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Cheat Sheet: Retail Markup on Common Items

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Stores make money by price markups. Learn the rationale behind retail pricing and what the product you're buying actually costs.

Latest Articles in Consumer Affairs

Surprising Things That Can Kill Your Credit

We're all familiar with the damage a late payment can do to a credit score. But there are plenty of other credit-sinkers you might not know about.

by: Kate Luther | channel: Consumer Affairs, Credit Cards, Debt Management

Toxic Laundry: What’s in Your Dryer Sheets and Fabric Softener?

There's more to fabric softeners than springtime freshness and fluffy teddy bears — your product might have some nasty chemicals hiding inside.

by: Kentin Waits | channel: Consumer Affairs, Green Living

What Is SOPA, and How Will It Affect You?

SOPA — the Stop Online Piracy Act — is everywhere in the news. But what exactly is it, and how will it affect you? You may be surprised.

by: Paul Michael | channel: Consumer Affairs, Technology

The Gift Card Scam of 2011: Don’t Be a Victim

There's a chance that the gift card you just bought or received could be worthless. Learn about the new gift card scam, and how to protect yourself.

by: Paul Michael | channel: Consumer Affairs, Shopping

The Safest Cars for Teen Drivers

Watching your kid drive away in his first car can be nerve-racking. Feel better by finding the safest frugal vehicle for your teen.

by: Mikey Rox | channel: Cars and Transportation, Consumer Affairs

The Psychology of Free, and Its Power Over You

From Craigslist to grocery samples, free stuff is everywhere. Understand how marketers use "free," the psychology behind it, and how it affects your habits.

by: Paul Michael | channel: Consumer Affairs

6 Signs That a Winning Notification Email Is a Fake

Whether you regularly enter sweepstakes or are just concerned about email scams, follow these tips to avoid becoming a victim.

by: Linsey Knerl | channel: Consumer Affairs

How a 5-Minute Email Saved Me $140

When you have a major problem with a purchase (and an exchange, and returning that exchange...), a well-worded complaint might be all you need.

by: Paul Michael | channel: Consumer Affairs

How to Sell Gold Without Getting Ripped Off

High gold prices mean this could be a lucrative time to clean out your jewelry box, but don't let a rip-off waste this golden opportunity.

by: Carrie Kirby | channel: Consumer Affairs

5 Ways to Snag Budget-Friendly Business Clothes

Buying new business clothes can seriously dent your budget, especially if you're unemployed. But you don't have to go into debt to dress for success.

by: Chris Birk | channel: Consumer Affairs, Shopping, Style

How to Get a Refund When Something Is Non-Refundable

The terms "non-refundable" and "non-returnable" make too many people avoid customer service. But with these tips, you can get results.

by: Paul Michael | channel: Consumer Affairs

LCD vs. Plasma: What's the Better Value?

If you're longing to make a big-screen TV the centerpiece to your home theater system, consider the deal-rich plasma option.

by: Dealnews | channel: Consumer Affairs, Technology

The Ads That Are Part of Your Life

From the do-everything guys of Dos Equis and Old Spice to Snickers' hunger alter-egos, do you find yourself reciting these popular ad campaigns?

by: Paul Michael | channel: Consumer Affairs, Entertainment

How to Avoid Phishing Scams

Scammers always try to pass themselves off as legit. Here's why I thought I was getting scammed recently, and how to make sure it doesn't happen to you.

by: Daniel Packer | channel: Consumer Affairs

Clipped Wings: Can Consumers Fix Air Travel?

From luggage fees, late flights, and TSA screening procedures, can air travel be saved? How can consumers help improve the industry?

by: Kentin Waits | channel: Consumer Affairs, Travel

Eliminate Junk Mail With the Click of a Button

If your mailbox is filled with flyers or crammed with catalogs, use these websites to reduce your share of junk mail.

by: Linsey Knerl | channel: Consumer Affairs, Organization, Technology

10 Surprising Facts About Flooding and Your Home

What do you know about flood protection? Even if you have insurance, you might not be covered...but getting coverage might also be easier than you think.

by: Linsey Knerl | channel: Consumer Affairs, Home, Insurance

How to Get the Lowest Price on Airfare, Even After You Buy

Here are some tips to help you track flight prices easily, keep an eye out for price drops, and even get a refund if you’ve bought your ticket already.

by: Nora Dunn | channel: Consumer Affairs, Travel

How to Avoid Moving Scams

What sucks worse than moving? Getting scammed by your movers. Here's how to avoid getting taken to the cleaners by unscrupulous moving companies.

by: Chris Birk | channel: Consumer Affairs, Home

Herbal Supplements: Know What You’re Getting!

Herbal supplements can be great health boosters, but figuring out which ones are best can be difficult. Here are some tips on how to find out.

by: Sasha A. Rae | channel: Consumer Affairs, Food and Drink, Health and Beauty

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