better business bureau

6 Signs Your Tax Preparer Is Incompetent

If you plan to hire a tax preparer to fill out your return this year, be careful. There are far too many self-proclaimed "tax professionals" whom you shouldn't let anywhere near your 1040 Form. Here's how to tell you've picked the wrong person to do your taxes.

The Customer Isn't Always Right, Especially When He's Complaining

When it comes to customer service disputes, there's an old adage in the retail industry: The customer is always right. Of course, the customer is very frequently in the wrong, and unfortunately for put-upon customer service reps, new research suggests that consumers complain the most when they know they're wrong.

How to Avoid Home Repair Rip-Offs After Frankenstorm Passes

Experts predict the tab for Hurricane Sandy -- aka Frankenstorm -- will be in the billions of dollars. If your property gets damaged, proceed with caution: You don't want to get hit again, this time by home repair companies that jack up their prices, do a poor job, or walk away before the work is finished.

How More Women Can Become Philanthropists

This author believes that more women need to think of themselves as philanthropists and get more strategic in their giving, so that their donations will have the maximum impact. Here's how.

Thousands Fall Victim to Utility Payment Scam

As much as President Barack Obama wants your vote, he won't pay your electric bill. But thousands of Americans have been persuaded otherwise, falling victim to a scam that claims to be part of an federal program to help pay utility bills in the midst of this scorching summer.

BBB Reveals America's Most Griped-About Businesses

American consumers are getting savvier, and happier. We consulted the BBB far more often in 2011 than we did the year before, and lodged fewer complaints. But there were still plenty of gripes, and the worst offenders may not surprise you.

Tax Prep Nightmare: Don't Get Conned by Your Tax Pro

A series of major problems and the whiff of potential fraud at a tax-prep company called "Mo Money Taxes" are a scary reminder: Be smart about selecting the professional who helps with your tax return. Here are some tips to help you avoid the shady characters.

Tax Season Scams: How to Avoid the Fake Refund Cons

Uncle Sam isn't the only one looking to collect from taxpayers this year: A rapidly growing number of Internet scammers are also using the guise of the IRS to siphon money out of consumers' pockets, security experts say.

5 Scams You Shouldn't Fall For This Holiday Season

Despite a rough economy, Americans expect to spend 17% more than last year on holiday gifts. But with money tight for so many, it's more important than ever to be wary of scammers. Here are some of the most common scams you might encounter:

Protect Yourself from Halloween's Scary Scammers

Still scrambling to find a Halloween costume? Beware of ghoulish fraudsters looking to profit from your mad dash. Because Halloween stores are only open for a month or so, unscrupulous operators can take advantage of customers and then just disappear into the night.