Negotiating can sometimes be stressful, and that stress can make buyers and sellers say dumb things. Learn to score better deals by avoiding these phrases.

by: Kentin Waits | channel: Consumer Affairs, Shopping

Slow Service? Cold soup? Learn the ins and outs of constructive complaining and how it can help improve things for all consumers.

by: Kentin Waits | channel: Consumer Affairs, Personal Development

One writer shares her story about being charged for a cellphone text message service she never signed up for — and how you can avoid the same scam.

by: Xin Lu | channel: Consumer Affairs

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

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

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

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

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