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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Federal Trade Commission is warning renters against scams involving Section 8, a housing choice voucher program that assists low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman speaks with a woman who narrowly avoided a scam and identifies the red flags you need to know.
The average cost of a wedding in the U.S, is $22,500 according to WeddingWire. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to a financial expert on saving money as you plan the perfect wedding.
A 529 plan is a great way to save for college, but if your child decides they don’t want to go you’ll need to need to make plans for those funds.Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa explains the rules of the 529 account and how that money must be spent.
Robotexts are skyrocketing as experts say scammers exploiting a law designed to slow robocalls. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman has expert advice on how to spot scams and avoid getting ripped off.
2.5 million couples are expected to tie knot this year, according to Wedding Market Research. For some those new marriages mean first-time talks about money. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa talks to an expert about ways newlyweds can ease into financial discussions in this Watching Your Wallet.
President Biden on Wednesday extended the moratorium on student loan payments and canceled $10,000 in debt for borrowers making $125,000 a year or less. In this Watching Your Wallet, Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds out what experts say your next step should be if you have student loans.
The FTC says vacation scams are one of the top ways to get ripped off in 2022. Consumer Investigator Caresse Jackman speaks with experts who explain how to spot those fake getaway offers.
TransUnion says the average American has $5,000 in credit card debt and with rising interest rates that amount could grow. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa finds out how the recent fed rate hikes will impact your credit card rates.
More consumers are leaning on credit cards to cope with inflation, but a new study from NerdWallet shows many people don't know their interest rates. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa reports on why experts say that important number can help you manage debt.
70% of families have at least one child who plays video games according to the Entertainment Software Association. And whether it’s cyber bullies or hackers, experts say you need to be aware of the potential threats. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa breaks down ways to protect you and your family in this Watching Your Wallet.
The Federal Reserve on Wednesday raised its benchmark interest rate by a hefty three-quarters of a point for a second straight time in its most aggressive drive in three decades to tame high inflation.
Kids often look for the latest fashions as they head back to school, but the cost of new clothes can quickly add up. In this Watching Your Wallet Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has suggestions for savings as you dress your child for the upcoming school year.
It’s an annual ritual parents know too well, the back-to-school supply list. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa shares ways you can save and also help out others in this Watching Your Wallet.
It’s a volatile housing market and first-time home buyers are feeling the pinch according to a new study from NerdWallet citing low inventory and stagnant incomes. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa shares what experts are telling people entering the market for the first time.
Federal student loan payments are still suspended without interest until at least August 31st. This comes after several extensions by the government. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa has one expert’s advice on when you should restart payments.
Nearly half of women say money issues negatively affect their mental health according to a new Bankrate survey. In this Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa breaks down the cause of women's stress and what experts say you can do during though times.
Protecting personal information is critical in the digital age, but according to experts, a simple web search of your name will likely return your age, date of birth or even home address. We show you ways to try to remove your personal information.
Rental rates are rising to record highs across the U.S. and according to the latest research from industry experts, wages and salaries are not keeping up.
A 2022 high school graduate will borrow on average $40,000 in student loans by the time they graduate college, according to a new NerdWallet study. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa shares advice from Elizabeth Renter of NerdWallet for students and parents.
Credit card debt continues to climb in the U.S. as experts say people will likely lean on their cards to offset rising prices and interest rates. Consumer Investigator Rachel DePompa spoke with a financial expert Elizabeth Renter from NerdWallet on the best ways to manage your debt.
It’s a number that dictates much of your financial future – your credit score - and if you’re looking to make a big purchase, you need to have it in good shape.
After two years of travel slowdown, 70 percent of Americans said they’re planning a trip in the next 12 months, according to a new study from Nerdwallet.
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