Consumer Confidential: Government May Soon Begin Putting an End to Forced Arbitration Clauses
If you’ve got a credit card, you’ve been forced to kiss away your constitutional right to sue the card issuer. But it’s looking increasingly likely that this is about to change. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is examining so-called arbitration clauses in terms and conditions for financial products. Earlier the month, the head of the bureau, Richard Cordray, sent the strongest signal yet that the regulatory whip soon will...
5 Credit Report Myths You Need To Know
If you think the credit reporting process is complicated and too hard to understand, you’re absolutely right. With several different credit bureaus, countless credit reporting laws and rules, and more than a handful of websites advertising “free” credit reports and scores, it can be hard for the average consumer to fully comprehend what goes into a credit report, how the information is reported and how it can affect a credit score. As...
Social Security Q&A: Many Helpful Publications Available on Audiobook
Question: I prefer reading by audiobook. Does Social Security have audio publications? Answer: Yes. You can find them at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs. Some of the publications available include What You Can Do Online, How Social Security Can Help You When a Family Member Dies, Apply Online for Social Security Benefits, and Your Social Security Card and Number. You can listen now at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs. Q: I am...
Social Security Q&A: How Long Does It Take to Get a Child’s Card?
Question: I applied for my child’s Social Security card in the hospital but have not received it. How long does it take? Answer: In most states it takes an average of three weeks to get the card, but in some states it can take longer. If you have not received your child’s card in a timely manner, please visit your local Social Security office. Be sure to take proof of your child’s citizenship, age and identity as well as proof of your...
Ways to Save Money On Groceries This Year
Grocery shopping can take a big bite out of your household budget. In fact, a family of four spends up to an average of $1,300 a month on food at home, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. That means families can shell out more than $15,000 a year on groceries. With the right strategies you can cut your grocery spending in half or more. Just ask Kyle Taylor, founder of personal finance blog ThePennyHoarder.com. When he was...
