Used cars on car lot

Watch out for these common scams when buying a used car

John Matarese  |  February 22, 2023

With used car prices out of reach for many buyers, many people are looking for cheaper cars offered on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist and other sites. The problem, though, is that you may have no way of knowing where that car…

How to avoid paying annoying and expensive bank fees

John Matarese  |  February 20, 2023

With prices as high as they are on so many things this year, no one wants to throw away money on unnecessary fees. But have you ever gotten money from an ATM and wondered why you have to pay money…

How to do Valentine’s Day on a budget—without looking cheap

John Matarese  |  February 14, 2023

Tuesday is Valentine’s day, and if you haven’t ordered flowers yet, it is going to be very expensive. But the good news is that there are many last-minute gifts that show your love without breaking the bank. A classic that…

How to Save Money on Valentine’s Day Flowers Amid High Prices

John Matarese  |  February 13, 2023

Flowers are a go-to gift for Valentine’s Day, but if you wait too long this year, the prices might just break your heart. A dozen roses can cost $50, $60 or $70 at many florists these days as inflation takes…

How to Save Money on Your Super Bowl Party

John Matarese  |  February 11, 2023

Even if your favorite team isn’t playing this Super Bowl Sunday, there’s always something to look forward to, like a gathering with friends and all that party food. But, prices on Super Bowl snacks will add up this year, thanks…

Beware of sports merchandise scams before the Super Bowl and March Madness

John Matarese  |  February 10, 2023

The Super Bowl is just days away, and March Madness is right around the corner. And no matter if your team is in the big game or not, fans are always up for some new gear. But before you buy…

Contractor holds wood beams

Planning a home project? Here’s how supplies and prices will be in 2023

John Matarese  |  February 8, 2023

If you’re thinking of fixing up your home this spring or summer, you are not alone. With high home prices and mortgage rates this year, many homeowners are choosing to remodel instead of move. So you may want to know…

Cash money on money counter

Take the Frugal February challenge and rebuild your savings after the holidays

John Matarese  |  February 7, 2023

Many people just wrapped up Dry January as a way to cut back on drinking this year. Rachel Vogel is among those who avoided alcohol during the last month. “I drank lots of water, lots of lemonade, lots of Diet…

Scammers are luring job-hunters with fake remote jobs

John Matarese  |  February 6, 2023

Whether full-time or part-time, work-from-home job postings are still in high demand, especially as more companies ask workers to return to the office in 2023. Unfortunately, scammers are taking notice. If you are hunting on popular job sites, the Federal…

Family walks in airport terminal with suitcases

How to navigate Airbnb’s changes to avoid confusion

John Matarese  |  January 31, 2023

If you’re looking to rent a home or condo for spring travel, you might notice some changes on Airbnb, as well as some other home rental websites. They are designed to help travelers and hosts by making booking simpler and…

It’s not just eggs—other foods are also more expensive right now

John Matarese  |  January 25, 2023

You may have heard that inflation is down overall this month. So, why are groceries still so expensive? If you talk to almost any shopper at the checkout line these days, you’ll get an earful about grocery prices. “It’s really…

Shopper uses mobile phone at grocery store

Salvage grocery stores are booming as food prices soar

John Matarese  |  January 24, 2023

As Americans face rising prices, business is booming at salvage grocery stores. Places like Esh’s, a market in Colorado, do things differently to make groceries more affordable. Among all the items they sell, some items might be nearing their expiration…

Accountant works on taxes

Tax season is here—here’s how to prepare and avoid a refund delay

John Matarese  |  January 23, 2023

Monday, Jan. 23 is the official start of the 2023 tax filing season, meaning that it is now time to get your tax information in order. Filing early is especially important these days if you don’t want a possible delay…

Storage unit full of stuff

Storage unit damage: Who is responsible if insects or rodents attack?

John Matarese  |  January 20, 2023

Too often, you don’t think about needing a protection plan until it’s too late. But, if you are renting a storage unit, or considering renting one, you need to hear what happened to one woman whose items were damaged. Kara…

Hands shake after buying car

These used cars are no longer considered affordable

John Matarese  |  January 19, 2023

Used car and truck prices are dropping, according to the latest government data. However, a new report says some popular models once considered to be “affordable” are now anything but. Robbie Marx is looking for a used van, and says…

Aldi grocery store

The $13 Aldi dress everyone is talking about

John Matarese  |  January 18, 2023

Shoppers go to discount stores like Aldi for lower prices on produce, milk and eggs. But these days, some savvy shoppers are also picking up some affordable fashion items along the way. Have you seen “the dress?” No, not Princess…

Accountant works on taxes

Why you can expect a smaller tax refund this year

John Matarese  |  January 17, 2023

When it comes to tax season, there’s really only one thing most of us look forward to: the possibility of a tax refund. But, many refunds may not be as high as last year, due to tax rule changes and…

Man performs push-up.

How to Save Money on Home Workout Equipment and Gear

John Matarese  |  January 11, 2023

Do you have that “new year, new you” mentality right now? Many others do, too. If so, you might be considering new exercise equipment for your home. MORE: The best home gym equipment to invest in according to an expert But,…

Gift cards for many stores and services

Here’s why you should use your holiday gift cards as soon as possible

John Matarese  |  January 9, 2023

If you are like many families, you probably have a fresh stack of gift cards from the holiday season. But what’s the chance you’ll actually use all those shiny new gift cards? John Holland already suspects that some of his…

How to achieve your financial New Year’s resolutions

John Matarese  |  January 7, 2023

Whether you’re hoping to pay down some debt or save for retirement, most of us have some money goals in mind heading into a new year. But how can you make those money resolutions stick? It’s easy to plan them,…

How safe are mobile wallets?

John Matarese  |  January 3, 2023

Your GPS, your music, your camera and your friends’ phone numbers all live on your smartphone these days. But, there’s another feature not everyone is taking advantage of: your mobile wallet. It has now become standard on iPhones and most…

Top scams to watch out for in 2023

John Matarese  |  January 2, 2023

Scammers are constantly looking for new ways to tap into your accounts, steal your information and grab your money. The Better Business Bureau is issuing alerts about some of the top scams to watch for this coming year of 2023.…

Champagne glasses toast

Budget-friendly champagne alternatives for New Year’s Eve

John Matarese  |  December 30, 2022

For most people, buying Champagne is something that happens once a year: for the midnight toast on New Year’s Eve. But, you don’t have to have a Champagne budget for a Champagne taste. Molly Wellman is a professional mixologist, who…

Retailers are tightening their return policies this year

John Matarese  |  December 28, 2022

The day after Christmas kicks off a marathon week of holiday returns. But, be warned: Not all returns these days are simple, as some retailers tighten their once-generous policies. Alice Yu recently needed to return a $30 pair of leggings,…

How to Save Money on Your Holiday Meals This Year

John Matarese  |  December 20, 2022

With just a little ways to go before Christmas, this is the time to hit the grocery store to prepare for all those holiday meals. But, that Christmas dinner may be more expensive than ever this year, as a result…

What to Know About ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ Plans

John Matarese  |  December 19, 2022

“Buy now, pay later” plans are surging in popularity this holiday season, with cash-strapped consumers no longer receiving stimulus checks and expanded child tax credits to help with the bills. But this hot trend does come with some risks, as…

Gift cards for many stores and services

How to avoid a gift card scam that could ruin your holidays

John Matarese  |  December 14, 2022

Chances are you’re buying at least one gift card this time of year. But you need to be especially vigilant this holiday season, because scammers are increasingly using gift cards as a way to steal your money. Beverly Hacker says…

Hands of auto mechanic repairing car

Car Parts Shortage Means Drivers Are Waiting Months for Repairs

John Matarese  |  December 12, 2022

Going a day or two without your car is hard enough. But some drivers these days are discovering that parts to fix their cars have been on backorder since last spring, leaving them with nothing to drive for months. Chris…

Person puts letter in mail

How to Protect Yourself From Mail Theft This Holiday Season

John Matarese  |  December 8, 2022

Has any of your mail gone missing this year? An unfortunate nationwide trend could be to blame, impacting your holiday season gifts and checks. Reports across the country this year tell of thieves stealing mailbox keys, then grabbing checks out…

polishing and cleaning jewelry diamond ring with micro fiber fabric

Lab-Grown vs. Mined Diamonds: How to Decide Which One Is Right For You

John Matarese  |  December 6, 2022

Whether you’re getting down on one knee or just trying to make this Christmas extra special, the holidays are huge for jewelry sales. And while diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, prices have soared on mined, natural diamonds in…

How to avoid buying counterfeit goods online this holiday season

John Matarese  |  December 5, 2022

As you search online for gifts this holiday season, the Better Business Bureau is warning about a surge in counterfeit goods and cheap imitations that will leave you disappointed. MORE: Holiday shoppers warned against buying counterfeit luxury goods They are often…

How To Avoid Credit Card Debt This Holiday Season

John Matarese  |  November 28, 2022

It’s always rewarding to buy someone else the perfect gift for the holidays, but not if it means taking on more debt, especially this year. That’s because credit card rates are now at a 30-year high, which can make those…

Best Smartwatch

Health Gadgets That Make Great Holiday Gifts

John Matarese  |  November 22, 2022

There are so many new gadgets out there to help you monitor your health. Some of them could make a great holiday gift for a family member. Most of us have all the TVs and Alexa devices we need, after…

A man spills coffee on his keyboard at work.

Are protection plans for tech gadgets worth the cost?

John Matarese  |  November 21, 2022

If you’re purchasing an electronic item this holiday shopping season, make sure you leave some room in your budget to protect what you buy. A great deal on a laptop or PlayStation is no great deal if you drop it…

Girl hugs Toys R Us mascot Geoffrey

Toys ‘R’ Us Returns to Macy’s stores: Here’s What’s Inside

John Matarese  |  November 15, 2022

Don’t want to grow up? Then you’ll be happy to hear that Geoffrey is back, as Toys “R” Us makes its return. Four years after all Toys “R” Us stores closed in bankruptcy, the brand is finally making a comeback with shops inside 400…

Home with for sale sign

Sticker shock is forcing some home buyers to the sidelines

John Matarese  |  November 14, 2022

It’s a case of sticker shock for many home buyers this fall, as mortgage rates hovering around 7 percent combine with high home prices, forcing some out of the market. Others are trying a more risky alternative — adjustable mortgages…

Want a Puppy for Christmas? Know the Warning Signs of a Puppy Scam

John Matarese  |  November 12, 2022

If your holiday plans include welcoming a new furry friend, one woman learned the hard way you can’t trust every adorable puppy ad you see. Bridget Huddleston wanted a new puppy for the holidays. “I’m looking for a small lapdog…

Rechargeable batteries

Are rechargeable batteries really worth the extra cost?

John Matarese  |  November 9, 2022

Whether you’re shopping for new batteries for smoke alarms or toys for the upcoming holiday season, you might be surprised by how pricey batteries are getting. Angel Larkin is thinking of making the switch to rechargeables. “I think they would…

Woman holds credit card

5 Ways to Protect Yourself From Scams

John Matarese  |  November 8, 2022

Online scams target us year-round. But during the holiday shopping season, scammers seem to be more aggressive than ever, luring people looking for deals. Stephen Casper is a long-time real estate agent who has seen a lot over the years.…

Thanksgiving turkey at dinner table

Turkey sticker shock: Why Thanksgiving will cost more this year

John Matarese  |  November 7, 2022

With Halloween over, the next big holiday that’s top of mind is Thanksgiving. And you may want to start planning your meal now or risk paying even more for the food you need, because prices are up sharply this year.…

Gift cards for many stores and services

Scammers Can Drain Gift Card Balances Before You Even Use Them

John Matarese  |  October 31, 2022

Whether giving a gift card or receiving one, nothing is worse than finding out the balance is wiped out. One woman was stunned when a gift card she bought was worth nothing and wants to warn other shoppers about the…

How to find remote jobs that let you work from anywhere

John Matarese  |  October 26, 2022

Work-from-home jobs offer a lot of flexibility, but not as much as some coveted “work-from-anywhere” jobs, where you can work anywhere in the world, on your own schedule. But finding one of these jobs is not as easy as many…

Why a great deal on a car-buying website may not actually be that good

John Matarese  |  October 25, 2022

Car prices are in high gear this year, which makes it even more crucial for buyers to shop around for the best deals. But before you head to the dealer, there is a new reason to read all the fine…

Spring Break Flights Are Already Super Expensive

John Matarese  |  October 24, 2022

We’ve been hearing a lot about high holiday travel costs this year, as people who haven’t flown for over two years snap up plane tickets to see family, increasing demand and sending airfares higher. But if you haven’t looked at…

What to Know About Shopping at Zero-Waste Stores

John Matarese  |  October 18, 2022

When we talk about refilling at the pump, we’re usually talking about gas prices. But this time, we’re talking about refills that are much better for the environment — maybe even your wallet. It has to do with the boom…

How to Spot Flood-Damaged Cars from Hurricane Ian

John Matarese  |  October 17, 2022

Buying a used car is hard enough these days, with record-high prices. But there’s something else consumers should be on the lookout for at used car lots. After Hurricane Ian, flood-damaged vehicles could be moved out of Florida and sold…

How to Save Money on Halloween Costumes, Candy and Decor

John Matarese  |  October 12, 2022

Halloween is right around the corner, and many parents will get spooked by higher prices. Prices are up on everything this year, including Halloween costumes and candy. But you can keep those prices down if you know where to shop.…

Kitchen faucet with water barely coming out

Watch Out For Utility Shut-Off Scammers

John Matarese  |  October 11, 2022

Utilities around the country are warning about a resurgence in a scam that preys on our fears of having our essential services disconnected. Denise Banks is one of the latest victims. She says she always pays her water bill. But…

Car thief

How TikTok Inspired a Rash of Car Thefts Across the Country

John Matarese  |  October 7, 2022

The products and services mentioned below were selected independent of sales and advertising. However, Don't Waste Your Money may receive a small commission from the purchase of any products or services through an affiliate link to the retailer's website.After a…

Driving car on highway

Why you should think twice about getting the bare minimum car insurance policy

John Matarese  |  October 3, 2022

Drivers know that anything can happen on the road, which is why we have auto insurance. But some insurance policies won’t cover everything when needed, especially if you have “minimum” coverage. Sharon White looked under a tarp covering her 2007…

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