Welcome to Consumers’ Notebook, where we feature news-you-can-use and other timely information to help you become a more informed consumer. Check back often to read the latest pieces in our Notebook.
How to Wipe Your Data Before You Sell, Donate, or Recycle Unwanted Computers and Smartphones
Simply deleting unwanted files, and emptying the recycle bin, does not permanently destroy that data. Here’s how to do that.
FCC Offers Subsidies to Help Families Afford Computers and Connect to the Internet
Starting today, the Federal Communications Commission’s Emergency Broadband Benefit Program will provide financial assistance to families who need help paying for internet access or buying a computer.
The Pitfalls of Taking Out a Really Long Car Loan
When selecting vehicles and loan terms, most consumers focus on monthly payments. It seems like a simple way to make sure the car and financing fits their budget. But it can be a pricey mistake.
Fraud Alert: Bogus COVID-19 Vaccine Survey
Fraudsters have figured out another way to exploit the pandemic. They’re sending out emails and text messages asking people to complete a bogus COVID-19 survey about the Pfizer, Moderna, or Johnson & Johnson vaccines. There’s even a fake survey for AstraZeneca, which hasn’t even been approved for use in the U.S.
Rental Car Woes: Sky-High Prices if Cars Are Even Available
Due to unprecedented lack of inventory and significantly higher-than-expected demand, rental car prices are sky-high at many vacation destinations across the country. And the problem is expected to get worse.
Federal Government Will Help Pay for COVID-Related Funeral Expenses
On April 12, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) started a reimbursement program to help those who lost loved ones in the pandemic. It will help cover the costs for funeral services and interment or cremation, up to $9,000.
Airline ‘Change Fees’ Rules About to Change Again
The pandemic did what consumer advocates could never accomplish. It forced the major U.S. airlines to drop their dreaded “change fees” that penalized customers who rescheduled travel dates on nonrefundable tickets. But starting March 31, airlines will begin to reintroduce these steep fees for basic economy ticket holders.
Update: Most Unemployment Benefits Won’t Be Taxed; IRS Will Issue Automatic Refunds
The $1.9 trillion COVID stimulus package, which President Biden signed into law on March 11, provides a tax break for the millions of Americans who received unemployment compensation last year.
Millions of Taxpayers Will Benefit From COVID Relief Legislation This Filing Season; IRS Postpones Filing Deadline to May 17
The IRS announced a new filing deadline of May 17. The decision comes as the IRS falls behind in processing this year’s returns and gives taxpayers breathing room as they try to figure out all the tax changes resulting from the stimulus bill passed by Congress at the end of December.
Warning: Social Security Imposters Now Use Fake Badges to Fool Victims
The fraudsters who steal money and personal information over the phone keep finding new ways to deceive us. Now, these scam artists have added fake government ID badges to their bag of tricks.
Identity Thieves Who Stole State Unemployment Benefits Muck-Up Tax Season for Millions
Millions of people who did not apply for state unemployment compensation last year—and did not get any money—are now dealing with the consequences of being identity theft victims. Cybercriminals used stolen credentials to file fake unemployment claims, got the money, and left their victims stuck with the tax liability.
Safety-Conscious Car Buyers Now Have 90 Top-Rated Vehicles to Choose From
Whether it’s an SUV for you, or a compact car for the teenage driver in the house, you want any new vehicle you buy to be as safe as possible. You now have more choices than ever.
Dealing with Debt Collectors: Know the Rules, Your Rights, and How to Spot a Scammer
If you get a call from someone claiming to be a debt collector, it’s not always easy to tell if the caller is a real debt collector or a scammer. That’s why it’s important to go slowly and know your rights.
‘Do I Owe Taxes on My Stimulus Checks?’ Answers to Common 2020 Income Tax Questions
While there are no significant tax law changes to worry about this time around, there are some issues related to the pandemic that could trip you up—or save you money. We consulted with several tax professionals to answer some of the most common questions for filing 2020 returns.
Drowning in Debt? Here Are Your Options, Good and Bad
The number of people saddled with excessive debt is growing. Help is available in the form of debt management, debt settlement, consolidation loans, and bankruptcy attorneys. Some are good choices; others could make your financial situation worse.
Black Dollar Index Shines a Light on Corporate Commitment to Diversity
Corporate America raced to publicly embrace the social justice movement during this summer's Black Lives Matter protests. But are they? Is anyone keeping score? The Black Dollar Index (BDI) aims to hold these companies accountable for their promises.
The Well-Known Brands Criminals Most Often Spoof in Phishing Attacks
Phishing is one of the most popular techniques used by cyber criminals because it’s simple and effective. The typical phishing attack involves creating an email that appears to be from a reputable company or organization and encourages potential victims to click on a link.
Why You Really Need an Emergency Fund and How to Start One
Life happens. Maybe it’s an unexpected medical bill, car repair, or home appliance that needs replacing. We all need to build an emergency fund, but many people don’t have this financial safety net.
Consumer Advocates Blast Federal Government for ‘Gutting’ Payday Lending Rules
At a time when American consumers need more protection than ever from predatory loans, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has issued a final rule on payday loans that rolls back important protections.
IRS Delays Start of Tax Filing Season
Ready to file your tax return? The IRS isn’t ready for it and has delayed the start of the tax filing season until February 12. The agency says it needs more time to reprogram and test its computers based on the COVID Relief Act, which wasn’t signed into law until December 27.