Consumer News (cont'd)

2005 News Page 1 | 2

September 30, 2009

Penske Scraps Plan to Buy Saturn; Brand Likely to Die End of the line for GM's would-be import killer.

NUTRO Pulls Some Puppy Food from Shelves Workers hard hat was sucked into machinery, company rep says.

Toyota Recalls Floor Mats in Camry, Avalon, Prius, Tacoma, Tundra Models Mats can slip forward and cause runaway acceleration.

Bank Fees Hit Record Highs in 2009 Study finds average costs of ATMs, checking accounts nationwide.

Video - Preparing For Swine Flu Consumers use prevention while awaiting vaccine.

Express Scripts Extortion Scheme Widens Company claims hacker wants money for personal information.

New York Gets Tough With Debt Collectors Firms accused of impersonating attorneys, making illegal threats.

Avoid Brokers Pushing 'Fishy' Stocks Investors getting $4 million restitution in NJ Case.

Kentucky Files Vioxx Suit Action is similar to those settled last year.

Recalls...

September 29, 2009

Home Prices Unexpectedly Rise Homes now worth what they were in 2003, survey finds.

Neocate Recalls Infant Formula Error caused particular batch to have low protein content.

Fed Proposes New Credit Card Rules Would bring new regulations into line with tougher new law.

Plaintiffs File Amended Complaint Against Bank Of America Suit claims stockholders suffered because of deception.

Consumer Reports Poll: Consumers Learned Big Recession Lessons Americans scale back spending, shun credit cards, beef up savings.

Consumer Confidence Dips In September Current conditions cause for concern.

3 Approaches to Bankruptcy after Job Loss Try one of these options when your income drops and you're in jeopardy of losing everything.

Consumers Have Little Trust That Food They Buy is Safe and Healthy Outbreaks and recalls contribute to eroding confidence.

Is IRA Taxed for Elder Care? You can minimize taxes paid on an IRA if you use the money to pay for a nursing home.

Recession-Spooked Shoppers Will Spend Less on Halloween Focus on home-made costumes, cheaper items and events.

September 28, 2009

Is Mobile Banking Safe? Banking by cell phone is gaining popularity. Here's what you need to know to be secure.

MMS Goes Live on iPhones as Apple Faces Another Lawsuit Phones finally outfitted with advanced text capabilities.

Consumers Union Opposes USDA Proposal On Salad Safety Group urges Congress to pass FDA food safety program.

What Does Money Mean To You? Our money stories are complicated, like Rorschach tests, says psychiatrist and author David Krueger.

Recession Creating New Drain On Social Security More 62-year olds opting for benefits than expected.

FDA Approves New Drug To Treat Psoriasis Risk of infection accompanies use.

Survey: U.S. Drivers Say Texting While Driving Should be Banned Voice technology seen as safer.

Cemetery Operator Sentenced For Stealing Funeral Funds Defendant accused of "stealing from the dead."

September 27, 2009

Regulators Seize Atlanta's Second-Largest Bank Georgian Bank's failure will cost FDIC fund nearly $1 billion.

Needles Necessary To Stem Seasonal Flu Flu vaccine injections superior to mist delivery.

Children's Tylenol Products Recalled Manufacturing problems could cause contamination.

140 Conference: They Came, They Saw, They Tweeted Much talk, many tweets about the microblogging phenom.

September 25, 2009

Lawmakers Propose Faster Adoption Of New Credit Card Rules Consumers hit with rate hikes, account changes, over summer.

Mortgage Rates Down for 4th Week Rates declined again, and first-time buyers are taking advantage of the low rates and tax credit.

Americans' Attitudes Shifting on Economy, Health Care Surveys find both increased optimism and concern.

True.com Settles Billing Class Action Suit alleged site fraudulently re-enrolled users after cancellation.

DirecTV Takes Disputed Fees Out of Customer Accounts, Suit Charges Suit seeks to stop further collections until matter is litigated.

Gas Prices Continue To Tick Lower Consumer demand remains slack.

Florida Sues Acai Berry Product Distributor Company also faces suit in Illinois.

Food Industry Seeks To Maintain Junk-Food Marketing In Schools Bill seeks thorough study of school-based marketing.

Drinking At Young Age Increases Risk For Alcoholism Nature versus nurture at issue.

September 24, 2009

Fed Sees Recovering Economy Policymakers not concerned about inflation -- yet.

Five Ways To Pinch Pennies Every little bit helps.

House Approves Freeze on Medicare Premiums Premiums set to rise nearly $10 without congressional action.

Existing Home Sales Drop In August Home prices also continue to fall.

Obesity Causes Over 124,000 New Cancers A Year In Europe Obesity seen growing as cause of cancer.

New Vaccine First To Show Effectiveness In Preventing HIV Vaccine produces big drop in infection.

Six Smart Credit Card Moves The credit card world is changing fast. Here are six ways to make the most of the new law.

Safety Alert Issued For Lifeline Pendant Personal Help Buttons 'Lifeline' could be deathline.

Delaware To Reward Electric Car Drivers New state law provides incentives to go electric.

September 23, 2009

Bank of America, Chase Rush to Cut Fees as Congress Gets Restless Consumer anger forcing Congress to get tough on high bank fees, charges.

FDA Bans Candy- and Fruit-Flavored Cigarettes Step is first under new tobacco law.

Nissan Settles GT-R Class Action Suit alleged defects in supercar led to transmission failure.

Is Your Bank Safe? Find out if your money is safe by checking out your bank's rating.

How the Rich Save Today The recession has changed how the wealthy save. What can average investors learn from the rich?

Recalls...

September 22, 2009

FDIC Launches Foreclosure Prevention Initiative 'Tool kit' contains tips on avoiding rescue scams.

New Scam Targets Veterans Callers falsely claim VA has changed procedures.

California Sues Bernie Madoff Associate Investment broker allegedly steered millions to Ponzi scheme.

Financial Meltdown: 401k Plans If you suffered stomach-churning dips in your 401(k), follow these strategies going forward.

Do I Buy or Lease a Car? Here's a guide to help you decide whether it is better to lease a car, or buy a new one.

How Do I Close a Credit Card Account? Here are the steps to take to close your credit card account without damaging your credit.

Cut Your Tax Bill Unlike deductions, tax credits cut into your actual tax bill, often providing mega-savings.

Home Health Aide Shortage Looms, Experts Warn Job more dangerous than mining coal.

Dish Network Dealers Settle With FTC Over 'Do Not Call' Charges Separate court orders bar future 'do not call' violations.

Money Management Problems Could Be Alzheimer's Warning Caregivers need to consider overseeing financial monitoring, researchers say.

Heart Attack Rates Drop After Smoking Bans Declines continue over time.

September 21, 2009

Bull's Eye On Bank Overdraft Charges Charges produce billions in bank profits.

One Family's Story: Shedding $100,000 In Debt Doesn't Happen Overnight Wisconsin family finds there's no easy way out of debt.

Time Running Out On First-Time Homebuyers' Credit Make sure you plan to live in the house three years.

FCC Chairman Proposes New Net Neutrality Rules Additional principles would guarantee equal access, transparency.

Author Files Class Action Lawsuit Against Scribd Alleges online book database engages in copyright infringement.

Feds Charge Two In ATM Ponzi Scheme Investors ponied up $80 million for allegedly bogus company.

Lung Cancer For Non-Smokers Requires Different Treatment Sixth largest cancer killer.

Recalls...

September 20, 2009

Dannon Settles Activia Yogurt Suit Ads overstated yogurt's effect on digestive health.

Facebook Turns Off Beacon System assailed by privacy advocates is casualty of class action.

Effectiveness Of Activity-Promoting Video Games Measured Non-'couch potato' games shown to have some health benefits.

Six-In-Ten Workers Live Paycheck To Paycheck, Survey Finds Expert offers tips for making ends meet in tough times.

Seasonal Hiring Could Stay Slow As Retailers Remain Cautious Retail conditions remain 'iffy' as economy staggers.

September 18, 2009

Gas Prices Keep Edging Lower Motorists continue to benefit from lower demand.

Quorn Foods Sued For Not Disclosing Potential Allergic Reactions Vat-grown mold tastes like chicken but allegedly makes some violently ill.

Feds And States Get Tough On Scams Officials crack down on mortgage related fraud.

FDA Warns Against Use Of Stolen Inhalation Meds Consumers cautioned about Albuterol and Ipratropium solutions.

FTC Continues Crackdown On Mortgage Relief Scams Scammers suggested government connections.

Technology Could Be Key To Stopping Unauthorized Charges Visa pilot project could be first step.

6 Ways to Dodge Appliance Disaster Routine maintenance can prevent an "appliance SOS" and save you lots of money in the long run.

Financial Meltdown: Rates Then and Now A year after the financial meltdown, rates -- and consumer behavior -- have changed significantly.

September 17, 2009

Report Finds Toxins Common in Products for Children, Pets Car seats, backpacks, pet toys contaminated with lead, PVC, arsenic, other toxins.

Why Reforming Health Care Is So Hard Everyone agrees things need to change, but no one likes the changes.

California Probes Credit Rating Agencies Did agencies give stellar ratings to junk assets for profit?

Boomers Putting Off Retirement Plans Recession takes toll on savings and investments.

Ford Gets $5.9 Billion To Build Fuel-Efficient Cars Loan expected to help Ford meet mileage standards.

Mortgage Rates Edge Lower After the Fed announced it has a slightly optimistic outlook for recovery, mortgage rates dipped.

Rates Are Low, But Loans Are Hard To Find Lenders get tough on terms even as rates fall.

Underwater: Keep Paying Mortgage? It's not a waste of money to make mortgage payments on a home that is sinking in value.

Preparing For Flu Season H1N1 raises new risks.

Recalls...

September 16, 2009

End Of Life Isn't a Disease, It's a Fact of Life 'Death panel' dust-up draws attention to the need for more reasoned discussion.

DOT, EPA Propose National Program To Improve Fuel Economy Interagency program to address climate change and energy security.

9 Cash-Saving Tips That Pay Big Bucks Cutting expenses can pay big dividends if you invest the savings and let them compound.

Levaquin Manufacturer Hit With Three More Suits Claims allege permanent tendon damage.

Falling Gas Demand Keeps Consumer Prices In Check Despite economic progress, consumer demand remains weak.

Massachusetts Cracks Down On Medical Discount Plans Consumers often believe they are buying health insurance.

Are Charge Cards Bad For Credit Scores? The impact of a charge card, like an American Express card, depends on the monthly balance.

Behind Again After Mortgage Modification? There are few options for someone in bankruptcy and who's already modified the mortgage once.

Florida Sues To Stop Travel Scam Victims told club membership provided free travel.

Daily Bathroom Showers May Deliver Face Full of 'Yuk' Those with immune deficiencies at greatest risk.

September 15, 2009

Acid Test: Prepaid Debit Card vs. Big Bank Debit card can offer lower cost, prevent steep overdraft fees.

Dell To Pay New York $4 Million In Fraud Charges Settlement Court finds Dell used "bait and switch" advertising tricks.

FDA Approves Vaccines For Swine Flu Tool will aid in fighting pandemic.

Study: Common Pain Cream Could Protect Heart During Attack Researchers compare treatment to acupuncture effect.

Family Health Premiums Up 5% In 2009 as Inflation Fell Nearly 1% Over 10 years, premiums jumped more than worker wages and general inflation.

5 Savings Strategies Before Rates Rise Today's low interest rates won't last forever. Prepare now to benefit later when rates rise.

Figuring Retirement Needs in a Shaky Economy Take these steps to see if your nest egg can furnish your needs in best- and worst-case scenarios.

September 14, 2009

Senate Studies Cell Phone Cancer Risks New international report lists '15 reasons for concern'

Consumers Likely To Take Hit In Tire Trade War Tire prices could rise as much as 30 percent, experts say.

Health Care Debate Misses Point, Expert Says Ideological struggle running process aground.

'Millionaire University' Sued For Allegedly Scamming Students Victims claim 'professors' conned them into risky real estate investments.

10 Ways Women Can Build Credit Too much credit or not enough -- both can hurt your credit score. Here's how to get it just right.

Craigslist Scammer Using Fake Wisconsin Department Of Revenue Checks At least one "purchaser" used checks to pay for items sold through Craigslist.

New North Carolina Law Tries To Slow Foreclosures Law gives homeowners more time to work out new terms.

Airline Passenger Traffic Down In June Decline continued for 15th consecutive month.

September 13, 2009

California Consumer Group Wants Its Billboard Back Bright yellow billboard warned consumers 'You can't trust Mercury Insurance'.

Chicago's Corus Bank Fails as Condo Loans Sour Two smaller banks also seized over the weekend.

Google Books Settlement Facing Scrutiny Concerns center on possible monopoly, invasion of privacy.

September 11, 2009

Survey: Americans Want Consumer Agency For Financial Products And Services Strong support for better disclosures, prohibitions on abusive practices.

GM Offers Money-Back Guarantee Carmaker hopes to restore lost consumer confidence.

Gas Prices Down A Penny In Last Week But weaker dollar could keep them from falling much farther.

Video: Swine Flu Vaccine Running Behind Schedule Health officials worry virus could take nasty turn.

5 Ways to Save on Auto Insurance Here's what to consider before you pay for protection now or risk the cost of a crash later.

As Homes Languish, Seller Stress Soars Here are some tips for coping with home-seller's anxiety.

California Mortgage Brokers Arrested For Theft Brokers allegedly changed terms after customers signed documents.

Harsh Economy Can't Shake Love For Online Retailers STORES magazine ranks favorite 50 online retailers in annual list.

September 10, 2009

National Auto Loan Averages Here are the average auto loan rates from Bankrate's weekly survey of large banks and thrifts.

National Credit Card Rate Averages Here are the average credit card rates from Bankrate's weekly survey of large banks.

Credit Card Issuers Focus On Wealthy Direct marketing strategy turns to more premium card offers.

August Foreclosures Up 18 Percent Over 2008 Most activity still centered in a few states.

Apple Slashes Prices On Older iPod Models CEO Steve Jobs makes surprise appearance to introduce new models.

Safe Kids USA To Offer Car Seat Inspections National Seat Check set for September 12.

September 9, 2009

Bank of America Accused of Stonewalling Investigation Executives giving investigators the runaround.

Taxpayers Unlikely To Recover Full Auto Industry Investment Panel recommends placing Chrysler, GM shares in independent trust.

Small Businesses Would Benefit From Health Reform, Study Finds High costs called impediment to insuring employees.

Firms To Pay Civil Penalties In Drawstring Cases Violations involved children's outerwear.

California Nursing Home Administrator Faces Abuse Charges Patients allegedly drugged for staff's convenience.

Is It Time To Buy Yet? Mortgage activity surges on falling rates.

California Kaiser Permanente Lawsuit Dismissed Plaintiff failed to pursue other options before suing, judge said.

Care-Tech To Halt Sale Of Unapproved Germ Fighters Company violated numerous regs.

Recalls...

Victims of Government: Asthma Patients' Lives Shattered by 'Green' Inhalers Previously healthy asthma sufferers wind up disabled -- and worse.

Consumer Credit Plunges In July Credit drops five times more than forecast.

Refinancing New Mortgages Can Be Costly Refinancing mortgages less than 1 year old can be an expensive proposition.

Will New Rules Delay Home Loan Closings? Improved disclosure rules could provide relief from high fees, but may slow down closings.

4 Questions Before Filing Chapter 13 When the American dream turns scary, Chapter 13 may not save a home in foreclosure.

Study Probes Link Between Antidepressants, Birth Defects Like previous studies, leaves more questions than answers.

New Food Registry Enables Quick Reporting of Dangerous Products Facilities must report problems within 24 hours.

Texas Has Highest Rate Of Uninsured Increased burden on state for providing care.

7 Signs It's A Scam Clueless scammer targers Ohio Attorney General.

Credit Card Woes Depress Consumer Sentiments Consumer Reports Index finds some interest in home, car shopping.

More Consumers Turning To Food Stamps People with jobs tapping into food assistance.

Congress Urged To Enact Consumer Privacy Guarantees Concerns raised about behavioral tracking.

September 7, 2009

Painful Notice: Credit Card Payment Hiking Here's what to do if your credit card increases its minimum payment and you can't afford to pay.

The New GM Reaches Out To Consumers The new General Motors wants to hear from you. Here are three ways to talk back.

What's New in Hybrids and Electric Cars Redesigned hybrid-electric vehicles spark a fresh look at alternatives to gas-fueled transportation.

10 Ways To Save On Your Next New Car It's a great time to buy a new vehicle, and these tips will help you get the best price.

Should Investors Over Age 50 Own Stocks? The stock market is a scary place, but experts say most investors should have some exposure.

Oklahoma Sues Car Warranty Telemarketer Latest state to take action.

Florida Sues Systemax Over Rebate Policies Tigerdirect consumers claim almost impossible to receive rebates.

September 6, 2009

Chicago Protesters Rail on KFC Charge chain's actions disproportionately affect African-Americans.

Survey Shows Economic And Personal Costs Of Prolonged Joblessness People stressed out by economic uncertainty.

Taylor Bean-Linked Platinum Bank Fails Five banks seized over the weekend.

Yet More Taylor Bean Irregularities Taylor, Bean & Whitaker mixed customers' escrow money with operating funds, then didn't honor checks.

Has Chrysler Bankruptcy Hurt Used Cars? As Chrysler left bankruptcy, it rejected used car liabilility. Now see how it has changed its tune.

September 4, 2009

Labor Day Weekend Gas Prices Dip Fuel prices show remarkable stability over the summer.

New Jersey Firm Pays $7.2 Million In Ponzi Scheme Investors' money wasn't invested.

Should You Get Genetic Testing? Results can be reassuring--or upsetting.

Consumer Sentiment Flat At Summer's End Consumers remain cautious on the economy.

Identity Theft Experts Offer Advice For Job-Searching Online searches open door to vulnerability.

HSBC Agrees To Better Serve Disabled Consumers Reportedly required blind customer to file written report.

Large Thighs May Protect Against Heart Disease And Early Death Investors' money wasn't invested.

Walkman Strides Past iPod Sony Walkman wins over Japanese consumers.

September 3, 2009

Mortgage Rates Lowest Since May Sitting on the fence? Rates may not go lower, despite the Fed's best efforts.

Gasoline Demand Rises, But Will Prices? Supplies are greater now than at start of summer.

Wal-Mart Employees Going Checkless Latest in trend toward pre-paid debit cards.

Lawsuit Accuses Denny's of Sodium Overload Illinois man claims health consequences from too many omelets.

Southwest To Sell Early Boarding For $10 But the rest still have to scramble for seats.

Car Buyers Are Thinking American But not all brands are equal.

Daylight Saving Time Leads To Less Sleep, More Injuries On The Job Mining injuries more frequent, severe after lost hour.

Exercise Minimizes Weight Regain, Study Says Reducing appetite, burning fat keys to keeping weight off.

Recalls...

Pfizer Pays Record $2.3 Billion Settlement Over Illegal Marketing Charges Company accused of misleading customers on Bextra branding.

Free Checking Isn't Always Free 25 percent of bank customers pay all the fees.

California Fires Bring Out The Scammers Again Some so-called relief agencies are anything but.

Consumer Watchdog Urges Investigation Into Health Care Lobbying In California Some so-called relief agencies are anything but.

CD Rate May Fall After Bank Fails After a bank fails, the FDIC does not guarantee the future rate of CDs held by investors.

10 Best-Selling Cars of 2009 Car sales slumped in 2009 but the Ford F-150 pickup repeated as best-selling for the year.

J.D. Power: Customer Satisfaction With Credit Cards Falls Fees and rates drive decline.

CSPI Slams Domino's New Pasta As Unhealthy 'Food Porn' But pizza chain challenges assumptions about its offerings.

September 1, 2009

Cash4Gold Sues Consumerist.com Over Investigation Gold buyer already engaged in lawsuit with former employees.

Oxycodone Doesn't Play Well With Other Drugs Public Citizen says painkiller may have dangerous interaction side effects.

Store Brands Score Higher Than Big Names In Taste Tests Consumer Reports says store brands can save money without compromising taste.

A Tightwad's 10 Tips to Trim Car Costs Here are 10 good ways to save big bucks on car expenses.

SUVs a Dying Breed? Don't Be Too Sure Will SUVs soon be extinct? Auto experts argue the behemoths will be around for some time to come.

4 Factors to Weigh Before Going All Cash Consider these four elements of living a life on cash before weaning yourself entirely from debt.

Survey Finds Most Mattress Buyers Pleased With Their Purchase Tempur-Pedic, Original Mattress Factory, Select Comfort rank highest in Consumers Reports study.

Massachusetts Court Throws Out Ticket Resale Suit State anti-scalping law dates to 1924.

For Computer Shoppers, Small Is Beautiful But consumers should do homework before buying a netbook.

New iPhone App Locates Swine Flu, Infectious Diseases App lets individuals track, report local outbreak information.

Recalls...

August 31, 2009

Foreclosure: Losing the American Dream Homeowners get the run-around when they seek mortgage modifications.

Nothing Simple about Food Dating, Expiration Dates or 'Use-By' Dates Most product dates relate to quality rather than safety.

"Dollars For Dishwashers" Encourages Buying Energy-Efficient Appliances Program expected to benefit every U.S. state and territory.

Will Apple End Exclusive iPhone Deal With AT&T? Dismisses exploding French iPhones as caused by "external forces".

Low Credit Utilization Can Drive Up Your Credit Score Harder to keep credit use low in new environment.

MEGA Life & Health Pays $17 Million In Consumer Relief Massachusetts says firm used deceptive marketing.

August 30, 2009

Three More Banks Go Under Total could climb to 1,000, expert warns.

Some Robocalls Set to Become Illegal Amended FTC regulations take effect Sept. 1.

Energy Drink Ingredients Continue Down Unhealthy Path Good health hard to find in new rash of energy drinks.

August 28, 2009

More Than 400 Banks on Endangered List as FDIC Fund Shrinks Number of 'problem' banks is at a 15-year high.

Survey: "Heaviest Job Cuts Are Behind Us" Market looking for clues on direction of economy.

Federal Court Tosses Out FCC Rule On Cable Caps Ruling enables Comcast and competitors to expand.

New York Class Action Alleges Subaru Odometers Inflate Mileage Judge allows lawsuit to proceed.

Consumers Are Spending--And Worrying--More Signals are difficult to predict for economy.

New Jersey Expands Travel Service Lawsuit Companies allegedly provided no services.

Heart Experts Recommend Reduced Intake Of Added Sugars High intake of added sugars implicated in numerous poor health conditions.

New Hybrid Models Enter Marketplace Manufacturers continue to develop new hybrids. Here's a look at recent and near-future models.

How Hybrids Work Here's an animated explanation of how hybrid cars save fuel and protect the environment.

Gas Prices Hover In $2.60 Range Market looking for clues on direction of economy.

Mortgage Rates Inch Upward As home buying has picked up, experts are debating what's driving it -- and how long it will last.

August 27, 2009

Both Consumers and Lenders Caught In Taylor Bean Collapse Florida agency sets up consumer helpline.

Toys 'R' Us Launches Unsafe Baby Products Awareness Program 'Great Trade-In' event encourages parents to exchange used cribs, other products.

FCC Launches Probe Of Wireless Industry Commission votes unanimously to investigate billing, "innovation."

Good Letter Can Silence Debt Collector Sending the right letter should silence calls from debt collectors, but won't erase a debt owed.

Do Not Call List Doesn't Stop All Telemarketing Calls But list will screen the most annoying calls.

Supplement Marketers To Pay Nearly $70 Million In Consumer Refunds Products made range of unsupported claims.

"Operation Tele-PHONEY" Shuts Down Deceptive Telemarketing Schemes Court orders bar all illegal telemarketing activities.

Recalls...

Cash For Clunkers Wraps Up With Nearly 700,000 Car Sales Transportation secretary declares program "wildly successful."

FDA Warns Stolen Insulin Vials Could Still Be On The Loose Nearly 129,000 vials of Levemir still unaccounted for.

FCC Chair Vows To Enforce Net Neutrality Comcast challenges agency's stance in court.

RAV4 Takes On Costa Rica's Mountain Roads Mountain trip demonstrates impressive results.

Oregon Sues Electronic Cigarette Maker First in the nation to ban new tobacco substitute.

This "Webmaster" Is A Hacker Scam seeks access to victims' email accounts.

'Green' Auto Loans Offer Lower Rates 'Green' auto loan programs promise lower rates for buyers of hybrids and fuel-efficient cars.

The Fiats Are Coming, the Fiats Are Coming Some Fiat models may be U.S.-bound now that the Italian automaker has taken control of Chrysler.

375 mpg, 65 mph on Electric Motorcycle? Imagine: New York to Pittsburgh on $2.63 of fuel. Some new electric motorcycles claim they get it.

In Bankruptcy? Pay Mortgage to Keep Your Home If you can't make payments, here's how you might avoid foreclosure and restore your credit sooner.

Recalls...

Scam Targets Would-Be Class Action Winners Official-looking letter solicits payment, delivers little in return.

Lawsuit Accuses Wells Fargo of Illegally Lowering Credit Line Complaint is a common one among homeowners.

FDA Conducting Safety Review Of Weight Loss Drug Review includes both prescription drug Xenical and OTC drug Alli.

Cash for Clunkers Gets Yet Another Extension Dealers have until 8 p.m. EDT to file paperwork.

Kids' Menus Fall Behind The Times Offerings are still considered too unhealthy.

Employers Using Social Networking Sites To Research Job Candidates Career expert provides dos and don'ts for job seekers on social networking.

Why Weight Watchers Succeeds Meetings provide a blend of spirituality and therapy; Not everyone agrees.

FICO: Scores Not Dropping A new study finds that widespread credit limit cuts haven't driven most scores down.

7 Ways To Stretch Your Retirement Income You don't have to defy the laws of physics to stretch your money so it will last. Just plan wisely.

Recalls...

August 24, 2009

Taylor, Bean &Whitaker Files Chapter 11 Major FHA lender may liquidate assets.

Cash for Clunkers Gets One-Day Extension Dealers have until noon Tuesday to file paperwork.

How To Survive The New Credit Card Rules Even good customers will feel the impact.

CashCall To Pay California $1 Million Over "Loan Shark" Debt Tactics Fast money lender accused of abusive, illegal collection practices.

U-Haul Pays $2 Million To Settle California Charges State claims company ignored hazardous materials laws for years.

What You Need To Know About Weight Loss Surgery Five tips for those considering an operation.

Florida Sues Foreclosure "Rescuer" Targeting Hispanics for Fraud Part of nationwide crackdown on abusive practices.

Life Expectancy At All-Time High Death rates reach new low.

Check Credit Reports Before Refinancing There are refinancing programs to fix your mortgage. But you'll still need a clean credit report.

Great Time for First-Time Homebuyers Mortgage deals and incentives give first-timers their best opportunity to buy in recent history.

August 23, 2009

Feds Seize Guaranty Bank of Texas, 10th-Largest Failure In U.S. History Spanish bank takes over Texas lender; regulators facing shortage of buyers.

'Clunkers' Over? Trade-In May Be As Good With clunkers crushed in the government rebate program, dealers find fewer used cars to sell.

10 Best Vehicles for Fall Tailgating Fall means football and tailgate parties. You can score big with one of these at the next game.

Citi Adds Annual Credit Card Fee Citi will impose annual fees on some accounts unless users opt out or charge a certain amount.

8 Major Benefits of New Credit Card Law Here are the highlights of the Credit CARD Act of 2009 that benefit cardholders, some of which take effect this week.

August 21, 2009

Consumer Groups Warn of Dealer Double-Dipping In Cash For Clunkers Dealers should not be getting paid twice.

Gas Prices Down Two Cents In Last Week Demand is up but inventories remain high.

Home Sales Up, Prices Down Buyers drawn to the market by distressed sales and foreclosures.

Seven Steps To Saving Money Putting money away is easier if you'll follow these rules.

Feds Exonerate ExpressJet In Minnesota Tarmac Delay "Complete lack of common sense" responsible for incident.

Court Halts Job Placement Scam 'Guaranteed' jobs never materialized.

Class Action Proceeds Against Debt-Relief Scam Follows ringleaders' indictments and guilty pleas.

August 20, 2009

Cash for Clunkers Ends Monday Night, Feds Decree Sales up but dealers frustrated by delays in payment, complex paperwork.

Oprah Sues Acai Berry Promoters Joins Illinois Attorney General in warning consumers about scam.

Smart Fortwo Gets Top Marks In Roof Strength Tests Chevy Aveo ranks lowest according to IIHS scoring.

Telltale Signs You're Dealing With A Scammer When a salesman uses a "fake voice," he just might be a scammer.

Judge Upholds Dismissal of Relacore Suit Plaintiffs allege fraudulent, misleading statements by manufacturer.

Texas Seeks Restitution From Bankrupt Debt Settlement Firm 2,500 consumers left hanging by bankruptcy.

Mortgage Rates Tumble With mortgage rates low, first-time buyers should act quickly to beat the tax credit deadline.

Interest Rate Roundup See rates from Bankrate's survey of CDs, mortgages, home equity products, auto loans and credit cards.

Recalls...

August 19, 2009

Litton Loan Complaints Continue Following Settlement Distressed homeowners target Goldman Sachs subsidiary.

Budget Cuts Forcing Consumer Agencies To Do More With Less The new reality for consumer advocates.

States Increase Pressure On Foreclosure Consultants Lawsuits pile up against nationwide firms.

Qwest To Exit Wireless Business In October Customers have two months to switch to Verizon Wireless.

Should You Convert Your IRA To A Roth IRA? Tax law change opens conversion to upper income taxpayers.

IRS Alerts Public To New Identity Theft Scams Scam e-mails look authentic.

Does Rental Application Hurt Credit Score? There's no way to avoid it. A landlord can check your credit, and your score will feel it.

12 Steps for Victims of Identity Fraud If you're a victim of ID theft, follow this 12-step program to reclaim your identity and restore your good name.

Recalls...

Is a New Engine a Good Option For Your Clunker? New parts may save you more money than a trade-in.

Mortgage Loan Delinquency Rates Rise But pace is slowing.

New York Sues Debt Collector For Threats, Harassment Attorney General alleges threats of sexual violence against consumers.

Attorneys General Back New Consumer Agency State officials see financial abuses up close.

Customer Satisfaction For Cars, Computers On The Rise Strong showings for Big Three, Apple.

New Survey Rates Job Search Methods Job fairs, newspaper help wanted ads rank as least effective.

No More Loans with Tricks & Traps Consumer advocate Elizabeth Warren explains how stronger rules will protect mortgage consumers.

How Far Can You Go On a Tank of Gas? Find out how far you can drive your car on a single tank and the cost per mile with our interactive tool.

Recalls...

August 17, 2009

Tougher Safety Requirements For Children's Products Now In Effect Lead limits, product tracking among areas affected by new regulations.

Bank of America Dumps Arbitration Bank of America has dropped mandatory arbitration on its credit card accounts.

Alleged Hackers Indicted For Theft Of 130 Million Credit, Debit Cards Hannaford, Heartland breaches may be largest of all time.

Beware Health Clinics Pushing Credit Cards Some consumers signed up without their knowledge.

10 Cheapest Cars To Own And Operate It's not just the cost of a car that counts: Remember insurance, fuel, repairs and depreciation.

New York To Sue Schwab Over Auction Rate Securities Broker vigorously denies allegations.

"Black Screen Of Death" Afflicts Many Flat Screen TVs Set power supplies appear prone to fail.

11 Ways To Avoid Hurricane Costs You can't control hurricanes, but you can minimize losses and save on insurance premiums.

Smokeless Tobacco Loaded With Hazardous Chemicals No smoke doesn't mean no fire.

6 Financial Experts And Their Worst Goofs Even the pros trip over their money sometimes. Find out their mistakes and how you can avoid them.

Recalls...

August 16, 2009

Feds Seize Colonial Bank, 6th-Largest Failure In U.S. History BB&T buys Colonial deposits, branches; four other banks fail.

What Happens When a Bank Fails? In the wake of bank failures, you may be concerned about your bank. Here's what you need to know.

New and Redesigned Cars, Trucks for 2010 The auto industry introduces at least 46 all new or dramatically revamped models for 2010.

Florida Business Opportunity Scammer Sentenced 200 investors taken for more than $4 million.

August 14, 2009

New Credit Card Law Not A Cure-All Consumers advised not to let down their guard.

Rise In Gas Prices Slows Have pump prices peaked, or just paused?

Class Action Alleges iPhone Still Incapable of Sending Advanced Texts Apple kicks MMS can down the road.

Attorneys General Can Be Powerful Consumer Ally Many consumers forget they have elected officials to help them.

Building A Medical Family Tree Hereditary health history can help pinpoint and avoid problems.

5 Tips for Snagging Best 'Clunker' Deal The government may be offering a huge rebate, but you'll still need to negotiate. Here's what to do.

AmEx, Discover End Overlimit Fee Ahead of credit card regulations, two companies will drop penalty fees for exceeding credit limits.

National Credit Card Rate Averages Here are the average credit card rates from Bankrate's weekly survey of large banks and thrifts.

August 13, 2009

Foreclosures Continue To Mount Record foreclosures in three out of last five months.

New York Sues Loan Modification Company Cuomo charges firm with deceptive business practices.

Survey Suggests Improvement In Jobs Outlook More managers expect to hire in the months ahead.

Pass The Salt--But Not Too Much Research shows salt usage starting to change its course.

"Macho Men" Often Ignore Preventative Health Care Masculinity beliefs, income, status often keep men from seeking treatment.

May Airline Traffic Down from Year-Ago Level Variety of problems responsible.

Mortgage Rates Climb for Third Week The 30-year fixed-rate loan edged up again according to Bankrate's weekly national survey.

See Home Values in Your State 2009 housing prices plunged nationwide, according to the National Association of Realtors.

7 Best Off-to-College Cars Searching for a car for that college-bound student? Here are seven great picks.

Recalls...

August 12, 2009

Microsoft Blocked From Selling Word Patent dispute halts sale of popular software.

Do You Really Need A Bank? Consumers who want to fire their bank have alternatives.

California Puts Foreclosure Consultants On Notice Attorney general threatens to prosecute 386 unregistered consultants.

New Index Finds Consumers Stressed Out, Worried Growing financial woes take toll on retail purchasing.

CEO Departures Surge In July Stress, burnout, economy contribute to resignations.

Plastic Surgery Group Pleads Guilty In Unlicensed "Botox" Case Physicians, administrator and supervisory nurse admit misdemeanor violations.

Colorado, Florida Stop Deceptive Mortgage Mailings Marketing pitch designed to look like it was from federal agency.

Kentucky Couple Facing Investment Scam Charges Scheme allegedly bilked consumers out of more than $500,000.

Mediterranean Diet Linked With Lower Risk Of Alzheimer's Disease Physical activity also tied to lower risk.

August 11, 2009

Find the Best 2010 Car For You Hybrid, SUV, sedan: Which car best fits your lifestyle? Use this interactive slideshow to find your dream car.

4 Ways to Slash College Textbook Costs Look past the campus bookstore. Shop online, rent, buy used books or download books for a small fee.

AT&T Edits Contract to Preclude Class Actions Move likely to be questioned in court.

Chevrolet Volt Expects 230 MPG In City Driving Plugging in daily is key to high-mileage performance.

Small Business Owners Depressed Over Economy Declining expectations weigh on business owners.

Mystery, Science Fiction Writers Expose Publishing Scams Anti-scam program adds muscle.

Experts: Swine Exhibits At Fairs Are Safe H3N2 influenza unlikely to spread between humans.

Three Airlines Fined For Violations Of Consumer Rules Code-sharing, advertising violations cited.

Southwest Ups Bid To Purchase Frontier Airlines Bankrupt carrier faces auction.

Oil Prices Pose A Catch-22 For Economy Cheap oil helps economy but growth raises oil prices.

Recalls...

August 10, 2009

Flea & Tick Products Often Backfire Pet owners horrified by adverse reactions; EPA counsels caution.

Petland Puppy Mill Suit Dismissed Action alleged dogs raised in squalid conditions.

GM's Newest California Showroom: eBay 225 GM dealers will sell new cars online in a three-week trial.

New York Cites Dealers For "Clunkers" Deception Dealers allegedly stretch the truth to cash in.

47 Passengers Spend Night On Grounded Jet Fliers trapped because security screeners had gone home.

Public Citizen Proposes Basic Patient Safety Reforms Group says changes would save 85,000 lives and $35 billion a year.

Optimism Appears To Lower Women's Risk Of Heart Disease Positive outlook good for overall health.

More Consumers Aim To Eliminate Debt To many, less debt equals more security.

Stocks Still Outperform, Researchers Claim Despite volatility, stocks gain value over time.

Banks Relying More On Fees From Consumers Focus on fees could add to bailout backlash.

Consumer Credit Continues To Shrink Banks close off the money flow as losses rise.

August 9, 2009

COBRA Tax Law Changes In order to qualify for the COBRA subsidy, an employee must have been laid off or fired.

ConsumerAffairs.com Announces Isertive® Instant Response New service helps companies head off consumer satisfaction problems.

August 8, 2009

Automakers Offer Big Discounts on Cars You can find huge incentives on new cars, even without "cash for clunkers." Here's what's available..

Finding a Car's Depreciated Value If you want to calculate the right price of a car, there's an easy way to do it.

Phase 1 of the CARD Act Consumers will have more time to pay and more notice before interest rate hikes.

August 7, 2009

Mortgage Lender's Collapse Leaves Borrowers Adrift Taylor Bean Whitaker stops writing loans after feds raid its offices.

Unemployment Rate Declines In July Economists hope June represents jobless rate's peak.

Gas Prices Are Climbing Again Traders bid up oil prices as dollar weakens.

Phony Debt Collectors Calling Consumers Nationwide Scamsters loaded with personal info.

NHTSA: "Cash For Clunkers" Going Great Guns Taxpayers paying big bucks for traded gas guzzlers.

Prepaid Calling Card Distributor Sued For Deceiving Consumers Consumers got fewer calling minutes, were charged hidden fees.

Texas Charges Travel Club Used Illegal Sale Tactics Travel deals not such a bargain.

Bank of America, Wells Fargo Hit With Class Action Accuses companies of defrauding subprime consumers.

Bank Sees Dim Future For Homeowners Number of "underwater" homeowners could nearlfile:///home/jhood/caweb/news04/2009/news.incy double by 2011.

August 5, 2009

People To People Leaders Allegedly Drank Beer While Student Was Dying Allegations made by family of deceased student Tyler Hill.

GM, Chrysler Personal Injury Victims Left Stranded Bankruptcies exempt automakers from liability.

"Cash For Clunkers" Information Sought By Public Citizen Federal documents could reveal program's impact.

Bumpers On 4 Of 6 Midsize Sedans Improve None earns good rating in low-speed tests.

New Regulation Targets Oil Market Manipulation Industry says new rule won't help consumers.

SEC Charges Traders With Naked Short Selling Aggressive shorting blamed for huge market losses.

'Lying listings' Fool More Homebuyers Untruthful listings are on the rise as the recession drags on and homesellers become desperate.

Mortgage Rates Rise Modestly The 30-year fixed-rate loan was 5.65 percent, according to Bankrate's Aug. 5 survey.

Interest Rate Roundup Bankrate's latest survey of CDs, mortgages, home equity products, auto loans and credit cards.

Recalls ...

August 5, 2009

Job Cuts Rise Following 15-Month Low Increase is first since January.

Employment Prospects Brighten For Jobless Americans Job seekers willing to make adjustments to secure new positions.

CDC Makes Recommendations For Use Of Swine Flu Vaccine Five key populations targeted for vaccine against novel influenza A (H1N1).

Mortgage Modification Program Off To Slow Start Consumers suspect incompetence is planned.

High Cholesterol In Midlife Raises Risk Of Late-Life Dementia Study shows even moderately elevated cholesterol level boosts dementia risk.

Increasing Foreclosures Swallow Modest Gains In Mortgage Repairs Rate in rise of delinquencies outpaces rescues.

"Flash" Trading May Be Outlawed Move would attempt to level the playing field.

New Jersey Reaches Settlement With Samsung Over Service Probe followed consumer complaints.

Great Deals Ahead on "Orphan" Car Models New car dealers soon will be offering great deals and prices on models being ended.

Can Credit Card Closed by Issuer Hurt FICO Score? When a credit card account is closed, your FICO score doesn't care who closed it.

How Secret Score Cards Affect Credit Score cards influence consumers' credit scores, even though you have no control over them.

August 4, 2009

Consumer Bankruptcy Filings At Highest Level In Nearly Four Years Highest monthly total since 2005 bankruptcy law overhaul.

Economy Produces More Positive Signs Pending home sales, consumer spending, both rise in June.

Health Plan Battle: HMOs Beat PPOs Median annual out-of-pocket premium costs up $500 since 2006.

States Step Up Pressure On Internet Payday Lenders Online lenders called "today's loan sharks".

J.D. Power: Home Buyers and Sellers Want More From Real Estate Companies Buyers like Keller Williams, sellers prefer Coldwell Banker.

Antidepressant Use Increasing In The United States Increase seen in nearly all socio-demographic groups.

Oregon Halts Sale Of Electronic Cigarettes First in the nation to ban new tobacco substitute.

Walgreens Settles Suit Over Cold Medication “Airborne” imitator didn't live up to hype.

10 Top Cars for Older Drivers Facing many challenges, older drivers should consider these 10 models with special design features.

August 3, 2009

Cash For Clunkers Success A Positive Economic Sign Consumers willing to buy cars when it's a deal.

SEC Fines Bank Of America $33 Million Over Bonuses New York probe remains active, however.

Amica Mutual, USAA And Chubb Top Consumer Reports' Homeowners Insurance Ratings Survey finds 53 percent of consumers who switched companies got better rates.

The Fiats Are Coming, the Fiats Are Coming Some Fiat models may be U.S.-bound now that the Italian automaker has taken control of Chrysler.

VantageScore Gains in Lawsuit Judge dismisses many FICO complaints in suit against credit reporting agencies.

Feds Bar Teva Animal Health From Selling Veterinary Drugs Agreement comes after inspections reveal "significant" violations.

Ohio Sues Mortgage Servicer Over Lack Of Modifications Company cited for foot-dragging, incompetence.

Economy Has Big Impact On Back-to-School, College Plans Total combined spending for students to reach $47.50 billion.

Massachusetts Man Sentenced For Nationwide Internet Prescription Drug Scheme Drugs were sold for body-building.

Pennsylvania Targets Deception In Green Marketing Consumers need to investigate claims closely.

August 2, 2009

Airline Safety in a Bad Economy Cost-saving and safety always don't go together.

Three Class Actions Filed Against Leading Arbitrator Claims follow National Arbitration Forum's settlement with Minnesota.

U.S. Marshals Seize Clarcon Skin Sanitizer, Protectant Products Products contain harmful bacteria, FDA charges.

Amazon Faces Kindle Class Action Student lost notes attached to deleted "1984".

August 1, 2009

Illinois Sues Wells Fargo Over Subprime Loans Claims lender discriminated against African-American and Hispanic borrowers.

House Introduces "Internet Freedom Preservation Act" Bill would amend Communications Act to protect net neutrality.

California Wins $1.2 Million Ruling Against Scam Artists Attorney General busts Georgia brothers for shaking down local businesses.

July 31, 2009

"Cash For Clunkers" Gets $2 Billion To Keep Rolling House gets last-minute cash infusion to trade-in program.

White House: "Cash For Clunkers" Still Running More funds being sought for wildly popular program.

Consumer Complaints Up, But Resources To Help Are Down Debt collection is fastest growing complaint in latest consumer agency survey.

Economy Shrinks One Percent In Second Quarter But rate of decline slows considerably.

Feds Announce New Food Safety Strategies Steps outlined for leafy greens, tomatoes, melons and ground beef.

House Introduces "Internet Freedom Preservation Act" Bill would amend Communications Act to protect net neutrality.

National Auto Loan Averages Here are the average auto loan rates from Bankrate's weekly survey of large banks and thrifts.

Americans Spent $34 Billion On Alternative Medicine Consumers turning to non-conventional treatments.

NY Attorney General Catalogs Bailed-Out Bank Bonuses Cuomo finds "no rhyme or reason" to payouts.

Gas Prices Edge Back Up Again AAA sees relative price stability ahead.

Recalls ...

July 30, 2009

"Cash For Clunkers" Suspended Program ran out of funding after four days.

House Passes Food Safety Bill Measure to improve FDA wins on second try.

Lawsuit Seeks Warning Labels for Hot Dogs Dangers of processed meat cited in class-action suit.

Fed Suggests Recession Nearing An End Recovery may be "sluggish and uneven."

Mortgage Rates Up a Tick The 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage rose to 5.56 percent, according to Bankrate’s weekly survey.

J.D. Power Ranks Prepaid Wireless Carriers NET10 takes top spot first year in competition.

Domestic Air Fares Drop In First Quarter Highest fare in Huntsville, lowest at Long Beach.

Younger Generations Ignored By Insurance Industry Mintel Comperemedia reveals gap in health, life insurance direct marketing to Gen X and Gen Y.

Dirty Water Produces More Summer Beach Closings Closing days top 20,000 for fourth consecutive year.

Mortgage Rate Trend Index Bankrate.com surveys experts to gauge which way interest rates are headed on mortgages.

Sunbelt Cities See Rise In Foreclosures But some previous foreclosure hotspots see declines.

Telemarketer Shut Down For Violating "Do Not Call" Rule Court imposes five-year ban on telemarketing to consumers.

Recalls ...

July 29, 2009

Consumers Using Credit Cards To Stay Afloat, Survey Finds Safety net has become a trap.

New Jersey Sues Merrill Lynch, Claims Deception Company hid firm's financial problems, state says.

Obesity Costs U.S. About $147 Billion Annually Weight-related health costs soar.

Microsoft, Yahoo Reach Deal On Search Partnership Two firms hope to cut into Google's dominance.

Denny's Hit With Lawsuit Over Alleged Unsafe Sodium Levels Suit claims chain's meals promote heart disease, stroke, risk of early death.

New Insight into Cell Phone Use and Driving Distraction Study separates fact from myth.

Treasury Presses Lenders For More Mortgage Modifications Administration also comes in for criticism.

FDA Warns Against Bodybuilding Products Containing Steroids Several products affected by FDA's advisory.

Baxter Healthcare Pays Illinois $6.8 Million In Medicaid Settlement Suit claimed state paid inflated prices.

6 Steps to 'Cash for Clunkers' The new program targeting gas guzzlers can give you up to $4,500 for your car. Here's how.

Top 10 Investing Blunders There are dozens of ways you can get it wrong, but avoid these 10 mistakes and you should be fine.

Recalls ...

July 28, 2009

Fees For Unauthorized Overdraft Loans Keep Going Up Consumers need better protections to safeguard bank accounts.

Single-Family Home Prices Rise In May Home values at mid-2003 levels.

Consumer Confidence Index Retreats Again Consumer gloom deepens on job prospects.

Sprint To Purchase Virgin Mobile $483 million deal built on potential for prepaid phones.

New York Targets Toy Gun Manufacturers Retailers warned about selling realistic toys.

J.D. Power: New-Vehicle Retail Sales Show Market Deterioration Slowing "Cash for Clunkers" program has had minimal impact to date.

Video: Thieves Cash In On ATM Users Crooks are using ATMs to steal financial information. Find out how to protect yourself.

How to Keep the House Post-Bankruptcy If the property isn't in foreclosure, contact your lender to see if a loan modification is possible.

National Consumers League Warns Of Recession-Fueled Fraud New statistics underscore call for increased federal fraud fighting.

Recalls ...

July 27, 2009

Transportation Secretary Kicks Off "Cash For Clunkers" Program Encourages consumers to buy more fuel efficient cars and trucks.

AGs Worry About "Cash For Clunkers" Scams Scammers already taking advantage of popular government program.

Banks Tightening Consumer Credit Tightening credit seen as way to reduce risk.

New Home Sales Surge In June Number of new homes on the market drops sharply.

TJX Pays $9.75 Million To Settle Data Breach Scheme believed to be the largest identity theft case ever prosecuted.

American Raises Baggage Fee $5 Applies mostly to discount fares.

Fed To Begin A Statistical Study Of Household Finances Number of new homes on the market drops sharply.

Job Relocation Rate Hits Three-Year High Desperate job seekers take more risks.

Don't Kill Your Life Insurance Policy Certain factors can invalidate a life insurance policy. Protect your heirs by taking these steps.

American Teens Go Missing on People to People Trips Parents outraged at mishaps; company disclaims responsibility.

FDA Authorizes Emergency Use Of Another Test For Swine Flu Virus Test for use on patients with breathing problems.

July 24, 2009

Rising Cost of Health Insurance at Center of Debate Congress delays action til after August recess.

Economy May Be Recovering, But Are Consumers? Wall Street recovery doesn't trickle down to Main Street.

Gas Prices Appear To Level Off However, gas supplies are still growing.

Want Out of a Car Lease? Try Trading When the economy is putting on a big hurt, let someone assume your lease to save money.

Private Label Products Not Just For Penny Pinchers Slow economy spurs growth of upscale private label goods.

Video: Freeze Out High Cooling Bills Burned by high utility bills this summer? Find out how to keep your cool and your cash.

Feds: Scammers Falsely "Guaranteed" Government Grants Court halts operators' deceptive pitches for grant writing book and services.

July 23, 2009

Mortgage Rates Down for 4th Week The 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage dropped to 5.55 percent, according to Bankrate’s weekly survey.

Existing Home Sales Continue To Rise Tougher appraisal standards result in lost sales.

Cash-for-Clunkers: Be A Smart Consumer Navigating the program can be tricky.

Bank Of America Doles Out Countrywide Settlement Homeowners in 40 states eligible.

Experts Warn About Electronic Cigarettes e-cigarettes could increase nicotine addiction.

Some Blood Pressure Drugs May Help Protect Against Dementia ACE inhibitors could hold the key.

Fed Wants To Keep Consumer Protection Duties Chairman stakes out turf in Congressional appearance.

Recalls ...

July 22, 2009

Chase Continues To Tighten Consumer Credit Former WAMU customers finding their accounts are closed.

Tablet Splitting: A Risky Practice Consumers could run into a variety of problems.

Fixed-Rate Credit Cards Going Away? Issuers have been converting fixed-rate cards to variable rates. Why is this happening?

Fed Eyes New Credit Card Rules Some consumer "unfriendly" credit card practices may soon be changed by the Federal Reserve.

New Insights Gained Into Causes Of Anorexia New technology examines whys and wherefores of eating disorder.

Florida Sues Four Foreclosure Rescuers States' crackdown on mortgage fraud continues.

West Virginia Sues Ohio Collection Agency Company specializes in calling consumers at work.

Emerson College To Reimburse Students Over Loan Advice Probe found college failed to provide affordable loans.

Texas Curbs Acai Berry Supplement Maker Firm accused of abusing negative option marketing.

Sunscreen Gets A Makeover Latest products offer chic, natural UV protection.

Recalls ...

July 21, 2009

Phonegate: Feds Withheld Data on Cell Phone Dangers Government has known since 2003 of dangers hands-free cell phones present to drivers.

Bernanke Outlines "Exit Plan" For Bailouts Sees little inflationary threat.

Study Claims Health Insurance Market Fails Consumers Many shun coverage because of costs.

Inspector General Wants Better TARP Accounting Raps Treasury Dept. for ignoring proposals.

Haier America To Pay More Than $500,000 Civil Penalty Company recalled 150,000 fans due to fire hazard.

VW Said To Be On Verge Of Buying Porsche One-time suitor becomes target.

Crash Tests Of 2-Door Cars: Volvo & Ford Coupes Earn Top Safety Pick All 5 cars tested are rated "Good" or "Acceptable" in demanding side test.

Credit Card Advance Can Haunt Your Future Card payments apply to lower-rate balances first and then to cash advances that take a higher rate.

Fixed-Rate Home Equity Loan Can Cut Risk With interest rates likely to rise, locking into a fixed-rate loan may make sense right now.

Deloitte Survey: Back To Basics For Back-To-School Consumers show a glimmer of hope, but economy still a concern.

Recalls ...

National Arbitration Forum Backs Off Consumer Arbitrations Legal challenge in Minnesota proves to be the last straw.

Feds Seize Kentucky Livestock Feed Kept In "Filthy Conditions" Inspections found rodent infestation, feces, urine.

New York Investors Get $456 Million In TD Ameritrade Settlement Action initiated against Schwab.

FDA Approves Vaccine For 2009-2010 Seasonal Influenza Vaccine will not protect agains swine flu.

Dodd Frustrated Over Slow Foreclosure Progress Despite legislation, homeowners are still losing their homes.

Recession's Effects Seen Lessening But few signs of immediate recovery.

Uninsured Account for Nearly One-Fifth of Emergency Room Visits Information from emergency department database reveals pattern.

CDC: Blacks Have the Highest Rates of Obesity South and Midwest showed greatest obesity prevalence.

Physician-Owned Hospitals Under New Scrutiny Lawmakers concerned about public safety.

Recalls ...

FDIC Closes Four More Banks Georgia, California remain hardest hit states.

Fraud Is Fraud, Even on the Internet Online hucksters shudder as New York prosecutes 'astroturfing'.

Judge OKs Price-Fixing Suit Against Babies "R" Us Class action charges company squashed cost-cutting by competitors.

July 17, 2009

Gas Prices Fall As Stockpiles Rise Prices fall as economic recovery hopes fade.

Verizon Wireless Revamps "Exclusive" Handset Deals Will offer smaller carriers more high-profile handsets.

Study Suggests Earlier Alzheimer's Treatment Some treatment should begin in middle age, researchers say.

Eddie Bauer Finds Buyer New buyer will honor gift cards.

GM Emerges With New Ideas, Old Favorites The company will build on Camaro's success with a new electric car and a Pontiac-turned-Chevy sedan.

Handling Credit Card Payment Hikes Here's what to do if your monthly credit card bill skyrockets with a higher minimum and you can't afford to pay.

Wrong-Headed Regulators Officials with the Treasury and the Fed say they're doing a hunky-dory job, despite the evidence.

Recalls ...

States Take Aim At “Free Gas” Promotions Pitches had too many strings attached.

People to People Parent Company Faces Securities Class Action Complaint alleges overly optimistic outlook.

Dangerous Chinese Drywall Shows Up In Mississippi Likely used during Katrina repairs.

Survey Shows Hispanics Handling Recession Well Less economic trauma found than among other ethnic groups.

Little Sign of Inflation on the Horizon Consumer, gas prices stay steady or decline.

States Reach Settlement With Drug Companies Firms slow to release negative news about Vytoran.

DISH Network Settles Customer Sales, Deceptive Service Charges Attorneys General from multiple states enforce consumer complaints.

Recalls ...

July 15, 2009

Foreclosures Still Rising Along With Unemployment White House considering more drastic steps.

Chicago Cemetery Accused of Desecrating Bodies Class actions claim bodies were moved, stacked and even destroyed.

California Sues Dozens Of Mortgage Rescue Scammers 21 individuals, 14 companies targeted by Attorney General's office.

Class Action Lawsuit Against DirecTV Can Proceed Customers sue over unpermitted "termination fees."

HHS Purchases Additional Swine Flu Vaccine Ingredients Preparations mount for fall flu season.

A Tarnished Gilded Age A glut of luxury homes on the market is the latest sign of troubled times for the privileged.

FDA Moves on Drug Counterfeiting Agency issues new guidance on color-coding against fraud.

Scammers Posing As FTC Officials Target Texans Claim they are assisting sweepstakes company in locating "winners."

Surplus Goods Business Opportunity Scammers Settle With FTC Project Biz Op Flop targets work-at-home schemes.

7 Ways to Save on a Car Rental Car rental costs have gone up, but you can save by following these tips.

Recalls ...

July 14, 2009

Hole Forms in Southwest Jet During Flight Incident follows FAA inspection flap.

Financial Illiteracy Puts Consumers At Banks' Mercy, Group Says Banks count on customers triggering overdraft charges.

Experts Worry About Return Of Swine Flu Virus similar to deadly 1918 flu.

After Diversion, Some Airlines Less Accommodating Than Others Consumer group analyzed DOT data.

New York Settles Astroturfing Charges With Plastic Surgeon Employees posted bogus reviews online.

First Regulation In The Nation Bans Additives In Honey In Florida, pure means pure.

FDA Hits Three Dietary Supplement Makers Companies failed to declare allergens in products and correct filthy conditions.

Survey Shows Steady Decline in Drunk Driving High drug abuse levels detected.

New FHA Reverse Mortgage a Boon to Seniors Seniors can buy a home with a reverse mortgage, keep their existing home and save big bucks.

Tax Breaks for Home Energy Upgrades A new law lets you claim a tax credit of up to $1,500 for some home energy efficiency improvements.

Recalls ...

July 13, 2009

New Safety Agency Chief Pledges Greater Openness But industry lobbyists lie in wait for Inez Tenenbaum.

Class Action Filed Against Intel Over "Inflated" Battery Estimates Says Intel profited off simple test.

Credit Card Rate Reduction Scammers Banned From Telemarketing Canadian firm ordered to pay $7.8 million fine.

CFA Applauds Plan to Strengthen Key Investor Protections Reform of brokerage practices advances.

Pre-Paid Card May Be Useful Anti-Fraud Weapon A few fees may turn out to be a bargain.

Reduced Diet Slows Aging Monkey study suggests humans should eat less.

Alzheimer's Cases Rise Among "Oldest Old" Without cure, crises loom, say experts.

CIT On the Ropes Small-business lender faces bankruptcy.

Can't Make Your Car Payment? It's best to talk with your lender if you want to keep your vehicle and preserve your credit.

Going Bankrupt Again? What's the Problem? Don't be part of the problem. Be part of the solution and find out why you can't manage your debt.

July 10, 2009

GM Emerges From Bankruptcy 'New GM' is $50 billion in debt to taxpayers.

Ford Gaining on GM Ford retooled before the recession and spurned bailout money. Now it's creeping up on its U.S. rival.

Gas Price Trend Spells Relief For Motorists Oil traders fail to push prices higher.

Can't Make Your Car Payment? It's best to talk with your lender if you want to keep your vehicle and preserve your credit.

Synthetic "Plugs" May Be Viable Replacement For Knee Cartilage Treatment may offer alternative to surgery.

Dell Flubs Online Prices Online Taiwanese prices drastically below retail values.

Consumers Trust Online "Word Of Mouth" Most Making customers happy can pay big promotional dividends.

4 Alternatives to Payday Lending Payday loans often create more problems than they solve. Here are four alternatives for quick cash.

Equifax Subsidiary Agrees to Settle FTC Charges Failed to fulfill Fair Credit Reporting Act requirements.

Texas Sues "Credit Repair" Firm Promises made and broken, state says.

James Limbach Joins ConsumerAffairs.com AP veteran will head up consumer site's Washington coverage.

Recalls ...

July 9, 2009

More Charges Filed, Pit Bulls Rescued In Dogfighting Busts Feds charge seven with promoting illegal activities.

Feds See Oil Prices Leveling Off There's plenty of oil and gasoline on hand.

Don't Put Your Hopes, Or Money, In A Loan Modification Modifications are hard to come by.

FDA Approves Lung Cancer Drug Offers new approach to treatment.

Mortgage Rates Plummet The 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage dropped to 5.59 percent, according to Bankrate’s weekly survey.

New Appraisal Code Causes Chaos Home sales and refinances are taking longer and are more expensive as a result of the new rules.

New York Sues Tagged.Com Over Spam Complaint accuses social network of bulk emails to unwilling recipients.

Recalls ...

July 8, 2009

Zicam Users File Class Action Lawsuits Recalled cold remedy doesn't pass sniff test.

Feds Rescue 150 Pit Bulls in Dogfighting Raids Five Missouri men charged in multi-state investigation.

New Credit Rules Bring Unintended Consequences Credit card companies adapting, but so are consumers.

Not a Scam, Clunker Site Insists Feds advise consumers to rely only on official government site for clunker voucher information.

Mortgage Fraud Cases Rise Dramatically Replaces identity theft as most common white-collar crime.

Be Wary of Overdraft Protection Plans Many banks now offer "free" overdraft protection plans against bouncing checks. But are they really free?

Know the Hidden Costs of Debt Settlement Settling a debt for less than the full amount will scar your credit report.

FDA Tries To Improve Egg Safety New regulations aim to reduce Salmonella outbreaks.

TicketsNow Promises Illinois It Will Curb Deceptive Tactics Unholy alliance between Ticketmaster, TicketsNow riles consumers, regulators.

Internet Radio Reaches Deal On Royalties Agreement means big changes for some listeners.

Guilty Plea in Dietary Supplements Marketing Scam Internet businesses generated nearly $12 million with false claims.

Recalls ...

July 6, 2009

Feds Eye Limits On Energy Speculators Hearings set for this summer.

Tainted Dry Milk Recall Continues To Grow Ingredient showing up in growing number of products.

Homebuilders Stack Deck Against Buyers With Arbitration New report shines light on unscrupulous practices.

FDA Orders Stronger Warning Labels on Darvon, Darvocet Data finds links to fatal overdoses; agency orders new safety study.

Consumers Fall Further Behind On Loans Banks blame rising unemployment.

Medical Malpractice Payments Hit Record Lows Injured patients receiving less compensation, report claims.

Watch Out for ATM Rip-Offs ATM’s are a convenient way for you to get your cash, but they're also a convenient way for crooks to get your cash.

Check Floating Can Sink You Writing a check before the money is in your account has become much more financially dangerous.

Recalls ...

July 6, 2009

Judge Greenlights GM Bankruptcy Plan Dismisses objections from states, investors.

Power Sentry Surge Suppressors Blamed for House Fires, Equipment Damage No recalls despite numerous complaints about Power Sentry.

Consumers Fret about Credit Cards, Excess Poundage, 'Free' Money Appliances, furnishings also make the Top Ten list in June.

Researchers Find Caffeine Effective Alzheimer's Treatment Morning cup of java may prove beneficial.

Products Recalled Due to Suspected Tampering Knife blade found in energy drink.

PayPal Automated Customer Service Doesn't Serve Like talking to a machine.

Debt Collectors Settle With FTC Harrassed consumers in all 50 states.

Canadian Frequent Flyer Program Faces Class Action Change in policy led to lost miles.

EMS Workers Often Barred From Doing Their Jobs Local laws, insurance rules get in the way.

July 5, 2009

Ex-Clear Customers Mount Class Action Lawsuit Sudden demise of airport security program raises privacy concerns.

15 Ways to Protect Your Money on Vacation Don't let a thief ruin your vacation. Follow these tips to keep your money secure.

Mortgage Rates Drop Again The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage fell to 5.7 percent, according to Bankrate's weekly survey.

Dirt-Cheap Loans on New Homes Homebuilders are offering discounted interest rates to lure buyers back into the market.

Electric Cars Get a Boost The government has paid billions to Ford and Nissan, but tiny Tesla stands to benefit the most.

National Credit Card Rate Averages Here are the average credit card rates from Bankrate's weekly survey.

July 2, 2009

Congress Fumes Over Credit Card Rate Hikes Lawmakers feeling heat over lenders' actions.

FCC Finally Begins To Tackle Big Agenda National broadband plan, DTV transition cleanup first on list.

Keeping Your Pet Safe For July 4th Humane Society offers tips on animal safety.

5 Scams Spread Like a Virus Thieves operate even in a downturn; here are a few tips to avoid fraud when you need money the most.

U.S. Swimming In Gasoline Supplies Market surprised by falling gasoline demand.

Job Cuts Fall to 15-Month Low in June Unemployment may be leveling off.

Man Sentenced In Payday Loan Swindle Investors inticed with big returns that didn't materialize.

Buying a Home for Your Parents When shopping for mom and dad, weigh these options to decide if it's a second home or a rental.

Recalls ...

July 1, 2009

Banks Prepare for Assault on Obama's Proposed Financial Protection Agency Bankers usually have their way with Congress but this year may be different.

FDA Panel Recommends Limits On Acetaminophen Active ingredient in Tylenol and prescription pain killers.

2009 Credit Card Study Results Bankrate surveyed 20 cards from the top issuers to see whose cards are the best deal.

2009 Credit Card Study: The Fine Print What's in the fine print? See which credit card issuer has the best -- and worst -- practices.

Mortgage Applications Plunge Drop coincides with sharp rise in rates.

Ohio Launches Foreclosure Rescue Crackdown Three firms charged with ripping off homeowners.

FTC Says Calling Card Distributor Shortchanged Consumers Tests showed cards had fewer minutes than advertised.

Fireworks-Related Injuries Decline CPSC urges Independence Day safety.

Experts Offer Healthy Grilling Tips Don't let health go up in flames.

Recalls ...

June 30, 2009

Credit Cards Giving Consumers Heartburn Consumers at banks' mercy until new law takes effect.

FDA Confirms E. coli in Nestle Cookie Dough Outbreak sickens 69 consumers in 29 states.

Midas Faces Bait-and-Switch Charges in California Suit names 22 muffler shops probed by undercover investigators

Home Prices Fall, But News Is Less Bad For Homeowners Housing market could be nearing bottom.

In The Digital Age, Some Viewers Miss Analog TV Anger turns to resignation and sadness.

Sprint Text Messaging Tax Suit Dropped Alleged improper taxes for users of network cards.

Honda Insight Disappoints in Road Test Insight's fuel economy is one of its few highs.

CDC Launches Obesity Website LEANWorks! aimed at obesity at work.

Don't Give Out Credit Information In a Job Hunt Financial data is easy target for scammers.

Massachusetts Puts Charity Telemarketers On Hold Consumers not told fundraisers were pros.

Recalls ...

Latest Chase Controversy Part of a Pattern Chase has a knack for infuriating its customers.

Salmonella Scare Prompts Dairy Recall Impact potentially far-reaching.

GM Vows To Honor Lemon Law Commitments Answers critics worried about consumers' rights.

Banks Must Obey State Fair Housing Laws, Court Rules Scalia joins liberals in overturning "bizarre" rule.

FTC Urged To Require Mileage Ratings In All Car Ads Consumer groups say consumers need more information.

Study Links One In 25 Deaths To Alcohol U.S. trails Europe in alcohol-related death.

Oil Prices Remain Weak Falling demand pushing prices down again.

Final Fantasy Suit Alleges Hidden Fees, Penalties Gamer sues Square Enix on behalf of online players.

Recalls ...

June 28, 2009

Five More Banks Fail Nine Georgia banks have failed in 2009.

JBS Swift Expands Beef Recall 380,000 pounds of beef may be contaminated with E. coli.

June 27, 2009

How to Solve 5 Common Money Problems Experts offer advice for Americans dealing with unemployment, overspending, debt, foreclosure or wrecked retirement savings.

Buying a New Car with Cash for Clunkers Dump your gas guzzler, get that new-car smell, save money and help the environment, all at once.

Save on Electricity with Off-Peak Rates This month's Frugal Sense winner saves on electric costs by taking advantage of off-peak rates.

June 26, 2009

Gas Prices Fall For Fifth Straight Day Nationwide average four cents lower than last week.

Marketing Analysis Suggests Housing Bottom Direct mailing onslaught for products trails off.

Consumer Spending, Saving, Both Rise Future trend may indicate higher savings.

New Car Sales Show Improvement From May Uptick may indicate slow, steady market recovery.

Is Cash for Clunkers Right for You? Before taking up Obama on Cash for Clunkers, decide if selling your car would bring more money.

Feds Seize Alleged Seizure-Inducing Drugs FDA acts to prevent repeated drug quality problems.

Chinese Purchase of Hummer in Doubt Chinese government opposes deal; no other buyers in sight.

Snapple Lawsuit To Be Reinstated Alleges drink's claims of "all-natural" are deceptive.

June 25, 2009

Chase Raises Minimum Payments On Credit Cards Consumers with low rate, high balance, caught in trap.

Mortgage Rates Edge Up Slightly The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage moved to 5.80 percent, according to Bankrate's weekly survey.

Obama Nominates Bush Official to Fill FCC Seat Appointee oversaw controversial DTV coupon program.

Cut Your Own Interest Rates No help from the Fed? Follow these tips to make your money go further.

Economic Trends Looking Better For Consumers Oil prices may have peaked, for now.

Most Consumers Lack Confidence In Food Safety, Survey Says Skepticism grows in wake of recalls.

FTC Chief Urges End To "Pay For Delay" Settlements cost consumers $3.5 billion annually.

FDA Approves Generic 'Plan B' Pill Still prescription-only under 17.

Recalls ...

June 24, 2009

Obama Signs 'Cash for Clunkers' Bill Dealers, automakers see measure as 'cash on the hood'.

States Challenge GM Sale Claim deal harms consumers, dealers.

Feds Offer DTV Reception Advice Some tweaking may be necessary.

Some Payday Lenders Operate Outside U.S. Law Firms affiliate with Indian tribes.

Wireless Carriers Agree To $1.5 Million Cramming Settlement Some Florida subscribers to get refunds.

Payday Lenders Resist APR Comparisons How much are you really paying for that loan?

Light Menu Items Struggle Against Heavyweight Choices Mouth says healthy but stomach says otherwise.

70 Percent Of Spam Comes From China Domains are dirt cheap in China.

June 23, 2009

Mayo Researchers Report Cancer Breakthrough Inoperable tumors almost disappear in three patients.

Nestle Closing Cookie Dough Plant At Center of Recall Consumers urged not to eat raw cookie dough.

Watch Out For Fake "Cash For Clunkers" Scams Hucksters prey on those trading in cars for vouchers.

"Clear" Registered Travel Program Goes Dark Company abruptly shuts off service for frequent flyers.

New York Shuts Down Debt Collection Ring Buffalo-based collectors allegedly used illegal tactics.

TJ Maxx Settles Data Breach Charges Company will pay $9.75 million to 41 states.

Online "Treasure Hunt" Can Be Costly Not affiliated with Google.

What Can the Fed Do About Mortgage Rates? Will the Fed continue to target long-term interest rates at this week's meeting?

Peer-To-Peer Sites Offer College Loans Four peer-to-peer lending sites offer loans for students and parents seeking college funding.

Good Times, Bad Times for First-Time Buyers Buying a home was made very easy for first-timers several years ago. With prices at such low levels, are those loan packages still out there?

Finding A Financial Planner Finding the right financial planner for you takes a little detective work and interviews with several advisers.

8 Ways To Find and Keep a Temporary Job In tough times, the path to a permanent job might be through temping. These tips can make it happen.

Recalls ...

June 22, 2009

People to People Settles Wrongful Death Lawsuit 16-year-old died in Tokyo after allegedly being refused medical attention.

Health-Related Bankruptcies Up 50 Percent Older consumers particularly hard-hit.

FDA Warns Consumers Against California Pistachio Brands Products linked to the previous recall by Setton Pistachio; May contain salmonella.

Oil Prices Continue Their Retreat Bearish signs for oil market are bullish for consumers.

Apple Sells One Millionth iPhone 3GS Sales pace equals last year's 3G.

States Wants AIG Bonus Probe States want expanded federal investigation.

Patients Not Being Notified of Abnormal Test Results Left in the dark?

Unwelcome "Cell" Text Violated Federal Communications Laws Verdict a blow to texting telemarketers.

Massachusetts Halts False Foreclosure "Rescue" Activity Firm claimed to be "non-profit."

Liberty Tax Service Barred From Deceptive Ads Con artists prey on the faithful.

J.D. Power Survey Finds American Cars Are Improving Quality in vehicles, not balance sheet.

Con Artists Prey On The Faithful Growing number of churches victimized.

FDIC Reins in Troubled Banks The FDIC is restricting some banks from paying high interest. Will it hurt savers?

June 21, 2009

Victory for Autistic Children in Michigan Blue Cross ordered to pay for proven therapy.

7 Steps to Security after a Job Loss Take steps to ensure your financial survival during the tumultuous period following a job loss.

5 Rules for the Empty Home Next Door Ways to prevent a vacant home from damaging your community.

June 19, 2009

FDA Agrees to Reconsider Request for NUTRO Records Consumer news site seeks agency's records on dog, cat food problems.

Feds Warn Consumers Not to Eat Nestle Toll House Cookie Dough Refrigerated cookie dough may carry E. coli.

What Consumers Should Do Today About CAFE Changes Any way you look at it, the cost of new cars will increase under new MPG rules.

Gas Prices Up a Nickel In Last Week Pump prices are up 60 percent in 2009.

CDC Finds Swine Flu Still Hanging Around Evidence H1N1 is going to summer camp.

Mothers Cry Foul Over Baby-Gender Test Lawsuit alleges expensive test not foolproof after all.

Matrixx Failed to Give FDA 800 Zicam Complaints Company claims it thought it was exempt from reporting requirement.

Consumers Underestimate Calories, Sodium In Fast Food More unhealthy food harder to estimate

FDIC Change Won't Crash Bank Accounts If and when FDIC insurance limits are reduced, it won't crash banks or wreck depositor accounts.

Taxes Rule in Retirement Plan Choice Taxes determine whether or not a Roth IRA trumps a traditional 401(k) for retirement savings.

New-car Tax Deduction Now in All 50 States The U.S. Treasury expands its tax deduction on new-car sales to states without a sales tax.

What Fiat Brings to The New Chrysler Fiat will help to recast the ailing U.S. automaker with smaller, fuel-efficient cars.

June 18, 2009

Senate Passes 'Cash For Clunkers' Bill Obama expected to sign auto stimulus package quickly.

Tests Find 'Sky High' Zinc Levels in NUTRO Cat Food Test results provided to company; no response so far.

Consumer Groups Back Obama Regulation Changes Applaud creation of consumer protection agency.

EPA Declares Public Health Emergency In Montana Asbestos illnesses prompt first-ever declaration.

Mortgage Rates Dip As Inflation Fears Ease Rate drop is first in three weeks.

Consumers Feeling Better About Financial Security Fewer Americans say things are getting worse.

Device Maker Charged With Unlawful Clinical Trials Alleged "conspiracy to impede the FDA."

Mississippi Lawyers Falling For Fake Check Scam Hell hath no fury like a scammed attorney.

New Bill Gives FTC Veto Power Over Broadband Caps Agency would oversee any attempt to shift to usage-based plans.

House Committee Unanimously Passes Food Safety Bill Legislation would empower FDA to police food system.

Senate Committee Investigates Cell Phone Contracts Hearings held on exclusivity in mobile market.

Matrixx Initiatives Pulls Zicam Products Company disputes FDA warning about nasal remedies.

Recalls ...

Expedia Hit With Second Class Action Loss Company faces continuing litigation related to sales tax.

Obama Proposes Massive Regulatory Overhaul New agency to take central role as financial watchdog.

AT&T Relents On iPhone Upgrade Pricing — Sort Of Company will allow upgrades for users nearing end of contracts.

Eddie Bauer Files For Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Protection Iconic Retailer Another Recession Victim.

Abercrombie & Fitch Closing Ruehl Stores Company shutters brand due to recession.

Who Wins, Who Loses in Today's Market? In this topsy-turvy real estate market who stands to win and who's fighting an uphill battle?

10 Ways To Keep Home And Love It Economy forcing you to stay put in your existing home? Here are expert tips on how to realize less can be more and to realize, "There's no place like home."

Paying For Assisted Living Medicare doesn't cover the cost of long-term care, but there are several ways to help finance it.

Low CD Rates Shouldn't Derail Savings A man with $500,000 to invest shouldn't let the money languish simply because CD rates are low.

Recalls ...

Nevada Couple Pleads Guilty to Distributing Melamine-Tainted Gluten Possible sentence of two years in prison, $200,000 fine.

FDA Issues Warning About Zicam Cold Remedy Agency says products may deaden sense of smell.

Turning The Tables On Big Tobacco Researchers find potential key to quitting smoking.

House Panel Hears From Consumers Who Lost Insurance Speakers discuss inability to get coverage due to illness.

Senate Committee To Investigate Cell Phone Contracts Hearing to be held on exclusivity in mobile market.

FAA Vows Tougher Rules For Commuter Airlines Commuter crash in Buffalo highlights industry's problems.

Major Breakthrough in Macular Degeneration Researchers find biological marker that could aid in treatment, prevention.

Is Mobile Banking Safe? Banking by cell phone is gaining popularity. Here's what you need to know to be secure.

Recalls ...

June 15, 2009

Pet Owners Unsurprised by FDA Shutdown of Evanger's Many suspect agency investigating NUTRO as well.

California Gas Tops $3 A Gallon--Again Oil prices slide below $70 even as nationwide average rises.

Chinese Drywall Class Actions Consolidated Louisiana court to hear multidistrict proceeding.

Eli Lilly Accused of Pushing Ineffective Dementia Drug Company knew Zyprexa was ineffective, suit charges.

Recording Industry Faces Class Action Defendant in previous trial wants referendum on legal tactics.

TV Switcheroo Leaves Millions with No Free TV Signals disappear as broadcasters move to new frequency band.

Menu-Labeling Legislation Gains Support Restaurant industry endorses plan to list calorie counts.

FDA Disputes Link Between ADHD Medications and Kids' Heart Problems Agency claims study doesn't change overall need to prescribe meds.

FTC Fines Canadian Company $2 Million for Ad Scheme Company charged with selling listings in fake business, travel directories.

Diabetes Drug Varies Widely In Price Research shows prescription costs differ from store to store.

6 Tips for Living with Boomerang Kids Living with boomerang children can be emotionally and financially challenging, but also rewarding.

Don't Raid Retirement to Fund Mortgage It is foolish to raid a 401(k) and risk your retirement simply to land a mortgage for a home.

June 12, 2009

'Cash For Clunkers' Bill Rolls On Congress hopes to jump-start consumer demand for new cars.

Microsoft Settles With Mississippi For $100 Million State had accused software giant of anti-trust violations.

FDA Warns of Bogus Insulin Stolen vials of Levemir being sold in the U.S.

FDA Orders Evanger's To Stop Shipping Pet Food Agency suspends permit issued after earlier incidents.

T-Mobile: No Hacking in Data Breach Company downplays appearance of info.

June 12, 2009

Gas Price Rise Slows National average price hits $2.63 gallon.

New Jersey Sues Travel Club Operators Attorney General targets companies for not providing discounts or rewards.

Banks See Hard Times Even After Bailout Study finds TARP money infusion has had little effect.

Blair Recalls Women's Robes Again After Deaths 162,000 robes recalled due to flammability.

It's A New GM, But Will You Buy a Car? GM's incentives and government help may outweigh doubts about buying from the bankrupt automaker.

7 Ways To Save On Legal Advice You don't have to skip legal advice to conserve money. Check out these seven ways to save.

A College Investment Plan for All Ages Earlier is better when it comes to saving for college, but even the best-laid plans can go awry.

June 11, 2009

Swine Flu Officially a Pandemic WHO raises status of outbreak to highest level.

Researchers: Pregnant Women Should Avoid BPA Exposure New study documents how BPA-related fertility defect can occur.

Foreclosure Activity Still Strong Slower pace of defaults than April, according to industry report.

Senate Approves Bill For FDA Tobacco Regulation Bill would force tobacco companies to disclose ingredients.

Some Seniors to See Reduced Social Security Benefits New report claims Medicare costs will eat larger share of checks.

DOT Inspector General Still Critical of FAA Says agency is missing key goals to do its job.

Delta Reduces Capacity As Fuel Prices Rise Softened ticket demand due to swine flu also blamed.

Mortgage Rates Hit 6-Month High The 30-year fixed rate vaulted again this week in Bankrate's survey.

Debt Management vs. Settlement There are pros and cons to a firm managing or settling debt.

Recalls ...

June 10, 2009

U.S. Oil Supplies Fall As Prices Keep Rising National average well over $2.50 a gallon.

Match.com Hit With Class Action Lawsuit Suit claims non-existent, expired profiles are fraudulent.

Internet Publishers Caution Congress Well-meaning privacy restrictions could stifle free flow of information.

House Passes "Cash For Clunkers" Bill Legislation would pay for trading in old gas-guzzlers.

Massachusetts Settles Predatory Lending Charges For $10 Million Attorney General secures agreement not to foreclose on homeowners.

New York Sues Foreclosure Rescue Companies Attorney General targets 14 operations for failure to fulfill bargains.

Have Mortgage Rates Hit Bottom? Applications for loans stall as interest rates increase.

FDA Issues Warning About Clarcon Skin Products Agency warns against hand sanitizers, skin protectants.

Consumer Reports: Used-Car Histories Often Inaccurate How to spot a lemon before you're stuck with it.

Recalls ...

June 9, 2009

Supreme Court Okays Sale of Chrysler to Fiat Brief stay of sale voided.

Credit Card Delinquencies Up 11 Percent More consumers falling farther behind in paying down debt.

California Blocks Importation of Untreated Produce from India Attorney General targets company for not treating food against pests.

iPhone Users Bristle At AT&T Upgrade Policy Confusing price structure has fans in revolt.

Judge Rejects Lawsuits Claiming "Organic" Milk Is Fake Group charges factory farms gaming the organic system.

T-Mobile Confirms Data Breach Hacker accessed records, company claims no data is at risk.

Recession Cuts Into Wedding Extravaganzas Couples replacing big spending with 'can-do' attitude.

Computer-Related Injuries Rising Physical harm from sharp equipment studied.

Recalls ...

June 8, 2009

Supreme Court Blocks Chrysler Sale Deal with Fiat postponed at last second.

U.S. Prius Sales Drop 45 Percent Recession, lower gas prices put a chill on sales.

Countdown to D-Day for DTV Nation gears up for final transition away from analog broadcasts.

Wal-Mart Sued Over Sales Tax Plaintiffs claim retailer shorted them during returns.

GM To Scrap Medium-Duty Trucks Division sacrificed as part of company restructuring.

More House Democrats Back "Right To Repair" Bill Legislation would give independent repair shops same rights as dealers.

8 Freebies Builders May Give Away Home builders are hurting big time. That gives you a great chance to buy a brand new home and get a slew of extras thrown in.

10 Ways to Turn Off a Homebuyer Homeowners hoping to sell their homes in a tough market should avoid these 10 buyer turnoffs.

Mortgage Broker Ordered To Pay $480,000 For Deception Massachusetts charged Florida broker deceived homebuyers.

June 7, 2009

Mattel, Fisher-Price to Pay $2.3 Million Lead Paint Fine Companies recalled nearly 1 million Chinese-made toys in 2007.

More Legal Challenges Against Chrysler Sale Bondholders, consumer groups challenging government-orchestrated bankruptcy.

June 5, 2009

Goldman Sachs Raises Oil Outlooks As Gas Prices Surge National average gas price climbs to $2.59 per gallon.

Penske Hopes to Drive Saturn Off GM's Lot Aura, Vue, Outlook all expected to remain in the line-up.

E3 Takes Los Angeles By Storm Gamers flock to trade show for unveiling of latest offerings.

Expedia Ordered to Reimburse Extra Tax Charged to Consumers Award is largest in Washington state history.

Unemployment Rate Jumps To 9.4 Percent In May Numbers are bad, but not as bad as expected.

IRS Considers License For Tax Preparers Government losing billions through fraud and incompetence.

New Fuel Standard Could Raise Vehicle Cost The cost of a car could jump $1,300, depending on its actual fuel-efficiency and how much you drive.

Potential Medical Taxes President Barack Obama asked Congress to once again focus on ways to overhaul America's health care system, including possible new taxes.

California Arrests Two who Stole Millions Through Phony Stock Sale Ez2Win.biz claimed to be an online shopping hub.

June 4, 2009

Harvard Study: 60% of Bankruptcies Caused by Health Problems Most victims are middle-class and have health insurance.

New Chrysler Agrees To Honor Old Lemon Law Agreement follows bankruptcy court ruling, protests.

Ex-Countrywide CEO Faces Fraud Charges SEC slams Mozilo for insider trading.

Mortgage Rates Shoot Up The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rose to 5.65 percent, according to Bankrate's weekly survey.

Bill Banning Drug "Pay-For-Delay" Gets Hearing Legislation would prevent Big Pharma from delaying generic alternatives.

Food Safety Bill Aired In House "Not a partisan issue," consumer groups tell Congress.

FDA Seeks To Turn Over New Leaf Agency embarks on plan to open processes to public comment.

Recalls ...

June 3, 2009

Cat Owners Bristle at NUTRO Denials Cats sickened by recalled pet food; NUTRO denies responsibility.

Consumer Groups Appeal Chrysler's Lemon Law Reprieve Chapter 11 bankruptcy leaves car owners out in the cold.

Dumped GM, Chrysler Dealers Not Going Away Quietly Lobbyists put pressure on Congress, West Virginia goes to court.

California Senate Votes to Ban BPA In Food Containers FDA still contends small amounts of the chemical are not harmful.

U.S. Oil Supplies Up, and So Are Prices National average gas price climbs to $2.54 per gallon.

5 Economic Indicators to Watch Economic indicators are gauges of hope and despair. We explain what they mean and why they matter.

Small Homes the New Big Thing Welcome to the new realty reality. Ostentation is passé. Size is so not cool.

Real Estate Agent Takes On Banks Over Short Sales Banks say the right thing in public but often don't follow through.

Feds Stop Cross-Border Directory Scam Canadian operation targeted small businesses, non-profits in U.S.

Recalls ...

June 2, 2009

The Hummer Lives to Fight Another Day Chinese buyer will retain U.S. dealers.

Florida Smoker's Widow Awarded $30 Million Majority of award is for punitive damages.

Feds Look at Tougher Foreclosure 'Rescue' Rules Desperate homeowners often victimized by con artists.

Pending Home Sales Surge in April More signs of life in the housing market.

Ford Reports Sharply Higher May Sales Last of the Big 3 standing shows big successes.

Oklahoma Charges BP With Propane Price-Fixing Attorney General claims unfair and deceptive acts.

Consumer Reports Gives Chevy Traverse High Marks Ranked third in midsized SUV ratings.

Foreclosure Starts Hit 1 Million For the Year Mortgage delinquencies also at all-time high.

Coping with Out-of-Pocket Health Care Costs Payment options ease the burden of high health care costs that are charged directly to consumers.

Can't Sell? Do SOMETHING If you can't sell your home and it's eating you alive financially, you need something to generate cashflow. Try out these tips.

Recalls ...

June 1, 2009

GM Files for Bankruptcy; Chrysler Deal Gets Court Approval 'Government Motors' and New Chrysler must win consumers' confidence to survive.

Consumers Remain Thrifty In April Slight rise in disposable income doesn't offset savings.

Automakers in Overhaul, Close Car Dealers Customers could suffer, as they drive the old jalopy farther to reach the nearest showroom.

Save Your Car Service Records If your dealer closes, you'll still need the car service history it stored for you.

Bitter Pill: California Axes Poison Control Largest state in U.S. will have no poison control services.

California Seeks To Register Foreclosure "Consultants" Attorney General wants database to protect against scam artists.

Children May Be Impacted By Parents' Anxiety Disorder New research indicates condition may be hereditary, environmental.

Video: Cell Phones Driving You To Distraction? Ringing bad enough, tunes even worse, researcher finds.

Peak Fitness Blocked From Charging Advance Payments North Carolina Attorney General stops health club as lawsuit looms.

Pressure to Look Attractive Linked to Fear of Rejection New study highlights "appearance-based rejection sensitivity" among college students.

Recalls ...

May 31, 2009

Kaiser Class Action Filed in California Alleges failure to refund copayments after collecting reimbursement.

Time Warner Cable Changes Contracts To Favor Bandwith Caps Agreements quietly updated to allow throttling of service.

Mortgage Rates Gone Wild With mortgage rates suddenly skyrocketing, what should potential homebuyers do?

8 Major Benefits of New Credit Card Law Here are the highlights of the Credit CARD Act of 2009 that benefit cardholders.

Obama Promises Support for Cybersecurity, Net Neutrality Advocates appointment of "cyber czar," increased funding and education.

Video: How to Save on Your Wedding There are ways to have a memorable celebration without carrying the debt for your wedded life.

Texas Charges Conn's Failed to Honor Warranties Suit charges appliance chain deceived customers, engaged in false advertising.

May 30, 2009

House Committee Moves Forward On Food Safety Legislation FDA would gain new enforcement powers; Some see problems.

California Sues Charities For Stealing Donations To Public Servants Multiple lawsuits agains telemarketers, donors for deceptive practices and fraud.

Oil Prices Shoot Higher, Gas Prices Follow National average climbs to $2.467 per gallon.

Lawmakers Target Bank Overdraft Fees Democrats want Fed to restrict "courtesy" program.

Mortgage Delinquencies At Record High Analyst finds increase 'sobering but not unexpected'.

GM Prepares For Bankruptcy Monday Stockholders to be wiped out, bondholders to take steep loss.

FCC'S Help Line Mobbed During DTV Soft Test 55,000 calls across major media markets on one day.

Court Rules Lawsuit Against AT&T/Cingular Can Proceed Customers allege poor service during buyout.

May 28, 2009

California Produce Company Recalls Pistachios on Salmonella Fears Los Angeles company received tainted goods from Setton Pistachios.

In Search Of Revenue, Feds May Look To Consumers National sales tax a possibility.

Many Consumers Pay "Hidden Health Tax," Group Charges Undisclosed insurance premium surcharges hammer insured.

Taxpayers Assume Circuit City Retirement Plan National pension insurer takes on liability after retailer bankruptcy.

New Jersey Sues Over Phony Springsteen Ticket Sales Investigators bust companies for deceptive practices.

Mortgage Rates Sky-Rocket The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage increased to 5.45 percent, according to Bankrate's weekly survey.

My House is Worth How Much? Appraisers have the last word on a home's value, but homeowners can provide some input.

Video: Reappraising Appraisers Proposed new rules may not solve the problem of appraisers being influenced by lenders.

Recalls ...

May 27, 2009

CDC: Swine Flu May Have Peaked Focus shifting to fall flu prevention.

Chrysler Sours on Lemon Law Obligations Chapter 11 bankruptcy leaves car owners out in the cold.

Wal-Mart Fined $7,000 for "Black Friday" Employee Death Store worker trampled and crushed by shoppers.

Court Rules Lawsuit Against AT&T/Cingular Can Proceed Customers allege poor service during buyout.

Existing Home Sales Rise in April Falling prices trigger new round of buyouts from deal seekers.

Will Good Cardholders Suffer Under New Law? The new credit card law may have negative impact on people who don't carry a balance.

Good Credit May Not Be Good Enough In the new lending environment, a good credit score is not good enough for today's homebuyers.

Progressive Settles Rate Quote Complaint Massachusetts consumers complained quotes were inaccurate.

Recalls ...

May 26, 2009

Consumers React to NUTRO Recalls; Zinc, Copper Levels Cited FDA investigators say agency's probe is 'high priority.'

Advanta Closes Customers' Credit Card Accounts Analysts: company under severe financial stress.

Consumers Increasingly Concerned About Online Transactions New survey indicates 85 percent of respondents worry about shopping or banking online.

California Files 79 Criminal Charges in $200 Million Ponzi Scheme Defendants accused of bilking investors out of retirement savings.

Consumer Confidence Surges In May Surprising jump in views of economy, job market.

U.S. Home Values Now 32 Percent Below Their Peak Steady declines continue across all metro regions.

Homeowners' Associations Face Tough Times Lack of payments leads to loss of shared services.

Systemax Buys Circuit City Name, Web Site No retail locations planned but name will survive online.

Video: Older Americans Becoming 'Prisoners Of Their Stuff' Downsizing requires some rigorous house-cleaning.

May 25, 2009

Bankruptcy Not Helping People Keep Their Homes New study finds even Chapter 13 doesn't stave off foreclosure.

Prevention Needed to Curb Foreclosure Rescue Scams Consumer group warns that more enforcement and education are necessary.

Two Illinois Banks Fail Cost to taxpayers is $173 million.

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

Is Credit Card Protection Worth It? Credit card protection plans might help in the event of a job loss, but their cost can add up.

12 Tips to Buying a Home at Auction There are differences between large regional home auctions and those on the courthouse steps.

Recalls ...

May 24, 2009

Two Hydroxycut Class Actions Filed Suits follow recall of liver-damaging dietary supplement.

Obama Signs Credit Card Bill Measure bans some of issuers' least popular tactics.

May 21, 2009

Court Finds Tobacco Companies Lied About Smoking Dangers Rules that defendants violated racketeering laws.

Gas and Oil Prices Still Rising Memorial Day travelers will find higher pump prices.

Harvard Study Raises BPA Concerns Study finds chemical leeches from plastic water bottles.

Older People Appear More Resistant To Swine Flu Studies indicate young are most at risk.

Feds Shut Down Florida Bank Private equity firm takes control; Largest bank failure this year.

GE Microwaves Prone to Spontaneous Fire, Suit Claims Alleges failure of control panel and magnetron.

Another Chinese Drywall Suit Filed Senate ponders what to do next.

California Petitions Supreme Court To Enforce Video Game Law Sales of violent games to minors should be prohibited, Brown argues.

Is Organic Worth It? With money tight, organic foods may not be the best buy.

Recalls ...

May 20, 2009

NUTRO Recalls Dry Cat Food Sold in 11 Countries Company blames supplier for incorrect zinc, potassium levels

Craigslist CEO Sues South Carolina Attorney General Henry McMaster's threats violated federal law and the Constitution, suit argues.

UAW, GM Agree On New Contract Deal may protect pension obligations, avert bankruptcy.

Illinois Meat Packer Recalls 95,898 Pounds Of Beef Food inspectors report possible E.coli contamination.

TicketsNow Once Again in Hot Water Site sold Springsteen tickets that didn't exist.

New Jersey Investors Getting Refunds From Citigroup Attorney General brokers deal to settle nondisclosure charges.

Mortgage Rates Up Slightly The benchmark 30-year fixed mortgage rose to 5.24 percent, according to Bankrate's weekly survey.

"Soft Tests" Conducted for DTV Transition Readiness Experiment simulates switch from analog to digital signals.

Competition Heats Up for Internships In lieu of entry-level jobs, many college graduates find internships are their best hope. Here's how to get the best one.

Feds, States Target Charity Scams Bogus telemarketers claim to help police, firefighters, veterans.

Recalls ...

May 20, 2009

Swine Flu Spreads to 48 States; NYC Hard-Hit 26 schools closed in NYC, attendance down citywide.

Emails Suggest Cozy FDA-BPA Industry Relationship Retailers drop products containing BPA despite FDA's position.

Obama Orders Rollback of Preemptions on State Laws Decision hailed as victory for consumer protections.

Video — Credit Card Law May Produce Unintended Consequences New restrictions may also tighten access to credit.

Consumer Groups Challenge Chrysler Bankruptcy Consumers shouldn't lose their lemon law, defective vehicle rights, groups argue.

Texas Attorney General Takes on Text Message Scammers "Smishing" uses fake mobile messages to harvest personal data.

Olive Garden Settles Credit Card Data Exposure Suit Claim alleged restaurant printed too many numbers on receipts.

Pension Agency Deficit Balloons Largest shortfall in 35-year history.

Bill in Congress Would Ban Substandard Drywall, Steel, Cement "Junk should be ... shipped back to China," Rep. Stupak declares.

Staying put? Stimulus Plans May Help Here's how the stimulus plans may help homeowners who are not planning to buy or sell.

What Will $400,000 Buy Today? Bankrate's annual interactive looks at how much home you can buy today for $400,000. In 2009? Quite a lot.

May 19, 2009

Consumer Site Appeals FDA's Refusal to Release NUTRO Records Agency claims there is no investigation, so records should be released, site argues.

Senate Overwhelmingly Approves Credit Card Reform Bill passes Senate 90-5; Obama wants complete legislation by weekend.

California Reinstates Tobacco Fraud Class Action Interprets state proposition in favor of consumers.

Eli Lily Pays $700 Million To States in Zyprexa Settlement Payment will fund state Medicaid programs in exchange for dropped charges.

Teflon Suit Slides Off DuPont Cookware contains likely carcinogen.

Obama Rolls Out Tougher MPG Rules New plan sets uniform national standard.

Pennsylvania Refinery Fire Spikes Gas Prices Gas futures hit a seven-month high, leading to retail increases.

New York City Closes 16 Schools as H1N1 Spreads New strain of flu targets the young.

Internet Job Scams On The Rise Jobs sound too good to be true.

Recalls ...

May 18, 2009

Swine Flu Claims Sixth U.S. Victim Assistant principal of NYC school dies.

Video: Getting Help With A Loan Modification Who should troubled homeowners turn to for help?

New Study Highlights Dangers in the Water Chemicals in pools injure over 5,000 people yearly.

Craigslist CEO, South Carolina AG Trade Potshots Over Erotic Ads Attorney General promises to prosecute over charges of sex trafficking, porn.

Video: What's Your Car Worth? Determining a used car's value is difficult in today's economy.

FTC Slams Fake Government Loan Rescue Operation Company falsely claimed to be official Web site.

Pros, Cons of Paying Car Loan with HELOC The interest on the HELOC is tax deductible, but your line of credit may outlive the car.

U.S. Energy Savings Corp. Agrees to Illinois Refunds State cracks down on false promises of big savings.

West Virginia Gets Injunction Against Texas Debt Firm Able Debt Settlement blocked from doing business in state.

May 16, 2009

Judge Orders Halt to Warranty Robocalls Senators spur FTC investigation against automated scammers.

Big & Tall, Middle Eastern Style Saudis a source of more than oil for some U.S. consumers.

How Secure is Life Insurance? Life insurers' losses make them seem vulnerable. Can they keep their promises to consumers?

Are Variable Annuities Safe? Investors bought annuities to protect against market declines, but now some insurers are suffering.

May 15, 2009

Chrysler Dealers Head for Court Spurned dealers say state laws protect their franchises.

GM Notifying 1,100 Dealers They're Being Dumped Franchises set to expire by 2010.

GMAC Changing Name to Ally Bank Auto financier hopes to escape GM stigma, adopts better business practices.

Swine Flu Closes Three New York City Schools U.S. records fourth death, 4,900 cases.

Consumer Prices Remain Flat In April Prices slipped 0.7%, biggest decline since 1955.

New York Cracks Down on Immigration Ripoff Scheme Attorney General charges woman with fraud and deceptive practices.

North Carolina Locks Down Phony Locksmith Scam Attorney General targets scammers for false pricing.

An Upside to Chrysler's Plight The government is guaranteeing warranties while incentives lock in a killer car deal for buyers.

Interest Rate Roundup Here are the latest interest rates and commentary on five common consumer banking products from Bankrate.com's weekly national survey of large banks and thrifts.

Top 5 Renovations To Sell That House With thousands of homes sitting on the market unsold, it's critical to understand which improvements really will help get that house sold.

May 14, 2009

Obama Presses Case For Credit Card Reform President wants bill on his desk by Memorial Day.

GM, Chrysler May Close 3,000 Dealers Auto industry estimates lost jobs at over 200,000.

Growing Number of Adults in ATV Accidents Seniors account for high percentage of injuries.

FTC Giving Financial Services Closer Scrutiny Agency promises to increase oversight of mortgage, lending sectors.

California Blocks Costly Property Tax Rip-Off Attorney General takes on reassessment scheme.

Feds Probe 'Car Warranty' Robo Calls Senators spur FTC investigation against automated scammers.

Dirt-Cheap Loans on New Homes Homebuilders are offering discounted interest rates to lure buyers back into the market.

Facing Foreclosure: Now What? With the bank foreclosing, you have more options than you think. Don't just give up.

Retire Student Loan Before You Retire School debt is forgiven in only some instances, so it's best to plan on repaying it instead.

Recalls ...

May 13, 2009

FDA Warns General Mills About Cheerios Claims "Heart-healthy" cholesterol-lowering claims challenged.

Gas Prices Jump 10 Cents Since Friday Traders go bullish on oil as recovery hopes increase.

Hiring Forecast Less Grim But Wages Fall Service sector is hardest hit by falling pay.

Craigslist Shuts Down "Erotic Services" Ads Pressure from Attorney Generals leads to revamp, more scrutiny.

Illinois Files "Cramming" Suit Against California Firm Chatsworth company accused of adding unwarranted charges to bills.

Digital TV Switch Less Than One Month Away Government pushes outreach to communities lagging in DTV readiness.

When's the Best Time to Pay Credit Card? To improve your credit score, it helps to pay before the closing date of the statement.

Time to Buy Real Estate? It's been a buyers market for some time now. But how will you know when it's the prime time to make your move?

Recalls ...

May 12, 2009

Home Values Plunge 14 Percent In First Quarter Distressed homes skewing median prices; sales picked up in some areas.

People to People Uses Dead Student's Name as Recruiting Tool Promise to remove Tayler Hill's name from database goes unfilled.

FTC Considers New Restrictions on 'Negative Option' Marketing Tricky sales tool often turns 'no' into 'yes'.

Senate Studies Soda Tax Tax on sugary drinks would help finance health care.

Buffalo Crash Hearing Focuses On Pilot Training Investigators examine whether crew reacted properly to conditions.

Medical Billers Network Settles with Feds Promoters sold deceptive work-at-home scheme.

Feds Destroy Body-Building Supplements Supplements may contain steroids, a possible health risk.

Europeans Buying U.S. Vacation Homes Foreigners take advantage of favorable euro-to-dollar exchange rate but face higher down payment.

Know Your Goals Before You Refinance Before refinancing, properly identify your financial goals so you chase the right solution.

May 11, 2009

GM Chief Calls Bankruptcy 'More Probable' GM more likely to follow Chrysler into bankruptcy, CEO concedes.

More than 2,500 Swine Flu Cases Confirmed in U.S. Virus continues its spread, hits younger people more than seniors.

Scammers Targeting Social Security Recipients Seniors should be suspicious of any offer of help with stimulus payment.

More Boomers Losing Health Coverage Older workers losing insurance when they need it most.

9 Secrets to Online Bargain Hunting The Internet can be a great place to find bargains. Ramp up your shopping skills to save even more.

Discretionary Spending at Lowest Level in 30 Years Consumers 'not even thinking about buying things'.

Feds Accuse California Lender of Charging Hispanics Higher Rates Golden Empire Mortgage accused of illegal discrimination.

Iowa Bans Get-Rich-Quick Scheme NYC promoter used Des Moines address to lure victims.

Late-Stage Cancer Risk Higher In City Than In Country But risk of late diagnosis also high in least-populated rural areas.

May 10, 2009

California Gets Judgment Against Calling Card Company Attorney General slams company for "hidden and deceptive" fees.

Lenders Won't Refi Upside-Down Auto Loans Don't expect lenders to offer a lower rate, but you might cut your payment by extending the loan.

'Redneck' Checking Promises Big Yield Redneck Bank is just one institution pledging big returns to consumers who open a checking account.

Doing the Student Loan Shuffle The credit crunch continues to hamper the student loan market, but there are signs of a thaw.

May 9, 2009

Obama Wants Credit Card Legislation This Month Asks Congress for fast action on Credit Cardholder's Bill of Rights.

Do You Qualify for the Mortgage Refi Plan? The federal government, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac spell out the rules for the refinance program.

Video: 10 Dollar-Store Duds Comparison shopping and unit pricing will help you find deals and duds at the dollar store.

May 8, 2009

New York Subpoenas Debt Settlement Companies Attorney General Cuomo launches nationwide probe of companies' practices.

Gasoline Prices Rise On Economic Optimism Average price up 11 cents from last week.

All 19 Banks Pass Stress Tests But many require new capital infusions to stay solvent.

Congress Becoming More Pro-Senior, Study Finds Survey of voting records finds more support for senior issues.

Americans Turn Away From Credit Cards Consumers try to trim debt as economy sputters.

New Evidence Ties Gene to Alzheimer's Lower levels of neuroglobin may indicate disease risk.

New Jersey Broker Charged In $10 Million Ponzi Scheme Accused of defrauding elderly investors.

Consumers Reminded to Investigate Before Investing Explore the background of any brokerage before committing your money.

Saturn, Pontiac, Chrysler: Fire-Sale Time? With two major brands ending and one of the Big 3 in bankruptcy, dealers are offering great deals.

Don't Sweat the Stress Test Results Now that the government's test of the nation's banks is over, what have we learned?

May 7, 2009

U.S. Swine Flu Cases Approaching 1000 Evidence of virus in 43 states so far.

Gasoline Supplies Hit Lowest Level Since January Wholesale prices bump up, pump prices may follow.

Obama Seeks 19 Percent Budget Hike For FDA New proposal includes higher industry fees.

9 Cash-Saving Strategies That Pay Big Bucks Cutting expenses can pay huge dividends if you invest your savings and let them compound over time.

Poll Finds Americans Concerned About Swine Flu Cases documented in 23 countries so far.

Managing The Stress of Debt While grappling to pay your bills, you may find the darkest side of debt is the mounting stress.

Lawsuit Alleges Apple Power Adapters Are Faulty Second suit alleging negligent design.

Tips For Getting Your Rent Reduced In today's market, tenants are saving cash by successfully asking their landlords for a rent reduction

Magazine Salespeople Take to the Streets Consumers should be wary of door-to-door solicitations.

Video: Haggling For a Better Deal Bargaining for a better deal can save you money.

Recalls ...

May 6, 2009

Number Of U.S. Swine Flu Cases Jumps 642 documented cases of H1N1 in U.S.

States Turn Up Heat on Craigslist Sex Postings South Carolina threatens criminal prosecution of CEO Buckmaster.

Indiana Hit By Swine Flu Scams Attorney General targets solicitors selling "swine flu kits".

Constipation Drug Dangerous for Pregnant Women? Public Citizen: FDA should add 'black box' warning.

New Jersey Attorney General Blasts FDA in Medical Device Case Doctors not required to disclose financial conflicts of interest.

One in Five Homeowners Underwater Bad real estate news persists, despite signs of life in market.

Childhood Obesity Linked To Allergies Researchers caution that no definitive conclusions exist yet.

Illinois Sues Two Debt Settlement Firms SDS West, Debt Relief USA accused of deceptive practices.

Recalls ...

May 5, 2009

Obama Names New Consumer Product Safety Chair, Boosts Budget Embattled agency would get enhanced funding, more commissioners.

April Dismal For U.S. And Foreign Carmakers Sales dropped nearly 35 percent between April 2008 and April 2009.

Ohio Puts Heat on Foreclosure Rescue Operations One in 440 houses received a foreclosure filing.

Congress To Consider Legalizing Online Gambling Frank wants 2006 ban amendment overturned.

Consumer Reports: 20 Percent of Online Shoppers Are Cybercrime Victims Even in recession, business is booming for cybercrooks.

When to Opt Out of a Credit Card Rate Hike Credit cardholders are being hit with interest rate increases. Should you opt out or accept it?

Lower Mortgage Rate Not Always Best When deciding whether to refinance, weigh the costs against the savings from a lower rate.

Caffeine Withdrawal — It's Not Just In Your Head New study documents physical effects of cutting back on coffee.

Recalls ...

May 4, 2009

NUTRO Pulls Greenies Dental Chews from Supermarkets Snacks will be distributed only through veterinarians, specialty retailers.

CDC Sees 'Encouraging' Swine Flu Signs Strain is not particularly virulent yet, but that could change.

Pending Home Sales Turn Around In March Low interest rates, fire sale prices trump recession fears.

Texas Senate Places Limits On Tuition Hikes Increases would be limited to five percent.

Consumer Reports: Five Repairs Homeowners Shouldn't Ignore June issue offers tips to spot trouble areas and avoid costly repairs.

Consumer Reports: Best Gas Grills For Under $500 Manufacturers move away from stainless to maintain pricing; Advice on how to choose.

Drawbacks Hidden in Model Home Model homes are typically more spacious, but potential defects may be masked by lavish extras.

Today's Realty Reality The U.S. real estate market has changed and the true value of homes has been reset.

Defend Yourself Against Debt Collectors Even if you owe a company money, you have rights -- and it pays to know what they are.

California Foreclosure ‘Rescue’ Defendants Rounded Up Feds, state squash scams that preyed on troubled homeowners.

Artificial Hips Last Twice As Long As Predicted Study finds replacement hips surprisingly durable.

May 3, 2009

Swine Flu Spreads, But Relatively Few Deaths Reported Most reported deaths are in Mexico.

What to Do If You Get Flu-Like Symptoms The flu's likely to be around for awhile; be ready for it.

Swine Flu a Potential Problem for Cruise Ships CDC offers guidance for crews and passengers.

May 2, 2009

Swine Flu Spreads, As Do Scams Flu now found in 15 countries, scams close behind.

CDC Offers Swine Flu Tips for Child Care Providers Parents' cooperation needed to minimize the spread of disease.

Defend Yourself Against Debt Collectors Even if you owe a company money, you have rights -- and it pays to know what they are.

Don't Waste Pennies on Premium Manufacturers require premium for some cars. But if it's just "recommended," don't bother.

Three More Banks Fail FDIC closes banks in Georgia, New Jersey, Utah

May 1, 2009

FDA Warns Consumers to Stop Using Hydroxycut Weight-Loss Products Dietary supplements linked to one death; risk of liver injury.

More Warnings Against Swine Flu Scams Agencies warn against promotions touting cures or treatments.

California Certifies Class Action Against Pella Alleges leaking windows, nonexistent service.

Gasoline Prices Remain Steady National average hovers around $2 a gallon.

Eating Healthy Costs More New study draws links between nutrition and economic status.

Don't Panic — It's Just Allergy Season What appears to be swine flu is probably just hay fever.

Senate Defeats Mortgage 'Cram Down' Bill Banking lobbyists prevail, bill's sponsor vows to keep trying.

Video: Shopping by Phone New tool for bargain hunters -- software turns your phone into a price checker.

Calculate Your Inflation Rate The way you spend money determines how dramatically inflation impacts your bank account.

April 30, 2009

Chrysler Files for Bankruptcy, GMAC Takes Over Financing Obama urges consumers to consider buying a new Chrysler product.

Clearwire Slapped With Class Action Complaint alleges shoddy service and illegal cancellation fees.

Credit Card Bill Passes House — Again Legislation that would restrict abusive lending practices passes for the second time.

Weight-Loss Products Illegally Spiked with Prescription Drugs Public Citizen: FDA Response 'Inadequate'.

Can the Right Mask Prevent Swine Flu? Consumer Reports experts say the answer may be yes.

Have Consumers Tightened Their Belts Permanently? Spending habits remain thrifty, signaling long-term trend.

Doctors' Group Slams Drug Company Freebies Conflicts of interest between physicians and Big Pharma questioned.

Consumers Finding Fewer New Products in Recession Food and beverage companies cut back on launching new items.

Pay-As-You-Drive Insurance Cut premiums with pay-as-you-drive insurance, but watch out for surcharges.

How to Establish a Great Credit Score Consumers with limited credit histories can still build a good credit score.

Recalls ...

April 29, 2009

Feds Deny NUTRO Investigation; Witnesses Say Otherwise Consumers still hoping for action on their pets' deaths and illnesses.

No Reason To Panic Over Swine Flu Despite first U.S. death, officials call for calm.

Bank of America's Lewis Removed as Chairman Will remain as President and CEO; Walter Massey to succeed as chairman.

Watch Out For Swine Flu Scams Con artists quick to exploit new situation.

Gas Supplies Drop As Refineries Cut Production Prices remain at $2 a gallon, demand stays low.

Auto Sales Stagnant, But Hope Appears Signs of stabilization in second half of 2009.

FTC Charges Hoodia Claims Are Bogus Suppliers accused of deceptive claims.

Will Replacement Card Hurt Credit Score? How the card issuer reports the card to the credit bureaus determines the effect.

Green Insurance, the Eco-Alternative Insurance firms are offering eco-friendly options to lure consumers interested in energy efficiency.

Video: 5 Cheap Ways to Go Solar Don't have $50,000 to invest in solar? Here are ways that the rest of us can harness energy from the sun.

Recalls ...

April 28, 2009

Swine Flu: What You Need to Know Don't believe rumors; listen to the experts.

State of Emergency Declared in California Over Swine Flu Schwarzenegger ramps up "aggressive approach" to mitigating outbreak.

Ad Watch: Boniva's Misleading Ad Video commentary gives consumers the facts the commercials leave out.

Consumer Group Seeks End To Forced Arbitration Consumers forced to give away their legal rights.

Feds Charge Five in $70 Million "Dream Home" Scam Defendants accused of complex scheme that bilked homeowners out of thousands.

FDA Requires Additional Warning For OTC Pain Relievers More detail of potential side effects required on labels.

The Upside of the Down Economy Financial news is brutal lately, but the recession is teaching us the basics for a new economy.

Video: Frugal Mom Has Thrifty Tips Meet a mom whose daily money-saving methods got her national attention.

April 27, 2009

GM Moves Up Saturn Execution, Plans to Drop 2,600 Dealers Pontiac, Hummer also headed for the scrap heap as GM releases new strategy.

HHS Declares Public Health Emergency for Swine Flu 20 cases confirmed so far, no known deaths in U.S.

Previous Swine Flu Outbreak Offers Some Perspective 1976 Fort Dix outbreak may have clues to current crisis.

Credit Card Losses Spike in February More debt written off as uncollectable.

Rest In Peace, Countrywide Financial Bank of America officially "retires" brand name for its lending company.

Apple Said to Be in Talks with Verizon over iPhone Rumors persist despite denials from Apple, AT&T.

Costco Settles "Hot Gasoline" Suit Company to retrofit pumps to avoid shorting drivers.

Mortgage Rates Keep Falling This may be the time to refinance.

Weigh Costs Before Buying Down Loan The costs associated with buying down a loan may put the brakes on a mortgage refinance.

Time Matters to Your Credit Score More recent good news on your credit report will outweigh old news about bad debt.

April 26, 2009

Swine Flu Appears Spreading In U.S. New cases suspected in New York, Kansas.

Alfalfa Sprouts Linked to Salmonella Illnesses reported in six states.

Four More Banks Fail FDIC closes banks in California, Michigan, Georgia, Idaho.

April 25, 2009

CDC Deploys Teams To Sites Of Swine Flu Outbreaks Death toll in Mexico rises to 68.

Web Sites Offer Car-Lease Swapping Several Web sites arrange car-lease terminations but be careful of the fine print.

Prepare For the Inevitable Record-low interest rates won't last forever.

April 24, 2009

Scam Artists Profit from Chinese Drywall Fears Bogus tests, phony remedies being widely promoted, Florida warns.

GM Prepares to Scrap Pontiac White House pumps another $2 billion into ailing automaker.

Texas Sues Water4gas.com Devices don't work, tax breaks don't apply, state charges.

Massachusetts Approves Settlement in Inflated Drug Price Lawsuit Companies inflated prices without economic justification.

What Would a Chrysler Bankruptcy Mean For You? Big 3 automaker bust could have far-reaching repercussions.

FDA Gains Insight to Bird Flu Virus Scientists analyze blood from patients infected with H5N1.

Gas Prices Stable as Demand Remains Weak What a difference a year makes.

Modest Exercise Can Reduce Negative Effects of Belly Fat Progress seen in overweight individuals even without diet changes.

Texas Sues 'GoogleMoneyTree' Promoter Scam uses high-profile name to deceive consumers, state charges.

'Gifting Clubs,' Pyramid Schemes Flourish on Web Scams target cash-strapped consumers looking to earn extra income.

Recalls ...

April 23, 2009

White House, Congress Cracking Down On Credit Cards Triple-threat attack on abusive lending practices.

Home Sales Fall in March Existing homes slow to move off market.

Mortgage Rates and Refis Up The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rose to 5.23% in Bankrate's weekly survey.

California Sues Wells Fargo Affiliates for $1.5 Billion Attorney General wants money recovered for defrauded investors.

Stimulus Offers Modest Auto Savings The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act offers a tax break for people who buy a new car in 2009.

Trim -- Don't Lapse -- Life Insurance Trimming premiums is a better option than letting your policy lapse.

Eating Salmon Once A Week Reduces Heart Risks Researchers claim more evidence that omega-3 helps heart health.

Surviving Without Health Insurance It's tough, but not impossible, to get by without a group plan. Follow these tips.

Grapefruit Juice May Fight Cancer Researchers mix drink with drugs to increase potency.

Recalls ...

April 22, 2009

NUTRO Bites Back; Denies Probe of Pet Deaths, Illnesses Hundreds of pet owners say the company's food made their pets ill.

Home Prices Show Surprising Gain in February More signs of a turnaround?

Iowa Allows Consumers to Directly File Fraud Claims State does away with archaic lawsuit system.

Landmark Alzheimer's Drug Cleared For Clinical Trials. New treatment may improve as well as repair memory function.

Missouri Joins Mortgage Scam Smackdown Attorney General promises "zero tolerance" for fraudsters.

Researchers Link Grilling With Pancreatic Cancer Bad news for backyard chefs — back to the oven.

Mayo Clinic Provides Free Medical Record Storage Teams with Microsoft to expand online health information access.

NY Mandates Multi-Lingual Rx Labels, Counsel Chain pharmacies agree to accommodate non-English speakers.

Recalls ...

April 21, 2009

Telephone Industry Still Lacks Significant Competition 25 years after AT&T breakup, competition comes from wireless, VoIP.

U.S. Carmakers Getting More Federal Aid GM gets $5 billion while going through motions of bankruptcy.

TARP Ripe For Scams, Warns Inspector General Lack of oversight and sheer size means high abuse potential.

Study Suggests Video Games Are Addictive Researchers find 8% show signs of addiction.

Some Efforts To Control Eating May Backfire Addition of healthy options to menu spurs unhealthy eating.

Drug Costs Rise Less Quickly, Study Finds Increased use of generic drugs cuts costs without health risks.

Study Links Prostate Cancer to Single Rogue Cell 14-year research project tracks process of metastasis.

Urine Test May Predict Lung Cancer Study aims to identify why some become addicts and others do not.

April 20, 2009

FDA Confirms Probe of NUTRO Pet Food Deaths, Illnesses Menu Foods earlier revealed it was the target of a federal probe.

White House Pressuring Credit Card Companies Obama administration turns up heat for industry reform.

GM Cuts More Jobs, Eyes China 1,600 positions cut as auto giant struggles against looming bankruptcy.

Tax Credits On Ford Hybrids Phasing Out Credit will be slowly rolled back through April 2010.

Business Economists See Hopeful Signs Closing gaps in declines may indicate positive trend.

1040X to the Rescue Fouled up your tax return? Here's your second chance to get it right.

Video: Forestalling Foreclosure When you're in mortgage trouble, the best thing to do is make a phone call.

Foreclosures Not the Only Drag on Appraisals New, devalued homes and foreclosures are a double whammy on owners hoping to refinance.

Recalls ...

April 19, 2009

Senator: Florida Faces Chinese Drywall 'Hysteria' Pressure builds for quick action on complaints of contaminated drywall.

Grocery Coupons Offer an Easy Way to Save Consumers offer overlook an easy and risk-free way to cut grocery bills.

Banks in Missouri, Nevada Fail Both will reopen Monday under new owners.

Ask About 'Hard Pull' Before Opening a CD Before investing in a CD, ask the bank whether it will pull your credit report during the process.

Is Car Deposit Binding? If you put a deposit on a new car, can the dealer force you to take ownership?

April 18, 2009

What If Your Tax Refund is Wrong? You got a check from the IRS that's less, or more, than you expected. Find out why and what to do about it.

Should You Skip Your Mortgage Payment? Being delinquent on your mortgage won't necessarily improve your odds of a loan modification.

6 Ways to Sabotage Your Career You could kill your future opportunities in one negligent act or strangle them to death over time.

April 17, 2009

Gas Prices Remain Stable for Another Week Economy shaky but prices stable at the pump.

More Students Using Plastic to Pay for College Spikes in tuition, costs leaving more students cash-strapped.

Consumers to Spend Same or More on Entertainment in 2009 Recession doesn't slow down video games or music purchasing.

Don't Fear Automakers' Bankruptcies Car companies offer discounts and the government guarantees warranties to ease bankruptcy fears.

Canceling an Auto Service Contract If you're not getting the extended service you want, end the contract and get a refund.

Beware the 'Property Fraud' Scam Seniors are often targets of this fast-growing scam.

Energy Drinks Work, But Not The Way You Think Taste receptors improve athletic performance in unusual ways.

Massachusetts Tackles Timeshare Scam Owner collected $1.5 million for resort that was never used.

April 16, 2009

Federal Court Reinstates Credit Card Suit Merchants charged with violating identity theft law.

Time Warner Cable Backs Down On Bandwith Caps Company halts trials of "metered broadband" after negative publicity blitz.

Foreclosures Up 9% in First Quarter More Americans face loss of their home.

AT&T Looks To Extend iPhone Exclusivity Company profits nicely from phone's massive popularity.

Food Safety Results Level Off Report urges overhaul of disease outbreak prevention.

Mortgage Rates Edge Lower The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage dipped to 5.18 percent in Bankrate's weekly survey.

State Insurance Commissioners Consider Dropping Consumer Protection Consumer advocates urge task force to reject proposal.

7 Ways to Trash Your Credit Score You can get blemishes on your credit report without even trying.

Recalls ...

April 15, 2009

Consumers Left to Sweep Up as Martha Stewart Tables Shatter Courts, feds, the press, Kmart and Martha turn their backs on consumers.

Floodgates Open in Pistachio Product Recall Nearly 20 manufacturers pull items from shelves due to Salmonella.

Southern California Home Sales Up Again in March Signs of life continue in real estate market.

No Sign of Inflation in March Food and fuel costs register big, surprising drops.

Toymaker Fined $1.1 Million For Consumer Violations Company accused of not providing data on products.

Coming Up with Tax Cash Can't pay your taxes? Don't panic. Here are some options.

Credit Scores Dropping? Credit scoring models haven't changed, but card issuers' practices may punish some scores.

Feds Predict Stable Gas Prices This Summer Higher consumption is being offset by a weakened economy.

West Virginia Sues Texas Debt Settlement Company Crackdown on deceptive marketing for debt relief continues.

Recalls ...

April 14, 2009

Minicars Perform Poorly in Insurance Institute Crash Tests Safety tests show safety trade-off when consumers choose the very smallest car.

GM Recalls 1.5 Million Cars For Fire Hazard Buick Regal; Chevy Lumina, Monte Carlo and Impala; Oldsmobile Intrigue; Pontiac Grand Prix included.

Tax Refunds Likely to Boost Consumer Spending Refunds higher this year, thanks to lower household incomes.

Last-Minute Tax Tips When all else fails, an automatic extension will buy you time.

Tax Tips & News for Procrastinators Everything you need to get your return ready.

Consumers Cut Spending in March Dismal retail sales reports undercut optimism about economy.

Pepsi Takes Coke To Court Over Energy Drink Claims Gatorade vs. Powerade at heart of "false advertising" dispute.

New York Sues Process Server for High-Volume Debt Collectors Company allegedly failed to serve legal notices on consumers; law firm also faces suit.

NJ Tax Prep Firm Ordered to Pay $1.64 Million to Clients Malqui Tax didn't disclose true cost of refund anticipation loans, court finds.

Gas Price Gougers Can Now Do Time in Mississippi New penalties include year in prison, $1,000 fine.

Texas Targets Hurricane Ike Scammers Attorney General charges roofers with deceptive practices.

April 13, 2009

More Pistachio Products Recalled Scores of items pulled from shelves due to possible Salmonella.

Vista Class Action Reaches End of the Road Judge denies amended class, prohibits additional filings.

Texas Charges JK Harris with Misrepresentation Firm overstates its ability to reduce tax debts, suit alleges.

Two More Banks Fail FDIC pays out $131 million to cover closings.

Key Corporate Earnings Due This Week Telltale signs of economic recovery or continuing meltdown.

Two Firms Stopped From Making Unapproved Drugs FDA takes action over untested pharmaceuticals.

Need More Time to File Your Taxes? Just Ask If you just can't finish your taxes by April 15, you can get six more months by just asking Uncle Sam.

Prepayment Fees Can Put Refinance on Hold It's tough to justify a refinance that will cost the homeowner $11,300 in prepayment fees.

No Company Can Erase Bad Debt Be careful of false claims. A credit repair firm can only advise you on ways to improve your credit.

April 11, 2009

Computer Scam Dampens Easter for African-American Churches 'Free' information kiosks cost churches $50,000 and up.

April 10, 2009

Texas Fines Peanut Plant $14.6 Million For Violations State charges PCA subsidiary with unsanitary conditions.

Sprouts Recalled Due To Possible Listeria Connecticut produce farm reports positive contamination tests.

Class Action Filed Against U.S. Fidelis Fraud, high-pressure sales tactics alleged in auto warranty sales.

Gas Prices Level Off Above $2 a Gallon Reduced global demand keeping prices in check.

Easter Bunny on a Budget This Year Fewer families buying gifts or candy for holiday.

Carmakers Aid Laid-Off Workers They'll make your car payment if you lose your job for 'economic reasons.'.

Interest Rate Roundup Here are the latest interest rates and commentary on five common consumer banking products from Bankrate.com's weekly national survey of large banks and thrifts.

Time Heals College Credit Card Mistakes Time is the best cure for a 20-something who made some foolish credit card mistakes in college.

April 9, 2009

Easter Surprise: Bank of America Raises Credit Card Interest Rates Latest increase hits about 4 million customers who carry a monthly balance.

Time Warner: Metered Broadband Will Prevent "Internet Brownouts" Chief operating officer reveals details of tiered pricing plans.

Consumers Change Shopping Lists To Cope With Recession Research firm tracks buying habits in tanking economy.

Physicians Question Asthma Treatment Heartburn medications may cause more problems than they solve.

Mortgage Rates Up Slightly The 30-year fixed mortgage rate rose to 5.2 percent in Bankrate's weekly survey.

Mortgage Rate Trend Index Which way are rates headed? Bankrate surveys the experts.

Cut the Cable with IPTV By substituting Internet television for cable TV, you can save money and watch the programming whenever you want.

Recalls ...

April 8, 2009

Feds Search Peanut Product Distributor in Salmonella Investigation Company refused to provide information on tainted foods.

FCC Launches National Broadband Internet Plan Agency will coordinate stimulus money for nationwide Web access.

Coping With Costly Prescriptions Tips on how to save money while staying healthy.

Mortgage Applications Rise Sharply Low rates, refinancing spur big jumps.

Chronic Heart Failure Patients Benefit From Exercise New study shows that aerobics can lower risks.

Seeking a Safe Haven for Investments Do investment products that claim to protect principal and guarantee minimum returns deliver?

Staying Married to Save Cash The phrase "for richer or poorer" puts divorcing couples to the test during a recession.

New York Auto Lenders Face Jail Time Extended warranty scheme, loan irregularities draw prison sentences.

Recalls ...

April 7, 2009

Alleged Madoff Middleman Charged with Fraud Charities, non-profits lost billions invested with J. Ezra Merkin.

Texas Shuts Down 'Cheap Gas' Scheme 'Magnetic resonance' claims targeted Hispanics.

Time Warner Doubles Down on Metered Broadband Plans Company faces heavy criticism but insists plan is necessary.

FDA Warns About Listeria in Salmon Canadian import may be contaminated.

Lost Baggage Suit Against British Airways Moves Forward "Reckless conduct" exemption cited as backing for class action.

7-Day Tax Filing Plan Time's running out to complete your 1040. Don't panic. Our one-week, hour-a-day filing strategy will help you get your taxes done.

When It's OK to Tap Your IRA Sometimes, especially in this tough economy, you might need to take money out of your IRA. Here's when Uncle Sam says the withdrawal won't cost you extra.

Plant A Garden, Harvest Savings Gardening can save you money on fruits and vegetables — if you do it right.

21st Century Job-Hunting Techniques The Internet in general and social media in particular have changed the nature of the job-search game.

Recalls ...

Pistachio Recall Continues To Expand Testing indicated potential contamination as far back as 2007.

Obama Administration Targets Mortgage Fraud Multiple agencies coordinate efforts to stop scammers.

Wegmans, Trader Joe's, Publix Top Consumer Reports Supermarket Survey New tips to save big and avoid costly in-store mistakes.

Volkswagen May Pass GM for No. 3 Spot Toyota took top title away from GM in 2007.

Consumer Reports: Low-Cost Brokers Score High in Service Consumers find USAA, Vanguard and Edward Jones among the best firms.

Employers Trying To Avoid Further Job Cuts Companies focus on retaining, retrenching through recession.

Homeowners Still Behind On Modified Mortgages Many falling back into default even after aid.

Buying a Home That's Not For Sale An unsolicited offer may spook owners, and they're unlikely to negotiate an overly favorable deal.

FHA Loan Can Save Home Dream An FHA 203(k) loan can provide money to buy a home and rehabilitate it in one transaction.

Recalls ...

Virginia Funeral Home Allegedly Abuses Bodies of Arlington-Bound Veterans Service Corporation International facility accused of letting bodies rot in unrefrigerated storage.

April 3, 2009

More Pistachio Nut Products Recalled Company under FDA investigation as potential source of salmonella.

Two Million Jobs Lost So Far in 2009 More Americans on food stamps as economy crumbles.

Senators Call for Halt to Drywall Importation Additional suits filed as problem spreads to five states.

FCC Pressed To Defend Wireless Open Internet AT&T, T-Mobile accused of cutting services, blocking applications.

Consumers Fall Further Behind on Loan Payments Dismal news in fourth quarter of 2008.

Gas Prices Up Slightly Over Last Week Prices hover around half last year's levels.

Navigating the Changing World of Credit Cards Credit card issuers are imposing negative actions even on good customers. Here's what to watch for.

Banks Cut Off Mortgage Brokers The fallout from the war between brokers and bankers could result in fewer loan choices and higher fees.

April 2, 2009

eHarmony Faces New Lawsuits for "Separate But Equal" Policy Dating site accused of segregating same-sex dating partners.

FDA Investigating Salmonella-Tainted Pistachios Recall expands, calls for stronger testing grow.

Court Rules Against Lawsuits Over Vaccine Injuries Says federal law preempts claims of design defects.

Oil Prices Fall As U.S. Inventories Surge But domestic gas prices continue to rise.

House Votes to Give FDA Regulatory Power Over Tobacco Oversight legislation faces tougher battle in Senate.

Mortgage Rates Drop to Record Low The 30-year fixed mortgage is at 5.13 percent in Bankrate's weekly survey.

Mortgage Rate Trend Index Which way are rates headed? Bankrate.com surveys the experts.

Recalls ...

April 1, 2009

Frito-Lay, Kraft Recall More Foods Containing Pistachios Consumers warned to avoid all pistachios for now.

Time Warner Expands Metered Broadband Billing "Pay-by-byte" plan hitting more markets.

Senate Committee Approves Credit Card Accountability Act Measure would end some of the credit card industry's most abusive practices.

Pending Home Sales Show Some Life Realtors' report shows increase in contracts signed for February.

GMAC Sets Aside $5 Billion For New Car Loans Auto lender will lower finance charges for dealers to boost sales.

Does an Unactivated Credit Card Hurt Score? Many consumers have gotten cards but never activated them. What does this do to their credit scores?

The Latest Treasury Program is No Quick Fix The plan is to get banks lending again, but it could be a while before consumers see benefits.

Divorce Doesn't End Debt Even if a divorce decree divides debt, you're still liable to creditors for jointly held accounts.

Recalls ...

March 31, 2009

Judge Dismisses Amex Class Action Cardholders' travel insurance gripes don't hold up, judge finds.

Kraft Recalls Trail Mix Containing Pistachio Nuts California company recalls thousands of pounds of popular nuts.

Yamaha Agrees to Improve Rhino ATV Safety Yamaha temporarily halts sales of Rhino ATV and offers to repair existing models after nearly 50 deaths.

Congress Moving Toward National Cap On Payday Loans High-interest loans trap low-income consumers in 'spiral of debt'.

Home Prices Down To 2003 Levels in January Existing areas show double-digit declines, even with marginal improvements.

Internet Crime Hit Highest Levels Ever in 2008 New report documents massive jumps in fraud, complaints.

Chase to Refund $4.4 Million in Credit Card Fees Monthly fee was added to balance-transfer accounts.

Computer Worm Set To Evolve April 1 DownAd worm morphs, dives more deeply below the surface.

American Airlines Adding Wi-Fi To Domestic Flights 300 planes will get wireless Internet by 2011.

Recalls ...

March 30, 2009

Chinese Lawsuit Claims Toxins in American Soap, Shampoo U.S. report finds toxins in Johnson & Johnson products.

Federal Government Guarantees GM, Chrysler Warranties Auto task force shakes up Detroit, offers assurances to consumers.

California Payday Lenders Target Blacks, Latinos Report shows heavy concentration in minority communities.

U.S. Raises Vehicle Mileage Standards New industry average at 27.3 miles per gallon.

Banks Targeting Existing Customers To Boost Profits Increases in direct mail to squeeze additional revenue.

Can't Find Work? Look Abroad The foot-loose lifestyle offers employment options often overlooked.

Green Mortgages Offer Savings Make your home energy-efficient and get a break on your mortgage at the same time..

Video: Questions to Ask Before Refinancing With mortgage rates near record low, is it time to refinance?

West Virginia Sues Online Payday Lenders 'Loan sharks of today'.

Realtors Group Warns Of Rental Scam Victims instructed to send money to 'agent' in UK.

March 29, 2009

Cities Go Dark Across The World For Earth Hour Los Angeles event caps 24-hour call to action on climate change.

Auto Lenders Won't Add Old Balance to New Loan Don't expect today's lenders to add your current loan balance to your new vehicle loan.

Get Help Appealing Home Tax Assessment Think your home's assessed value is too high? A third party can handle the grievance process for you.

March 27, 2009

Bail Yourself Out – Here's How Seems like everyone has a bailout plan but you? Create your own in these six money areas.

Debt Settlement Comes With Hefty Fees Talk to credit counselors before signing up for expensive programs.

California Cancels "Big Bad Student Travel" For Student Ripoffs Agency pocketed money and didn't provide promised Spring Break trips.

Vehicle Leasing Costs Going Up Leasing may still be a good deal for some, but buying a vehicle might be a better option.

Mass Transit Riders More Fit Than Drivers Walking to and from bus, train stops helps increase fitness.

Tesla Motors Unveils All-Electric Sedan Model S can travel 300 miles on a single charge.

New Jersey Dodge Dealer Settles Fraud Charges Accused pays $50,000 over falsifying loan applications.

Don't Overlook These Itemized Deductions Tallying up all your expenses can help you cut your tax bill, especially if you claim every deduction the IRS allows.

March 26, 2009

Lawsuit Alleges Best Buy's "Price-Matching" Ignored, Violated Judge certifies New York consumer lawsuit as class action.

Average Gas Price Over $2 a Gallon Prices have been rising steadily since December.

Parties Settle Paxil "Split Pill" Class Action Alleged manufacturing defect in $28M settlement.

Groups Call For Food Safety Overhaul Report wants increased oversight and coordination among responsible agencies.

Pistachio Nuts Subject Of Latest Recall Georgia company says products may be tainted with Salmonella.

Mortgage Rates Drop to Lowest Since the '50s The benchmark 30-year rate mortgage fell to 5.19 percent, according to Bankrate's weekly survey.

New Credit Card Rules Have Downside The credit card reforms may help consumers, but may also bring unintended consequences.

Walking Away from Mortgage is Costly Abandoning a mortgage simply to get a fresh financial start may hurt your credit and trigger taxes.

Feds, States Sue Dish Network Telemarketers violated Do Not Call rules, suits charge.

Recalls ...

March 25, 2009

Evidence Destroyed in Menu Foods Case May Hamper Other Lawsuits One case is settled but controversy over destroyed pet food continues.

Class Action Claims Petland Supports "Puppy Mills" Pet store chain accused of deceiving owners as to origin of puppies.

Digital Converter Box Program Vows to Replace Expired Coupons Feds claim program is back on track after multiple stumbles.

Credit Card Reform Comes Back To Congress Dual hearings emphasize need for changes to industry.

Fed Action Spurs Refinance Frenzy Interest rates drop after massive government buyout.

Omega-3 May Guard Against Advanced Prostate Cancer Fatty-acid heavy diet can slow or prevent disease.

Pilot Offers Advice For Surviving A Plane Crash Simple tips can maximize survival.

Physically Fit Women Less Likely To Die Of Breast Cancer New findings reinforce need for exercise to improve overall health.

Recalls ...

March 24, 2009

Consumers Want Opt-In Choice on Overdraft Coverage Customers irked by sky-high overdraft fees.

Peanut Recall Not Over Yet FDA warns against purchasing products due to possible Salmonella taint.

IIHS Adopts Its Own Roof Safety Standards Subaru and Honda brands among high scorers in new test.

Red Meat Consumption May Increase Death Risk New study shows greater likelihood of cancer occurrence.

Rising Health Premiums Growing Problem For Consumers Even privately insured families have trouble keeping up.

Florida Targets Fraudulent Foreclosure "Rescue" Company charged with deceptive marketing, victimizing Hispanic community.

Connecticut Probes Acai Berry Scams Bogus weight loss claims, unauthorized charges at issue.

Recalls ...

Existing Home Sales Jump Five Percent in One Month Uptick gives hope to sellers and agents alike.

Renters Get Foreclosure Relief Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac's new programs let renters stay in homes that are foreclosed.

California Shuts Down Statewide "Home Repair" Scheme Attorney General, state licensing board target inadequate, overpriced jobs.

Will Readers Pay For Online News? Would you be willing to pay for something you can now get for free? A lot of people are.

Tier IV Pricing Challenges Doctors And Patients New insurance policies leave customers footing more of the bill.

QVC to Settle Deceptive Claims Charges Dietary supplements, anti-cellulite skin cream at issue.

Feds Seize Three More Banks, Two Credit Unions Latest seizures bring total to 20 this year.

Statins Could Prevent More Heart Attacks New study shows preventative benefit beyond that for recovering patients.

Best Times to Shop For Bargains Instead of trawling stores all the time, shop at the right time to get the best deals.

March 22, 2009

Babies, Bathtime, and Cancer? Researcher disputes 'toxic bubble bath' study.

Ten Genes Linked To Sudden Cardiac Death Finding may lead to safer drugs, help identify those most at risk.

March 21, 2009

Court Snuffs Vioxx Suit Individualized issues rule out class action, judge decides.

FDIC Deals with Mounting Bank Failures The FDIC is shutting banks every week, which has some consumers wondering how it will handle losses.

Tell Car Dealer: No "Do-Overs" A signed contract should stand in any new-car deal unless there was intentional misrepresentation.

Where's My Car-Payment Bailout? Bailing out on high car payments is tougher with a lease than with conventional financing.

10 Ways Uncle Sam Helps You Save Money Saving for the future is of paramount importance to all Americans. Luckily, we all have a rich uncle to turn to.

5 Ways to Beat a Ponzi Scheme There are several ways to recover money, but you'll first need good records to fight a Ponzi scheme.

Save Money on Reconditioned Items Big-name retailers offer great deals on reconditioned goods, many of them barely out of the box.

March 20, 2009

Jackie Joyner-Kersee: FDA "Insensitive" to Asthma Patients' Problems Sen. Grassley investigating federally-mandated "death machine" inhalers.

Lawmakers Chastise Food Executives Over Salmonella Outbreak Congress holds inquiry into food safety.

Credit Card Rates on the Rise Fear of delinquency has banks increasing APRs.

Recession Has Consumers Thinking Of Hanging Up Cell Phones Sagging economy has users dropping service, choosing prepaid.

How to Handle Those Impossible Medical Bills Aggressive negotiation works for DCInsider.com's Penny McCracken.

19 States To Probe AIG Bonuses Public outrage builds fire under Congress, state attorneys general.

FDA Expands Alert Over Tainted Weight Loss Products 72 new diet remedies added to list.

Oil Prices Rise but Gas Holds Steady National average remains under $2 a gallon.

Texas Takes on Scams Targeting Seniors Lead card and fake grandchild hoaxes investigated.

March 19, 2009

Massachusetts Okays Cigarette Class Action Against Philip Morris Supreme Court holds that federal laws don't preempt state consumer protections.

Pet Food Class Action Preemptively Thrown Out Judge rules individual inquiries preclude class certification.

California Authorities Arrest "Loan Modification" Scam Artists Defendants charged with bilking homeowners in trouble.

Buick, Jaguar Tops in Dependability in Survey Lexus, Toyota, Mercury round out J.D. Power rankings.

New Jersey Sues Verizon Over Deceptive FiOS Marketing State alleges telecom failed to live up to bargain promises.

Are Identity Theft Services Worth the Cost? "Protection" often does little that consumers can't do for selves.

Mortgage Rates at Near-Record Lows The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage fell to 5.29 percent, according to Bankrate's weekly survey.

Government Helps Homeowners Refinance Looking to refinance? The FHA and VA allow for little equity, and less-than-perfect credit.

Higher Rates Make Home-Equity Loans Less Appealing The large pricing spread on today's HELOCs makes them a potentially poor borrowing option.

10 Common Tax-Filing Mistakes to Avoid Tax law changes have created new tax-filing pitfalls to watch out for, as well as the usual ones we face every filing season.

Penalties for Late Tax Returns If you haven't filed a tax return since 2005, there's no time to waste. But expect to pay hefty penalties.

The Dangers of Debt Consolidation Before you bundle your bills, check out the pros and cons of these consolidation options.

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

Recalls ...

March 18, 2009

ChemNutra Trial Extended Until June Company responsible for importing melamine-tainted products seeks plea.

Microsoft "Vista Capable" Lawsuit Returns Plaintiffs try for narrower approach in second try.

Consumer Prices Rise More Than Forecast Costs of living continue to increase even as economy stagnates.

People Feeling Economic Stress At All Turns Work and home environments suffer as meltdown continues.

Pennsylvania Settles Miley Cyrus Fan Site Suit Fan club members were unable to buy tickets early.

CD Sales Decline, Downloads Rise in 2008 8 million more purchases of digital music in previous year.

Is Credit Card Protection Worth It? Credit card protection plans might help in the event of a job loss, but their cost can add up.

How Long Does Credit Check Affect Score? The impact of a credit check depends on whether it was a hard or soft inquiry, says Credit Card Adviser.

Video: The High Cost of Check-Cashing Services Check cashing services are convenient, but come with a very high price tag.

Recalls ...

March 17, 2009

Consumers Falling Farther Behind On Payments It's not just mortgages — car loans, credit card payments lag.

Southern California Home Sales Up Again Heavy foreclosures spur surprising gains.

5 Must-Haves in a Bankruptcy Lawyer Selecting the right person to handle your bankruptcy can mean the difference between an eventual rebound and long-term pain.

Food Industry Accused of Big Tobacco's Bad Habits Health specialists say two industries share disturbing similarities.

Feds Charge Seven Credit Repair Companies with Deceiving Consumers Companies claimed they could remove negative information from credit reports.

Tempting the Tax Auditor The IRS is coming after more filers. You might be a target if you fly these red flags on your tax return.

Second-Home Market Offers Bargains Careful shoppers may find that many popular U.S. second-home markets are on sale right now.

New Jersey Calls 'Time Out' On Prepaid Calling Cards Seven companies told that every second counts.

Recalls ...

March 16, 2009

Glass Tables an Overlooked Safety Threat Emergency room records document the danger; stricter standards needed.

AIG Behavior Unites Everyone in Outrage Across-the-board condemnation of bailouts used to pay bonuses.

Is Creditworthiness More Than Skin Deep? Lenders make judgments based on appearance when considering loans.

California Cracks Down on Internet Get-Rich-Quick Scams Sites promised consumers they could earn big bucks quickly.

Loan Modifications Can Reduce Foreclosures, Study Says Combining lower payments with write-downs significantly reduces defaults.

New Jersey Cracking Down On Mortgage Fraud Three lawsuits filed on accusations of deceptive lending practices.

Recession Unlikely To Discourage Smoking Tobacco seen as affordable pleasure in tough times.

American Seniors Alliance Settles Texas Charges Packaged and sold seniors' confidential information to telemarketers, solicitors.

Health Care Costs Put U.S. Workers at Significant Disadvantage American workers receive far less bang for their buck than foreign contemporaries.

March 15, 2009

Obama Tackles Food Safety Issues President names new officials to head and reform FDA.

Ski Towns See Hard Times On Slopes Recession's effects felt even in mountaintop resorts.

March 14, 2009

10 Often Overlooked Tax Breaks The tax code is full of ways to cut your taxes, but taxpayers too often miss these ten tax breaks.

Phishing Scams Hop on Banking Turmoil Phishing scams have increased recently, piggybanking on the financial crisis on Wall Street.

Struggling Car Dealers Delay Loan Payoffs Dealers that don't pay off the loan on your trade-in can leave you toting the note.

Rebates Can Bail Out Underwater Car Loans New-car buyers can rescue themselves from "upside-down" auto loans by using rebates to pay off their existing notes.

Want to Negotiate CD Rates? Good Luck Is it realistic to think you can negotiate with a bank for a better CD rate? Bankrate puts it to the test.

Recalls ...

March 13, 2009

Group Raps "Toxic" Bubble Bath Products tested for carcinogenic chemicals.

Gas Prices Holding Steady National average remains under $2 a gallon.

Los Angeles' Ozone Exposure Carries Disease Risks New study measures impact of ozone levels on cities' health.

Survey Shows Consumers Preparing For The Worst Americans hunker down, spend less, save more.

Scammers Use Forged Bank Letterhead to Con California Consumers Attorney General warns homeowners to not be fooled.

Health Experts Seek More Focus on Diagnostic Errors Systemic fixes could prevent many health problems, researchers argue.

FTC Settles With Atlanta Company Over Untimely Rebates Telecom accused of deceptive marketing.

March 12, 2009

Freebee Gas Members Still Waiting For Free Gas Consumers got fumes but little more.

Congress to Tackle Junk Food in Schools Legislation introduced would update nutritional standards, ban unhealthy foods.

Mortgage Rates Fall; Borrowers Wait The benchmark 30-year fixed-rate loan fell to 5.37%, according to Bankrate's weekly survey.

Foreclosure Activity Up Six Percent in February One in 440 houses received a foreclosure filing.

Keep The Faith and Lose The Weight? Church-based program may spur weight loss.

Rate Trend Index -- Mortgages Which way are the rates headed? Bankrate surveys the experts.

The Ins and Outs of Reverse Mortgages You can tap your home equity without having to repay it as long as you live in the house. But it's an expensive loan.

Blood Test May Diagnose Alzheimer's Presence of two specific proteins is key to severity.

New Jersey Funeral Homes Closed For Body Parts Harvesting Director allowed to retain ownership, but placed under restriction.

Can Kegel Exercises Stop Incontinence In Women? Simple exercises to prevent pelvic disorders.

Recalls ...

March 11, 2009

FDA Warns of Contaminated Cheese Mexican-style cheese may be contaminated with Listeria.

Bankrupt Fortunoff Will Fill Prepaid Orders on In-Stock Furniture Attorney General intervenes after flood of consumer complaints.

Honda To Sell Hybrid For Under $20,000 Hopes to cut Toyota's lead in the U.S. hybrid market.

Government Reveals First Steps For Broadband Plans Details remain scarce as agencies emphasize public comment.

California Acts Against Subprime Auto Lender Lobel Financial accused of harassing and intimidating borrowers.

DOT Warns Of Airport Safety Issues New report highlights problems on the runways.

IRS To Beef Up Ranks After Canceling Private Debt Collection Agency to look for more "in-house" options to collect back taxes.

Social Networks & Blogs Fastest-Growing Online Activity "Member communities" evolving into integral online experience.

Why Doesn't State Usury Law Protect Me? Federal law supersedes state law when it comes to credit card interest rates.

Recalls ...

March 10, 2009

Maytag Announces Massive Recall of Fire-Prone Refrigerators Multiple brands recalled following 41 reports of overheating.

Is Organized Crime Behind the Wall Street Meltdown? Commentator Ivan Fail's view is provocative if not widely shared.

Oil Prices Are Marching Higher Again But will the trend continue, and for how long?

Feds Spoof Bogus Credit Report Offers FTC composes its own catchy jingle to counter commercial offers.

States Battle Feds To Enforce Lending Laws Attorneys General want more power to stop predatory lending.

Mortgage Rates Stay Steady for Third Straight Week Massachusetts, Connecticut, California see big drops.

U.S. Employers Foresee Subdued Hiring Activity 14 percent of those surveyed see slow employee growth in second quarter.

Nurse Practitioners May Be Influenced by Drug Company Perks British researchers study influence of marketing on medical sector.

Are You Eligible for Mortgage Help? A Q&A clarifies the details surrounding the federal government's new Making Home Affordable Plan.

Others Not Liable for Card Owner's Debt When a credit card holder dies, authorized users are not responsible for the account's debt.

Video: How to Sell Your Gold Jewelry You might consider selling gold jewelry while gold prices are still high. Here's how.

March 9, 2009

Supreme Court Strikes Down Mandatory Credit Card Arbitration Decision is big victory for consumers.

FDA Closes Tortilla Plant Unsanitary conditions found at Chicago company's plant.

Consumer Fighting Mad at Banks The financial bailout is fueling consumers' anger towards banks that have abused them for years.

FBI Warns of Online Car-Sales Scam Scam artists pose as military personnel about to be deployed.

Identity Thieves Prowling for Job Seekers Fake job ads up 345% as recession creates opportunities for scam artists.

Taxpayers Filing Earlier This Year Early birds get bigger refunds.

Using A Cellphone? Make Sure to Stand Still More studies claim cell use causes traffic, foot accidents.

Online Tools Help Spot Financial Fraud "Meters" help investors gauge trustworthiness of potential buys.

Families That Eat Together Means Kids Eating Better New research shows healthier diets from regular family meals.

March 6, 2009

Extendicare Suit Tossed for Vagueness Judge says allegations are not specific enough.

Gas Prices Jump as Inventories Fall National average up a nickel in the last week.

Mortgage Delinquencies Continue to Climb Filings for foreclosure continue to break records.

Six Companies Stop Using Bisphenol-A In Bottles Mounting evidence that chemical is dangerous despite FDA claims.

DTV Coupon Program Back On Track Government promises to clear backlog of requests.

'Summer' Gas Pricier but More Efficient Removing additives from gasoline in warmer months for environmental reasons helps push up the price per gallon.

$1.3 Billion in Refunds Awaiting Owners The IRS wants to hand out $1.3 billion in refunds that were never claimed. Some of the money might be yours.

Knowing CPR Could Save Someone's Life What to do in case of emergency.

Older Drinkers Get Drunk Faster Study finds older adults become impaired without realizing it.

March 5, 2009

Government Giving Away Money? Don't Count On It Ads promising personal grants are scams ... at best.

One Of Five U.S. Mortgages Under Water Over 8 million homes had negative equity in December.

Doctors Gagging Patients Physicians insist patients aren't competent to criticize them.

Financial Fraud Hits 7.5 Percent Of Americans In 2008 Data breaches lead to big changes in buying practices.

Supreme Court Upholds Consumers' Right to Sue Drug Companies In State Court Court ruled in favor of musician who lost her arm.

Obama Begins Mortgage Rescue Program Mortgage rescue plan aims to help responsible, troubled homeowners.

Curled Up With the Kindle 2 Latest ebook can save you time and maybe even money.

House Bill Would Give FDA Tobacco-Regulating Power Legislation has many hurdles left before becoming law.

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

Mortgage Rates Remain Unchanged A lousy week on Wall Street didn't have much effect on mortgage rates.

Recalls ...

March 4, 2009

America Betrayed: Report Blasts Wall Street, DC Corruption for Financial Disaster Legal bribes, influence peddling led to excessive deregulation.

FDIC Warns It's Running Out of Funds Flurry of bank failures could burn through FDIC's reserves.

NY to AT&T: Please Deposit $2.63 Million State charges rebate offers were "onerous and condition-laden."

FTC Warns Consumers About "Stimulus" Scams Don't fall for ads promising government payouts.

Illinois Charges Car Dealers' Stimulus Ads Are Scams Ads claim consumers won't pay sales tax on auto purchases.

FDA Falls Short in Regulating Dietary Supplements Government report finds agency behind the curve in oversight.

Alcohol Abuse May Cause Depression New study claims heavy drinking causes mood disorder.

Net Neutrality Advocate Tapped As FCC Head Genachowski expected to support Internet openness.

Mending the Cracked Nest Egg Lawmakers are talking to academics and industry experts about how to fix America's retirement system.

10 Ways to Land More Financial Aid During tight times, many will be asking for more college aid. Here are 10 tips to help get it.

Is a Credit Card Application by Phone Valid? Cardholder asks if he is liable for charges if the application was taken over the phone and never signed.

Recalls ...

March 3, 2009

Radio Shack, AT&T Face Class Action Suit $99 Acer notebook deal really was too good to be true, suit charges.

Peanut-Related Recalls Continue Granola, cookies among latest recalled products.

Taxpayer, Government Lose With Quickie Refund Loans High fees drain money and constrain spending power.

New Flu Bug Proves Resistant to Antiviral Drugs Tamiflu no longer effective against current strain.

Johnson & Johnson Fined $4.47 Million For Deceptive Marketing Pharmaceutical subsidiary allegedly made false statements about drugs.

New Jersey Steps Up Cell Phone Law Enforcement Police departments crack down on talking while driving.

Teens Who Wear Alcohol-Branded Gear More Likely To Drink Study claims that marketing is specially geared to teens.

Video: Paying Off Debt Bankrate talks to a credit counselor.

Coping With Debt When You're Laid Off Pink-slipped workers may benefit from posting their own "help wanted" appeal with creditors.

Big Break for Lower-Income Taxpayers If you don't make a lot, the earned income tax credit could help you get some cash back from Uncle Sam.

March 2, 2009

New Car Sales Plunge in February Purchases plummet 38 percent from one year ago.

FreeCreditReport.Com Is Far From "Free" Service lures buyers into paying for credit monitoring.

Teens Want To Learn More About Money Many young adults still pick up financial acumen the hard way.

Older Americans Have Nutrition Deficit Lack of healthy diet cuts across ethnic groups.

Virus Hits Cruise Ship On First Day At Sea Sick passengers deep-six voyage.

Secured Credit Cards Harder to Get Secured cards are becoming scarce. Here's what you need to know to get one.

Should You Always File a Joint Return? It usually makes sense to file jointly, but some circumstances warrant separate filings.

How Did Home Values Fare in Your Area? Get the 4th quarter results from the national survey of existing home sales.

Recalls today ...

March 1, 2009

Consumer Protection in Tough Times Annual event emphasizes coping skills in trying economic climate.

American Express Safe from Class Actions? Court Says No In big win for consumers, federal appeals court turns aside Amex claims.

GM Mastercard Rebate Points Remain Safe GM bankruptcy not likely to wipe out rebate points accumulated on GM Mastercards.

Your Taxes From A to Z Doing your taxes is not as easy as ABC, but these tips could make the process less difficult.

February 27, 2009

Prius Tops Consumer Reports Best New-Car Value List Other top picks include Mini Cooper, VW Rabbit, Honda Civic EX & Fit.

Senate Bill Would Rein in Payday Lenders Proposed legislation would cap interest rates.

Gas Prices Falling Again National average slides downward after approaching $2 a gallon.

Surface Water May Be Source Of Salmonella Researchers find high levels of contamination in fresh water.

Video: What's Your Car Worth?Determining a used car's value is difficult in today's economy.

Assurance Plans Attract Nervous Car Buyers Hyundai finds a way to attract new-car buyers who are worried about losing their jobs.

Video: Invest or Pay Off Credit Card? It's almost always better to pay off your credit cards debts than to put money in a savings account.

Lexus Dealers Win Top Marks in Survey Luxury automaker ranks highest in customer satisfaction.

Seniors More Vulnerable to Diarrhea Tips to handle this unpleasant condition.

Report Finds Many Cancers Can Be Prevented Healthier lifestyles can lead to lower risk.

February 26, 2009

Another Peanut Corp. Plant Tests Positive for Salmonella Texas plant sample tests positive for strain that caused nationwide outbreak.

GM Records Fourth Year Without a Profit Troubled auto giant burns through $5 billion in cash in one quarter.

Banks Lost $26 Billion in Fourth Quarter While many banks remain stable, big losses overshadow the rest.

Economic Concerns and Gas Prices Keep Consumers Driving Less Behavioral shift seen as long-term.

Congress Takes Up Boomer Retirement Woes Many boomers having second thoughts about retiring.

Virginia Considers Measure Aimed At Payday Lenders Lawmakers vote to close loophole enabling high-cost loans.

Florida Court Blocks Loan Modification Company's Fees Order prevents charging of up-front payments to help homeowners.

Anti-Aging Becomes Top Facial Skincare Seller in 2008 Times may be bad, but that doesn't mean you have to look bad.

Clever Argument, But New Jersey Court Rejects It Dodge dealer's defense in registration fee case is a non-starter.

Toshiba Settles TV Lamp Suit Bulbs failed much sooner than expected.

Recalls today ...

February 25, 2009

Fortunoff Liquidators Agree to Honor Gift Cards $8.5 million in gift cards, credit slips at stake.

Capital One Interest Rate Hikes Anger Customers Even those with high credit scores are affected.

Consumers Increasingly Worried About Recession Survey finds bleak sentiment about economy, future.

Existing Home Sales Fall 5.3 Percent In January Homebuyers still sit on the sidelines as prices drop.

Medtronic To Disclose Payments To Doctors Company gets ahead of proposed regulations.

Massachusetts Settles Charges Against Chubb Company was accused of $3 million deal to garner favorable business.

Mortgage Bankers Respond to Obama Plan While the Mortgage Bankers Association agrees with the housing plan, they've also got suggestions.

Selling Your Home in a Crowded Market Here are seven ways to boost the odds of selling a home amid multiple "for sale" signs on your block.

Newly Unemployed Get Stimulus Help Stimulus legislation helps the unemployed through a health care subsidy and weekly benefit increase.

Issuer May Help Jobless Cardholder A newly jobless cardholder with good credit may be eligible for hardship treatment.

Video: Bad Insurance Buys Understanding insurance is a good policy that helps insure you don't waste money.

February 24, 2009

Fortunoff Bankruptcy Wipes Out Gift Cards Little to no warning for New York-area shoppers.

Ticketmaster Settles Bruce Springsteen Ticket Dust-Up Ticketmaster agrees to "wall off" TicketsNow.com reseller.

Consumer Confidence At Record Low In February Employment, earnings fears drive sentiment down.

Experts Worry About Web's Impact On Teens Social networking sites seen as potential hazard.

Recession May Deal Green Movement A Setback Consumers trim spending on environmentally-friendly products.

Vitamins, Folic Acid May Slow Vision Loss B6 and B12 can help older women retain sight.

Kids May Benefit From Time With Grandparents Bonding with elders may improve social skills, behavior.

Choose Retirement Plan That Matches You Roth IRA or 401(k)? The right answer depends on your circumstances and retirement dreams.

Stimulus Offers Modest Auto Savings The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act offers a tax break for people who buy a new car in 2009.

Commuting Costs Got You Down? Some companies are making employees' treks to the office cheaper with tax-saving commuter accounts.

4 Ways Stimulus Helps Home Owners and Buyers The stimulus package offers four key financial breaks for new homebuyers and current homeowners.

Recalls today ...

February 23, 2009

More Pet Foods Added to Salmonella Recall Dog treats pulled from shelves on fears of contamination.

Asthma Patients Get Scant Response to Problems with New Inhalers Government agencies "sympathize" but offer little more than that.

Economists See Recession Continuing Through First Half of 2009 Bad data on jobs, markets makes business roundtable pessimistic.

Chinese Drywall a Threat to Homeowners? Drywall emits harmful sulfuric odors, homeowner lawsuits charge.

PSA Testing May Be Unnecessary for Some Older Men New study says some seniors may not be at risk for prostate cancer.

Mail and Electronic Reminders May Increase Colon Cancer Screening Reminders to physicians produce modest boost in tests.

Pay-As-You-Drive Insurance Cut premiums with pay-as-you-drive, but watch out for surcharges.

4 Ways Stimulus Helps Homeowner, Buyer The stimulus package offers four key financial breaks for new homebuyers and current homeowners.

Old Debt Can Still Bite You With collection of an old debt still looming, negotiate payments over time and back up your plea.

Recalls today ...

February 22, 2009

Peanut Recall Expanded To "All Ingredients" Peanut Corp. advises customers not to use any products from its plants.

Non-Profits Can Help Solve Foreclosure Crisis If corporate mortgage holders won't help, they should get out of the way.

Some Cars Save More than Gas A vehicle that runs on alternative fuel could provide big tax breaks.

Video: How to Lower Your Property Taxes The only upside of declining real estate values may be lower property taxes.

Work History is Key to Refinance Approval Lenders scrutinize work history before deciding whether to approve new loans.

Oregon Bank Fails; No. 14 This Year Big banks in spotlight but many small banks in trouble too.

Psoriasis Drug Linked To Three Deaths Raptiva blamed for rare brain infection in four patients.

February 21, 2009

Stimulus Tax Payout Will Be Small A third of the stimulus package is tax relief, but it puts only a few more dollars in your paycheck.

5 Stupid Tax Mistakes Steve Bucci lists the top five ways to make your tax season bleak.

Myth: Aftermarket Gear Voids Car Warranty Buyers may soon be able to personalize their new cars without endangering the manufacturer's warranty.

February 20, 2009

Medicine Abroad: Cheap But At What Cost? The cost of a medical procedure can't always be measured in dollars.

Judge Nixes 'Vista Capable' Class Action Against Microsoft No proof of class-wide causation, judge rules.

Gas Prices Down for the Week Is downward trend temporary or long-term?

Inflation Jumps in January Gas prices increase, while food prices slump.

Video: Credit Card Changes Affect Almost Everyone Issuers adapting quickly to tough credit environment.

Hospital Stays Increase for Uninsured Americans Bills on the rise for various ailments.

Split Your Direct Deposit to Save More Money Automatic saving can help build nest egg with no effort.

Living Near Fast Food May Raise Stroke Risk 13% increase in risk for neighborhoods with lots of fast food outlets.

Drinker's Nose Not Just for Tipplers That red, bumpy nose comes from rosacea, not from over-imbibing.

February 19, 2009

China in Uproar Over Organ Transplants to Foreigners Wealthy Japanese got organs ahead of needy Chinese.

Obama's Foreclosure Plan Wins Early Support Mortgage rescue plan aims to help responsible, troubled homeowners.

Climbing the Roadway to Heaven Saturn sets off on the journey from which no car returns.

Mortgage Rates Approaching 5 Percent 30-year rates hit tempting levels for new buyers.

Derailed Boomers Changing Retirement Plans Stock market volatility stirs feelings of dread.

West Virginia Targets Debt Relief Scammers Texas company to pay nearly $36,000 for false charges.

Implant May Restore Eyesight New treatment prevents overcharged immune system from causing blindness.

Interest Rate Roundup Here are the latest interest rates and commentary on five common consumer banking products from Bankrate.com's weekly national survey of large banks and thrifts.

7 DIY Car Maintenance Tips You don't have to be a mechanic to make these simple checks.

Buy Stocks When They're Cheap When the going gets tough, the tough go shopping for stocks. Right now there's a fire sale, says PBS WealthTrack host Consuelo Mack.

Recalls today ...

February 18, 2009

Asthma Patients Outraged at Indifference to Problems with New Inhalers Lack of concern by government agencies "criminal," say patients who fear the new inhalers will kill them.

How Can You Benefit From The Obama Mortgage Plan? Mortgage rescue plan aims to help responsible, troubled homeowners.

Florida Seeks to Outlaw Cramming Proposal would prohibit billing of third-party charges by phone companies.

GM, Chrysler Say They Need More Money GM could run out of money next month, Chrysler warns of bankruptcy.

Video: Is A Secured Credit Card A Good Option? As credit shrinks, a secured card can work for some.

JetBlue To Offer Refunds If You Lose Your Job The latest trend? First Hyundai, now JetBlue.

Boost Your Credit Score After Bankruptcy Bankruptcy can taint your credit report for up to 10 years, but you can boost it much sooner.

Refinance May Be Worth Paying Penalty In some cases, it makes sense to refinance even if you have to pay a mortgage prepayment penalty.

Customer Satisfaction Improves Despite Economic Woes Stock brokers, banks, e-commerce dip, retail up slightly.

Researchers Cast Doubt on Role of Free Radicals in Aging So much for antioxidant therapies; studies find no significant effect.

Recalls today ...

February 17, 2009

CIGNA Bows to NY, Agrees to Clean Up Reimbursement Rates Company will donate $10 million to establish new nationwide database.

Retirees Targeted in Texas Investment Scam "Life Settlement" scheme promised guaranteed returns.

Keeping the Auto Repo Man at Bay Act quickly if you foresee trouble making your car payments. Here's what you can do.

Credit Cardholders Have Rights Many industry practices have become unfair, deceptive and anticompetitive, says Congresswoman Maloney.

Taxpayer Rights Just One Click Away IRS problems? There’s a Web site you can visit to check out your taxpayer rights.

Airline Traffic Descends as Economy Takes a Dive Fuel costs less but where are all the passengers?

Coffee May Cut Stroke Risk In Women But not for coffee-drinkers who smoke.

Good Dental Hygiene Linked to Heart Health Diseased gums can lead to endocarditis, other dangerous infections.

Recalls today ...

February 16, 2009

Asthma Sufferers Live in Fear of New Inhalers Do new rules pit human life against the ozone layer?

Credit Card Accountability Act Resurfaces in Senate Chris Dodd's bill would speed reforms set for 2010.

Text Phishing Scam Making the Rounds Again Scam artists try to capture ATM, credit card numbers.

FCC Greenlights Some-But Not All-DTV Broadcasts Stations must ensure public access channels are available.

How to Check Your Bank's FDIC Status It should be easy to determine if a bank is a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.

Four More Banks Fail Regulators close 13 so far this year.

Top Ways to Trim College Costs There are several things students can do to help their parents trim college costs.

Bankrupt Builder Burns Buyers When a builder files for bankruptcy, it's only the beginning of bad news for buyers.

February 15, 2009

Retirees Get Money Break in 2009 Retirees won't have to take a required mandatory distribution from their accounts during 2009.

Auto Gap Insurance May Be a Good Idea Gap insurance has become a good idea for anyone who owes more on their car than it's worth.

Ignoring Bank Cutoff Can Be Costly Bank cutoff times determine when a transaction is official, so know your institution's rules.

February 14, 2009

Peanut Corporation Faces Damage Suits, Class Actions Company's bankruptcy won't necessarily derail litigation efforts.

Peanut Corporation of America Files for Bankruptcy Recalls push scandalized company into Chapter 7.

February 13, 2009

Gas Prices Keep Rising Despite Cheaper Oil Refineries trim production, pushing prices up.

Florida Sues Gas Redemption Coupon Promoters Freebeegas, Freegasredemption coupons not honored, suit charges.

Federal Court: MMR Vaccine Does Not Cause Autism Ruling not likely to end debate over widely-diagnosed disorder.

Property Tax Reduction Scams Spreading, California Warns Scam targets homeowners with declining property values.

Homeowner Bailout May Be In The Works Stock market surges on report of mortgage workout plan.

Texas Launches Restitution Program for Countrywide Customers More than $7 million available to Texas foreclosure victims.

Rules of the Credit Card Game The credit card contract is so one-sided that only one party can change the deal at whim.

Starbucks Brews Up an Instant Blend New "Via" said to be a "breakthrough in soluble coffee".

Compound Can Identify Prostate Cancer Finding could make diagnosis more precise.

Get New Car Discount by Joining Credit Union Buyers of most GM and Chrysler products can get a significant discount simply by being a member of a credit union.

Lease Car Repo Can Be Costly If your leased car is repossessed you will be charged with all the remaining payments plus fees.

Last-Minute Weddings for Less There are still ways to tie the knot on the cheap.

February 12, 2009

Lawsuits On the Trail of Nutro, Canidae Pet Foods Pet owners' complaints of death, illness headed for court.

Mortgage Rates Fall in Uncertain Time Mortgage rates fell as investors wondered what the Obama administration will do to fix the broken banking system.

Despite Moratorium, Foreclosures Surge In January But numbers fall ten percent from December's high.

Video: When to Lock In a Mortgage Rate With mortgage rates moving up and down quickly, it pays to lock in a favorable rate.

Video: Coping With A Bad Economy You can't fix the economy but you can help yourself.

Don't Fall For Valentine's e-Card Scam It loves you not.

Spending Secrets Bad for Marriage Know your partner's spending habits in advance.

February 11, 2009

PCA Shuts Second Peanut Plant In Salmonella Scare Texas plant closed after tests find possible contamination.

Sirius XM Near Bankruptcy Recession, slumping auto sales contribute to satellite broadcaster's woes.

Three Big Pickups Look Wimpy in Side Tests Silverado, Ram, Titan do poor job of protecting passengers.

Outpatient Surgeries on the Rise More Americans getting sent home the same day.

NBA Under Pressure on Alcohol Ads Coalition wants liquor promotions stopped.

Diet May Be Factor in Memory Retention Healthier eating can reduce risk of Alzheimer's.

FTC Busts 'Free' Sample Scams Weight-loss supplement makers settle deceptive marketing claims.

Is Debt Settlement a Good Idea? Companies that offer to lower your credit card debt make it sound so easy. Here's what you should know before you sign up.

First-Time Homebuyer Tax Credit Rules Buying from a relative doesn't necessarily disqualify you from claiming the homebuyer tax credit.

Slash Car Insurance Premiums Auto insurance is often thought of as a "fixed" expense, but there are plenty of ways you can cut your annual costs.

Recalls today ...

February 10, 2009

Bank Bailout Plan Has Provision For Consumers Wall Street distinctly unhappy with latest government proposal.

Organizing Your Health Records Waiting for the government to act isn't the solution.

Illinois Sues Credit Service for Cramming US Credit Find places unauthorized charges on phone bills, state charges.

Another Study Discounts Vitamin Benefits Daily vitamin pills show little effect in postmenopausal women.

Credit Card Changes May Hurt Consumers The credit card industry is changing fast, leaving cardholders at risk, says personal finance expert Emily Peters.

4 Key Expenses Not To Cut In a bad economy, don't be so quick with the scissors. Some budget cuts you make now will cost more later.

Marijuana Use Linked To Testicular Cancer Study finds 70% higher risk in marijuana users.

Florida Foreclosure "Rescue" Company Shut Down HomeKeeper USA violated fraud prevention law, state alleged.

Bayer Agrees to Correct Misleading Information about Yaz Oral contraceptive was promoted for non-approved uses.

Countrywide Settles Charges With West Virginia Lender to pay nearly $341,000 to homeowners facing foreclosure.

New Factor in Teen Obesity: Parents Study of California families finds bad examples set by adults.

Recalls today ...

February 9, 2009

FCC's Adelstein: DTV Transition "Not Ready for Prime Time" Commissioner urges quick action even with reset deadline.

How to Build a Great Credit Score In these days of not-so-easy credit, consumers with limited credit histories can still build a great credit score.

Trim — Don't Cancel — Life Insurance Life insurance is a tempting place to cut expenses, but trimming premiums is a better option than letting your policy lapse.

Unemployed? Hoard Cash If you're unemployed, use your credit card on essentials to save cash but don't take cash advances.

Hiring Could Hit Deep Freeze in February Manufacturing and service sectors both face steep declines.

Starbucks Tries a Downscale Approach Coffee giant offers "value meal" to compete in hard times.

Report Finds Bank Bailout Bad Deal For Taxpayers So Far Congressional Oversight Panel finds TARP overpaid for assets.

FDIC Closes Three More Banks Nine closed so far this year.

Video: Can Money Buy Happiness? Yes, if it's spent well, study suggests.

February 7, 2009

Wells Fargo Suit Charges Appraisal Price Gouging Hundreds of thousands of homebuyers may have been victimized.

10 Cheap Ways to Win Her Heart Enjoy Valentine's Day without spending too much.

Closing a Secured Card Account It may not hurt your FICO score, depending on your available-to-used credit ratio.

Video: Sell Big Car To Get a Small One? Here's how to determine if it's worth swapping a gas guzzler for a sipper.

Contract Negates Car Salesman's Oral Promises No matter what a dealer or salesman tells you the terms of the contract are all that matter.

February 6, 2009

Judge Orders Feds to Stop Sale of Toxin-Laden Toys Safety agency had looked the other way as phthalate-laden toys remained on shelves.

Key Senator Blasts FDA Over Food Safety Agency relies on states, companies to police themselves.

Gas Prices Creep Toward $2 A Gallon Price of gas climbs as oil prices drop; go figure.

Possible Drug Target Found for Obesity Treatment Mutant gene dampens energy-burning ability while leaving appetite intact.

Don't Stuff Every Dime Into Your 401K Plan While it's important to save for tomorrow, remember to create financial flexibility for today.

1 Million Xbox Users Getting Netflix Video rental giant thrives in down economy.

Credit Card Pitches Fall Sharply Businesses shift to wealthier customers as economy tanks.

NY Attorney General Seeks Jail Time for Accused Diploma Peddler Long Island man accused of selling fake study courses.

Highway Deaths Plunge in 2008 Fewer drivers on the road means fewer accidents.

Can Pacemakers Hinder Your Sex Life? Only if powerful magnets are involved.

February 5, 2009

Senate Bill Would Pay You To Buy a House Lawmakers hoping to revive housing industry.

Job Cuts Soar to Seven-Year High Retail downsizing pushes planned cuts to nearly 250,000.

Experian To Stop Selling Credit Scores To Consumers Dispute with Fair Isaac leads to cutoff after February 15th.

Mortgage Rates Remain Below 6 Percent The benchmark 30-year fixed rate rose this week to 5.70 percent.

How Much is Enough for Retirement? Many people are questioning if they can still afford to retire early, on time, or at all.

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?

Easy Ways To Go Vegetarian A vegetarian diet is healthful and can help you stay slender.

Tobacco And Alcohol Worse in Combination Two bad tastes that taste bad together.

Weight Management Requires "Lifelong Commitment" Keeping weight off is as important as losing it.

Recalls today ...

February 4, 2009

How Miraculous is the Amish Fireplace? 'Free' 1500-watt made-in-China space heater costs $300.

House Votes To Delay DTV Transition New date set for June 12; Obama expected to sign.

Class Action Filed Over Chase Credit Card Fees Bank demands "monthly service fee," higher payments.

Countrywide Reaches $2.1 Million Settlement With Maryland Lender charged with deceptive lending practices.

Analysts Applaud Senate Effort to Cap Bailout Pay Measure is stronger than White House salary cap plan.

Insulin May Combat Alzheimer's New research points to potential in diabetics' medicine.

Kenmore Dryer Suit Hung Out to Dry Failed class action may dampen attorneys' enthusiasm for consumer cases.

Video: Do Women Really Hate Car Shopping? Car salesmen beware: women are in the driver's seat.

Car Buyers Seeking Higher Fuel Economy Consumers not lulled by current low gas prices.

Broken Bones May Hike Death Risk For Seniors Osteoporotic fracture data studied for signs of increased mortality.

Recalls today ...

February 3, 2009

Study: Americans Take Unnecessary Risks Even small changes in behavior can save lives.

Pending Home Sales Rise in December Light at the end of the housing market tunnel?

States Urge Large-Scale Loan Mortgage Modifications Attorneys General call on Feds to prevent foreclosures.

California, Feds Sue Over Generic Testosterone Companies accused of monopolizing supplement sales.

Pricey Pet Food Not Necessarily Better Consumer Reports advises consumers about what to look for on pet-food labels.

Study Questions Vitamin Benefits For Kids Varied diet provides plenty of nutrients for healthy children.

Soy May Guard Against Some Cancers Study finds reduction in colorectal cancers among women.

Job Hunters: Beware of Rebate-Processing Scams Tough economy raises interest in work-at-home jobs.

Auto Warranty Solicitations Plague Consumers Telemarketing calls may be bogus, BBB warns.

Deducting the Cost of an Education The owner of an S corporation won't be able to deduct the cost of her beautician's license, says CPA George Saenz.

10 Must-Know IRA Terms Here's the plain-English guide to some of the terms you'll likely encounter as you set up and manage your account.

Video: Haggling For a Better Deal Bargaining for a better deal can save you money.

February 2, 2009

Feds Delay New Product Safety Testing Rules One-year delay may not be popular with child safety advocates.

Aetna Agrees to Reimburse Students' Health Insurance Claims Settlement with New York covers more than 200 colleges nationwide.

Peanut Butter Recall Claims Still More Products More than 20 companies added to list.

Consumers Spending Less, Saving More Cash hoarding will help economy in long term, expert says.

Honda Fit Tops Consumer Reports' Subcompact Ratings Fit outscores Yaris, Versa, Aveo, other contenders.

Family Sedans May Be Good Car Choices Today Tough economic climate spurs buyers to reassess car needs.

Video: Avoiding Foreclosure Rescue Scams Hard times breed new tricks.

New Credit Card Rules from the Fed Some consumer "unfriendly" credit card practices may soon be changed by the Federal Reserve.

10 New Tax Laws You Need To Know Tax laws change every year. Here are 10 that could affect your 2008 return and your 2009 tax planning.

Refinancing May Not Wipe Out PMI Refinancing will not be enough to help a homeowner eliminate her private mortgage insurance payments.

February 1, 2009

Feds Open Criminal Probe of Peanut Producer Massive recall continues; Obama promises tougher food safety oversight.

When to Refinance Your Mortgage As mortgage rates plunge, it becomes more tempting to refinance. Find out if such a move makes sense for you.

Cut The Cable With Internet Television By substituting Internet television for cable TV, you can save money and watch the programming whenever you want.

Qualifying For Unemployment In a recession, more jobless people claim unemployment, but whether you get it can depend on state rules.

January 31, 2009

Fannie, Freddie Put Off Evictions until March Moratorium applies to owners and renters in single-family homes.

FDA Urged to Ditch Darvon Old painkiller is a plain old killer, Public Citizen argues.

Gas Prices Hold Steady For The Week Most of the country still below the $2 point.

The Most Expensive Coffee Isn't Necessarily the Best Consumer Reports finds Eight O'Clock 100% Colombian coffee beats rivals.

Bank Of America Sued In Internet Ponzi Scheme Hundreds of millions of dollars collected in gigantic swindle.

Ice Cream, Cookies, Donuts Join the Massive Peanut Butter Recall List List of potentially contaminated food continues to grow.

Temporary Tag Snafu a Tip-Off A dealer unable or unwilling to provide a permanent license tag is hiding something.

Weigh Taxes Before Prepaying Mortgage It may or may not make good tax sense to prepay.

Former Congressman Named In Investment Scam Investors in Bidbay.com bilked, prosecutors charge.

Colonoscopy Is Nothing to Dread The preparation is not much fun, though.

January 29, 2009

Peanut Recall Expands as Feds Release Findings Peanut Corp. has long history of problems, FDA reports.

Congresswoman Demands Peanut Probe Peanut Corp.'s actions "criminal:" Rep. DeLauro.

New Home Sales Hit Record Low Sales down 45% from a year ago.

Foreclosure Tax Double-Whammy Eased Congress eases taxation on home lost to debt or forgiveness.

Mortgage Rates Fall Below 5.5% Rates are low but home inventories high. How come?

No-Penalty CDs: Good Deal or Not? They offer safety and access; be sure to shop for the best yield.

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

Postal Service May Seek Service Cut Slump in revenue imperils Saturday deliveries.

Starbucks Closes More Stores, Lays Off 6,700 Economizing consumers cut caffeine intake, slurp cheaper brews.

Recalls today ...

January 28, 2009

Changing Signals on Digital TV Transition House fails to go along with Senate in delaying Feb. 17 deadline.

Feds: Peanut Corporation Knew of Salmonella Problem Company allegedly shipped its peanut butter knowing it could be contaminated.

Diet, Energy Bars Among Latest Peanut Butter Recalls List of potentially contaminated food continues to grow.

Fed To Modify Some Troubled Mortgages Bail-out funds trickle down to troubled homeowners.

The Fed's Toolbox In an attempt to jump-start the economy, the Fed has devised an array of tools.

What To Do When A Business Shuts Its Doors Customers can be left in the lurch when a business liquidates.

Video: 10 Dollar-Store Duds Comparison shopping and unit pricing will help you find deals and duds at the dollar store.

Zero-Coupon Bonds Can Be Good Investments Be sure you make decisions based on today's markets and rates.

Beware Of Super Bowl Scams Annual tradition includes scams aimed at excited fans.

Video: Choosing a Nursing Home It boils down to one question.

Recalls today ...

January 27, 2009

Senate Approves Delay In Digital TV Transition Millions of consumers unable to meet Feb. 17 deadline.

Consumer Confidence Sinks Even Lower Index inches down from December, remains at record low.

Peanut Butter Recalls Taper Off At least 7 deaths, 500 illnesses blamed on Salmonella-contaminated peanut products.

Tax Consequences of Defaulting on Your Mortgage The bank's actions will drive the tax consequences of walking away from a mortgage.

Appraisals Taking a Double Hit New, devalued homes and foreclosures are a double whammy on owners hoping to refinance.

Avoiding Work-at-Home Scams As the economy cools, work-at-home scams are heating up.

Talking While Walking May Put Kids At Risk Higher risk of injury among pedestrians who are on the phone.

Heart Association Touts Omega-6 Fatty Acids Recommends consumers get 5-10% of calories from omega-6.

Unemployed Workers Struggle To Pay Health Insurance Only 9% able to afford COBRA, report finds.

Recalls today ...

January 26, 2009

Tainted Peanut Butter Claims Seventh Victim More recalls of health bars, candies, cookies, other products.

Home Sales Rise As Prices Fall Prices plunged a record 15.3% in December.

Travel Sites Agree to Improve Service to Disabled Consumers Hotels.com, Expedia will add features for the disabled.

Home Depot to Close Expo Chain Company plans to cut 7,000 jobs as sales slump.

California Shuts Down 1st Centennial Bank First California Bank takes over deposits, branches.

Video: Getting Bang For The Buck In A Portable PC Netbook vs. notebook comparison involves more than price.

Video Games Blamed For Poor Family Relationships Researcher disappointed by his findings.

7 Ways to Trash Your Credit Score You can get blemishes on your credit report without even trying.

8 Ways to Save on College Visits There's no reason to spend too much on visiting schools ahead of time.

January 25, 2009

Flipping Homes Profitable But Can Be Risky Investing in real estate requires more capital and patience these days.

What Do Builder Warranties Cover? There's much to be wary of these days in the world of new-home warranties.

Off-Rental Cars Can Be Good Buys Looking for a used car? Don't overlooked used rentals.

Senior Mobility: Choosing a Cane Future columns will discuss scooters, wheelchairs and other mobility aids.

January 23, 2009

Dozens More Peanut Butter Products Recalled Suspect peanut paste spreads through the food chain.

NutriSystem Relents, Offers Refunds to Sickened Customers Peanut butter granola bars among hundreds of food products recalled.

Gas Prices Show Signs Of Leveling Off Nationwide average up 5 cents from last week.

'Vista Capable' Lawsuit Could Cost Microsoft $8.5 Billion Were consumers misled by 'Vista Capable' program?

Video: What's Your Car Worth? Determining a used car's value is difficult in today's economy.

Rewards Card Not Worth Credit Risk Rushing to open a new credit card account is not wise if you plan to refinance a mortgage soon.

Rate Trend Index -- Mortgages Bankrate.com surveys experts to gauge which way interest rates are headed on mortgages -- a vital tool if you're about to buy a home.

Supersize Social Security Here are three ways for seniors to perform financial do-overs later in retirement.

New Jersey Sues Four Auto Dealerships Sansone Auto Network charged with violating consumer protection laws.

Illinois Sues Florida Collection Agency Accuses it of using deception, abuse to collect debts.

January 22, 2009

Hundreds of Peanut Butter Products Recalled Candy, snacks, weight-loss meals, dog food on growing recall list.

Inflation Fears Send Mortgage Rates Up The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rose to 5.59 percent in Bankrate's weekly survey.

Consumers Urged to Avoid Quickie Tax Refund Loans Advocates warn of high costs and hidden fees.

Study Finds Clean Air Extends Lifespan Life expectancy up three years in 51 cities.

Feds Charge Mortgage Broker In Potential Data Breach Broker allegedly left private data in public dumpsters.

Take Long View with Mother's Money Plan The big picture is important when planning for an older parent's financial future.

Help for Low-Income Taxpayers Special clinics can help eligible individuals who need help with tax filing.

Airlines Cut Capacity to Reduce Empty Seats Cuts to flights also in offing as carriers struggle.

Improved PSA Tests May Better Determine Prostate Cancer Risk New refinements better measure risk versus actual evidence of disease.

Recalls...

January 21, 2009

Peanut Butter Dog Treats Recalled Due to Salmonella More health bars also recalled as outbreak widens.

Video: Getting Out Of Debt It's not easy, but you can do it.

Millions of Credit Cards Exposed in Data Breach Processor hack already called "biggest ever".

Fiat to Take Stake in Chrysler Struggling US automaker eyes international sales as rescue.

NCAA Alcohol Ads Still High-Profile, Study Claims CSPI examines beer commercials during big games.

Second Mortgage May Derail Refinance A lender's refusal to subordinate a second mortgage may dash a homeowner's dreams of refinancing.

Talking Finances With Kids In today's troubling economic times, it's important to give need-to-know financial information to ease kids' stress.

Borrowers Look For Mortgage Modification Homeowners who can't pay their mortgage can get a better deal from the lender. But it's a complex process.

January 20, 2009

Consumers Hopeful of Better Times Under Obama Poll shows high hopes.

Foreclosures High On Obama Priority List Foreclosure prevention will stand near the top of Barack Obama's domestic priorities when he assumes the presidency.

Peanut Butter Health Bars Recalled Clif, ZonePerfect products may have salmonella.

New Credit Card Rules Have Downside The credit card reforms may help consumers, but may also bring unintended consequences.

Southern California Home Sales Rise in 2008 Price decreases and mounting foreclosures lure buyers back.

The Dangers of Debt Consolidation Before you bundle your bills, check out the pros and cons of these consolidation options.

Childhood Obesity Risk May Be Increased By Mutations Variants in genome can control appetite, weight loss.

9 Smart Personal Finance Moves in 2009 These nine smart personal finance strategies can keep you in the black during 2009.

FDA Warns of Skin Numbing Product Dangers Topical anesthetics can have life-threatening side effects.

January 19, 2009

Peanut Butter Recall List Grows Widespread salmonella contamination feared in products containing peanut butter.

Video: Is It Time to Refinance? Rates hit historic lows.

Circuit City Reassures Service Contract Holders Customers won't lose ability to get warranty repairs.

Inflation All But Disappears Price decreases are rare bright spot in bad economy.

Healthy Seniors May Benefit From Moderate Alcohol Consumption Some drinking may prevent physical disabilities.

Recalls...

January 18, 2009

Peanut Butter Recall Spreads To More Products Cookies, crackers, ice cream products included in expanded recall.

High-Tech Car Options Expensive to Repair Those high-end options are nice to have but expensive to repair.

Home Bargains on the Auction Block More homes are being sold at auction. Here's what to know before bidding.

January 17, 2009

Circuit City Will Liquidate, Putting 30,000 Out of Work Dismal holiday shopping season claims its first big victim.

January 16, 2009

Troubled Banks Back at Square One Obama obtains TARP money; Citigroup to break up.

Gas Prices Still Climbing Oil producers try to cut supply and raise demand.

Maryland Stores Stop Selling Toys With Lead Paint Businesses try to sell off potentially tainted items.

5 Smart Credit Card Moves In 2009 In the coming year, credit-card issuers are expected to raise standards, requiring higher credit scores, as well as making other changes. Here's what to do.

Solving 3 Big Money Challenges A good road map can lead you to success when facing three of the biggest and most common money challenges.

Seniors At Extra Risk of Hypothermia Tips to help older people stay warm this year.

Consumer Group Proposes Auto-Buying Stimulus CFA wants incentives to replace gas guzzlers.

Alcohol Taxes Have Clear Effect on Drinking Results of 112 studies find link between prices and imbibing.

West Virginia Settles with Arizona Telemarketer Company claimed overpriced goods would help handicapped veterans.

January 15, 2009

2008 Foreclosure Activity Jumps 81 Percent One in 54 homes received a foreclosure filing last year.

Kellogg Puts Peanut Butter Crackers "On Hold" Due to Salmonella Concerns Company supplier was responsible for tainted ingredients.

Recession Likely to Have Health Consequences Nearly 500,000 people may lose health coverage due to job losses.

"Green" Gasoline on the Horizon Research into biomass-made fuel shows promise.

CSPI Sues Coke Over VitaminWater Claims Beverage giant accused of inflating benefits.

Menthol Cigarettes May Be More Addictive New study finds lower quit rates among minority smokers.

Cosmetic Surgeons See Wrinkle in Economic Downturn Patients opting for less costly treatments.

Recalls...

January 14, 2009

Peanut Butter Recalled Due to Possible Salmonella Contamination 21 lots of King Nut and Parnell's Pride branks recalled.

Report: Nation Not Ready For Flu Pandemic Report finds 15 weaknesses in government's approach.

Older Drivers Involved In Fewer Fatal Crashes Crash deaths among senior drivers down 21% in last decade.

Not All Debtors are Deadbeats Most consumers in financial trouble got that way due to a job loss or health problems.

Getting Help from Credit Counselors Get your finances in order with this video advice from professional credit counselors.

Tax Refund Loan Alternatives These options can get you your tax cash fast at low or no cost.

Massachusetts Mortgage Officer Sentenced on Fraud Charges Will serve two years for forging credentials for buyers.

Peak Fitness Settles Charges in North Carolina Attorney General wanted "substantial changes" to gym's practices.

Recalls...

January 13, 2009

Chinese Experts Confirm Melamine-Kidney Stone Link Despite official denials, melamine suspected in U.S. illnesses.

CDC Says Salmonella May Have Killed Three People 410 people sick in 43 states.

Video: Tax Tips – New Tax Breaks For Your 2008 Return Take advantage of every deduction coming your way.

Estimated Tax Deadline Looms If you earned extra money on the side last year, you may have to file a final estimated tax voucher for 2008. It's due Jan. 15.

Dell to Pay $3.3 Million to Resolve Deceptive Practice Claims States charged Dell used deceptive warranty, financing practices.

Study: Cholesterol Risk Guidelines May Need Update New study analyzes connection between high cholesterol and heart damage.

Video: Is Your Bank Safe? Find out if your money is safe by checking out your bank's rating.

Researchers Say Vicks VapoRub is Not for Kids Study claims decongestant can actually cause mucus buildup.

Getting Tax Help to Care for Your Parents Millions of adult children find themselves looking after aging parents. If you qualify, tax laws offer some help.

Despite Penalty, CD Rivals Money Market Despite early withdrawal penalties, CDs can top money market accounts as a place to park short-term cash.

Recalls...

January 12, 2009

Getting Help From The IRS for Tax Season 2009 Agency more inclined to aid taxpayers in trouble.

American Views About Credit Cards: Negative Our relationship with credit cards is an uneasy one. We tend to regard them with antipathy.

Retailers Add Just 381,800 Holiday Workers Slow shopping season contributes to fewer hires, study finds.

529 Tax Exemption is Now Permanent If you're looking for a tax-smart way to save for college, a 529 plan is the way to go, says college savings plan expert Joe Hurley.

King Nut Issues Peanut Butter Recall Salmonella discovery reminds of ConAgra recall.

Phishing Scams Hop On Banking Turmoil Phishing scams have increased recently, piggybanking on the financial crisis on Wall Street.

GM Plans New Minicar, Electric Cadillac Automaker comes back swinging with new products, models.

Obama Urged to Tackle Obesity Health officials recommend quick action on epidemic.

January 11, 2009

Virginia Child's Kidney Problems May Be Due to Melamine-Tainted Candy Angry mother has many questions, few answers.

Toymakers, Craftspeople Up in Arms Over New Safety Law Will new testing requirements really put independent sellers out of work?

January 10, 2009

BBB's New Rating System Draws Fire Critic says BBB's "Pay for OK" scheme should get a failing grade.

Time Running Out for Circuit City Unemployment rate jumps to 7.2 percent.

Find End-of-Life Care to Fit Your Finances Now there's a way for patients to find the best hospital for end-of-life care.

9 Wise Car Strategies for 2009 These nine smart auto strategies can keep you on the road to sound finances during 2009.

Tax Scam Deal Really Is Too Good To Be True Most companies are selling an offer in compromise and the IRS will rarely approve them.

100 Tips to Help You Save in 2009 With the economy heading for the doldrums, here are 100 tips to help you save money in all areas of your life.

Horizon Blue Cross Settles Eating Disorders Suit Class action claimed insurer wrongfully denied payment for treatments.

January 9, 2009

More Than 500,000 Jobs Lost in December Unemployment rate jumps to 7.2 percent.

U.S. Retail Spending Tumbles to New Low Spending monitor tracks record drop as retail stays bleak.

Obama Calls for Delay in Digital TV Transition Millions of consumers unable to prepare for switchover by Feb. 17 deadline.

Consumer Credit Plunges Record Amount in November Borrowing drops by nearly $8 billion.

Gas Prices Up 11 Cents Since Monday Slow increase even as demand remains flat.

More Consumers Delaying New Car Purchases Weak economy means more buyers waiting longer to buy vehicles.

Antiviral Overuse Could Aid Deadly Flu Resistance could build up over time.

Knee Replacement Patients Need To Know Risks Study claims candidates for surgery lack good information.

January 8, 2009

Thrift Stores Protest Ban on Lead Toys Stores say they can't afford to guarantee the safety of their products.

Freddie Mac Extends Foreclosure Moratorium Reprieve to last through end of January.

Salmonella Outbreak Stretches Across 42 States 388 people stricken with poisoning, half hospitalized.

FDIC Study Finds Outrageous Overdraft Fees Bank automatic overdraft programs, also called courtesy overdraft, are not so polite to your wallet.

IRS Offers Help to Financially Stressed Taxpayers Agency makes policy changes to help those in trouble.

Hypermiling Can Slash Fuel Consumption Forget downsizing and riding a bike — just changing your driving habits can cut fuel costs 20 to 40 percent.

Small Car Market Faces Potentially Large Problems Drivers frustrated with lack of amenities.

Interest Rate Roundup Here are the latest interest rates and commentary on five common consumer banking products from Bankrate.com's weekly national survey of large banks and thrifts.

9 Tips for Home Buyers and Sellers in 2009 With the mortgage crisis still in full swing, here are nine tips for homebuyers and nine tips for sellers to help them survive in 2009.

January 7, 2009

Countrywide Accused of Gouging Active-Duty Military Suit charges lender ignored federal law requiring lowered interest for active-duty servicemembers.

GMAC Closes Subprime Car Lending Unit Dealers left looking for new source of loans for customers with weak credit.

House Democrats Seek Bankruptcy Rule Changes Proposal would enable judges to save homes from foreclosure.

Consumers Fall Further Behind in Payments Third quarter delinquencies hit all-time highs.

2008 Data Breach Total Soars 47 percent increase in incidents from 2007.

Hiring a Home Health Aide It's a big step; plan and consider before you jump.

Best Buy To Sell Refurbished iPhones Retailer hopes discounted models will draw buyers.

San Francisco Nixes Alcohol Ad Contracts City bans booze advertisements on public property.

Company Recalls Makeup Remover Over Possible Contamination Product may contain bacteria that leads to eye infections.

Hyundai Genesis Outscores "Upscale Sedan" Competitors Outpaces Lexus, Acura, and Lincoln models in Consumer Reports ratings.

January 6, 2009

Flee, or Stay the Financial Course? Financial planners advise investors not to make hasty decisions in this turbulent and uncertain market.

Groups Claim Bank Uses Bailout Funds for Predatory Loans California bank accused of using TARP money for tax refund loans.

Staying Healthy in a Sick Economy How to find good health care in tough times.

The Best Moves in Mortgages in 2009 2008 was the year of foreclosures. 2009 will be the year of refinances and mortgage modifications.

Pending Home Sales Post Record Drop Sellers burdened with job losses, low confidence.

"Soft Inquiry" Won't Hurt Credit Score Creditors who look at your credit report do not see soft inquiries, which do not damage your FICO score.

LG Unveils Broadband-Enabled HDTVs Netflix partnership enables streaming movies.

Is Your High-Def TV an Energy Hog? California targets voracious big screens.

Recalls...

January 5, 2009

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 Company criticized for falsely advertising snacks.

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.

Recalls...

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.

Recalls...

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.

Recalls...

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.

Recalls...

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.

Recalls...

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.

Recalls...

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.

Recalls...

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.