FDIC: FDIC Consumer News Issues Warning About 10 Scams Targeting Bank Customers
The FDIC often hears from bank customers who believe they may be the victims of financial fraud or thefts. The Summer 2017 FDIC Consumer News alerts the public to common scams and provides basic tips for protecting personal information and money. Topics include: An overview of 10 schemes bank customers need to be aware of,…
CFPB: It’s Not Too Late to Spring Clean Your Finances
Spring cleaning isn’t just for decluttering your home. You can take advantage of the changing seasons to clean up your finances and make sure you know where you stand. These steps can help you clean up your financial life as you work towards your goals. Here’s a few ways to get started spring cleaning your…
CFPB: How to Understand Special Promotional Financing Offers on Credit Cards
CREDIT CARD TERMS By Gail Hillebrand How do you tell the difference between a zero interest and deferred, or “no” interest credit card offer? Look for the “if.” Zero interest offers use language like “0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months.” Deferred interest offers use language like “No interest if paid in full…
CFPB: Bureau Encourages Credit Card Companies to Consider More Transparent Promotions
Bureau Notes that Deferred-Interest Promotions May Lack Transparency, Carry Risks to Consumers WASHINGTON, D.C.– The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) today announced it has sent letters to top retail credit card companies encouraging them to consider using more transparent promotions. Many retailers use credit cards with deferred-interest promotions – offers of no interest for a…
SBA: Call for Comments on NAFTA Modernization and Economic Impact Panel Participants
On May 18, President Trump formally launched the re-negotiation of NAFTA. The SBA wants small businesses to get involved by commenting on how NAFTA has impacted your businesses. The deadline to submit comments is June 12, 2017. Submit written comments or written notification of intent to testify along with a summary of your testimony to…
CFPB: Study Finds Consumers in Lower-Income Areas are More Likely to Become Credit Visible Due to Negative Records
Consumers In Higher-Income Areas More Likely Than Those in Lower-Income Areas to Establish Credit with a Credit Card or Co-Borrower WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) today released a study on the transition to credit visibility that found that the way consumers establish credit history can differ greatly based on economic background….
CPFB: IRS Is Using Private Debt Collectors. Here’s What You Should Know…
By Colleen Tressler Do you have a debt with the IRS that’s more than two years old? If so, you might be getting a letter from the IRS about your account being transferred to a private debt collector. This new program only applies to taxpayers who have had an IRS debt for years and who…
HUD: June is National Healthy Homes Month
WASHINGTON – In an effort to help families keep their kids healthy and to reinforce the connection between a family’s health and their home, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is kicking off the second annual National Healthy Homes Month. Throughout the month, the goal is to raise awareness for what makes…