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Start researching in August for items you plan to buy, but it may pay to wait until Labor Day sales

August marks the beginning of the end of summer, as well as a new school year for many people. Because of that, it may not seem like a good time for shopping anything other than pencils, notebooks, and backpacks. However, August has much more than back to school deals and... Read more →


Why are customer service reps using the phrase ‘I’m sorry that you feel that way’ when you have a complaint?

When I’ve had a consumer complaint recently, several times the customer service representative has said to me “I’m sorry that you feel that way.” The “sorry,” but I’m not sorry response it like getting an emotional slap in the face. One time it happened when I didn’t get information about a credit union fee, and I also mentioned lacking customer service at a local branch. Read more →


When traveling, remember to be courteous when using your devices

Recently, when I traveled to Madrid, I noticed that more people weren’t using headphones or earbuds when listening to audio on their phones and computers. At the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, a man was sitting with his leg propped up on his suitcase listening to YouTube videos. It was really irritating. Another man had his phone on speaker. Read more →


States announce $10.5 million settlement with wireless carriers over deceptive ads

Another industry is being exposed for years-long tricks it engaged in to fool consumers and make more money at their expense. Major U.S. wireless carriers agreed to a $10.25 million settlement Thursday after an industry-wide investigation by a coalition of 50 state attorneys general of misleading advertising practices.  Read more →


Ask for a supervisor when the customer service representative is terrible

Recently, when I looked at my Comcast bill, it said my monthly bill would be going up $22.60 a month. I was upset. My bill already is high. I pay about $200 for TV, internet, and landline. For years, I had argue with Comcast every couple of years when my contract expired. I had the bundle: $33 for TV, $33 for internet, and $33 for the landline. Read more →


Irritated over ‘junk’ fees? Let the FTC know the details

Junk fees – those hidden and bogus charges that have found their way into a wide variety of transactions – are on consumers’ minds. After receiving more than 12,000 comments about how these fees impact consumers and businesses, the FTC announced on Oct. 11, a proposed rule on deceptive fees. It's now looking for further feedback. Read more →


What to buy and not buy at Black Friday deals for 2023

Although Black Friday is a few weeks away, you can find lots of deals available so you can start comparing prices now. Like last year, the 2023 holiday sale season started early, with major retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, and Target offering big sitewide events in early October. A difference is this year prices will remain steady through Black Friday. Read more →


What to buy and not buy in September

Unfortunately, September marks the end of summer, which is so sad. Many people, like me, aren’t fans of winter. However, in relation to sales, September is a good time to shop for deals, the Labor Day sales being one reason. Here are recommendations on the September sales from DealNews.com: Summer clothing – Deep discounts are expected. Read more →


What to buy and not buy in July 2023

It’s hard to believe that the July Fourth sales are coming up. It seems like the Memorial Day sales were just yesterday. July Fourth is a huge shopping holiday in the United States and marks the middle of summer. Look for the sales to begin far in advance of July Fourth. DealNews.com offers these tips for the July sales: Read more →


It’s National Consumer Protection Week

Things are busy, here in my corner of the USA. I’m behind in reporting on what’s happening for National Consumer Protection Week. A lot of my time has been taken up since the first of the year taking part in the Dean Ornish heart health program. It ends Wednesday. I’ll be reporting on its many benefits soon. Read more →