20 Questions: Empowering Consumers

Question One Question: “I’m interested in giving to a variety of causes. How can I be sure a charity is reputable?” Resource: Charity Navigator

Question Two Question: “I have been very displeased with the management company of my apartment complex. I’ve called and called, but nothing seems to work. What next?” Resource: Department of Housing and Urban Development, Renter’s Rights by State ssistance/tenantrightshttp://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/topics/rental_a ssistance/tenantrights

Question Three Question: “Well, I tried everything I know to do with the apartment management company, and now I want to complain in some meaningful way. What can I do?” Resource: Better Business Bureau Consumer Action Handbook

Question Four Question: “Strange things have been happening to me lately. I think someone might have stolen my identity. What steps do I need to take?” Resource: Federal Trade Commission, Identify Theft Privacy Rights Clearinghouse

Question Five Question: “Another parent told me she was suspicious of a pair of shoes her kids are wearing—they have a loose bow. She thinks they may have been recalled! How can I find out of this is the case?” Resource: Consumer Products Safety Commission, Recalls Auto Recalls:

Question Six Question: “I see those ads for free credit reports every day. I’d like to see my reports, but there are so many options. Which is the most reliable/trustworthy?” Resource: Annual Credit Report More info about credit reports-

Question Seven Question: “Now that I know my credit is in good shape, I want to apply for a new, low interest card with some benefits. Where can I find the best cards?” Resource: Card Ratings

Question Eight Question: “I’m interested in buying the fancy Google phone. Is it any good? How does it stack up against the Iphone? Resource: CNET, ZDNET

Question Nine Question: “I have some beautiful antiques that simply must be appraised. How can I find a reputable appraiser in my area?” Resource: International Society of Appraisers Directory Or American Society of Appraisers (ASA), and the Appraisers Association of America (AAA)

Question Ten Question: “The phone is a constant source of frustration in my life. What will help me with managing my calls?” Resource: Get Human: National Do Not Call Registry: Who Called Us? Junk mail? calls-and- http:// calls-and-

Question 11 Question: “There are lots of great consumer health resources for people, but fewer for pets! Can you help me find a good site with information about pet care, pet products, and other services?” Resource: American Animal Hospital Association, Healthy Pet

Question 12 Question: “I’ve still got an old brick phone from the 90’s lying around. Where can I recycle it?” Resource: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, “e-cycling” /ecycling/index.htm /ecycling/index.htm

Question 13 Question: “I was reading an article on purchasing new cars that suggested I find out the invoice price. “What does this mean? Where can I find that?” Resource: edmunds.com, Pricing System

Question 14 Question: “Before I know what hit me, it will be time to send my kids to college. Where can I find more information about college savings plans available in my state?” Resource: College Savings Plans Network

Question 15 Question: “I have little to no understanding of the investment landscape. At my new job, I have the option of investing in a 401k. I need help understanding how it works!” Resource: Investopedia Motley Fool

Question 16 Question: “I am trying to save some money on legal fees. Are there resources online where I can get forms?” Resource: Findlaw Nolo

Question 17 Question: “I need to find good information about the effectiveness of dietary and herbal supplements—can you help?” Resource: Office of Dietary Supplements General consumer health information-Medline Plus:

Question 18 Question: “I just had the best experience buying sportswear at a Jockey outlet store. I really want to send my compliments to the parent company. How would I do that?” Resource: Planet Feedback

Question 19 Question: “New technology is so expensive. Is there a place where I can find good deals?” Resource: Woot! Google shopping (formerly Froogle)

Question 20 Question: “I was just in this online class where I learned about a lot of resources for consumers, but I know there have to be a lot more. Where can I find more info?” Resource: Consumer Action Clark Howard Internet Public Library, Consumer Issues and Services arent=6607

Thank You for Attending! Questions? Professional Development –Ext Web: lyrasis.org