IRS: In 2011, Many Tax Benefits Increase Slightly Due to Inflation Adjustments

In 2011, personal exemptions and standard deductions will rise and tax brackets will widen due to inflation, the Internal Revenue Service announced today. IRS: In 2011, Many Tax Benefits Increase Slightly Due to Inflation Adjustments

Commercial Fundraisers Companies: California Releases Report Detailing Use of Funds of Commercial Fundraisers

The annual report on commercial fundraisers released today found commercial fundraisers in California raised $391.5 million in 2009 but charitable organizations received less than 43% of those funds Commercial Fundraisers Companies: California Releases Report Detailing Use of Funds of Commercial Fundraisers

Internet Scams: Don't Get Scammed this Holiday Season says FBI

Be wary of e-mails or text messages that indicate a problem or question regarding your financial accounts. Criminals will attempt to direct victims to click a link or call a number to update an account or correct a purported problem. The links may appear to lead you to legitimate websites, but they are not. Any personal information you share on them could be compromised. Internet Scams: Don't Get Scammed this Holiday Season says FBI

Online Dating Scams: Sending Money in the Name of Love

The Federal Trade Commission, the nation's consumer protection agency, warns that scammers sometimes use online dating and social networking sites to try to convince people to send money in the name of love. Online Dating Scams: Sending Money in the Name of Love

New Medicare Premiums for 2011

The following is a listing of the Medicare premium, deductible, and coinsurance rates that will be in effect in 2011...New Medicare Premiums for 2011

Government Jobs: January 2011 Internship Opportunities

USICH is seeking graduate students to support its work on behalf of the nation's homeless population. Varied assignments, depending on who interned is assigned to, may include, but not be limited to:Research and compilation of information, statistics, studies, etc. on housing related issues;  Coordination of activities, meetings, forums and USICH initiatives with federal, state, local and private stakeholders around the U.S.;• Assistance with and support for communications activities to include website content, outreach, and social media.........Government jobs: January 2011 Internship Opportunities

Consumer's Guide to Credit Reports and Credit Scores

Your credit history is important to a lot of people: mortgage lenders, banks, utility companies, prospective employers, and more. So it's especially important that you understand your credit report, credit score, and the companies that compile that information, credit bureaus. The Federal Reserve Board--provides answers to some of the most common, and most important, questions about credit. Credit Reports: Consumer's Guide to Credit Reports and Credit Scores

IRS: Nearly 70 Percent of Taxpayers Used IRS e-file in 2010

WASHINGTON -- Nearly 99 million individuals filed their federal income tax returns electronically during 2010, a 3 percent increase in the IRS e-file rate. Of the 141.5 million returns filed so far this year, almost 70 percent were filed electronically. Each year, more taxpayers chose to e-file their tax returns. Last year, nearly 95 million taxpayers or 67 percent used e-file. In the past decade, the number of individual tax returns e-filed has increased by 145 percent. The overall number of individual tax returns increased only by 8 percent. IRS e-file is no longer is the exception; now it is the norm. IRS: Nearly 70 Percent of Taxpayers Used IRS e-file in 2010

Credit Reports: Consumer's Guide to Credit Reports and Credit Scores

Credit Reports: Consumer's Guide to Credit Reports and Credit Scores
Your credit history is important to a lot of people: mortgage lenders, banks, utility companies, prospective employers, and more. So it's especially important that you understand your credit report, credit score, and the companies that compile that information, credit bureaus. 

2010 Hajj: Health Requirements and Recommendations for Travel to Saudi Arabia during the 2010 Hajj: Information for U.S. Travelers

Each year, millions of people travel to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to perform the Hajj, a pilgrimage to the holy places of Islam. This year, the week of the Hajj begins November 14. If you are traveling to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj, you can expect large crowds.  This overcrowding may lead to an increased risk of accidental injury and infectious diseases, such as meningitis, flu, and other diseases spread easily from person to person. 2010 Hajj: Health Requirements and Recommendations for Travel to Saudi Arabia during the 2010 Hajj: Information for U.S. Travelers

Debt Relief: Debt Negotiation Scam Victims Receive Refund Payments

An administrator working for the Federal Trade Commission is mailing checks to 360 consumers who were victims of Innovative Systems Technology doing business as Briggs & Baker, an operation that claimed it could "drastically" reduce consumers’ debt by negotiating directly with creditors.  Debt Relief: Debt Negotiation Scam Victims Receive Refund Payments

Government Grants and Loans for Individuals. Do they really exist?

Looking for government grants? You have seen the advertisements, "free  grants for students", "education grants individuals" and "free government money for individuals"?  If you have, you have come to the right place.  This mini guide below, which was put together by the U.S. government, will help you in your search for government grants. Government Grants and Loans for Individuals. Do they really exist?

Substance Abuse Statistics: Americans Show Increases in Substance use from 2008 to 2009

Substance Abuse Statistics: Americans Show Increases in Substance use from 2008 to 2009 - Marijuana use rises; prescription drug abuse and ecstasy use also up

IRS Notice: Eight Things to Know If You Receive an IRS Notice

Did you receive a notice from the IRS this year? Every year the IRS sends millions of letters and notices to taxpayers but that doesn't mean you need to worry. Here are eight things every taxpayer should know about IRS notices - just in case one shows up in your mailbox. IRS Notice: Eight Things to Know If You Receive an IRS Notice

Hazardous Chemicals: OSHA Seeks Your Input on Identifying the Top Chemicals of Concern

Workers exposed to chemicals suffer injuries and illnesses that can damage virtually all body parts and systems, including the lungs, skin, liver, kidneys, eyes, and mucous membranes. Hazardous Chemicals: OSHA Seeks Your Input on Identifying the Top Chemicals of Concern

FCC Launches Consumer Help Center

Starting today, consumers have a new, easy-to-use, Consumer Help Center that puts them within one click of all the information they want from the Federal Communications Commission. FCC Launches Consumer Help Center

IRS Offers One-Time Special Filing Relief Program for Small Charities; Oct. 15 Deadline

Small nonprofit organizations at risk of losing their tax-exempt status because they failed to file required returns for 2007, 2008 and 2009 can preserve their status by filing returns by Oct. 15, 2010, under a one-time relief program, the Internal Revenue Service announced today. IRS Offers One-Time Special Filing Relief Program for Small Charities; Oct. 15 Deadline

Suicide Attempts Constitute a Significant Portion of Drug-Related Hospital Emergency Department Visits

Nearly 1 in 10 drug-related hospital emergency department visits made by adolescents involved suicide attempts - with females making more than 72 percent of these attempts.....Suicide Attempts Constitute a Significant Portion of Drug-Related Hospital Emergency Department Visits

Sex Offenders in San Diego: Results of Operation Watchdog to Keep Tabs on Hundreds of Registered Sex Offenders

Because of sex offenders' propensity to reoffend, keeping tabs on them is crucial to protecting the public," Brown said. "As in many things, the price of safety is constant vigilance, and my office is committed to providing that....Sex Offenders in San Diego: Results of Operation Watchdog to Keep Tabs on Hundreds of Registered Sex Offenders

Government Jobs: IRS Highlights Job Opportunities for New Grads on YouTube

The Internal Revenue Service announced the availability of a new job search tool on YouTube dedicated to helping job seekers learn about employment opportunities at the IRS...Government Jobs: IRS Highlights Job Opportunities for New Grads on YouTube

Nine Tips on the 10 Percent Tax on Tanning Services

Starting July 1, 2010, many businesses offering tanning services must collect a 10 percent excise tax on the tanning services they provide. This excise tax requirement is part of the Affordable Care Act that was enacted in March 2010. Nine Tips on the 10 Percent Tax on Tanning Services

Monday Is Registration Deadline For Disaster Assistance

Survivors of the April 23-24 Mississippi tornadoes and severe storms have only a few days left to register for state and federal assistance. Monday Is Registration Deadline For Disaster Assistance

I.I.I. Issues Video On Protecting Homes From Lightning Strikes

Homeowners investing anywhere from $1,500 to $4,500 can significantly diminish the chances that their dwelling or its occupants will be harmed because of a lightning strike, according to the Insurance Information Institute  (I.I.I.). I.I.I. Issues Video On Protecting Homes From Lightning Strikes

Recruiting Participants for Substance Abuse Web-based Videoconferencing ( E-Therapy)

This research is being done to compare the effectiveness of standard on-site, in-person counseling with Internet web-based videoconferencing (e-therapy) in drug-dependent patients in opioid-agonist treatment programs. The study is looking to see if there are any differences in satisfaction or in treatment outcome if counseling sessions are given by e-therapy compared to standard, in-person counseling given in the clinic. Recruiting Participants for Substance Abuse Web-based Videoconferencing

IRS Begins Accepting Applications for Qualifying Therapeutic Discovery Project Program

The Internal Revenue Service today announced that small firms may now begin applying for certification for tax credits or grants available under the Qualifying Therapeutic Discovery Project Program, created by the Affordable Care Act. IRS Begins Accepting Applications for Qualifying Therapeutic Discovery Project Program

Substance Abuse: Sharp Increase of Older Americans Being Admitted for Substances such as Cocaine, Heroin and Marijuana

New admissions data show sharp increase in the proportion of older Americans being treated for illicit substances such as cocaine, heroin and marijuana. Substance Abuse: Sharp Increase of Older Americans Being Admitted for Substances such as Cocaine, Heroin and Marijuana

Tanning Tax:IRS Issues Regulations on 10-Percent Tax on Tanning Services Effective July 1

The Internal Revenue Service today issued regulations outlining the administration of a 10-percent excise tax on indoor tanning services that goes into effect on July 1, Tanning Tax:IRS Issues Regulations on 10-Percent Tax on Tanning Services Effective July 1

IRS: Interest Rates Remain the Same For the Third Quarter of 2010

The Internal Revenue Service today announced that interest rates for the calendar quarter beginning July 1, 2010, will  be.... IRS: Interest Rates Remain the Same For the Third Quarter of 2010

IRS: Save Money, Sign Up Now for the 2010 IRS Nationwide Tax Forums

This year, 43 separate seminars and workshops are being offered, each of which qualifies for continuing professional education credit for enrolled agents and certified public accountants. IRS: Save Money, Sign Up Now for the 2010 IRS Nationwide Tax Forums

IRS: Open House on Saturday May 15 to Help Small Businesses, Individuals Solve Tax Problems

The Internal Revenue Service will host a special nationwide Open House on Saturday May 15 to help small businesses and individuals solve tax problems.IRS: Open House on Saturday May 15 to Help Small Businesses, Individuals Solve Tax Problems

Credit Card Interest Rate Scams: FTC Warns Consumers

In a new consumer alert, Credit Card Interest Rate Reduction Scams, the FTC says consumers have just as much clout with their credit card issuers as these companies do.  It urges consumers to avoid paying middlemen, and negotiate directly with the credit card companies.  Credit Card Interest Rate Scams: FTC Warns Consumers

IRS Reaches Out to Millions of Employers on Benefits of New Health Care Tax Credit

The Internal Revenue Service this week began mailing postcards to more than four million small businesses and tax-exempt organizations to make them aware of the benefits of the recently-enacted small business health care tax credit. IRS Reaches Out to Millions of Employers on Benefits of New Health Care Tax Credit

Credit Repair and Mortgage Relief Service: Marketers Banned from Selling Services

The court order prohibits the credit repair companies and their owners from selling credit repair services, and it bans the loan modification companies and their individual owners from selling mortgage loan modification and foreclosure relief services. Credit Repair and Mortgage Relief Service: Marketers Banned from Sellings

More Women are Graduate Degree Holders than Men, Ages 25-29

The U.S. Census Bureau reported today more women than men are expected to occupy professions such as doctors, lawyers and college professors as they represent approximately 58 percent of young adults, Ages 25 to 29, More Women are Graduate Degree Holders than Men, Ages 25-29

Toyota to Pay $16.375 Million Civil Fine

Toyota Motor Corporation agreed to pay a $16.375 million fine - the largest fine permitted by law - for failing to notify the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of a dangerous pedal defect for almost four months:Toyota to Pay $16.375 Million Civil Fine

Government Jobs Wanted? Don't Get Swindled

In a new consumer publication, 2010 Census Job Scams, the FTC provides detailed information about applying to become a U.S. Census taker, and it tells consumers how to access all federal job announcements. Government Jobs Wanted: Don't Get Swindled

Hacking Smart Phones - Can Clever Hackers Target Smart Phones?

Two computer scientists explored how smart phones can be hacked, hijacked and exploited without their owner's knowledge. Hacking Smart Phones - Can Clever Hackers Target Smart Phones?

The New World of Mobile Phones: There are Basically Two Types

There are two basic types of mobile phones: conventional cell phones and smart phones. The conventional cell phone is suitable if you only want to make and receive calls and send text messages on your phone. The New World of Mobile Phones: There are two basic types

Starting a Home-Based Business? Make Sure You're Properly Insured

With the national unemployment rate lingering around 10 percent, millions of Americans may be tempted to start a home-based businesses. But studies show that less than half of them have any type of insurance coverage for their new endeavor, and others wrongly believe a homeowners insurance policy is sufficient. Starting a Home-Based Business? Make Sure You're Properly Insured

Credit Card Security: Dave & Buster's Settles FTC Charges it Failed to Protect Consumers' Credit & Debit Card Information

Entertainment operation Dave & Buster's, Inc. has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that the company left consumers' credit and debit card information vulnerable to hackers, resulting in several hundred thousand dollars in fraudulent charges. Credit Card Security: Dave & Buster's Settles FTC Charges it Failed to Protect Consumers' Credit & Debit Card Information

Beware of IRS' 2010 "Dirty Dozen" Tax Scams

The Internal Revenue Service today issued its 2010 "dirty dozen" list of tax scams, including schemes involving return preparer fraud, hiding income offshore and phishing. Beware of IRS' 2010 "Dirty Dozen" Tax Scams

IRS: Nine Things You Should Know about Penalties

The tax filing deadline is approaching. If you don't file your return and pay your tax by the due date you may have to pay a penalty. Here are nine things the IRS wants you to know about the two different penalties you may face if you do not pay or file on time. IRS: Nine Things You Should Know about Penalties

National Sleep Awareness Week Is March 7-13

Chronic, long-term sleep disorders affect millions of Americans each year. These disorders and the sleep deprivation they cause can interfere with work, driving, social activities, and overall quality of life, and can have serious health implications. National Sleep Awareness Week Is March 7-13

Texting While Driving: Wyoming Becomes the 20th State to Ban Texting While Driving

Texting while driving, like talking on cell phones while driving, is dangerous to the driver doing it and all of those around them. Texting While Driving: Wyoming Becomes the 20th State to Ban Texting While Driving

IRS Tax Refunds: IRS Has $1.3 Billion for People Who Have Not Filed a 2006 Tax Return

Unclaimed tax refunds totaling more than $1.3 billion are awaiting nearly 1.4 million people who did not file a federal income tax return for 2006, the Internal Revenue Service announced today. IRS Has $1.3 Billion for People Who Have Not Filed a 2006 Tax Return

Mortgage Debt Forgiveness : Ten Facts about Mortgage Debt Forgiveness

If your mortgage debt is partly or entirely forgiven during tax years 2007 through 2012, you may be able to claim special tax relief and exclude the debt forgiven from your income.  Mortgage Debt Forgiveness : Ten Facts about Mortgage Debt Forgiveness

Evenflo Recalls 66,000 Children's Activity Centers Cake Toys on Centers Due to Choking Hazard

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the Evenflo ExerSaucer 1-2-3 Tea for Me Activity Learning Centers. Evenflo Recalls 66,000 Children's Activity Centers Cake Toys on Centers Due to Choking Hazard

Cash for College Workshops Offered Until March 2

Cash for College workshops provide free hands-on assistance for students and their families filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) which is required to receive a Cal Grant. Cash for College Workshops Offered Until March 2

Toyota Third Recall: U.S. Department of Transportation Responds to Third Toyota Recall

The U.S. Department of Transportation learned today of a third Toyota recall involving 2010 Prius hybrids and Lexus HS 250h vehicles experiencing brake system problems. Some 2010 Camrys prone to brake fluid leaks have also been recalled, Toyota Third Recall: U.S. Department of Transportation Responds to Third Toyota Recall

Credit and Gift Cards in 2010: Changes Take Effect Feb 22

The Credit CARD Act is intended to help protect consumers from abusive fees, penalties, interest rate increases and other unwarranted changes in account terms. Companies will be required to make more disclosures and they face new limits on certain credit card practices. Credit and Gift Cards in 2010: Changes Take Effect Feb 22

Disabled? Seven Tax Tips for Disabled Taxpayers

Taxpayers with disabilities may qualify for a number of IRS tax credits and benefits. Parents of children with disabilities may also qualify. Listed below are seven tax credits and other benefits that are available if you or someone else listed on your federal tax return is disabled. Disabled? Seven Tax Tips for Disabled Taxpayers

IRS: Free Tax Help Available Nationwide

Nearly 12,000 free tax preparation sites will be open nationwide this year as the Internal Revenue Service continues to expand its partnerships with nonprofit and community organizations performing vital tax preparation services for low-income and elderly taxpayers. IRS: Free Tax Help Available Nationwide

Toyota Recalls Certain Model Year Vehicles due to Pedal Accelerator Problems

Due to the manner in which the friction lever interacts with the sliding surface of the accelerator pedal inside the pedal sensor assembly, the sliding surface of the lever may become smooth during vehicle operation.Toyota Recalls Certain Model Year Vehicles due to Pedal Accelerator Problems

Childcare Tax Credit: IRS Tax Tip

Many working parents must arrange for care of their children under 13 years of age during the school vacation period. A solution-- with a federal tax benefit-- is a day camp program. According to the IRS, the cost of day camp can count as an expense toward the child and dependent care credit. Expenses for overnight camps do not qualify. Childcare Tax Credit: IRS Tax Tip

Honda Recalls Certain MY Acura 2010 MDX Vehicles

A bolt used to attach an interior trim piece to either the driver's or passenger's side A- pillar may not have been installed during manufacturing.

Honda Recalls Certain MY Acura 2010 MDX Vehicles

Haiti Earthquake: Magnitude 7.0 - HAITI REGION

The January 12, 2010, Haiti earthquake occurred in the boundary region separating the Caribbean plate and the North America plate. This plate boundary is dominated by left-lateral strike slip motion and compression, and accommodates about 20 mm/y slip, with the Caribbean plate moving eastward with respect to the North America plate. Haiti Earthquake: Magnitude 7.0 - HAITI REGION

Recently Married or Divorce? IRS Offers Five Facts you need to know about

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. Recently Married or Divorce? IRS Offers Five Facts you need to know about

Government Job Grants: $100 million in green jobs training grants annouced

The grants will support job training programs to help dislocated workers and others, including veterans, women, African Americans and Latinos, find jobs in expanding green industries and related occupations. Approximately $28 million of the total funds will support projects in communities impacted by auto industry restructuring. Government Job Grants: $100 million in green jobs training grants annouced

Scholarship for Women Science Students Now Available

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 Available

New Laws for 2010: Landmark Mortgage Reform Helps Borrowers

January 1, 2010 not only marks the New Year, but also the effective date for many new California laws.  Among the bills taking effect on January 1 are several important new laws that address some of California’s most pressing issues, including the mortgage crisis, water conservation and important consumer protections. New Laws for 2010: Landmark Mortgage Reform Helps Borrowers

IRS Reminds Car Shoppers about 2009 Tax Break

The Internal Revenue Service today reminds individual taxpayers who are considering buying a new car that they have until Dec. 31 to take advantage of a tax break that may not be around in 2010. IRS Reminds Car Shoppers about 2009 Tax Break

Money Making Scam: FTC Seeks Scam Marketer's Assets in Bankruptcy Court to Repay Money Owed to Consumers

The Federal Trade Commission has filed a complaint in bankruptcy court seeking assets from the operator of a defunct money-making scam, so that those assets can be used to help pay more than $17 million that he owes consumers as a result of a court judgment against him. Money Making Scam: FTC Seeks Scam Marketer's Assets in Bankruptcy Court to Repay Money Owed to Consumers

OSHA safety tips for ski resort workers to stay safe on the job

In March, a ski patroller died after a fall while on duty in the backcountry of a mountain resort. She was not wearing a helmet. Ski season is here, so OSHA is encouraging ski resort employers and workers, especially ski patrollers, to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves from severe injury while on the job. OSHA safety tips for ski resort workers to stay safe on the job

IRS Announces 2010 Standard Mileage Rates

The Internal Revenue Service today issued the 2010 optional standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes. IRS Announces 2010 Standard Mileage Rates

IRS: First-Time Homebuyer Credit Extended to April 30, 2010; Some Current Homeowners Now Also Qualify

A new law that went into effect Nov. 6 extends the first-time homebuyer credit five months and expands the eligibility requirements for purchasers. IRS: First-Time Homebuyer Credit Extended to April 30, 2010; Some Current Homeowners Now Also Qualify

Quit Smoking during the Great American Smokeout

Although the United States has made great strides toward reducing the prevalence of smoking, approximately 46 million adults (20.6% of the population) still smoke , and every day, another 1,000 young persons become new smokers. Quit Smoking during the Great American Smokeout

BlueHippo: FTC Lodges Contempt Charge Against BlueHippo

The Federal Trade Commission has asked a federal court to issue a contempt order against BlueHippo, a company that collected more than $15 million from consumers based on claims that it would finance their purchases of new computers, but delivered neither the financing nor the financed computers, in violation of a 2008 court order. BlueHippo: FTC Lodges Contempt Charge Against BlueHippo

Expanded Recovery Act Tax Credits Help Homeowners

People can now weatherize their homes and be rewarded for their efforts. According to the Internal Revenue Service, homeowners making energy-saving improvements this fall can cut their winter heating bills and lower their 2009 tax bill as well.

Expanded Recovery Act Tax Credits Help Homeowners

Disaster Preparedness Costs Little, Saves A Lot

Just as every home should have a smoke alarm, every home should have an emergency supply kit packed and ready. And being prepared doesn't have to cost a lot of money. Disaster Preparedness Costs Little, Saves A Lot

 

 

 

Toyota Issues Vehicle Safety Advisory for Various Models

Recent events have prompted Toyota to take a closer look at the potential for an accelerator pedal to get stuck in the full open position due to an unsecured or incompatible driver's floor mat. Toyota Issues Vehicle Safety Advisory for Various Models

Sexual Harassment: Private Prison Settles Retaliation Claims for Women

EEOC Says Male Managers Demanded Sexual Favors From Female Subordinates, Sexual Harassment: Private Prison Settles Retaliation Claims for Women

Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors among Adults

In 2008, an estimated 8.3 million adults aged 18 or older (3.7 percent of the adult population) had serious thoughts of suicide in the past year; 2.3 million (1.0 percent) made a suicide plan; and, 1.1 million (0.5 percent) attempted suicide. Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors among Adults

Free College Money for Foster Youth

If you are or were in foster care and have financial need, you may qualify for up to $5,000 a year for career and technical training or college. You don't have to pay this money back. You may also be able to use your grant to help pay for child care, transportation and rent while you're in school. Free College Money for Foster Youth

IRS: Ten Facts about the First-Time Homebuyer Credit

Many taxpayers who purchase a home this year will qualify for an $8,000 federal tax credit. The refundable first-time homebuyer credit is a major tax provision in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. But time is running out to qualify for this credit. IRS: Ten Facts about the First-Time Homebuyer Credit

Free Nursing CEUs: Good Laboratory Practices for Molecular Genetic Testing

The goal of this report is to improve the quality and usefulness of laboratory services for genetic testing to achieve better health outcomes for the public. Free Nursing CEUs: Good Laboratory Practices for Molecular Genetic Testing for Heritable Diseases and Conditions

IRS: Hidden Offshore Accounts, IRS Extends Deadline to October 15, 2009

The Internal Revenue Service today announced a one-time extension of the deadline for special voluntary disclosures by taxpayers with unreported income from hidden offshore accounts. These taxpayers now have until Oct. 15, 2009. IRS: Hidden Offshore Accounts, IRS Extends Deadline to October 15, 2009

Mortgage Relief Services Scams: FTC Announces New Crackdown

The Federal Trade Commission today announced two new law enforcement actions in a continuing crackdown on mortgage foreclosure rescue and loan modification scams, bringing to 22 the number of these cases the Commission has filed since the housing crisis began. The FTC also announced developments in similar pending mortgage-related action. Mortgage Relief Services Scams: FTC Announces New Crackdown

California Prescription Drug-Monitoring System Unveils Statewide

The recent deaths of Anna Nicole Smith and Michael Jackson have made clear to the whole world just how dangerous prescription drug abuse can be," said Brown. "Today, my office is inaugurating a high-tech monitoring system that will enable doctors and law enforcement to identify and stop prescription-drug seekers from doctor-shopping and abusing prescription drugs. California Prescription Drug-Monitoring System

Auto Insurance Fraud Increases as Economy Worsens

Financially desperate residents and scam artists may be committing more automobile insurance fraud to cash in on insurance money. Auto Insurance Fraud Increases as Economy Worsens

Uncle Sam Seeking New Artists

The United States Mint is inviting artists from throughout the United States to apply for participation in its Artistic Infusion Program (AIP) to help enrich and invigorate the design of coins and medals. Uncle Sam Seeking New Artists

Cash for Clunkers Wraps up with Nearly 700,000 car sale

T he CARS program came to a close Tuesday night with nearly 700,000 clunkers taken off the roads, replaced by far more fuel efficient vehicles. Rebate applications worth $2.877 billion were submitted by the 8 p.m. deadline, under the $3 billion provided by Congress to run the program. Cash for Clunkers Wraps up with Nearly 700,000 car sale

Foreclosure Rescue and Loan Modification Scammers Still Prey on Stressed

As previously reported in FDIC Consumer News, many homeowners having difficulty making their monthly mortgage payments are being targeted by criminals who charge large upfront fees and falsely "guarantee" to rescue a home from foreclosure. Foreclosure Rescue and Loan Modification Scammers Still Prey on Stressed

IRS: Eight Things to Know If You Receive an IRS Notice

Every year, the IRS sends millions of letters and notices to taxpayers. Many taxpayers will receive this correspondence during the late summer and fall. Here are eight things every taxpayer should know about IRS notices â€" just in case one shows up in your mailbox. IRS: Eight Things to Know If You Receive an IRS Notice

Mortgage Fraud: Nine Sentenced in Alaska's Largest Mortgage Fraud Investigation

United States Attorney Karen L. Loeffler announced that on August 21, 2009, lead defendant was sentenced to 70 months in prison for his leadership of a large-scale mortgage fraud scheme.   Mortgage Fraud: Nine Sentenced in Alaska's Largest Mortgage Fraud Investigation

White House Council on Women and Girls Invitation to discuss Women & Healthcare

This Wednesday is the  89^th Anniversary of women getting the right to vote!  To celebrate Women's Equality Day, we are holding a call to update you on the Council on Women and Girls and discuss health reform's impact on women.

IRS: Top Ten Tips for Taxpayers Deducting Casualty and Theft Losses

Taxpayers who find themselves the victim of a natural disaster or theft this summer should know the rules for deducting their casualty losses next year when they file their federal tax return. Generally, you may deduct losses to your home, household items and vehicles on your federal income tax return. IRS: Top Ten Tips for Taxpayers Deducting Casualty and Theft Losses

IRS: Employee vs. Independent Contractor – Ten Tips for Business Owners

If you are a small business owner, whether you hire people as independent contractors or as employees will impact how much taxes you pay and the amount of taxes you withhold from their paychecks. IRS: Employee vs. Independent Contractor – Ten Tips for Business Owners

Over 1 Million DVD Players Recalled by Wal-Mart Due to Fire Hazard

Wal-Mart has received 12 reports of DVD players overheating, five of which have resulted in fires that caused property damage. No injuries have been reported. Over 1 Million DVD Players Recalled by Wal-Mart Due to Fire Hazard

Phony Job Placement Scam: Guaranteed' Jobs Never Materialized

A U.S. district court has halted a phony job placement operation that allegedly stole money from job seekers by promising them full-time work, with benefits, that never materialized, the Federal Trade Commission announced today.Phony Job Placement Scam: Guaranteed' Jobs Never Materialized

Substance Abuse Grants:Feds Awards $60 Million To 565 Drug-Free Communities

Director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, awarded $60 million in Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Continuation Grants to 565 Drug-Free Communities coalitions and five DFC Mentor Continuation coalitions. These grants will assist local community coalitions as they work to prevent and reduce youth substance use. Substance Abuse Grants:Feds Awards $60 Million To 565 Drug-Free Communities

OSHA grantees offer free training on pandemic flu hazards and SHMS design

West Virginia University Safety and Health Extension, an OSHA Susan Harwood Training Grant Program recipient, is offering healthcare professionals and staff at small hospitals and healthcare facilities a free, four-hour pandemic influenza hazard awareness course Aug. 20 in Hagerstown, Md., and Aug. 21 in Lewes, Del.   OSHA grantees offer free training on pandemic flu hazards and SHMS design

IRS: For Many Small Businesses, Fall Filing Deadline Looms for Special Refund Claims

Time is running out for many small businesses wishing to take advantage of the expanded business loss carryback option included in this year'S recovery law, the Internal Revenue Service said today. Eligible individuals have until Oct. 15 to choose this expanded carryback option. Eligible calendar-year corporations have until Sept. 15. For Many Small Businesses, Fall Filing Deadline Looms for Special Refund Claims

Health Professions Training Grants for Health Care Professionals

HHS today announced the availability of $200 million to support grants, loans, loan repayment, and scholarships to expand the training of health care professionals.  The funds are expected to train approximately 8,000 students and credentialed health professionals by the end of fiscal year 2010. Health Professions Training Grants Announced for Health Care Professionals

Tough New Braking Rules For Large Trucks Will Save Hundreds of Lives Annually

The new standard requires that a tractor-trailer traveling at 60 miles per hour come to a complete stop in 250 feet. The old standard required a complete stop within 355 feet. Tough New Braking Rules For Large Trucks Will Save Hundreds of Lives Annually

Minimum Wage Now $7.25

The federal minimum wage for covered nonexempt employees is $7.25 per hour effective July 24, 2009. Minimum Wage Now $7.25

Operation Lies: Mortgage Foreclosure Rescue and Loan Modification Scams target by Fed & State Agncies

Federal Trade Commission Chairman Jon Leibowitz, joined by California Attorney General Jerry Brown, today announced Operation Loan Lies, a coordinated national law enforcement effort to crack down on mortgage modification scams. Operation Lies: Mortgage Foreclosure Rescue and Loan Modification Scams target by Fed & State Agncies

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