expansion included as part of public works program.

Nine Ways to Stretch Your Holiday Budget Wrap up your holiday spending without overspending.

Jumbo Mortgage Deadline Looms Some mortgage borrowers are about to get squeezed by the shrinking of something called the jumbo conforming limit.

Bundle Up! 'Credit Winter' Is Coming You may not have recognized it yet, but "Credit Winter" is coming to your town.

Sodium Levels Still High in Processed Foods Advocacy group raps food industry for not reducing salt content.

"Mystery Shopper" Scammers Settle with FTC Defendants accused of luring job seekers with fake offers.

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December 6, 2008

Put the Brakes on Holiday Spending Tips for reining in holiday expenses without losing your holiday spirit.

Tips for Online Coupon Clipping Coupons can help you save up to 30 percent off your shopping bill.

Know Your Needs to Choose the Right Laptop Not all laptops are alike, a veteran reviewer notes.

Answers to Six Key Refinance Questions Frequently asked questions about the mortgage refinancing process.

Four Things to Know Before You Refinance Take these steps to be sure a refi will be good for you.

Insurance Fight? Hire Your Own Appraiser An independent appraisal can often help settle disputes.

December 5, 2008

Toxic Toy Tests Show High Chemical Contamination Ecology Center's research show one in three toys are potential threats.

533,000 Jobs Lost in November Unemployment rate shoots to 6.7 percent.

Gas Prices at 2005 Levels National average drops to $1.77 a gallon.

7 Ways to Avoid Buying a Used Lemon Some 40 million used cars will change hands this year. How can you be sure the one you buy is not a lemon?

Mortgage Delinquencies, Foreclosures Surge Total rate highest recorded in bankers' survey.

Christmas Sales Forecast Gets More Grim Buyers expected to stay frugal through holiday season.

10 Year-End Tax Moves that Could Save You Money The year is quickly winding down, but you still have time to take tax action that could cut your IRS bill.

Payday Loans Can Lead to Bankruptcy Quick financial fix can cause more problems than it solves.

Saving With Online Coupons Today, you don't have to accept what's in the paper every week. There are plenty of online coupons that are a click away.

Caregivers Must Prepare for Doctor Visits Planning is key to successful health care for the elderly.

DOE Cracks Down on Energy Star Label Display LG settles with agency over misuse of certification.

December 4, 2008

Lawsuit Seeks Immediate Ban on Toxic Toys Safety agency looks other way as phthalate-laden toys remain on shelves.

$140 Million Settlement in Asbestos Insulation Class Action Zonolite installed in up to 35 million U.S. homes.

Capital One Buys Cash-Rich Chevy Chase Bank Deal gives Cap One branches, ATMs and hordes of cash.

Credit Card Cutbacks Hit Consumers Hard Business owners, responsible users get pinched as industry retrenches.

Interest Rate Roundup Here's the latest from Bankrate.com's weekly national survey of large banks and thrifts.

Tweeter Refuses to Honor Gift Cards for Some Customers Bankrupt retailer balks at redeeming purchases.

Do Online Colleges Make the Grade? For-profit online schools have certainly made money for investors, but tuition and fees run high. Are they worth it?

Bally Total Fitness Files for Chapter 11 Fitness center chain back in bankruptcy court.

Saving Online During the Holidays Consumers are using the Internet to shop for bargains and stay out of the mall.

7 Tips for Smooth Online Shopping If you're buying gifts online this holiday season, this checklist will help you through it.

Black Friday Victim's Family Sues Wal-Mart Lawsuit claims store recklessly endangered deceased employee.

Save Money on Prescription Drugs Careful investigation can protect your health and wallet alike.

What Happens to Your Account if the Bank Fails? A disruption in service can be more than a hassle.

Death Tax? What Death Tax? The beneficiary of a life insurance policy generally won't pay federal income taxes on a lump-sum death benefit.

December 3, 2008

Feds Withhold Cell Phone Safety Data, Suit Charges Government hides stats on cell-phone traffic deaths.

Class-Action Scam Threatens Consumers Supposed lawsuit settlement is bogus.

Giving Without Shopping: Make It a Priceless Holiday Here are some gifts that money just can't buy.

Low-Profile Water Heaters Can Cause High-Profile Problems Keep your eyes on this inconspicuous appliance.

GAO Calls for Better Bailout Oversight Watchdog wants more control and reporting over dispensing of money.

Single Women Struggle Financially Women earn less, save less according to report.

Cyber Monday Spending Jumps 15 Percent Shoppers flock to Internet in search of bargains.

FTC Stiffens Requirements For Telemarketers New rules give consumers more power to opt out.

Mortgage Applications Surged 112 Percent Last Week Lower rates equal more loans, refinancings.

Exercise Helps Prevent Age-Related Brain Changes Keeping fit helps blood flow to brain.

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December 2, 2008

Homes Lose More Value in Third Quarter Largest annual fall in 39 years, according to Freddie Mac.

Chinese Infant Death Toll from Tainted Formula Rises Six infants dead, thousands sick from melamine.

7 Products with Falling Price Tags At a time when many prices are soaring, these seven goods and services are bucking the trend.

Delta Cuts Flights in Slowing Economy Airline struggling to fill passenger cabins.

Maximizing Your 401(k) Contribution Save income tax, and set your 401(k) contributions to maximize your employer's match, says CPA George Saenz.

6 Tips for Savvy Holiday Shipping Here's how to determine what shipping options will get your gifts to their destination safely, on time and without busting your budget.

Lower "Scorching" Winter Heat Bills Despite the recent drop in crude oil prices, keeping warm this winter is likely to have a chilling effect on your household budget.

29 Percent Shop Online at Work Half of employers monitor workers' online activities.

FBI Warns Holiday Shoppers to Avoid Online Crooks Keep yourself safe from scammers while hunting bargains.

Age-Related Hearing Loss May Be in the Genes Malfunctioning gene can cause damage in ears.

Grant Scheme Targets Iowa College Students Attorney General goes after counterfeit check scammers.

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December 1, 2008

FDA Rolls Out Food Safety Plan Agency touts accomplishments, sidesteps criticism for melamine response.

OPEC Unable to Stop Gas Prices' Slide Oil down to $54 a barrel, gas trending well below $2.

Industry May Cut $2 Trillion in Credit Card Lines Bad economy, risk aversion causes banks to pull back.

Scientists Link Fast Food to Alzheimer's Diets high in fat and cholestrol may contribute to dementia.

Travel Operator Accused Of Selling Phony Trips Company sold $900,000 worth of trips never booked.

Cell Phone Conversations Distract Drivers, Study Finds Research indicates that phone chats are more dangerous than talking to friends in car.

FDA Warns Consumers Not to Buy Pet Turtles Yellow-bellied sliders, map turtles may contain Salmonella risk.

Researchers Seek Safer Obesity Drug Alternatives sought for dangerous diet pills.

November 30, 2008

Some Melamine in Infant Formula is OK, FDA Says Agency reverses course after declaring chemical unsafe.

Get Your Home a Flood Insurance Checkup Reexamine your risk for flood damage.

"Underground Economy" for Crime Thrives, Report Says Black market for stolen data prospers even in bad times.

Holiday Turkeys: Pricing Disputes, Kitchen Conflagrations Early birds don't always get the worm, shoppers find.

Black Friday Spending Up 3% Consumers defy pundits' predictions.

Mortgage Rates Are Falling. Time to Refi? The Fed's promise to buy toxic mortgage debt is driving mortgage rates down. Is the time right to seek a refi?

4 Things to Know Before You Refinance Before you rush to refi, take these steps to determine if the move will be good for you.

5 Big Bills You Can Cut Fast Rising prices and a sinking economy are pushing families to the brink. Here are five ways to cut costs fast.

7 Big Holiday Budget Busters Retailers are pulling out all the stops to get you to overspend this holiday season. Here are seven surefire ways to make it easy for them.

Who's In Charge of Your Healthcare? Is it your doctor, the government, your insurer, or nobody?

November 29, 2008

Banks Set New Record for Fees in 2008 Bankrate.com study finds record-high fees on everything from ATMs to bounced checks.

Rethinking Retirement in Uncertain Times Traditional retirement is undergoing transformation. For many, it's likely to happen later, and it may involve work.

November 28, 2008

Wal-Mart Worker Killed In Black Friday Stampede Pregnant woman injured in bargain-hunters' frenzy.

Binge Drinking May Drive Heart Disease Study documents processes that can damage artery walls.

Mileage Claims Fall Apart in Real World Real-world driving can savage manufacturer fuel-efficiency claims.

Interest Rate Roundup Here are the latest interest rates and commentary on five common consumer banking products.

November 27, 2008

Mortgage Rates Drop Below 6 Percent The benchmark 30-year fixed-rate loan fell to 5.97 percent in Bankrate's weekly survey.

Americans Less Clueless about Mortgages More people know what kind of mortgage they have than last year, but more also worry about making home payments..

Top 10 Bargain Rides The most basic cars on the market today would have been considered mid-level a decade ago. These cars are the best bargains out there.

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November 26, 2008

Mars Extends Pet Food Recall; More Salmonella Found Expanded recall covers cat food sold in East Coast states.

Consumers Cautioned About Dangerous Toys Watchdog group warns of potential dangers for kids.

Give Thanks for Falling Gas Prices National average is at $1.86 a gallon.

Feds Report More Signs of Recession Government statistics show bad tidings in October.

Seven Reasons Not to Trade In Your Gas Guzzler Trading in a larger vehicle just to save money on gas is generally a losing proposition.

ID Thieves Target Home Equity Lines With identity theft on the rise, scammers are targeting homeowners with substantial equity in their homes.

More Evidence Consumers Plan to Reduce Holiday Spending Survey finds more shoppers tightening belts and staying home.

Mortgage Rates Plunge as Fed Buys Up Loans Fed buys billions in securitized home loans, driving rates down.

Bayer Pays $97 Million to Settle Kickback Charges Government accused company of paying suppliers to use their products.

Some Money Market Funds Now Insured For a short period of time, the U.S. government is granting insurance coverage to some money market funds.

November 25, 2008

FDA Finds Melamine in U.S. Infant Formula Agency insists amounts were "minute" and do not pose an immediate danger.

Warning Signs that You Need Help with Debt These 15 signals let you know you're drowning in debt and it's time to call in a financial fitness expert.

Builders Try to Spruce Up Buyers' Credit Some home builders are implementing credit-coaching programs to jump-start housing sales, says the Real Estate Adviser.

Fed Throws $800 Billion Lifeline to Consumers Government will purchase more mortgages, offer backing for loans.

Home Prices Post Record Decline Reduction in third quarter is largest on record.

Consumer Confidence Rebounds in November Low gas prices spur optimism.

Tips for Saving on Black Friday Experts recommend tips for getting the most bang for your buck on the busiest shopping day of the year.

IIHS Picks Safest Vehicles for 2009 Ford, Volvo, Honda lead winners' circle.

Store Credit Card a Good Deal? At a department store checkout, you're often asked if you want a store credit card. Is it worth the instant discount?

Banks Increase Direct Marketing Spending Budget cuts, bad economy haven't stopped flood of advertising mail.

Texas Sues Online Retailers Companies hoodwinked customers into expensive new deals.

Love Triumphs in Celebration Studios Case Brides get happy ending as wedding photos are released.

Colorado Tackles Mortgage Fraud Schemes Marketers barred from selling risky loans.

Recalls ...

November 24, 2008

Job Security Lacking This Holiday Season Increased debt loads have many Americans feeling pressure.

Retailers' "Desperation" to Mark Black Friday Shoppers can find good deals with a little investigation.

Cheap Oil May Be Economic Stimulus Ebb and flow of markets may provide relief people seek.

California Consumers to Get $3 Refunds from Wal-Mart State finds price-scanning errors result in overcharges at checkout.

Existing Home Sales Drop in October Realtors say housing stimulus is needed to stabilize market.

Thieves Steal Tools from Kansas Animal Shelter Bandits rob supplies to build new housing for pets.

Holiday Visit Can Be a Wake-Up Call It's challenging to keep tabs on elders who live alone and far away.

Mississippi Still Dealing with Katrina Repair Fraud Three years later, victims still being taken advantage of.

Massachusetts Challenges Auto Insurance Rate Structure Attorney General accuses company of discriminating against customers.

Recalls ...

November 23, 2008

Invest Now or Give Up Gains Forever If you fail to invest in a retirement account this year, the opportunity will be gone forever.

An Upside to the Down Market: A Lower Tax Bill Investors use tax loss harvesting to their advantage.

When in Doubt, Leave Nothing Out Disclose all issues when selling your home.

November 22, 2008

States Want Stronger Used Car Rule Buyers should be told if vehicles have been wrecked or flooded.

Stock Swoon Creates a Chance to 'Buy Low' The stock market's recent struggles may make now the perfect time to "buy low" and reap rewards later.

Weekly Interest Rate Roundup Here are the latest interest rates and commentary on five common consumer banking products.

Agencies Unlikely to Swap Car Loans Because car loans typically are not assumable, agencies are unlikely to offer a driver a swap.

November 21, 2008

Humane Society Accuses Petland of Supporting Puppy Mills Retail pet store denies claims, insists it treats animals well.

How Would GM Bankruptcy Affect You? What would a General Motors bankruptcy mean for car owners? Here are some possible answers.

Gas Prices Fall Below $2 a Gallon National average has dropped $1.10 from last year.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Suspend Foreclosures Mortgage giants will give homeowners a break for holiday season.

Medicare Fraud Risk Grows for Some Shady sales agents put seniors at increased risk of falling victim to Medicare fraud.

Industry Troubles Cloud LA Car Show Attendees burdened by failing economy, weak sales.

Gift Card Spending Drops Sales to fall six percent from last year, retailers say.

Holiday Shoppers Continue to Look Online Bargain hunting, convenience keep buyers surfing the Web.

ADHD Meds Seen as Safe for Kids New research refutes fears that medicines cause genetic damage.

Scientists on Trail of Fountain of Youth Chemical could improve cell life, slow aging, and defeat disease.

November 20, 2008

Carmakers Get Neither Love Nor Money From Congress Dems reject pleas for bailout funds, want specific spending plans.

Americans Tap Savings to Cope with Economy Experts advise other measures before depleting nest eggs.

Bankruptcy "Reform" Fails to Deliver Tough new laws don't prevent rich or poor from filing.

Researchers Suggest Fast Food Ad Ban to Attack Obesity Study suggests removing TV ads would cut down on bad messaging.

Marijuana Might Reduce Memory Impairment Researchers investigate THC as potential Alzheimer's treatment.

Hannah Montana Overtakes Bratz on Girls' Holiday List Boys still prefer video games as No.1 gift.

How Old Are You Really? Research may help determine better ways to use aging treatments.

Recalls today ...

November 19, 2008

Consumer Prices Plunge in October One-month decline is largest on record in sixty years.

U.S. Faces Shortage of Primary Care Physicians Doctors frustrated with paperwork, lack of time to see patients.

eHarmony Agrees to Launch Same-Sex Dating Site Online dating site promises to treat all match-seekers fairly.

Target Misses Price Target, Backs Out of Sale Britax car seats mispriced on Target site, store refuses to complete sales.

Oil and Gas Supplies Rise Stockpiling continues to push prices downward.

Nestle Recalls Lean Cuisine Meals Chicken dinners recalled due to plastic pieces.

Budget Holiday Shopping Without Being a "Scrooge" Tips for gift-buying without breaking the bank.

Illinois Sues Seven Companies for Mortgage Rescue Fraud Attorney General warns against scams targeting homeowners in trouble.

Bankrupt Tweeter Persuaded to Honor Gift Certificates State Attorneys General strong-arm retailer to make good on its deals.

Recalls today ...

November 18, 2008

Humane Society Warns Against Buying Puppies from Pet Stores Puppy mills mistreat animals and farm them out to retailers.

Poor Reception for XM-Sirius Shuffle Some listeners lose track of their favorite channels; stock tanks.

Another Glimmer of Hope in The Housing Market Home sales rise five percent in the Sunshine State.

Paulson Rejects Bailout Money for Detroit Treasury head says automakers should get help from other sources.

Democrats May Shelve Mandatory Arbitration New Congress, White House may clamp down on contract clauses.

Unhappy People Watch More TV Excessive tube viewing may indicate deeper problems.

Asthma May Be Overdiagnosed Canadian patients may be getting treatments they don't need.

Aspirin May Lower PSA Levels in Men But anti-inflammatory drugs may mask evidence of prostate cancer.

How Often Will You Use That Treadmill? Overly idealistic expectations lead to bad results.

Recalls today ...

November 17, 2008

Buyers' Beware Market Get to know yourself as a homebuyer before committing to any deal.

Economists' Panel Sees Prolonged Recession Roundtable predicts unemployment will rise to 7.5 percent

Keeping Your Health Insurance When You're Unemployed Recession also means many people will lack coverage.

As College Tuition Skyrockets, So Does Presidents' Pay Competition for prestigious faculty turns costly.

Poll Finds Lingering Confusion Around Digital TV Transition Many households will lose service after switchover without information.

Iowa Hangs Up on Charity Telemarketers Attorney General cuts off solicitors for abusive practices.

Adult Smoking Rates Show Slight Drop But more people need to quit for real progress to be made.

Consumers Warned of Extortion Scam by FDA Impersonators Fraudsters con victims into wiring money for nonexistent prescription drugs.

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