Consumer Action INSIDER - December 2018 The December issue features a Hotline Chronicles article about a driver who was the victim of predatory towing (and what you can do if this happens to you); Consumer Action's annual National Consumer Empowerment Conference; your rights when dealing with debt collectors (under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act); and more. (Sunday, December 02, 2018)
Consumer Action INSIDER - November 2018 The November issue features a Hotline Chronicles article about a homeowner incensed with his deceptive termite plan; Consumer Action's 47th anniversary/awards event in Washington, DC; the latest consumer research presented at the FDIC Consumer Research Symposium; and Consumer Action News' edition on airline flyers' rights. (Thursday, November 01, 2018)
Library: English | Get Credit for Your Hard Work (2018 Tax Year) Low-income working taxpayers may qualify for the federal EITC The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) helps low-income working taxpayers and families get more money back when they file their federal income tax return. This publication contains EITC guidelines for the 2018 tax year. Category: Money Management Taxes on Nov 20, 2018
Library: English | Freeze Your Credit File Leave ID thieves out in the cold A credit file "security freeze" is a preventive tool to help you avoid identity theft and to block impostors from using your personal information to establish credit. This publication explains how to "freeze" your credit file, which prevents new credit from being established in your name until you temporarily or permanently lift the freeze. Category: Credit Reports/Scores ID Theft on Oct 12, 2018
Library: English | Security Freeze Backgrounder Questions and Answers About Placing, Lifting and Removing a Credit Report Security Freeze This publication answers common questions about how a credit report security freeze can protect you from ID theft, the pros and cons of a security freeze, and how to place, lift and remove a freeze. (It has been updated to reflect changes implemented on Sept. 21, 2018, under new federal law.) Category: Credit Credit Reports/Scores Fraud/Scams Privacy Rights on Oct 10, 2018
Library: English | Low-income Broadband Plans The flyers in this package describe programs that offer low-income households more affordable access to the internet. A companion brochure, Getting up to speed: Broadband internet for low-income households, explains the benefits of internet access. Category: Internet Money Management on Aug 30, 2018
Library: English | Improving your financial health with FinTech A beginner’s guide to personal finance apps Financial technology (FinTech) is the use of modern technology, such as the internet and apps (downloadable mobile software), to develop powerful financial services tools for consumers and businesses. For those who are motivated to improve their finances and dedicated to working toward their goals, FinTech can make the process more convenient, efficient and even rewarding. This guide will introduce you to the types of FinTech tools available and how they can help you. It will also tell you what to consider when choosing an app and how to stay safe when using FinTech. Category: Banking on Jun 28, 2018
Library: English | Homeowners and renters insurance What you need to know before and after a natural disaster With the majority of U.S. residents living in areas at risk of a natural disaster, most households need to seriously consider how they would recover from the loss of their home and possessions. This publication explains which disaster losses are—and are not—covered under a standard homeowners or renters insurance policy, how to make sure you are adequately insured, what steps to take to recover your losses after disaster strikes, and what your options are if your insurance falls short. Category: Credit Scores Housing Housing Insurance Insurance Mortgages on Jun 26, 2018
Library: English | FEMA spells federal disaster relief for homeowners and renters The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers a variety of programs to help victims of disasters repair, rebuild or replace their homes and possessions. This publication describes the types of FEMA assistance available to homeowners and renters and provides details about program eligibility and the application process. It also highlights the limitations of FEMA assistance and stresses the importance of purchasing adequate personal insurance coverage. Category: Housing Home Repair Housing Insurance Insurance on Jun 26, 2018
Library: English | Disaster insurance and FEMA assistance (Q&A) Questions and answers for homeowners and renters This backgrounder, written in Q&A format, answers many questions about renters and homeowners disaster insurance coverage and FEMA programs that help victims recover from disaster-related losses. Category: Housing Home Repair Housing Insurance Insurance on Jun 26, 2018
