News & Alerts

Wendy’s has buy one, get one for $1 chicken sandwiches every day in January

Scripps News | January 13, 2023

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.Hopefully your new year’s resolution doesn’t involve cutting out fast food, because Wendy’s is offering up a …

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You could win a cash prize equal to your federal income tax refund

Kaitlin Gates | January 12, 2023

Receiving a tax return is a bright spot during the year for many. It may mean that taxpayers can pay off some bills or debt, or even just get some extra groceries. This year, tax management service company Jackson Hewitt is looking to expand the returns for dozens of lucky people. In celebration of its …

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New report shows the price of goods purchased online has dropped

Scripps News | January 11, 2023

December marked the fourth consecutive month that items purchased online cost less, according to data released by Adobe Analytics. According to Adobe Analytics, prices for goods purchased online in December were 1.6% cheaper than in 2021. While groceries continue to see steep cost increases, purchasing electronics, toys and appliances was cheaper. The data indicated that the …

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Woman refuses glass of wine for Dry January

This company will pay you $1,000 not to drink for Dry January

Kaitlin Gates | January 11, 2023

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.If you’re currently participating in Dry January but beginning to lose motivation, we’ve found an incentive that …

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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. But, you don’t have to pay thousands of dollars to have that home exercise area. January is a busy time at Play it Again Sports, a resale chain …

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Here’s what income range is considered middle class in 20 U.S. cities

Scripps News | January 10, 2023

In the U.S., the term “middle class” is commonly used to refer to individuals whose household income falls within a specific range. Pew Research defines middle class or middle-income Americans as those with an annual household income of two-thirds to double the national median (albeit adjusted for household size). Advantages of a Middle Class Income …

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Despite sleepers being recalled years ago, infant fatalities are still reported

Scripps National Desk | January 9, 2023

The Consumer Product Safety Commission reissued a pair of recall notices on Monday, four years after a pair of infant sleepers were recalled as infants can roll from their back to their stomach or side while unrestrained. According to the CPSC, a dozen deaths have been reported among infants using the recalled units. The makers …

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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 will never get used. “I’ve still got some in my wallet from last year,” he …

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Woman looks at survey on computer screen

Yes, you can get paid to take surveys, but beware of scams

Scripps National Desk | January 8, 2023

There are numerous legitimate ways of getting paid to take surveys, but with an opportunity to easily make money comes the risk of getting scammed. The Minnesota Attorney General’s Office released information on how citizens are being defrauded. The agency said that information that is not readily available to the public could be valuable to criminals. …

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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, but tough to keep on track, and many people drop their great plans by the …

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Starbucks barista holds coffee at drive-thru window

Starbucks will require more stars for free items in February

Scripps News | January 5, 2023

It will soon cost you more to earn free items through Starbucks rewards program. The coffee chain is increasing the amount of stars — their version of points — you’ll need to earn things such as free coffee or bakery items. Starbucks has announced that beginning Feb. 13, the number of stars you’ll need will …

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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 Androids. So should you use it and is it secure? Erin Hinebrock is sold on …

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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. Puppy for sale scam Bridget Huddleston thought she’d have a new puppy to start the …

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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 has been featured in Esquire magazine and other publications for her unique drinks. For New …

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Why vegetable prices are so high in the US

Newsy | December 30, 2022

If it seems as though you spent a lot more on produce during your most recent grocery shopping trip, you’re probably right. According to the most recent Producer Price Index from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, vegetable prices increased 38% from October to November. And compared to last November, veggie prices are up more …

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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, but couldn’t believe what the cashier wanted. “I had to provide my name, address, phone …

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Bank of England unveils designs of banknote featuring King Charles III

Scripps National Desk | December 21, 2022

The Bank of England unveiled designs of banknotes that’ll feature Britain’s King Charles III. On Dec. 20, the Bank said they expect to place them into circulation by the middle of 2024. In a statement, the Bank said the portrait would appear on all of its five, 10, 20, and 50 British pound polymer banknotes. …

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Bath & Body Works semi-annual sale starts soon and you can save up to 75%

Kaitlin Gates | December 21, 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.If the thought of the Christmas shopping season coming to an end has you wishing it was …

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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 of inflation. They are feeling that at the Bon Bonerie bakery, where they are cranking …

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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 some shoppers are discovering. Paige Allen is among those trying to finish up holiday shopping …

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These Are the Best Airlines in the World Right Now, According to a New Report

Newsy | December 15, 2022

Inflation has affected the prices of goods, services and the general cost of living. So it’s no surprise that airline ticket prices have also increased. However, airfares have risen much faster than overall inflation, with an annual increase of 42.9%, the highest on record. So if you plan to spend a significant amount on air …

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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 someone hacked her Apple gift card she recently purchased. She says the $50 card was …

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This pet store is giving free dog treats to delivery drivers ahead of the holidays

Kaitlin Gates | December 13, 2022

If you’ve ever considered giving your delivery driver dog treats to hand out to all the pups they meet during their workday, here’s your chance! You can now do so for free, thanks to a company that is looking to spread some holiday cheer to everyone’s four-legged friends. Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming is giving …

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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 Ventura has been repairing cars for more than 25 years at his shop, Auto Pros. …

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A green Jeep Wrangler 4xe is plugged in.

Chrysler recalls 63,000 Jeeps for sudden engine shutdown

Tricia Goss | December 9, 2022

Chrysler, the parent company of Jeep, is recalling nearly 63,000 Jeep Wrangler vehicles that could suddenly quit on drivers. The vehicle engines may experience a loss of communication that can cause the engine to shut down. If the loss of drive power occurs while a vehicle is being driven, the results could be deadly. What …

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Amazon is giving delivery drivers $5 if you tell Alexa to thank your driver

Newsy | December 9, 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.The holiday season can be grueling for mail carriers and delivery drivers. With millions of packages to …

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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 of blue mailboxes. It happened recently to Dorothy Glass, who had a check go missing …

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Chocolate Advent calendars recalled due to potential salmonella contamination

Scripps National Desk | December 7, 2022

Advent calendars filled with chocolate have been recalled due to possible salmonella contamination. The calendars were sold under the Favorina brand in Lidl stores between Oct. 12, 2022, and Dec. 5, 2022. They have a barcode number of 4056489516965. Salmonella is a bacteria that can make people sick. According to the Centers for Disease Control, …

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Target just released a new reloadable RedCard that saves you 5% without a bank account

Kaitlin Gates | December 7, 2022

If you’re a Target shopper, you’ve likely heard about the benefits of getting the RedCard — but now, there’s a brand-new version that is even easier to sign up for. The new Target RedCard Reloadable Account still saves you 5% on your purchases, just like the standard RedCard, but you can sign up without a …

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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 recent years. So the biggest money-saving trend right now is lab-grown diamonds. Eric Fehr of …

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Tesla delivers its first electric semis to PepsiCo at Nevada factory

Scripps National Desk | December 5, 2022

PepsiCo is now the proud owner of Tesla Semis. On Dec. 1, Pepsi became the first company to obtain the electric semis, five years after Tesla first unveiled the prototype to the world. The trucks were delivered to its Nevada factory during its “Semi Delivery Event,” which was live-streamed on Twitter, which is now owned …

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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. They are often advertised on your social media feeds, with images of handbags, jewelry and clothing that look great and are affordable. Sierra Harper knows about …

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Children’s clothing sets recalled due to presence of lead paint

Scripps National Desk | December 2, 2022

Bentex is recalling children’s clothing sets that pose a hazard from lead paint. “The textile ink painted on the recalled clothing sets contains levels of lead that exceed either the federal lead paint ban or the federal lead content ban,” a statement from the Consumer Product Safety Commission says. The clothing sets feature various Disney …

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You can win a Gold Card to get free McDonald’s for life

Newsy | November 30, 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.Inflation has impacted the price of everything, even Big Macs. The cost of eating out has increased …

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2022 Holiday Shipping Deadlines for Sending Gifts and Packages

John Matarese | November 30, 2022

If you’re scrolling through hot deals this Cyber Monday week, don’t forget that the deadline for sending holiday packages is only a few weeks out. With recent postal delays, you don’t want to delay shipping items this year. Mason McCarty runs a shipping store, Safe Ship, and is enjoying this last calm before the storm. …

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Frontier drops customer service phone line, offers chat service

Scripps National Desk | November 29, 2022

Frontier Airlines no longer offers the traditional phone customer service option. The carrier said it recently transitioned to a fully digital model. Frontier has a chatbot on its website that provides answers to common questions. “If live agent support is needed, we have live chat available 24 hours a day / 7 days a week,” …

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How to protect your holiday deliveries from porch pirates

John Matarese | November 29, 2022

We see the videos of brazen “porch pirates” every holiday season, grabbing packages right in full view of video doorbells. While most of us are busy spreading holiday cheer, a naughty few are trying to take what isn’t theirs, right off your front porch. It happened last Christmas to Sam Diener. “I had ordered a …

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As some major companies announce layoffs, many industries are still hiring

Scripps National Desk | November 29, 2022

Many American workers are fearing layoffs as the country faces the possibility of a recession. If you are faced with an unfortunate turn of events, a report from the website monster.com has some good news. It says 92% of companies will be hiring in the new year. The industries include manufacturing, logistics and e-commerce. Vicki Salemi, …

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Get Crocs clogs for just $25 today

Tricia Goss | November 28, 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.Twenty years ago, Crocs clogs were introduced as simple, comfortable boat shoes. Customers came to know the …

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This best-selling retinol moisturizer is just $14 today

Marie Rossiter | November 28, 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.Good skin care is always important. But, as the season changes to winter, it’s essential to have …

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This Hoover vacuum is on sale today for $59 at Walmart’s Cyber Monday

Marie Rossiter | November 28, 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.Cyber Monday deals keep on coming, and Walmart has a deal on a Hoover vacuum that may …

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Ford recalls 518K SUVs due to possible fuel leak and fire risk

Scripps National Desk | November 28, 2022

The Ford Motor Company has recalled more than 518,000 SUVs nationwide due to possible fire risks in the engine. According to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration report, the recall affects 2020-23 Bronco Sports and Escapes with 3-cylinder, 1.5L engines. The recall was issued because the vehicles could catch fire if fuel or vapors leaked …

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Amazon’s Cyber Monday deals include more than 70% off some home goods

Marie Rossiter | November 28, 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.Cyber Monday has arrived! The final day of the long holiday shopping weekend features thousands of online …

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Bissell is giving away 300 Little Green Pet Pros to new pet parents

Kaitlin Gates | November 28, 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.Adopting a pet from a shelter or rescue not only adds joy and happiness to your life, …

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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 holiday purchases very expensive. Jeannie and Kayla Metcalfe were grabbing some of Target’s Black Friday …

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Inflatable hot tub is on sale for less than $300 today

Marie Rossiter | November 25, 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.We all know the holidays are a crazy and chaotic time. Everyone is busy with holiday shopping, …

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New Balance shoes are on sale for less than $40 today on Amazon

Marie Rossiter | November 25, 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.The deals just keep on coming on Black Friday! Among the hundreds of deals on everything from …

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Buy 3, get 3 free at Bath & Body Works’ Black Friday sale

Kaitlin Gates | November 22, 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.Black Friday has already begun at Bath & Body Works. Now, for a limited time, the entire …

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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 two years of pandemic spending. So many people are turning to high-tech items that could …

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Thanksgiving shopping weekend expected to break pre-pandemic levels

Scripps National Desk | November 21, 2022

Even with inflation and most retailers now closed on Thanksgiving itself, the upcoming holiday weekend is expected to garner more shoppers than before the pandemic. According to the National Retail Federation, 166.3 million consumers are expected to shop this weekend, breaking 2019’s record of 165.3 million shoppers. Black Friday remains the overwhelming top day for …

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