Office Hours Via Twitter:State Schools Chief Jack O'Connell to Hold Office Hours

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell today announced that he is now accessible via Twitter and will be holding periodic online office hours using the social networking Web site. Office Hours Via Twitter:State Schools Chief Jack O'Connell to Hold Office Hours

Broadband Grants: USDA and Commerce Announce Broadband Initiative- Deadline Aug 14, 2009

NTIA and RUS will be accepting applications for loans, grants and loan/grant combinations to be awarded by each agency under a single application form. This collaborative approach will ensure that the agencies' activities are complementary and integrated, make the best use of taxpayer funds and make it easier for applicants to apply for funding. This is the first of three rounds of funding the Agriculture and Commerce Departments will provide. Broadband Grants: USDA and Commerce Announce Broadband Initiative- Deadline Aug 14, 2009

Auction Fraud: Don't Let it Happen to You -The FBI report

One in four complaints in 2008 to the Internet Crime Complaint Center involved online auction fraud. Auction Fraud: Don't Let it Happen to You -The FBI report

Prepaid Calling Card Distributor Agrees to Pay $1.3 Million

Settles charges that it delivered fewer calling minutes than advertised, charged consumers hidden fees, and charged for calls that never connected. Prepaid Calling Card Distributor Agrees to Pay $1.3 Million

Online Bogus Computer Scans: Have you been a victim?

Two defendants tricked more than a million consumers into buying "rogue" computer security products, including WinFixer, WinAntivirus, DriveCleaner, ErrorSafe, and XP Antivirus, according to the FTC's complaint. Bogus Computer Scans: Have you been a victim?

Churches at Risk in Bogus Opportunity Scam

Con artists are hawking what they claim is a golden opportunity for churches: Free equipment or services. Often targeting African American churches, these scammers may profess a shared faith, culture, or concern for the community to gain the trust of the church staff. Churches at Risk in Bogus Opportunity Scam

IRS: Prepare for Hurricanes by Safeguarding Tax Records

With the 2009 hurricane season now underway, the Internal Revenue Service encourages individuals and businesses to safeguard themselves by taking a few simple steps. IRS: Prepare for Hurricanes by Safeguarding Tax Records

Women’s Robes Recalled due to Fire Hazard

CPSC and Blair announced the recall for the robes after Blair learned of three robes catching on fire, including one report of second-degree burns. Women's Robes Recalled due to Fire Hazard 

Foreclosure Prevention: FTC Charges Foreclosure Prevention and Loan Modification Marketers with Contempt

The Federal Trade Commission has filed a civil contempt action charging a deceptive mortgage foreclosure rescue and loan modification operation with violating a 2001 court order Foreclosure Prevention: FTC Charges Foreclosure Prevention and Loan Modification Marketers with Contempt

Substance Use among Pregnant Women Low, but Higher Levels in New Mothers

Many Women Use of Alcohol, Cigarettes and Illicit Drugs Resumes after Childbirth - Substance Use among Pregnant Women Low, but Higher Levels in New Mothers

Free RV and Camper Coupon and Discount Book

The coupon book includes discounts on items from grocers, restaurants, automotive repair facilities, gift shops, gas and convenience stores, hair and beauty salons, pharmacies, fitness and health centers, hardware stores, lodging, entertainment and much more. Free RV and Camper Coupon and Discount Book

IRS Offers Tax Credit Guidance to Businesses Hiring Unemployed Veterans and Certain Youth

Businesses planning to claim the newly-expanded work opportunity tax credit (WOTC) for eligible unemployed veterans and unskilled younger workers hired during the first part of 2009 have until Aug. 17 to request the certification required for these workers, according to the Internal Revenue Service. IRS Offers Tax Credit Guidance to Businesses Hiring Unemployed Veterans and Certain Youth

FTC Sues Mortgage Foreclosure 'Rescue' Operation That Targeted Spanish-Speaking Consumers

The Federal Trade Commission has charged a mortgage foreclosure "rescue" operation with falsely promising Spanish-speaking consumers who are behind on their mortgage payments that it would stop foreclosure. FTC Sues Mortgage Foreclosure 'Rescue' Operation That Targeted Spanish-Speaking Consumers

IRS Law Offers Special Tax Breaks for Small Business; Act Now and Save, IRS Says

Small Business Week is May 17 to 23, and the Internal Revenue Service urges small businesses to act now and take advantage of tax-saving opportunities included in the recovery law. IRS Law Offers Special Tax Breaks for Small Business; Act Now and Save, IRS Says

10 Simple Steps to Reducing Climate Change

Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide (CO2) into the air, which is the largest contributor to climate change. But these emissions can be reduced by improving your car's fuel efficiency. 10 Simple Steps to Reducing Climate Change

10 Simple Steps to Reducing Climate Change

Burning fossil fuels releases carbon dioxide (CO2) into the air, which is the largest contributor to climate change. But these emissions can be reduced by improving your car's fuel efficiency. 10 Simple Steps to Reducing Climate Change

IRS Announces Withholding Adjustment Option for Pension Plans and Provides Taxpayer Education

As part of a wider outreach effort to educate taxpayers about the benefits they will receive under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the Internal Revenue Service today released new withholding adjustment procedures for pension plans. IRS Announces Withholding Adjustment Option for Pension Plans and Provides Taxpayer Education

Number of job openings at new low

On the last business day of March, job openings in the U.S. numbered 2.7 million â€" the lowest job openings level since the BLS began measuring job openings over 8 years ago. Number of job openings at new low

Substance Abusing Parent: More Than 1 in 10 Children Live with a Substance Abusing Parent

Almost 12 percent of children under the age of 18 years of age live with at least one parent who was dependent on or abused alcohol or an illicit drug during the past year, according to a report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Substance Abusing Parent: More Than 1 in 10 Children Live with a Substance Abusing Parent

Swine Flu: FDA, FTC Warn Public of Fraudulent 2009 H1N1 Influenza Products

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Federal Trade Commission are alerting the public to be wary of Internet sites and other promotions for products that claim to diagnose, prevent, mitigate, treat or cure the 2009 H1N1 influenza virus. Swine Flu : FDA, FTC Warn Public of Fraudulent 2009 H1N1 Influenza Products

Talking To Your Doctor about Menopause

Hot flashes. Irritability. Mood swings. Sounds like menopause. So now what? Talking To Your Doctor about Menopause

Bounced-Check Fees: Protecting Yourself from Overdraft And Bounced-Check Fees

If you use debit or check cards to make most of your purchases, you might know how easy it is to overdraw your bank account and get hit with an overdraft charge. Bounced-Check Fees: Protecting Yourself from Overdraft And Bounced-Check Fees

Looking for Ways to Stretch Your Budget?

With the economy the way it is, we are all looking for ways to stretch our budgets. The federal government is (and has been) a terrific source of free information on a wide range of timely topics to help you and your family. Looking for Ways to Stretch Your Budget?

OSHA fines Kohl's for workplace safety and health hazards at two Pennsylvania stores

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Kohl's department stores in Yardley and Whitehall, Pa., for workplace safety and health hazards, proposing $79,000 in penalties. OSHA fines Kohl's for workplace safety and health hazards at two Pennsylvania stores

Beware of IRS' 2009 "Dirty Dozen" Tax Scams

The Internal Revenue Service today issued its 2009 "dirty dozen" list of tax scams, including schemes involving phishing, hiding income offshore and false claims for refunds. Beware of IRS' 2009 "Dirty Dozen" Tax Scams

United States Postal Announces Bart Simpson Stamps

Woo-Hoo!" At 8 a.m. ET today, the Postal Services revealed what The Simpsons stamps will look like when they are released nationwide on May 7. Americans are being encouraged to vote for their favorite Simpsons character when viewing the images. United States Postal Announces Bart Simpson Stamps

IRS: Credit and Debit Card Fees Related to Tax Payment are Deductible

Credit or debit card convenience fees charged for paying federal individual income taxes electronically are deductible for some taxpayers who itemize, the Internal Revenue Service announced today. IRS: Credit and Debit Card Fees Related to Tax Payment are Deductible

IRS: Ten Last Minute Filing Tips

With the tax filing deadline close at hand, the IRS offers ten tips for those still working on their tax returns: IRS: Ten Last Minute Filing Tips

Don't Cancel Your Driver's Insurance, Urges Insurance Commissioner Poizner

In light of skyrocketing unemployment rates and harsh economic conditions, Insurance Commissioner Poizner today offered struggling San Diego residents an affordable automobile insurance option through the California Low Cost Automobile Insurance program. Don't Cancel Your Driver's Insurance, Urges Insurance Commissioner Poizner

IRS: Special Tax Break Available for New Car Purchases This Year

The Internal Revenue Service announced today that taxpayers who buy a new passenger vehicle this year may be entitled to deduct state and local sales and excise taxes paid on the purchase on their 2009 tax returns next year. IRS: Special Tax Break Available for New Car Purchases This Year

Passport Day in the USA: March 28, 2009.

Saturday, March 28, 2009, is "Passport Day in the USA," when Regional Passport Agencies and many local Passport Acceptance Facilities will be open to inform the public about the upcoming changes to U.S. travel document requirements. Passport Day in the USA: March 28, 2009.

IRS: First $2,400 of Unemployment Benefits Tax Free for 2009

All or part of unemployment benefits received in 2009 will be tax free for many unemployed workers, according to the Internal Revenue Service. IRS: First $2,400 of Unemployment Benefits Tax Free for 2009

Prescription Pain Killers are on the Rise, New Report Reveals

Largest Share of Treatment Admissions is Still for Alcohol Abuse, But Has Significantly Decreased Over the Past Decade.
Prescription Pain Killers are on the Rise, New Report Reveals

Female Nurses Sexually Harrased by Male Nurse

A male nurse, who eventually was promoted to a supervisory position, made unwanted sexual advances and sexual jokes and innuendos to female colleagues and subordinates. Female Nurses Sexually Harrased by Male Nurse

IRS: Recovery Rebate Credit Information Center

The recovery rebate credit is a one-time benefit for people who didn't receive the full economic stimulus payment last year and whose circumstances may have changed, making them eligible now for some or all of the unpaid portion. IRS: Recovery Rebate Credit Information Center

Loan Modification Fraud: Two Scam Artists Arrested

Homeowners in financial trouble have to be on guard against loan modification fraud, so they don't make a bad situation worse. Loan Modification Fraud: Two Scam Artists Arrested

Raleigh and Austin are Fastest-Growing Metro Areas

Raleigh-Cary, N.C., and Austin-Round Rock, Texas, were the nation's fastest-growing metro areas between 2007 and 2008. Raleigh and Austin are Fastest-Growing Metro Areas

IRS, Partners Mark Super Saturday March 21 to Help Taxpayers

The Internal Revenue Service and scores of its community partners will open their doors on Saturday, March 21, to help people who need free tax preparation, a question answered or a payment schedule arranged. IRS, Partners Mark Super Saturday March 21 to Help Taxpayers

Government Grant Notice: USCIS Announces $1.2 Million Citizenship Grant Program

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that a competitive grant program is being offered through Grants.gov for a $1.2 million grant program to support citizenship preparation programs for legal permanent residents. Government Grant: USCIS Announces $1.2 Million Citizenship Grant Program

IRS Interest Rates Drop for the Second Quarter of 2009

The Internal Revenue Service today announced that interest rates for the calendar quarter beginning April 1, 2009, will drop by one percentage point.  The new rates will be: IRS Interest Rates Drop for the Second Quarter of 2009

When Payments Are a Problem: What to do

With the economy weakening, more people are finding it difficult to make mortgage, credit card and other payments. If you're having financial difficulties  due to a job loss, a higher mortgage payment because of an interest rate reset or any other reason, it's important to take action, preferably as soon as you think you may not be able to afford your expenses.  When Payments Are a Problem: What to do

Ten California Hospitals Get Penalties from CDPH

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced that 10 hospitals have been assessed administrative penalties of $25,000 from the state of California after a determination that the facilities' noncompliance with licensing requirements has caused, or was likely to cause, serious injury or death to patients.  Ten California Hospitals Get Penalties from CDPH

Helicopter for sale

This B212 is the cleanest and best equipped 212 that you will ever have the opportunity to own. Helicopter for sale

IRS: Get Credit for Retirement Savings Contributions

If you make eligible contributions to an employer-sponsored retirement plan or to an individual retirement arrangement, you may be able to take a tax credit.IRS: Get Credit for Retirement Savings Contributions

March 14 Auction Includes Sporting Goods

Various household appliances, sporting goods and computer and electronic equipment will be among the items available for bid at the State of Ohio miscellaneous property auction Saturday, March 14. March 14 Auction Includes Sporting Goods

Grant Funds Now Available: Applications for $1.5 Billion in Recovery Act Funds Now Available

Grants from National Institutes of Health Will Support Science and Research, Help Grow the Economy. Grant Funds Now Available: Applications for $1.5 Billion in Recovery Act

Free Tax Assistance for Members of the Military

If you or your spouse are a member of the military, you may be eligible to receive free tax return preparation assistance. Free Tax Assistance for Members of the Military

Tax Refunds Continue to Be Delayed

The State Controller announced on Thursday, February 19, 2009, that once the budget plan provides the needed cash in the treasury, his office will work around the clock to get delayed payments out the door. Check this website for updated information on the status of the delayed tax refunds. Tax Refunds Continue to Be Delayed

NINE WAYS TO LOWER YOUR AUTO INSURANCE COSTS

Sometimes it takes more than a lizard to lower your auto insurance rates. Having a good driving record helps, but so does shopping around for the best rates, asking about safe driver or other discounts, and even requesting a higher deductible. NINE WAYS TO LOWER YOUR AUTO INSURANCE COSTS

Top 20 Top Consumer Complaints in 2008

The Federal Trade Commission released the list of top consumer complaints received by the agency in 2008. Top 20 Top Consumer Complaints in 2008

FTB Offers Assistance to Taxpayers in Financial Stress

Some of your clients may be facing financial difficulties so remind them FTB has help available. We continually seek to improve the efficiency of our collection process with the goal of working with taxpayers as soon as a tax delinquency occurs rather than through involuntary collection action. FTB Offers Assistance to Taxpayers in Financial Stress

IRS Tax Refund: Checking the Status of Your Federal Tax Refund is Easy

If you already filed your federal tax return and are due a refund, you can check the status of your refund online, in English or Spanish. IRS Tax Refund: Checking the Status of Your Federal Tax Refund is Easy

Anti-HIV Gel Shows Promise in Large-scale Study in Women

A 3,000-women study tested the effectiveness of anti-HIV gels that would be inserted into the vagina to deter virus transmission during intercourse. Anti-HIV Gel Shows Promise in Large-scale Study in Women

IRS Jobs: A Career at the IRS Adds Up

If you are looking for a new job or a career change, consider the IRS. No matter what your professional specialty, the IRS offers a variety of full-time careers or seasonal job opportunities in many U.S. cities.  IRS Jobs: A Career at the IRS Adds Up

Diets: New Medlineplus Diet Page

Your diet is made up of what you eat. There are many different types of diets. Diets: New Medlineplus Diet Page

Auction Reminder: Saturn Dealership Auction, February 25, 2009

Saturn Dealership Auction on February 25th, 2009 10:00am located at SATURN OF ELK GROVE 8480 LAGUNA GROVE DRIVE, ELK GROVE, CA 95758 Auction Reminder: Saturn Dealership Auction, February 25, 2009

Now Hiring: U.S. Customs and Border Protection launches a national recruitment campaign

U. S. Customs and Border Protection Saturday launched a national recruitment campaign aimed at hiring approximately 11,000 law enforcement and support positions during 2009. Now Hiring: U.S. Customs and Border Protection launches a national recruitment campaign

How to Correctly Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on your 2008 Return

The IRS sent taxpayers nearly 119 million economic stimulus payments last year. When filing a 2008 federal tax return, taxpayers will need to know the amount of their stimulus payment to properly determine if they are eligible for a recovery rebate credit. How to Correctly Claim the Recovery Rebate Credit on your 2008 Return

3 large pickups don't live up to brawny image in side tests;

The Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Dodge Ram 1500, and Nissan Titan are billed as workhorses, but the side crash protection these 2009 model large pickups provide is wimpy, at best. The trio earns either poor or marginal ratings in side tests by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. 3 large pickups don't live up to brawny image in side tests;

U.S. Financial Crisis: American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009

The United States is in the midst of a serious financial crisis. You can read full text of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 on the Thomas web sitefrom the Library of Congress. U.S. Financial Crisis: American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009

IRS: To File or Not To File

You must file a tax return if your income is above a certain level. The amount varies depending on filing status, age and the type of income you receive. IRS: To File or Not To File

Mark Your Calendar: Exposure Nanotechnology Assessment Workshop

Mark Your Calendar: Exposure Nanotechnology Assessment Workshop
NIOSH is co-sponsoring a workshop on human and environmental exposure assessment of nanomaterials on February 24-25 in Bethesda, Md

Special K Recall - Keebler(R) Soft Batch Cookies and Special K Protein Meal Bar Honey Almond Flavor and Expansion

Special K Recall - Keebler® Soft Batch Cookies and Special K Protein Meal Bar Honey Almond Flavor and Expansion
As a result of the expansion of Peanut Corporation of America’s recall to include all peanut ingredients produced in their Blakely, Georgia facility since Jan. 1, 2007, Kellogg Company has issued a voluntary nationwide recall for the following products

High School Musical Manicure Kits Recalled due to Lead Expsoure

The lettering "HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL" with glitter on the pouch used with the manicure kit contains excess levels of lead. Lead can be toxic if ingested by young children and cause adverse health effects. High School Musical Manicure Kits Recalled due to Lead Expsoure

IRS: Tips for Recently Married or Divorced Taxpayers

If you were married or divorced recently, there are a couple of things you'll want to do to ensure the name on your tax return matches the name registered with the Social Security Administration. IRS: Tips for Recently Married or Divorced Taxpayers

Mortgage Loan Vicitms: FTC Launches Redress Program for Mortgage Loan Victims

The Federal Trade Commission today announced that the agency returned almost $28 million to consumers this week as a result of a settlement with The Bear Stearns Companies, LLC and EMC Mortgage Corporation. Mortgage Loan Vicitms: FTC Launches Redress Program for Mortgage Loan Victims

IRS: Tax Law Changes Related to National Disaster Relief

The National Disaster Relief Act of 2008, Subtitle B or Title VII of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, signed into law on Oct. 3, 2008, as Public Law 110-343, provides tax relief for victims of federally declared disasters occurring after Dec. 31, 2007, and before Jan. 1, 2010. IRS: Tax Law Changes Related to National Disaster Relief

Ponzi Scheme: California Files Criminal Charges in a $52 Million Ponzi Scheme

Attorney General Edmund G. Brown Jr. yesterday filed 89 criminal charges against 6 men who "callously conned" more than a thousand people, including retired senior citizens, out of $52 million through sham real estate projects, using the investor's money to buy planes, expensive cars and lavish vacations. Ponzi Scheme: California Files Criminal Charges in $52 Million Ponzi Scheme

IRS Forms and Publications: Get 'em when you need 'em

The IRS has free tax forms and publications on a wide variety of topics. If you need IRS forms or information, try one of these easy options: IRS Forms and Publications: Get 'em when you need 'em

Scholarship Applications for Women Science Students Now Being Accepted

Applications are now being accepted for the Renate W. Chasman Scholarship for Women. This scholarship was established in 1986 to encourage women who have taken a break from formal education to resume their studies in natural sciences, engineering or mathematics. Scholarship for Women Science Students Now Being Accepted

Life Insurance Is a Necessity If You Have Dependents, Even In Tough Times

Almost three out of every five Americans have not purchased life insurance because they think it is too expensive, even though the cost of these policies has remained stable or even dropped over the past decade, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.). Life Insurance Is a Necessity If You Have Dependents, Even In Tough Times

Ten Things the IRS Wants You to Know About Identity Theft

If you receive a letter or notice from the IRS which leads you to believe someone may have fraudulently used your Social Security Number, respond immediately to the name and address or phone number printed on the IRS notice. Ten Things the IRS Wants You to Know About Identity Theft

IRS: E-File Opens for 2009 With New Features to Expand Taxpayer Access, Help Speed Refunds

The Internal Revenue Service today announced the Jan. 16 opening of an expanded IRS e-file program for 2008 federal tax returns, highlighted by new features that will allow expanded access to electronic filing and help people looking for faster refunds. IRS: E-File Opens for 2009 With New Features to Expand Taxpayer Access, Help Speed Refunds

IRS: Recovery Rebate Credit Is for Individuals Who Missed Last Year's Economic Stimulus Payment

The Recovery Rebate Credit is a special one-time benefit that most people received last year in the form of an Economic Stimulus Payment. But people who did not receive the maximum amount of the Economic Stimulus Payment, and whose circumstances have changed, may be eligible now. IRS: Recovery Rebate Credit Is for Individuals Who Missed Last Year's Economic Stimulus Payment

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

synchronized

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