Whether you’re looking for holiday deals or scrambling for a last-minute gift, ‘tis the season to online shop. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa explains why the FBI says stay away from debit and stick to your credit card for those online purchases.
With seasonal parties, online shopping and holiday travel, it's tempting to splurge and blow your budget this time of year. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has a few reminders to help you keep your finances in check during the holidays.
It’s a spending strategy that’s been around for a while and now it’s making a bit of a comeback. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks with an expert about the do’s and don’ts of layaway plans.
Holiday shopping season is well underway and as you look for the perfect present one smart money move is purchasing refurbished gifts. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman gets an expert’s take on the best refurbished items and has advice to avoid scams.
For many Americans, a trip to the doctor is determined by the cost of the visit, instead of the medical need. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds out ways you can keep your appointments, while still finding ways to save.
This time of year costs can quickly add up and leave you in a financial bind. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has advice from experts on what to do if you must take out a personal loan.
Holiday shopping season is in full swing and experts say the best way to avoid spending stress is make a plan and stick to it. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has your shopping and spending strategies.
It’s open enrollment season for Medicare and Medicaid and experts say scammers are on the prowl. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman explains how to spot the scammers posing as government agents and stop them from stealing your identity.
If you’re struggling to overcome the financial stress of your debt reaching out for help could be the answer. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa speaks to a woman who paid off $37,000 in just two years with the help of a nonprofit debt management company.
According to the Consume Financial Protection Bureau Buy Now, Pay Later apps grew over 1,000% from 2019 to 2021. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa speaks to a financial expert about their pros and cons and best way to use this payment method.
Social Security benefits will go up in January by 8.7%, the largest cost of living increase in 40 years. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa shares how much extra money you could see, plus expert advice on how you can best manage it.
As people rush to capitalize on President Biden's Federal Student Loan Debt Relief, con artists are ramping up efforts to target your money. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert who has advice on how you can avoid being ripped off.
Internet phone service provider Vonage is paying $100 million to its customers after the Federal Trade Commission alleged the company used “dark patterns” and junk fees.Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman breaks down the lawsuit with an FTC attorney and gets advice on how you can avoid similar questionable business practices.
Holiday Shopping Season is here and so are the Black Friday sales. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks with a financial coach about how you can avoid breaking your holiday budget in this Watching Your Wallet.
Investing is an important way to put your money to work for you and build wealth, but it can be intimidating to get started. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa shares expert advice on the five ways you can get started in building your financial future.
Holiday travelers are planning to spend on average more than $1,500 for flights and hotels, according to a new survey from NerdWallet. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert to find out ways you can cut travel costs this season.
Buying a new home is likely the largest purchase you’ll make, but before you hand over thousands of dollars at closing, experts say beware of hackers targeting your down payment. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman has the latest on a real estate scam with a wire fraud twist.
Looking to jump into the housing market next year? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa shares what you need to know about inflation’s impact on interest rates.
There’s always “an app for that”, but your new download could be a security nightmare. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds out the rules you should follow before you head to the app store
Federal student loan payments are set to resume in January and the Student Debt Crisis Center estimates almost 9 in 10 borrowers are not financially prepared for payments to return. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has expert advice on how to adjust your budget for the restart.
Black Friday is less than a month away and with more than $183 million already lost to online shopping fraud this year, security experts say scammers are prepping for the holiday rush. Consumer Reporter Caresse Jackman breaks down holiday scammer strategies including one that aims to defraud those with the giving spirit.
Overdraft fees are an unwelcome addition to your budget and according to a new Bankrate study most banks are still hitting customers with the charge. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has some simple ways you can avoid that extra expense.
Credit card balances can be scary and overwhelming at times. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa explains how pulling your credit report and closely examining your spending can help you plan your way out of debt.
With inflation hitting its highest rate in decades, saving money is top of mind. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert who explains why cash might be the key to saving money.
The Federal Trade Commission has tracked nearly 180,000 identity theft reports this year. One of the scams seeing a sharp increase is connected to an online phone system, Google Voice. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman explains how scammers are taking over accounts and using victims’ personal information to scam others.
Managing your credit card debt can be a tough fight, especially with high interest rates adding to the bill… Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has expert advice on how to negotiate a lower rate with your credit company.
The Bureau of Labor and Statistics reported a 10.3% increase in motor vehicle insurance in the last year. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa explains why and what you need to do now to make sure your policy has you covered.
From flights to hotels and even trip insurance, industry experts say the cost of travel has seen a significant increase. Before you book your trip Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has a few ways for you to save.
The Identity Theft Resource Center reported record identity crime in 2021 with a large increase in social media hacks. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman explains the impact of the attacks and how you can report them.
According to a new study American optimism about the economy is low, only 13%, but Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds out the steps you can take to strengthen your financial situation.
It’s a day filled with fright, but Halloween doesn’t have to scare your savings. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds some ways to easily save money by October 31st.
From California to Iowa and Texas, school districts across the US are facing an increase in ransomware attacks. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa explains the high-tech attacks and what parents can do to help protect their child's personal information.
There’s a new hack on old school tech that could lead to scammers stealing your money. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman explores this type of imposter scam and gets expert advice on how to protect your business and your money.
Autumn isn't just about the changing leaves. Experts say it's also the perfect time to update your budget for holiday spending. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa shares best practices in this Watching Your Wallet.
Are you already making your list and checking it twice? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa reports on why experts suggest you should start your holiday shopping now.
Looking for ways to improve your portfolio but also invest with a purpose? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to a financial expert about how investing around a cause could help do both.
Midterm elections are right around the corner and as you prepare to register and vote, experts are warning of election and campaign related scams. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman outlines some of the common tricks scammers use when targeting voters.
With groceries likely costing you more every month because of inflation, it's probably time to re-visit your household budget. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa speaks with an expert from NerdWallet on budget changes to make now.
Juggling credit card balances across multiple cards? Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa shares expert ways to get your credit card debt under control.
Parents of college-aged teens listen up! Enrollment for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA opens on October 1. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa breaks down what you need to know.
According to the latest federal numbers natural disasters cost the U.S. $145 billion last year and as homeowners are left to pick up the pieces experts say scammers are poised to swoop in. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman breaks down the warning signs you need to know.
Only 33% of Americans have an estate plan according to a recent survey from caring.com. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks with experts about why creating a will should be a top priority.
Rising prices and inflation continue to make it difficult for first time home buyers to find affordable properties, according to a new report from NerdWallet. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds out why not all hope is lost for those trying to get into the housing market.
Rental housing prices are still seeing significant increases from last year. According to Rent.com the monthly cost of a one-bedroom apartment is up about 25% nationally. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa explains why this might be the time to stay put.
The impact of inflation now has another number. According to a new study by Nerdwallet household spending could increase by more than $11,500 this year. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa explains ways you can fight back against rising costs.
A low credit score could have a major impact on your financial future. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa shares expert tips on how you can raise your score.
For first time investors, getting into the real estate market can be intimidating. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has the expert info you need if you’re looking to start investing
The Rule of 72 explains how you can double your investments over time. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa explains how to leverage this rule to grow your investments over time.
Understanding your credit score can be a challenge, and when people have questions, they often turn to Google. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa looks at some of the top questions and gets some answers in this Watching Your Wallet.
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