Shopping & Saving

Recognizing these common signs of a scam could help you avoid falling for one.

Gift cards are a popular and convenient way to give someone a gift. They’re also a popular way for scammers to steal money from you.  Gift cards are for gifts, not payments. Anyone who demands payment by gift card is always a scammer.

Some companies use “free” trial offers as a lure, but don’t make their cancellation policies obvious. The result? You could end up paying for a product every month, whether you like it or not.

Extended warranties provide for the repair or maintenance of a product for a specific time. Depending on the terms, an extended warranty may not be worth the expense.

In a fake check scam, a person you don’t know asks you to deposit a check— sometimes for several thousand dollars, and usually for more than you are owed — and send some of the money to another person. The scammers always have a good story to explain why you can’t keep all the money. They might say they need you to cover taxes or fees, you’ll need to buy supplies, or something else.

Fake checks come in many forms. They might look like business or personal checks, cashier’s checks, money orders, or a check delivered electronically. Here’s what you need to know about fake check scams.

Tips to help you understand how penny auctions work and recognize the pitfalls before you lose any money

Shopping online is convenient and efficient; these tips can help minimize hassles that may crop up.

When you use layaway, you put down a deposit and pay for the item over time. You take the item home only after you’ve paid for it in full. Ask questions about how particular layaway plans work.

Textiles labeled 'bamboo' are rayon. They are made with a process that releases toxins into the air.

Learn about different ways to get solar power to use at home.

Interested in buying genuine Alaska Native art? Here are tips for travelers and collectors.

Buying jewelry often involves spending lots of money. Here’s how to read the markings so you know what you’re getting.

Here are tips for choosing and using a lawyer.

Your phone bill may be higher than it should be. Learn how to find and fight mystery charges crammed onto your monthly bill.

Ask these important questions before you enroll your teenager in a residential treatment program.

Planning a funeral is an emotional experience. These practical tips can help.

In most parts of the country, used mattresses can be resold as long as they meet certain labeling requirements.