Contraception and Abortion Rights: California Seeks to Block Bush Administration Attack on Contraception and Abortion Rights

California joined a lawsuit against the United States Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to halt the implementation of a Bush Administration "midnight regulation" that could potentially "endanger a woman’s right to contraception," including emergency contraception given to rape victims. Contraception and Abortion Rights: California Seeks to Block Bush Administration Attack on Contraception and Abortion Rights

New Presidential Limousine Enters Secret Service Fleet

On Tuesday, January 20, a new armored presidential limousine will make its debut as part of the 56 th Presidential Inauguration, following the tradition of integrating new U.S. Secret Service vehicles into the fleet for Inaugural parades. New Presidential Limousine Enters Secret Service Fleet

New Presidential Limousine Enters Secret Service Fleet

On Tuesday, January 20, a new armored presidential limousine will make its debut as part of the 56 th Presidential Inauguration, following the tradition of integrating new U.S. Secret Service vehicles into the fleet for Inaugural parades. New Presidential Limousine Enters Secret Service Fleet

Read This Before Choosing a Tax Preparer

If you will be paying someone to do your tax return, choose a tax preparer wisely. You are legally responsible for what’s on your tax returns even if they are prepared by someone else. So, it’s important to find a qualified tax professional.  Read This Before Choosing a Tax Preparer

Be Aware of Suspicious E-Mails

Be aware of e-mail scams that fraudulently use the IRS name or Logo as a lure. The goal of the scam is to trick people into revealing personal and financial information, such as Social Security, bank account or credit card numbers, which the scammers can use to commit identity theft and steal your money. Be Aware of Suspicious E-Mails

TV Converter Box Coupons: New Coupon Applicants Will be Placed on Waiting List Due to High Demand

Starting Sunday, January 4, consumers requesting coupons from the agency's TV Converter Box Coupon Program will be placed on a waiting list and coupons will be mailed on a first-come-first-served basis, as funds from expired coupons become available. TV Converter Box Coupons: New Coupon Applicants Will be Placed on Waiting List Due to High Demand

Job Fair: U.S. Border Patrol to Hold Recruiting Event in Bay City, Mich

The U.S. Border Patrol will hold a recruiting and hiring event in Bay City, Michigan Saturday, January 10, at the Double Tree Hotel at 600 Saginaw St. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Job Fair: U.S. Border Patrol to Hold Recruiting Event in Bay City, Mich

U.S. Postal Service Launches New Priority Mail Box

Small Flat-Rate Box Gives Customers Another Shipping Option. U.S. Postal Service Launches New Priority Mail Box

Ponzi Scheme: SEC Charges Joseph S. Forte for Conducting Multi-Million Dollar Ponzi Scheme

The Securities and Exchange Commission has charged a Philadelphia-area investment fund manager and his firm for conducting a multi-million dollar Ponzi scheme, and has obtained an emergency court order freezing their assets. Ponzi Scheme: SEC Charges Joseph S. Forte for Conducting Multi-Million Dollar Ponzi Scheme

IRS: How to Choose a Tax Preparer and Avoid Preparer Fraud

Return preparer fraud involves the preparation and filing of false income tax returns by preparers who claim inflated personal or business expenses, false deductions, unallowable credits or excessive exemptions on returns prepared for their clients. How to Choose a Tax Preparer and Avoid Preparer Fraud

Credit problems, phishing scams, car issues top list of consumer complaints

The Attorney General's Office has released its Top 10 list of consumer complaints for 2008, and it has a familiar look. Complaints about financing, credit and debt collection were the number one category of complaints filed, as they were in 2007. The Consumer Protection Division this year received more than 120,000 calls, letters, e-mails and online complaints in 2008. Credit problems, phishing scams, car issues top list of consumer complaints

IRS Begins Tax Season 2009 with Steps to Help Financially Distressed Taxpayers

The Internal Revenue Service today kicked off the 2009 tax filing season by announcing a number of new steps to help financially distressed taxpayers maximize their refunds and speed payments while providing additional help to people struggling to meet their tax obligations. IRS Begins Tax Season 2009 with Steps to Help Financially Distressed Taxpayers

January is Stalking Awareness Month

Stalking Awareness Month gives us the opportunity to learn about this crime that continues to disrupt and victimize people from all walks of life and in every community throughout America.  January is Stalking Awareness Month

Muslim Discrimination Lawsuit: Merrill Lynch to Pay $1.55 Million for Job Bias against Iranian Muslim Former Employee

EEOC announced that Merrill Lynch, the international financial services firm, has agreed to pay $1,550,000 to settle a discrimination lawsuit under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act on behalf of an Iranian Muslim former worker who was fired due to his religion and national origin.  Muslim Discrimination Lawsuit: Merrill Lynch to Pay $1.55 Million for Job Bias against Iranian Muslim Former Employee

Throwing a New Year's Eve Party? I.I.I. Offers Tips for Being a Responsible Host

If you are planning to throw a New Year’s Eve party, remember that a truly great host recruits designated drivers and takes other steps to ensure the safety of guests, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.).  Throwing a New Year's Eve Party? I.I.I. Offers Tips for Being a Responsible Host

Vitamin protection & Prostate Cancer

Vitamin E and the mineral selenium don't seem to give men the protection against prostate cancer that they might have hoped for. Vitamin protection & Prostate Cancer

Tainted Weight Loss Pills - FDA Warns Consumers

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is alerting consumers nationwide not to purchase or consume more than 25 different products marketed for weight loss because they contain undeclared, active pharmaceutical ingredients that may put consumers health at risk. Tainted Weight Loss Pills - FDA Warns Consumers

Bailout Update: Treasury Provides TARP Funds to Local Banks

The U.S. Treasury Department announced today details of a $2.8 billion investment in 49 banks made on Friday, December 19 through its Capital Purchase Program.  Treasury also closed $1.9 billion in transactions with 43 banks today. Bailout Update: Treasury Provides TARP Funds to Local Banks

Sri Lanka Travel Warning Issued to American Citizens

The Department of State warns American citizens traveling to or living in Sri Lanka about the continuing danger of terrorist attacks throughout the country. This replaces the Travel Warning for Sri Lanka dated June 13, 2008 and highlights changes in locations of security concerns, and notes recent terrorist attacks. Sri Lanka Travel Warning Issued to American Citizens

IRS' January Tax Talk Today Focuses on Filing Season

The Internal Revenue Service's next Tax Talk Today program, "Getting Ready for Filing Season 2009 -- Individual and Business," will be Tuesday, Jan. 13, at 2 p.m. This special, 100-minute program will give tax preparers a head start on the 2009 filing season. IRS' January Tax Talk Today Focuses on Filing Season

Prostate Cancer: Dietary Supplements Fail to Prevent Prostate Cancer

Two large-scale clinical trials found that regular intake of vitamin E, vitamin C or selenium does not reduce the risk of prostate cancer or other cancers in older men, as some previous studies had suggested. Prostate Cancer: Dietary Supplements Fail to Prevent Prostate Cancer

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All Post Offices Open on Christmas Eve

All Post Offices nationwide will be open Christmas Eve, Wednesday, Dec. 24, but most will shorten retail lobby hours and close at noon. Regular mail delivery for Dec. 24 will be unaffected by the change. All Post Offices Open on Christmas Eve

Travel Deals: Economic Downturn Creating Travel Deals Not Seen In Years

One bright spot in the economic downturn is the great deals available for those planning to take a vacation. With the travel industry offering great deals, those considering a cruise, a European tour or another type of pre-paid vacation should consider travel insurance to protect their financial investment, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.).  Travel Deals: Economic Downturn Creating Travel Deals Not Seen In Years

Nomination of Tom Vilsack as the Next Secretary of Agriculture

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Ed Schafer today commended g President-Elect Barack Obama's nomination of former Iowa overnor Tom Vilsack to be the 30th Secretary of Agriculture, citing the former governor's experience in agricultural issues and expressing confidence in Vilsack's ability to effectively continue USDA's success in expanding America's agricultural economy. Nomination of Tom Vilsack as the Next Secretary of Agriculture

Comprehensive Tax Guide Available for Free at IRS.gov

The IRS has placed its comprehensive tax guide for individuals on  IRS.gov, updating it for tax year 2008. The updated on-line version of IRS Publication 17, "Your Federal Income Tax," contains more than 900 interactive links. Comprehensive Tax Guide Available for Free at IRS.gov

BMW Recalling Mini Cooper S Vehicles for Tailpipe Burns

After NHTSA issued an initial decision that MY 2007 and some MY 2008 Mini Cooper S vehicles contained a safety-related defect that could result in burns due to contact with the tail pipes, BMW has decided to recall the vehicles rather than contest NHTSA's initial decision in a public hearing on the issue...... BMW Recalling Mini Cooper S Vehicles for Tailpipe Burns

Bogus computer scan for free: Court Halts Bogus Computer Scans

At the request of the Federal Trade Commission, a U.S. district court has issued a temporary halt to a massive "scareware" scheme, which falsely claimed that scans had detected viruses, spyware, and illegal pornography on consumers' computers. According to the FTC, the scheme has tricked more than one million consumers into buying computer security products such as WinFixer, WinAntivirus, DriveCleaner, ErrorSafe, and XP Antivirus. The court also froze the assets of those responsible for the scheme, to preserve the possibility of providing consumers with monetary redress. Bogus Computer Scareware Scans: Court Halts Bogus Computer Scans

Sony BMG Music Settles Charges Its Music Fan Websites Violated the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act

Sony BMG Music Entertainment (Sony Music) has agreed to pay $1 million as part of a settlement to resolve Federal Trade Commission charges that it violated the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) and the Commission’s implementing Rule.  Sony BMG Music Settles Charges Its Music Fan Websites Violated the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act

OCC, Wachovia Enter Revised Agreement to Reimburse Consumers Directl

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has entered into an amended settlement agreement with Wachovia Bank, National Association directing the bank to issue checks to consumers that may have been harmed by payment processors for telemarketers that had account relationships with Wachovia. OCC, Wachovia Enter Revised Agreement to Reimburse Consumers Directly

IRS: Interest Rates Drop for the First Quarter of 2009

The Internal Revenue Service today announced in Revenue Ruling 2008-54 that interest rates for the calendar quarter beginning Jan. 1, 2009 will drop by one percentage point. The new rates will be... IRS: Interest Rates Drop for the First Quarter of 2009

Do Foreclosures Lead to Increased Violent Crime?

A sobering fact repeated in many of these stories is that an increase in the foreclosure rate in a neighborhood can lead to an increase in the rate of violent crime. Do Foreclosures Lead to Increased Violent Crime?

IRS Offers Tips for Year-End Donations

Individuals and businesses making contributions to charity should keep in mind several important tax law provisions that have taken effect in recent years. IRS Offers Tips for Year-End Donations

FDIC Increase: Your New, Higher FDIC Insurance Coverage

With banks and the economy in the news so much lately, many people are thinking more about the safety of their money. The FDIC has some good news â€" your FDIC deposit insurance coverage has significantly increased. FDIC Increase: Your New, Higher FDIC Insurance Coverage

Struggling to Balance Your Budget? I.I.I. Offers Ways to Save Money on Your Auto Insurance in a Recession

With the Dow in the tank and the recession now “official”, finding ways to save money can be daunting. If you’re shopping for new auto insurance, or if you haven’t changed or updated your policy in the past year or two, check with your agent or insurance company representativeâ€"you may be surprised by the discounts out there, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.) Struggling to Balance Your Budget? I.I.I. Offers Ways to Save Money on Your Auto Insurance in a Recession

Ripoff Artists Target Grandparents

Complaints are on the rise about a scam that preys on a grandparent’s love, according to the Federal Trade Commission. Ripoff Artists Target Grandparents

IRS Announces 2009 Standard Mileage Rates

The Internal Revenue Service today issued the 2009 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes. IRS Announces 2009 Standard Mileage Rates

Get Ready for the Big TV Transition

The change in administrations is not the only transition rapidly approaching. The switch from analog to 100% digital TV broadcasting occurs at midnight Feb. 17, 2009. Get Ready for the Big TV Transition

HUD Issues New Mortgage Rules To Help Consumers Shop For Lower Cost Home Loans

WASHINGTON - For the first time in more than 30 years, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development today issued long-anticipated mortgage reforms that will help consumers to shop for the lowest cost mortgage and avoid costly and potentially harmful loan offers. HUD Issues New Mortgage Rules To Help Consumers Shop For Lower Cost Home Loans

Silent Spyware: Court Orders Halt to Sale of Spyware

When consumer victims clicked on the disguised file, the keylogger spyware silently installed in the background without the victim's knowledge. This spyware recorded every keystroke typed on the victim's computer (including passwords); captured images of the computer screen; and recorded Web sites visited. Spyware: Court Orders Halt to Sale of Spyware

Prayer Breaks Sought by Muslim Employees to be Instituted: EEOC Settles Claims

Prayer Breaks Sought by Muslim Employees to be Instituted: EEOC Settles Claims
Prayer Breaks Sought by Muslim Employees to be Instituted; Total of $365,000 to be Paid in Two Cases

Internet Pharmacy: Father and Son Convicted of Running Illegal Internet Pharmacy

Defendants to Forfeit a Total of $11.8 Million in Illegal Drug Proceeds. Following four weeks of trial, a federal jury in Brooklyn today returned a verdict convicting ANTONIO QUINONES, the owner and operator of illegal internet pharmacies, of illegal distribution of prescription medication, conspiracy, and money laundering. Internet Pharmacy: Father and Son Convicted of Running Illegal Internet Pharmacy

Internet Payday Lenders: FTC Charges Internet Payday Lenders for Abusive and Deceptive Collection Tactics

The Federal Trade Commission and the State of Nevada have charged 10 related Internet payday lenders and their principals, based mainly in the United Kingdom, with violating federal and state law by not disclosing key loan terms to U.S. consumers and using abusive and deceptive collection tactics. Internet Payday Lenders: FTC Charges Internet Payday Lenders for Abusive and Deceptive Collection Tactics

FHA Mortgage Update: HUD Announces New, Permanent FHA Mortgage Loan Limits

Beginning January 1, 2009, FHA will insure single-family home mortgages up to $271,050 in low cost areas and up to a maximum of $625,500 in high cost areas. The February 2008 Stimulus Package temporarily raised the FHA maximum to $729,750 through December 31, 2008. The new $625,500 maximum, however, represents a significant increase over the $362,790 limit that was in effect prior to the Stimulus Package. FHA Mortgage Update: HUD Announces New, Permanent FHA Mortgage Loan Limits

Don't be Left Out! Two Weeks to ShakeOut--Thousands Join Each Day, You Can Too

At 10 a.m. on November 13, millions of southern Californians will drop to the ground, take cover under a table or desk, and hold on. An earthquake prediction? No. But it is certain that the Great Southern California ShakeOut is on track to being the largest earthquake drill in United States history. Don't be Left Out! Two Weeks to ShakeOut--Thousands Join Each Day, You Can Too

Federal Reserve Board and Treasury Department announce restructuring of financial support to AIG

The Federal Reserve Board and the U.S. Treasury on Monday announced the restructuring of the government's financial support to the American International Group (AIG) in order to keep the company strong and facilitate its ability to complete its restructuring process successfully. Federal Reserve Board and Treasury Department announce restructuring of financial support to AIG

U.S. Customs Job Fair held in El Centro California: Nov 7

U.S. Customs and Border Protection will host a CBP officer recruiting event on November 7, at the One Stop Employment Center located at 2695 South 4th Street, Building D, in El Centro, Calif. The event will run from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. U.S. Customs Job Fair held in El Centro California: Nov 7

Mortgage Broker Indicted In Million Dollar Mortgage

A broker operating Motown Mortgage Group, has been indicted and charged with conspiracy, wire fraud and money laundering arising from an alleged scheme to defraud residential mortgage lenders, United States Attorney Don DeGabrielle and FBI Houston Special Agent in Charge Andrew R. Bland III announced today. Mortgage Broker Indicted In Million Dollar Mortgage

Lead Paint Violations: Two Real Estate Corporations Charged With Failing to Warn about Lead

The corporate owners of numerous Coldwell Banker real estate brokerage offices in southern Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island face civil penalties for over 100 violations of lead paint disclosure rules. Lead Paint Violations: Two Real Estate Corporations Charged With Failing to Warn about Lead

U.S.DOT Unveils Automatic Vehicle Safety Recall Notification Service

Vehicle owners across the nation can be instantly informed of a safety recall under a new automated alert system announced today by U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary E. Peters.  U.S.DOT Unveils Automatic Vehicle Safety Recall Notification Service

Conforming Loan Limit for U.S. To Remain $417,000 In 2009; DIFFERENT LIMITS IN SOME AREAS

The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) today announced the conforming loan limit will remain $417,000 for 2009 for most areas in the U.S. but specified higher limits in certain cities and counties. The conforming loan limit is the maximum size of loans that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac can purchase in 2009. Conforming Loan Limit for U.S. To Remain $417,000 In 2009; DIFFERENT LIMITS IN SOME AREAS

Visa Waiver Program Expansion - VWP travel begins November 17

President Bush announced the imminent expansion of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) to include the Czech Republic, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, the Republic of Korea and the Slovak Republic. However, the United States must still complete certain internal steps required by statute before we can complete VWP expansion. Visa Waiver Program Expansion - VWP travel begins November 17

Grant Notice: DHS Announces Over $3 Billion In Preparedness Grant Programs

The Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency today released Fiscal Year (FY) 2009 Application Guidance for 14 federal grant programs, totaling more than $3 billion available in federal funding to assist state and local governments in strengthening community preparedness.  Grant Notice: DHS Announces Over $3 Billion In Preparedness Grant Programs

DisasterAssistance.gov to Launch on December 31 2008

The DAIP process will start with disaster victims visiting DisasterAssistance.gov and answering a series of questions to determine the appropriate disaster assistance benefit programs for their situation. No personal identifying information will be requested during this screening. After the initial screening, individuals will be presented with a list of benefit programs for which they may be eligible. Then they will be offered the option to apply immediately for those programs. Applicants will also have the opportunity to check the status of their applications over time. DisasterAssistance.gov to Launch on December 31 2008

Chrysler Launches New Hybrids, then Cancels Production

In a sign of these strange economic times, Chrysler LLC is simultaneously preparing to launch its first hybrid vehicles and to shut down their production. Chrysler Launches New Hybrids, then Cancels Production

Learn About the U.S. Economic Crisis

The United States is in the midst of a serious financial crisis. A plan to address the crisis was proposed through the...  Learn About the Economic Crisis 

International Shipping is Easy Online

WASHINGTON, DC --IIs  a long way to Tipperary, or Tokyo or Tasmania. When mailing holiday gifts, faraway family and friends can be as close as a personal computer -making it easy to mail to places far from home from your home.  U.S. Postal:International Shipping is Easy Online

Free Crisis Counseling For Texans Affected By Hurricane Ike

Often, after a major disaster, people who suffered losses and damage to their homes or businesses just need someone to talk to, especially if they are feeling confused, anxious or angry. Free Crisis Counseling For Texans Affected By Hurricane Ike

OSHA Update: Three New Safety and Health Information Bulletins Available on OSHA's Web Site

OSHA Update: Three New Safety and Health Information Bulletins Available on OSHA's Web Site
OSHA's latest Safety and Health Information Bulletins (SHIBs) highlight specific workplace hazards and ways to minimize the potential for serious or fatal injuries. OSHA Update: Three New Safety and Health Information Bulletins Available on OSHA's Web Site

FTC Launches New Web Site for Kids

The Federal Trade Commission today launched a new Web site to introduce kids to key consumer and business concepts. Set in a shopping mall takes kids on an experiential journey that presents the FTC’s mission and its important role in American commerce. Kids under 12 are reported to spend billions of dollars on goods and services every year. FTC Launches New Web Site for Kids

Foreclosure Prevention: HUD Modernizes Online Guide For Avoiding Foreclosure

WASHINGTON - Do you need help finding a housing counselor or contacting your lender? Or do you want more information about mortgage refinance options offered by HUD's Federal Housing Administration (FHA)? Americans are able to do all this and more thanks to an updated website developed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Foreclosure Prevention: HUD Modernizes Online Guide For Avoiding Foreclosure

Prevention of Relapse to Cocaine Use: Recruiting Partcipants

This study will evaluate whether, compared to placebo, aripiprazole increases the time to relapse to cocaine use in abstinent polydrug users in methadone maintenance therapy. Prevention of Relapse to Cocaine Use: Recruiting Participants

NTSB Adds Restricted Cell Phone Use, EMS Safety To 2009 Most Wanted List Of Safety Improvements; Positive Train Control Removed After 18 Years On The List

The National Transportation Safety Board today issued its 2009 Federal Most Wanted List of safety improvements.  Newly added to the list of 15 areas of concern were: Improve Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Flight Operations, Restrict the Use of Cell Phones by motorcoach drivers, and require Electronic On-Board Recorders by all motor carriers.  NTSB Adds Restricted Cell Phone Use, EMS Safety To 2009 Most Wanted List Of Safety Improvements; Positive Train Control Removed After 18 Years On The List

Mutual Fund Regulatory Filings to Be Available to Investors Online

The Securities and Exchange Commission has adopted rule revisions to require that mutual funds and other companies seeking exemptions under the Investment Company Act submit their applications electronically. Mutual Fund Regulatory Filings to Be Available to Investors Online

Hurricane Gustav Victims Can Get Help With Many Disaster Expenses

Mississippians, who suffered damages or losses from Hurricane Gustav and who are not eligible for a disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), may be referred to FEMA's Other Needs Assistance (ONA) program to help with disaster-related expenses. Hurricane Gustav Victims Can Get Help With Many Disaster Expenses

Earthquakes? Don't be Scared; Be Prepared

What if you knew that a magnitude 7.8 earthquake would happen in less than three weeks? In a new video interview, USGS earthquake scientist Dr. Lucy Jones explains that millions of Southern Californians will be preparing as if they do know, thanks to the Great Southern California ShakeOut. Earthquakes? Don't be Scared; Be Prepared

Halloween Shoppers Beware! Even Cosmetic Contact Lenses Require Prescriptions

The Halloween season spells big business for the cosmetic contact lens industry, as consumers shop for just the right lenses to play the part of a mummy or vampire, or to change the color of their eyes for the evening. Halloween Shoppers Beware! Even Cosmetic Contact Lenses Require Prescriptions

Buying a Foreclosed Home? Uncle Sam Shows You How

Are you fascinated by the home makeover television programs that show the excitement of buying and renovating a foreclosed home? Have you seen foreclosed homes in your city that look like a good buy? Before you go out to the next courthouse auction to buy your next home or dream of flipping that house for major profits, be sure to do your homework. Buying a Foreclosed Home? Uncle Sam Shows You How

Hate Crimes 2007: FBI Releases Report

Hate crimes like these are a sad reality for our country, and each year, the FBI crunches a lot of numbers to get our arms around these crimes as relayed to us by thousands of our law enforcement partners nationwide. Hate Crimes 2007: FBI releases Report

Same-Sex Teen Harassment: EEOC Settles Suit

EEOC Settles Suit for Young Men Who Were Sexually Abused at Hotel Chain. Same-Sex Teen Harassment: EEOC Settles Suit

Car Shoppers Can Save Money and Time with 2009 Fuel Economy Guide

To help consumers make well-informed choices when purchasing new vehicles, EPA and the Department of Energy (DOE) have unveiled the 2009 Fuel Economy Guide. Car Shoppers Can Save Money and Time with 2009 Fuel Economy Guide

Update: Microsoft Windows Server Service Vulnerability

Microsoft has released updates that address a vulnerability in Microsoft Windows 2000, Windows XP, and Windows Vista. Microsoft Windows Server Service Vulnerability

IRS Seeks to Return $266 Million in Undeliverable Refunds And Economic Stimulus Payments to Taxpayers

The Internal Revenue Service is looking for taxpayers who are missing more than 279,000 economic stimulus checks totaling about $163 million and more than 104,000 regular refund checks totaling about $103 million that were returned by the U.S. Postal Service due to mailing address errors. IRS Seeks to Return $266 Million in Undeliverable Refunds And Economic Stimulus Payments to Taxpayers

FBI Seeking Information about Threatening Hoax Letters

Today the FBI issued photographs of a threatening hoax letter and its envelope, one of more than 50 such letters received this week by financial institutions in at least 11 states. Many of the letters have contained an unknown powder substance. The letters have all been postmarked from Amarillo, Texas. FBI Seeking Information about Threatening Hoax Letters

47,700 Gas Grill Recalled

The gas grills can be assembled improperly exposing the gas burner hoses to excessive heat, posing fire and burn hazards to consumers. 47,700 Gas Grill Recalled

2008 World Series Fun, Facts & Features

The Tampa Bay Rays will play the Philadelphia Phillies in the 2008 World Series beginning Wednesday, Oct. 22, in St. Petersburg, Fla. This will be the 104th edition of major league baseball’s best-of-seven championship series, marking the first World Series appearance for the American League champion Rays since entering the league in 1998. 2008 World Series Fun, Facts & Features

Phony Sweepstakes: Exploiting the FTC Name, Scammers Promise Phony Sweepstakes Prizes

In their latest effort to defraud the public, con artists claiming to work for the Federal Trade Commission are calling consumers and claiming that they have won a lottery or sweepstakes. Phony Sweepstakes: Exploiting the FTC Name, Scammers Promise Phony Sweepstakes Prizes

FBI Alert: Beware of a spam e-mail claming to come from the FBI Deputy Director.

 A spam e-mail claiming to be from FBI Deputy Director John S. Pistole is currently being circulated. This attempt to defraud is the typical e-mail scam using the name and reputation of an FBI official to create an air of authenticity. Beware of a spam e-mail claming to come from the FBI Deputy Director.

IRS Announces Pension Plan Limitations for 2009

The Internal Revenue Service today announced cost of lving adjustments applicable to dollar limitations for pension plans and other items for tax year 2009. IRS Announces Pension Plan Limitations for 2009

IRS: 2009 Inflation Adjustments Widen Tax Brackets and Expand Tax Benefits

For 2009, personal exemptions and standard deductions will rise and tax brackets will widen because of inflation adjustments announced today by the Internal Revenue Service. IRS: 2009 Inflation Adjustments Widen Tax Brackets and Expand Tax Benefits

Business Opportunities in Egypt

With a real GDP growth of 7.1% in 2006-07, 7.5% the first nine months of 2008, and a population of 80.3 million -- Egypt offers great potential for U.S. companies. And that is precisely why, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Commerce's Commercial Service and the American Chamber of Commerce in Egypt, Ex-Im Bank has organized the "Egypt-U.S. Finance Conference" on Wednesday, November 12, at the Semiramis Intercontinental Hotel in Cairo. Business Opportunities in Egypt

Now Open: U.S. 2010 Diversity Visa Lottery Program Registration

Applications for the 2010 Diversity Visa Lottery Program will be accepted from October 2 to December 1, 2008. Entries for the DV-2010 Diversity Visa lottery must be submitted electronically between noon, Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4), Thursday, October 2, 2008, and noon, Eastern Standard Time (EST) (GMT-5), Monday, December 1, 2008. 2010 Diversity Visa Lottery Program Registration

IRS: Vehicles Certified as Qualified Advanced Lean-Burn Technology Vehicles

The Internal Revenue Service has acknowledged the certifications by manufacturers that certain advanced lean-burn technology vehicles qualify for the alternative motor vehicle tax credit. IRS: Vehicles Certified as Qualified Advanced Lean-Burn Technology Vehicles

Air Traffic Controller Traning: More Schools Make Air Traffic Controller Training Available

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has selected eight additional colleges or universities to participate in the Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI) program. Approved colleges and universities in the program prepare and train students interested in a career as an air traffic controller. More Schools Make Air Traffic Controller Training Available

Identity Theft: East Texas woman arrested on identity fraud charges

A 41-year-old Mount Pleasant, Texas, woman was arrested Thursday on charges of identification document fraud. Allegedly, the woman conspired to provide identification documents to applicants for employment who did not have proper identification documents. Identity Theft: East Texas woman arrested on identity fraud charges

Child Pleasing Lunchbox Recipes

How long is school usually in session before you start running short of good ideas to pack for lunch? For most of us, it doesn't take long. Faced with the laundry list of limitations a school lunchbox presents it's no wonder, either! Child Pleasing Lunchbox Recipes

IRS: October 15 Deadline Approaches for Retirees and Disabled Veterans

Only days remain until the Oct. 15 deadline for retirees and disabled veterans to file an income tax return that will allow them to receive an economic stimulus payment this year. IRS: October 15 Deadline Approaches for Retirees and Disabled Veterans

Consumers Urged to Apply for Converter Box Coupons By Year-End

WASHINGTON–The Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), announced today that "over-the-air" television viewers who want to participate in the TV Converter Box Coupon Program should apply for coupons before the end of the year to minimize the chances of losing TV reception when full-power broadcasters switch to digital.  Full-power TV broadcasters switch from analog to 100 percent digital broadcasts on February 17, 2009. Consumers Urged to Apply for Converter Box Coupons By Year-End

 

 

Foreclosure Prevention: HUD Announces $50 Million In Housing Counseling Grants To Nearly 400 National, State And Local Agencies

HUD funding critical to foreclosure prevention -Hundreds of thousands of American families will have a greater opportunity to find housing or keep the homes they have because of $50 million in housing counseling and counseling training grants announced today by U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Steve Preston. Foreclosure Prevention: HUD Announces $50 Million In Housing Counseling Grants To Nearly 400 National, State And Local Agencies

U.S.and Georgia Business Summit to be held in Tbilisi, Georgia on October 26-28

U .S. Commerce Deputy Secretary John Sullivan will host the U.S.-Georgia Business Summit in Tbilisi, Georgia, Oct. 27, 2008, on the occasion of a Commerce Department-certified trade mission to Georgia the week of Oct. 26-28, 2008..S. and Georgian business leaders and senior officials will attend the summit on Monday, Oct. 27, which will highlight U.S. resources for expanding trade and investment with Georgia and opportunities in the country's growth sectors. Summit participants will include Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili; Georgian Prime Minister Vladimer Gurgenidze; President and CEO of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation Robert Mosbacher, Jr.; and Director of the U.S. Trade and Development Agency Larry Walther. U.S. and Georgia Business Summit to be held in Tbilisi, Georgia on October 26-28

U.S. Customs is Hiring: Recruitment Fair October 4

U.S. Customs and Border Protection recruiters will look to California with four simultaneous Border Patrol agent recruiting events. On Saturday, October 4, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. U.S. Customs is Hiring: Recruitment Fair October 4

IRS Sends Compliance Questionnaires to 400 Colleges and Universities

Approximately four hundred U.S. colleges and universities will begin receiving compliance questionnaires from the Internal Revenue Service in the next few days as part of the agency’s focused effort to study key areas in the tax-exempt community. IRS Sends Compliance Questionnaires to 400 Colleges and Universities

OSHA unveils new powered industrial trucks eTool

Employers who use forklifts in their workplaces have a new resource to help keep their employees safe on the job. OSHA unveils new powered industrial trucks eTool

SBA Loans Help Homeowners And Renters, Not Just Businesses

Don't let the word "business" in the name U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) fool you. If you are a homeowner or renter, the SBA is your primary source of federal funds for long-term recovery. SBA Loans Help Homeowners And Renters, Not Just Businesses

Insurance Tips for College-Aged Adults and Their Parents During Back to School Season

As college students head back to school this fall, Commissioner Poizner urges them to do their homework in researching their insurance options. Insurance Tips for College-Aged Adults and Their Parents During Back to School Season

Laura Bush, Jenna Bush To Meet Book-Lovers At National Book Festival

First Lady Laura Bush and her daughter, Jenna Bush, co-authors of the book "Read All About It!" will join the authors and special guests presenting at the 2008 National Book Festival, organized and sponsored by the Library of Congress and Mrs. Bush. The festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27, rain or shine, on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., between 3rd and 7th streets. Laura Bush, Jenna Bush To Meet Book-Lovers At National Book Festival

Over 100,000 Scooters Recalled

The undersides of the foot platforms can have sharp edges, posing a laceration hazard to children. Over 100,000 Scooters Recalled

Washington Mutual Acquired by JPMorgan Chase

Washington Mutual Bailout? Washington Mutual Acquired by JPMorgan Chase
Washington Mutual Bank, the $307 billion thrift institution headquartered in Seattle, was acquired today by JPMorgan Chase, the Office of Thrift Supervision (OTS) announced.

IRS: October 15 Deadline Nears; Don’t Let Stimulus Payment Pass You by

The Oct. 15 deadline to file a 2007 income tax return and to receive an economic stimulus payment this year is fast approaching. IRS: October 15 Deadline Nears; Don’t Let Stimulus Payment Pass You by

Do You Have Financial Dependents? Then Life Insurance Is a Necessity

The cost of buying most types of life insurance has either remained stable or dropped over the past decade, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.). Yet almost six out of every 10 Americans surveyed recently say they have not purchased coverage as they believe it is too expensive. Do You Have Financial Dependents? Then Life Insurance Is a Necessity