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…

Unused 529 college savings can be rolled into a Roth IRA starting next year

Scripps News  |  January 19, 2023

A 529 plan is an education savings plan designed to encourage saving for future college costs. It is sponsored by states, state agencies or educational institutions and offers tax advantages and potentially other incentives to make it easier for families…

You can win Barilla heart-shaped pasta for Valentine’s Day—and a trip to Italy

Kaitlin Gates  |  January 19, 2023

Pasta brand Barilla is making Valentine’s Day extra special this year by giving away boxes of their new heart-shaped pasta and, for one very lucky fan, a once-in-lifetime vacation. The new limited-edition Barilla Love shape is inspired by one of…

Flight attendants stand in front of private jet

Netflix has a job opening for a flight attendant on a private jet—and it pays up to $385,000

Marie Rossiter  |  January 18, 2023

Netflix, one of the entertainment industry’s leading streaming services, recently posted an unusual job opening. Someone looking for a job at Netflix might expect to find listings in programming, marketing or something similar. However, this new career opportunity will allow…

Class action settlement file with gavel

MacBook owners could receive up to $395 from Apple settlement

Marie Rossiter  |  January 18, 2023

If you own a MacBook computer, then you might be entitled to compensation from a class-action lawsuit. However, you must act quickly to get in on the settlement payments. In July 2022, Apple settled a class-action lawsuit that alleged the…

Income tax forms, calculator and computer keyboard

30% of Americans say they will rely on tax refunds to make ends meet this year

Scripps News  |  January 18, 2023

About 30% of Americans are relying on their tax refund checks to make ends meet, according to a study from Credit Karma. However, a change in tax rules pertaining to charitable contributions coupled with the end of stimulus programs will likely…

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…

Past due medical bills on folder

Changes to medical debt reporting could improve your credit score

Scripps News  |  January 17, 2023

According to a 2022 Kaiser Family Foundation analysis of Census Bureau data, 23 million people — nearly 1 in 10 adults — carry significant medical debt. In addition, a report by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) showed that as…

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…

Disney World's Magic Kingdom

Disneyland announces more days when its cheapest ticket will be available

Scripps News  |  January 13, 2023

Disneyland and Disney World are making changes that could save visitors time and money. Disneyland is adding about two months’ worth of days that its $104 ticket will be available. That’s the lowest price for a single-day ticket. The theme…

Woman does her taxes

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…

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…

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…

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…

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

Scripps News  |  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…

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…

Woman looks at survey on computer screen

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

Scripps News  |  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…

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…

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.…

Why vegetable prices are so high in the US

Scripps News  |  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…

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,…

Bank of England unveils designs of banknote featuring King Charles III

Scripps News  |  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…

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…

Happy child passenger on airplane

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

Scripps News  |  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%,…

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…

Feeding happy dog with treats.

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…

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…

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…

Delivery driver gives customer package

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

Scripps News  |  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…

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…

Chocolate Advent calendars recalled due to potential salmonella contamination

Scripps News  |  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…

Target storefront in Danvers, Mass.

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%…

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…

Tesla delivers its first electric semis to PepsiCo at Nevada factory

Scripps News  |  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…

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…

Recalled children's clothing example

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

Scripps News  |  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,”…

McDonald's arches

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

Scripps News  |  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…

Frontier drops customer service phone line, offers chat service

Scripps News  |  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…

A "now hiring" sign is posted in Garnet Valley, Pa., Monday, May 10, 2021. Applications for unemployment benefits inched down last week, Thursday, April 21, 2022, as the total number of Americans collecting aid fell to its lowest level in more than 50 years. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke, File)

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

Scripps News  |  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…

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…

Hoover vacuum on sale at Walmart

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…

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

Scripps News  |  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.…

Amazon sign on building

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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…

People shopping at stores

Thanksgiving shopping weekend expected to break pre-pandemic levels

Scripps News  |  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,…

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