Articles on Consumer Affairs

Convert Your Crap Into Cash Without a Garage Sale

A yard sale is one way to get rid of your old stuff, but it's a pain. Fortunately, the Internet (and your "Friendnet") both offer an easier way.

Don't Be Fooled by 2014's Most Common New Scams

Scammers are always finding new ways to trick people out of their money — learn how they do it so it doesn't happen to you.

Too Good to Be True? How Trader Joe's Sells Affordable Goods

Trader Joe's fans love the store, and with good reason. But how do they manage to keep all of those great products so cheap?

Are You Being Had? Learn From 5 Crazy Ponzi Schemes

Amazingly, these schemes were all real. Thankfully, they also all offer real lessons on how to avoid losing your shirt.

How to Get Magazines for Cheap (or Free!)

Magazines are fun to read — but buying them at the store can get crazy expensive. Learn how to get magazine fix and save.

Think the Housing Bubble Was Bad? Check Out These Other Crazy Investment Bubbles

In the 1600s, tulip trading nearly ruined Holland. Yup — tulips.

You Can Guarantee a Win and 9 Other Bizarre Facts About the Lottery

Learn some true facts about everybody's biggest dream — beating the long odds and winning the lottery. (Including how to guarantee a win!)

5 Workouts (Besides CrossFit) That May Actually Be Hurting You

CrossFit isn't the only routine to come under scrutiny lately, so make sure that if you're doing one of these workouts, you at least understand the risks.

Billions of Dollars Go Unclaimed Every Year: Is Some of It Yours?

There are literally billions of dollars of money and property waiting to be claimed by the rightful owners. Learn how to find out if some of it is yours!

7 Secrets to Scoring the Best Price When Buying on eBay

Who doesn't love finding a bargain on eBay? Strike even better deals on everything from clothes to computers with these simple shopping and bidding strategies.

The Cheapest Way to Get Fit and Strong in 30 Days or Less

It's not quite sneaking into the gym — but it's close. With some clever scheduling anybody can get a month or more of free workouts at the gym.

How to Turn Unwanted Gift Cards Into Cash

What to do with that stack of gift cards you're never gonna use? Sell them for cash, or trade them for gift cards you really will use. It's easy!

Buy or Subscribe: How to Pay the Least for the Media You Love the Most

With so many competing music and video services, it can be hard to choose the best value. Consider these factors before you download or subscribe.

Do You Agree With the New Standards of Restaurant Tipping?

The standard restaurant tip has steadily climbed from 10% to 15% to 20%, with some swanky places suggesting 25%. Has tipping gone too far?

What to Buy (and Avoid Buying) in March

Another March is upon us which means another month of great deals, as well as some terrible buys to skip. Read on for this month's best buys.

9 Ways to Get Exactly What You Want From Customer Service

Use these Jedi mind tricks to get the best possible results from customer service reps.

Don't Pay More! Guide to Price Matching and Cheat Sheet

Holiday shoppers who take advantage of retailer price matching can be certain they get the best price. Read on for Carrie’s guide to the ins and outs of finding the best price.

Cricket Review: $45 Cell Plan With Unlimited Talk, Text & Data

No contract carriers like Cricket Wireless offers big savings as well as flexibility.

Here's What You Should Know About Bitcoin

Bitcoin — the online, electronic currency — has been in the news a lot lately, but it's still mysterious to most of us. Learn what it is and if it fits into your lifestyle.

Amazon Raises Free Shipping Minimum to $35

Amazon's new policy requires customers to spend $35 before Free Super Saver Shipping kicks in.