White House Jobs Finding a job is tough these days, but have you thought about trying the White House? The Obama administration has more than 7,000 political jobs to fill, and there's a book that is the guide to all of them. FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick reports.
Inauguration Rentals Hundreds of thousands of people want to see history made as President-elect Barack Obama takes the oath of office in January. Now, some D.C. residents hope to turn that interest into a little extra cash in this tough economy. FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick has more as the Capitol prepares for change.
Auto Makers on Capitol Hill It's no secret that the economy is tough, and at the same time automakers are heading to Capitol Hill to ask for billions of dollars in help. GM and Ford have already reported the worst month of sales in 25 years, now the companies say they need even more money to keep the industry afloat.
Another Market Drop The economy will be a big challenge for the new president. President-elect Obama is already meeting with economic advisers and making plans, and that's good because the market fell again on Thursday-- this time nearly 500 points.
Election Day Freebies and Discounts Thanksgiving will be here before you know it, and if you're planning on heading home for the holidays, there's a chance you're dreading it. But FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick has some tips that could save you time, trouble, and cash when you head home for the holidays.
Thanksgiving Travel Thanksgiving will be here before you know it, and if you're planning on heading home for the holidays, there's a chance you're dreading it. But FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick has some tips that could save you time, trouble, and cash when you head home for the holidays.
Hybrid Battery Since September, the government has become a stakeholder in mortgage companies, banks, and insurance giants. Now, the auto industry is among those being considered too big to fail. FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick has a look at the billions of dollars that carmakers are asking for from the government, and whether taxpayers should become investors in the struggling industry.
Layaway for the Holidays Remember the days when you could do all your holiday shopping on 'layaway'? These days, only a few stores have it, but in todays economy it could make a comeback.
Greenspan Testifies The market mess is still far from over, but on Thursday former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan went before Congress and admitted he had made a mistake. Testifying before the House Oversight Committee, Greenspan said he shouldn't have believed that banks would protect the interests of their investors.
Big Box Stores in Trouble Consumer spending-- or lack thereof-- has retailers playing financial 'survival of the fittest', and two big stores in the D.C. area are taking hits. Linens 'N Things lost its battle, and Circuit City is gasping for air. FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick has more on what happens now for retailers.
Credit Cards Bad mortgage loans aren't the only problem plaguing the financial markets. Now, many analysts are issuing warnings about our growing credit card debt. FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick says many consumers reach for the plastic just to cover basic expenses, but that means trouble for banks and investors.
Government Bank Plan There was an early rally on Wall Street Tuesday after the government announced plans to partially nationalize nine banks as a way to ease the credit crisis. FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick has details on the plan and its impact on the markets.
Market Rebounds After taking a major nosedive on Friday, Wall Street rebounded on Monday. The Dow rallied back, and closed up more than 900 points. FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick has details on what caused the rise, and how long it will last.
Stock Shock on Wall Street A massive Wall Street selloff on Thursday sent the Dow plunging below 9,000 points for the first time in five years. FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick has a look at what caused the drastic drop, and where the markets go from here.
Market Watch Continues Even an emergency rate cut by the Federal Reserve wasn't enough to push stocks into positive territory on Wednesday. The cuts were intended to free up lending, FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick says they may have also signaled to skittish investors that the financial crisis is spreading across the globe.
Market Watch On Tuesday, the Federal Reserve said it would become a source of credit for may small businesses. That move lifted the stock market in early trading, but the parade of more disparaging news sent stocks tumbling again before the day ended.
The Markets It's a new week, but we could be in for another gut-wrenching ride on Wall Street. The Dow went into a free fall on Monday, but how come the markets are still melting down just days after the bailout bill was passed?
Bailout Plan House Reaction The Senate voted to pass their version of the bailout bill on Wednesday night, and now the focus shifts to the House. So far, at least two representatives have gone on the record saying they'll change their no votes to yes, but some aren't sold just yet.
Senate Rescue Plan Details Presidential candidates Barack Obama and John McCain returned to Washington from the campaign trail to vote on the Senate's bailout plan, which they hope to pass Wednesday night. If it happens, many hope it will breathe new life into the nation's crumbling economy.
Government Bailout Plan With billions of taxpayer dollars at stake, Americans are demanding assurance that the government's huge bailout plan isn't a wasted effort. FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick breaks down the potential deal if it gets through Congress.
Economic Bailout Progress Wednesday was day two for Congress to take its shots at the troubled asset recovery plan. A few alternative ideas have been floated, but as one lawmaker put it, everyone understands the need for speed.
Economic Bailout Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke told the Senate Banking Committee Tuesday that action must be taken now to rescue taxpayers from the current economic crisis. He said inaction could lead to a recession, but despite that, Chairman Chris Dodd said the administration's plan isn't acceptable.
Treasury Plan It was another dismal day on Wall Street Monday, with the stock market plummeting hundreds of points. Stocks tanked on worries over the government's proposed bailout plan, and FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick has the details on what's causing all the concern.
Raffa Wealth Money Tips Dennis P. Gogarty, with CFP Raffa Wealth Management, LLC, answers money management questions.
Fox 5 Money Management Dawn Doebler, with Ferguson Asset Management, answers money management questions.
Insurance Trackers If you're shopping around for more affordable car insurance, your driving record may give you some bargaining power. One provider is hoping to roll out a nationwide program where you will help decide your own rate.
The Credit Situation The American Bankers Association said Thursday that the state of commercial banks is sound, but it believes there are still more losses to come in the banking world. That uncertainty is having a ripple effect on consumer credit.
What the Economic Crisis Means FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick breaks down what the Wall Street chaos means to the average American.
Lehman Brothers Fallout Wall Street took a major plunge Monday after 158-year-old Lehman Brothers investment house announced it was filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
Campaign Souvenirs The political conventions are over, but you might want to hang onto those souvenirs you collected. FOX 5 Money reporter says those talking buttons and crazy hats could add up to a pile of cash in your pocket.
Energy Incentives Alternative energy is a hot topic in this year's presidential election, and both parties are promoting their plans. The cost is out of reach for many homeowners, but FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick says there are some programs out thee that can help you -- if you act quickly.
Senior Workforce The Department of Labor says Americans are working much longer than before-- with many staying on the job into their late 60s. Economics are driving many people's decision to stay in the work force, and FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick explains how retirement plans and preparations are changing.
Business Headlines Gas could be getting cheaper, along with other goods. But it looks like you'll need the extra cash because raises are getting smaller for most workers. FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick has that and more in Tuesday's business headlines.
National Labor Scorecard Are you really better off than your parents were? According to the National Labor Scorecard, 52 percent say yes. But still, the Rutgers University study says workers may have less to celebrate this Labor Day, and more to be concerned about this year. FOX 5's Melanie Alnwick reports.
MoneyAisle.com Do you ever wonder how smaller banks are getting by and placing bids for your business these days? FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick found out they're doing it by turning advertising budgets into better rates.
Car Buying Incentives If you're in the market for a car, this could be the weekend for you. Not only is it the end of the month, but it's also the end of the model year. FOX 5's Melanie Alnwick says that's putting shoppers in the driver's seat, but there are some important incentives to consider before you head to the car lot.
Rent or Buy? If you're looking to save a few bucks when you're decorating your house, why not rent instead of own? From furniture to luxury items, you don't have to shell out the cash for the things you really want. FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick explains.
Virtual Jobs Do you ever wish you could try a new career without giving up the one you already have? Thanks to a virtual world where you can be whomever you choose, it's become a reality for some people. FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick says it's paying off for some students.
Fake Olympic Merchandise Millions across the country have been glued to the Olympics for the last couple of weeks, and now collectors are looking to cash in. Pins, autographed gear, and even medals may be popping up for sale, but FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick has some important tips to help make sure you get the real thing.
Home Biodiesel Gas prices have come down a bit, but diesel fuel continues to make a big dent in the budgets of many. That has some people looking for alternative fuels-- but are they breaking the law? FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick has a look at homemade fuel that could be brewing up trouble.
Dorm Insurance The days where your kids packed up their clothes, a few books, and a hot plate to head off to school are over. Now, they're taking iPods, laptops, and cell phones with them when they go. FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick shows us why it's crucial to add one more item to their back-to-school list.
D.C. Restaurant Week
Times may be tough, but this week there's a reason to splurge on dinner out. It's D.C.'s Annual Restaurant Week, and FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick has a look at how the special prices are helping to boost area restaurants' bottom lines.
Green Products Going green has become a multi-billion dollar industry, and some entrepreneurs are making big bucks by trying to make the world more eco-friendly. FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick shows you the latest and greatest ways to save some green while going green.
Appliances: Repair or Replace? People are trying to stretch their dollar as far as possible these days, and shelling out big bucks for a major appliance can really set you back. FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick shows you when it's worth repairing, and when it's time to buy new.
Electric Cars Whether you're taking a cab or driving around town yourself, gas prices are on the minds of most these days. But there are some drivers out there who get charged up by passing the pumps by.
Unclaimed Money When the state of Maryland says the check's in the mail, they mean it. Residents are owed $778 million, and some of it is being returned right now.
Pet Insurance Tips In today's economy, saving money on health care is imporant for every member of your family-- even the four-legged ones. You might not want to shell out the extra cash for pet insurance, but FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick says it could be worth it in the end.
Economic Stimulus Checks Your economic stimulus check might already have been spent, but there are still billions in unclaimed refunds out there. FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick shows you who hasn't claimed their cash and why.
Straw Houses The idea of living in a straw house probably sounds like something out of a story book, but it's actually happening in Takoma Park. FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick talked with one of the families to find out how they doubled their square footage without raising their energy bill.
Consumer Complaints The National Association of Consumer Agency Administrators has released its list of the top 10 consumer complaints. Among them: car dealers, shoddy home contractors, and credit card companies. FOX 5's Melanie Alnwick has the full story.
Credit Card Complaints Many consumers describe their credit card companies as deceptive, unfair, and abusive. They're telling their stories to the government, and FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick says that could lead to action to prevent unfair practices.
Housing Rescue Bill Desperate homeowners have been crying out for help paying the mortgages they can't afford, and President Bush is getting set to step in. He's expected to sign a housing rescue bill into law, but FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick says it may not provide the help so many are looking for.
Green Travel Want to go green on your next vacation? You might be surprised to learn it won't leave you camping in the woods or trekking through a rainforest.
Minimum Wage Some workers now have a little more money to take to the bank. The federal minimum wage is now $6.55 an hour, and FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick shows you how the change is affecting employers and employees.
Fairfax County Considers Four-Day Work Week Local governments are facing huge deficits in today's economy. Now, the Fairfax County government says it's considering a four-day work week for employees to save cash.
Back to School Sales A new survey says the tough economic times are forcing 90% of consumers to change the way they shop for back to school items so retailers are falling back on some old themes to lure shoppers.
Nitrogen Tires The daily quest to find better gas mileage and cheaper gas has some drivers pulling up to a different kind of pump. They're looking for nitrogen pumps, not to fill their fuel tanks but to fill their tires.
Avoiding Common Money Mistakes Our friends at the Motley Mool.com financial website have been tracking common money mistakes people are making far too often.
Save on Mileage These days, it seems everyone is trying to save at the pump. But there's one way to save on your car that's often overlooked.
Moving Complaints Moving can be a lot of work, and finding the right company to help you can be the hardest part. But, your move doesn't have to be a fiasco if you pay attention to the details.
Crash Test Ratings Soaring gas prices are changing how we shop for new cars, but are you saving a few bucks with a fuel efficient ride only to put your life in danger on the road?
High Fashion Savings Everyone's trying to save money while shopping, but if you're looking for high style you're also likely to find high prices. Our Money team found a bit of break.
Hybrid Hype The high price of gas has a lot of people thinking about ditching their cars and SUVs for fuel-efficient hybrids. It might sound like a good idea on paper, but the bottom line tells a different story.
Sunscreen Promises These are the kind of days that have you hitting the sunscreen aisle at the store, but you may want to take a closer look at the labels on the products you're buying.
Metal Thefts Along with oil and food prices, other commodities like precious metals are commanding higher prices too. That's leading to crimes that could make you a victim.
Cruise Pinch Cruises might seem like a good deal, but there are some costs you'll need to be aware of before you set sail. .
$2.99 Gas Deals Car dealers say one way to beat the high gas prices is to buy a new car. Chrysler's 'Refueling America' program is offering gas for $2.99 a gallon, but the deal comes with conditions.
Restaurants Grow Own Ingredients The financial outlook for restaurants isn't so great, and industry watchers say they'll see lower profits next year because of higher gas and food prices.
Car Insurance Savings It isn't easy to save money on your car insurance, and those bills can take a big chunk out of your budget. But they don't have to, because tracking down a good deal can help you save big bucks..
Online Gas Cards There is a secret to cheaper gas and it's not driving from station to station to save a few pennies.
Rising Petroleum Costs Hit Businesses High oil prices mean you're paying more at the pump, but that's not all. Petroleum is used to make many of the things you need, and the costs of those products are on the rise as well.
Future of Airline Travel Airline travel is going retro, meaning fewer routes and higher prices. According to an industry report, flying may soon be a luxury.
Diesel Prices Detour School Buses If you think filling up your car is expensive, try footing the bill for gas on a school bus. The rising price of diesel fuel is forcing school systems to make changes to absorb the high costs.
Big-Screen Energy Hogs New, big screen TVs are sleek and flashy but they're not cheap. Your wallet takes a hit when you buy one and that TV may just keep draining you.
Pawning for Gas Money High gas prices are forcing some people to resort to drastic measures just to fill their tanks: they're pawning off their stuff for gas money.
Government Cutbacks If you think you spend a lot of money on gas, consider how much your local government is pumping into its cars! As gas prices rise, some counties are asking their police departments to conserve.
Debt Stress-Physical Pain The stress from deepening debt is becoming a major pain in the neck -- and the back and the head and the stomach -- for millions of Americans.
Stretching Your Paychecks Fox 5's Money reporter Melanie Alnwick shows you a few ways to stretch our paychecks without skimping on what we love.
Making Your Car Last Many are trying to stretch their dollars as far as possible. In some cases that means getting every last mile out of the clunker in the driveway. The key is finding a good repairman from tires to transmissions. But finding the right repair shop can be challenging.
Movie Prices No matter what movie you're going to see, movies are not a cheap date. Two tickets will run you about 20 bucks, add another 10 for popcorn and sodas and you're already out 30 dollars.
Bicycle Commuter Boom Gas prices have jumped 35 cents in the last month but that doesn't matter to some commuters. They get to work by using a different kind of fuel, one generated by their own two feet.
Shrinking Products Have you noticed a new trend at the grocery store? Some product sizes are shrinking before your eyes; everything from your favorite ice cream to bars of soap.
Saving on Airfare The cost of air travel is skyrocketing but there is a way to navigate around those expensive airfares.
Gas Zone Pricing There's an oil company secret that can cause big price swings -- even on the same street! Fox 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick sheds some light on 'zone pricing'.
Rental Car Coverage If you choose to rent a car, beware: recent changes in rental coverage could cost you a lot of money if you're not careful.
Deceptive Telemarketing The “Who’s Calling?” consumer education campaign unveiled today also provides tips for consumers on how to identify, prevent, and report fraud over the phone.
DC's Costly Commute A new study ranks the Washington Area the third-costliest commute in the nation, after Atlanta, Georgia and Riverside, California.
Home Staging With more than 4 million pre-owned homes for sale, how can you make yours stand out from the rest? A trend called 'home staging' might just give your home enough curb appeal to seal the deal.
Online Freebies With gas and food prices skyrocketing, everything is costing more and more these days. Fortunately, the freebies are out there, you just have to know where to look.
Cell Phones Only Nearly three in ten households get all or most of their calls on cell phones. Some don't even have hard-wired phones.
Condo/Homeowner Fees In Maryland and Virginia, the assocation doesn't collect overdue fees when they foreclose on a property, but those fees trickle down to everyone else in the community. Fox 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick explains.
Flood Insurance Make sure you know what you need and how to protect yourself before the next storm strikes.
America's Credit Crisis Consumers now owe $951 billion just on credit cards and lines of credit -- a $151 billion increase in just four years and it's only going to get worse.
Color Therapy With retail sales dropping, some companies are getting a little color creative to get you to spend your green.
Vacations Under $1000
Fox 5's Melanie Alnwick takes a look at vacations you can afford for under $1000 dollars.
Food vs. Biofuels
Some top international food scientists Tuesday recommended halting the use of food-based biofuels, such as ethanol, saying it would cut corn prices by 20 percent during a world food crisis.
Consumer Confidence Drops
Soaring gas prices and weaker job prospects made Americans gloomier about the economy in April, sending a widely watched measure of consumer sentiment to a five-year low, a private research group said Tuesday.
Stimulus Checks on the Way
Those tax rebate check will be arriving a little sooner than expected, with checks beginning to going out starting Monday. Melanie Alnwick Reports
More Concern Over Economy Than War
The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are now being overshadowed by the struggling economy in public opinion polls. Recent polls show more voters are concerned about the lack of money in their wallets than the wars. So how do soldiers feel about that? Melanie Alnwick Reports
Retirement Planning in Troubled Times Every dollar counts when it comes to saving for retirement but many retirees say they're already feeling the squeeze on stretching their savings. Fox 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick finds out some coping strategies and how to plan for your retirement in this environment.
Building Green Nearly 800 buildings in Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia -- including the nearly new Washington Convention Center and two professional sports stadiums in Baltimore -- will be retrofitted to save at least 20 percent in energy use under a public-private partnership announced Tuesday.
Home Sales Down in March Sales of existing homes fell in March, the seventh drop in the past eight months, as the spring sales season got off to a rocky start.
World Leaders Worried Over Food Prices A rapidly escalating global food crisis has reached emergency proportions and threatens to wipe out seven years of progress in the fight against poverty, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon warned Monday.
Online Hotel Bargains Looking to book a vacation without breaking the bank? The internet is a good place to find those great hotel deals but the search doesn't end there. Fox 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick talks to the experts to get the most for your hard-earned cash.
Cars of the Future Whether flying or driving, soaring oil prices have folks looking for ways to save a buck. There is a light at the end of the tunnel when you're talking about the future on wheels: a variety of power sources are being tested in all kinds of vehicles. Fox 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick got a peek at what the future holds.
College Grads Enter Tough Job Market The troubled economy might mean bad news for new college grads, who could have a tough time finding those help wanted signs. New Labor Department numbers show the unemployment line getting more crowded. Fox 5's Melanie Alnwick takes a closer look at what's waiting for grads in the real world.
Savings Websites With the economy shaky as it is, many of us are looking for the best way to save a buck. We found some top websites we think every online shopper needs to see:
Overlooked Tax Deductions There is at least one good thing about waiting to the last minute to file your taxes: learning about the most overlooked deductions.
Skycaps Receive Reward from Federal Jury A federal jury has awarded $325,000 to nine American Airlines skycaps who claimed they lost tips when the airline instituted a $2-per-bag fee for curbside check-in service at Logan International Airport in Boston.
Financial Revamp Proposed for Regulators It's a Herculean task: revamping a financial regulatory system dating back to the Civil War to better deal with crises now imperiling the country.
Credit Crisis Hits Student Loan Industry Other than car payments and home mortgages, your student loans could be your biggest debts. Now the credit crunch is coming down on yet another market with some student loan companies closing up at the very time families will be shopping for financing. Fox 5's Melanie Alnwick takes a look at what's changed in this Fox 5 Money report.
Tax Season A High Time For ID Theft You’ve got just 11 days left to file your taxes. If you're one of the many Americans filing online, a warning tonight: Tax season is open season for identity thieves. Fox 5's Melanie Alnwick shows us some ways you can protect yourself.
Home Sales Report We are bracing for a fresh dose of most likely bad news about the nation's housing market in Tuesday's home sales report. Despite all those struggling home owners out there, some home buyers could be making out on the negative news! Fox 5's Melanie Alnwick has a preview of Tuesday's home sales report.
Taking Advantage of a Slow Auto Market Soaring gas prices combined with a sagging economy do not make life easy for car salesmen these days. In March, US auto sales fell for the 5th straight month but that means you good get a great deal if you're a careful customer. Melanie Alnwick has details in this Fox 5 Money report.
Finding Savings Despite Food Cost Inflation We're feeling the current economic crisis everywhere from the gas pump to Wall Street to your corner grocery store. Americans are feeling the squeeze from the worst case of food inflation in 20 years and its changing the way many of you are feeding your families! Fox 5's Melanie Alnwick has some secrets to savings.
Cutting Back as Cost of Wheat Triples It's much easier to cut back on pasta, pastries, bread and bagels when the cost of wheat has more than tripled in the last ten months. Fox 5's Melanie Alnwick is tracking the economy from crop to counter!
MONEY Weblinks
Election Day Freebies After you cast your ballot on Election Day, don't toss that 'I Voted' sticker! It will earn you a load of freebies and discounts around the area.
Black Friday Deals The Official Site for Black Friday. Black Friday, also known as the Day After Thanksgiving, or Blitz Day, is the day most retail stores offer customers great deals for shopping on the first day of the 2008 Christmas Shopping Season.
The Choose to Save® Program,
for more on saving strategies in troubled financial times Financial security is one of the most important issues for most Americans. Whether it's putting kids through college, saving for an emergency, buying a house, or saving for retirement - having enough money for life's demands is among our biggest concerns. And yet, many Americans have not taken even the first steps toward a secure financial future.
Stimulus Filing Day Find out all about Stimulus Filing Day, which will be held on Saturday, October 15.
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) is an independent agency created by the Congress that maintains the stability and public confidence in the nations financial system by insuring deposits, examining and supervising financial institutions, and managing receiverships.
Public Citizen and Consumer Watchdog
As the federal government readies to approve possibly the most reckless bailout in this country's history, Public Citizen and Consumer Watchdog urged Congress to proceed carefully and incorporate consumer safeguards in any financial plan.
Working Mother Magazine We salute groundbreaking firms that walk the walk when it comes to real work/life benefits that help working moms succeed. Check out the list of the 100 best companies to work for as a mom.
Dawn On Wealth As a multi-credentialed fee-only advisor with a Five Star Paladin Registry rating, I design wealth solutions that are both low cost and tax-efficient. DawnonWealth is designed to provide investors with insider information on how to build personal wealth while avoiding the high fees of traditional brokerage accounts and commissioned investments.
Raffa Wealth Management, LLC An independent investment advisor specializing in delivering the resources nonprofits need to maintain strong governance, performance, and oversight standards in the management of their investment reserves or endowment.
Personal Banking - PNC Bank PNC's wide range of services can make banking easier, and more convenient, than ever. See why PNC's the smart choice for help in meeting your financial goals.
Fox, Joss & Yankee, LLC Fox, Joss & Yankee, LLC is a fee-only financial planning and investment management firm based in Reston, Virginia. Our mission is to provide every client with the highest level of personalized service our profession has to offer. In addition to giving each client planning recommendations and advice that is specific to their goals and needs, we also assist in the implementation and monitoring of client financial plans and investment portfolios.
HOPE NOW HOPE NOW is an alliance between counselors, servicers, investors, and other mortgage market participants. This alliance will maximize outreach efforts to homeowners in distress to help them stay in their homes and will create a unified, coordinated plan to reach and help as many homeowners as possible. The members of this alliance recognize that by working together, they will be more effective than by working independently.
NeighborWorks America NeighborWorks America creates opportunities for people to live in affordable homes, improve their lives and strengthen their communities.
Identity Theft Assistance Center Financial services companies fund ITAC to help victims of identity theft, provide consumers with tools and information to detect and prevent fraud and identity theft, and to partner with law enforcement—including the Federal Trade Commission and U.S. Postal Inspection Service—in investigating and prosecuting fraud and identity theft.
MyMoneyManagement.net MyMoneyManagement.net is a collaborative effort by the financial services industry to provide consumers with access to financial information and educational tools to help in managing their personal finances. The goal of this website is to provide consumers with sound resources from a variety of sources, including financial services companies, advocacy organizations, and personal finance experts.
United States Trustee Program Home Page To assist you in selecting an approved credit counseling agency, the Federal Trade Commission offers "Facts for Consumers" that provide helpful suggestions for finding the best counselor for you. You may also find it useful to read the FTC's brochure, produced in cooperation with the USTP, entitled "Before You File for Personal Bankruptcy: Information About Credit Counseling and Debtor Education."
Maryland Society of Accountants In order to understand the Maryland Society of Accountants, it is first necessary to gain an understanding of the accounting profession. The practice of accountancy has not enjoyed a uniform evolution in the United States, and it can be somewhat confusing for those unfamiliar with a few basic but important distinctions in how the profession is organized and in the types of services accountants provide.
Ferguson Asset Management Ferguson Asset Management is an independent
money management firm and a registered
investment advisor. We are fee-based only,
with no commission and no hidden costs.
Lincoln Financial Group Lincoln Financial Group is a diversified financial services organization headquartered in the Philadelphia region. With $221 billion in assets under management as of June 30, 2008, Lincoln Financial Group has been serving the financial needs of customers across the U.S and the United Kingdom since 1905. Our goal is to provide comprehensive financial solutions that help our customers secure their retirement and manage life transitions. For financial professionals, Lincoln Financial is their partner of choice, offering innovative, industry-leading products and educational resources to help them build their book of business.
Maryland Insurance Association Statement Insurance Commissioner Ralph S. Tyler addressed
today consumer concerns regarding American International Group, Inc. (AIG). AIG is
experiencing financial difficulties at the holding company level and is negotiating with the New
York insurance department and others to explore solutions.
The Wedding Channel If you're trying to plan a wedding on a budget, try the Wedding Channel's website. It's full of ideas on how you can have the day of your dreams and still save some cash.
Tudor Place Find If you want to find out about having your wedding at Tudor Place, follow this link to their website.
The Knot Find tips and ideas for your wedding on TheKnot.com. Just follow this link to check it out.
Coupon Cravings Find deals online with just the click of a mouse! Follow this link to CouponCravings.com.
Maryland Energy Incentives For details on energy incentives that are available in Maryland, follow this link.
\AARP's Life@50+ Events For more on AARP's Life@50+ events, follow this link to the organization's website.
One Year $1 Million Challenge Find out what you'd need to do to save $1 million for your retirement with the One Year $1 Million Challenge.
Rutgers National Labor Scorecard Find out how workers are doing by checking out the Rutgers National Labor Scorecard for this year. Just follow this link.
MoneyAisle.com On MoneyAisle.com, banks bid in live, online auctions for your business. To find out more, visit their website by following this link.
Borrowed Bling Want to shop like a celebrity? Now you can borrow your bling online. Follow this link to see how.
One Night Affair At One Night Affair, you can choose from thousands of top designer gowns all for RENT...and all for a fraction of the cost We have thousands of the finest designer bridal, bridesmaid, formal and evening gowns.
Bag Borrow or Steal So you want that new designer bag, but can't shell out the cash to buy it? Why not borrow it instead! Click here for a link to Bag Borrow or Steal, a website where you can do just that..
N & S Rentals N&S Rentals is more than a tool and equipment rental store. Under one roof we have to offer, a fully stocked Ace Hardware department, Erosion control products division and a U-Cart Concrete batch plant.
Capital Rentals Capital Rentals is your neighborhood tool rental store serving the Washington D.C. metro area since 1969. We carry a large variety of tools for homeowners and contractors. !
Antique Leasing Online To find out more about leasing antiques, follow this link to AntiqueLeasing.com.
Reasons to Rent from Angie's List We've posted a list of reasons to rent from Angie's List here on our website. Follow this link to check it out.
Virtual Jobs on There.com If you'd like to check out a virtual job online, follow this link to There.com. You can even build your own neighborhood, and registration is free.
Huggins and Scott Auctions If you're looking for authentic sports memorabilia, follow this link to the Huggins and Scott Sports Memorabilia Auctions website.
Beckett.com - Collecting Reinvented To make sure the Olympic merchandise you're purchasing is legit, follow this link to Beckett.com, a website for collectors.
U.S. & World Figure Skating Champions Live! Get your tickets now for the upcoming U.S and World Figure Skating Champions Live! charity event on September 6. For more information on the event, follow this link to the Michael Weiss Foundation's official website.
Airborne Refunds The FTC charged the makers of Airborne with making false and deceptive claims about its germ-fighting and cold prevention treatment. Now, they've been ordered to issue refunds to customers who purchased the product between May 2001 and November 2007. For more information, follow this link.
Eco-Green Living To find out how you can go green in your everyday life, follow this link to Eco-Green Living's website. They're the premier green, organic, and fair-trade store in the D.C. Area for lifestyle, home remodeling, and personal care products.
MissingMoney.com To see whether or not you have unclaimed money waiting for you, follow this link to MissingMoney.com, where you can search by your name.
Comptroller of Maryland For more on unclaimed property in Maryland, please click on this link for the Comptroller of Maryland's website.
Green Hotels Association Find out how to go green during your next hotel stay with these tips from the Green Hotels Association.
Go Green Travel Center Find out how easy it is to go green on your next vacation by visiting the Go Green Travel Center.
Away @ Arcadia Eco-Travel Service Away@Arcadia features an annual list of Arcadia's top 10 socially-responsible travel destinations, and also offers information on trips. .
Map of Minimum Wage Laws Follow this link to a map of the minimum wage laws from the U.S. Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division.
Hard Times Cafe The Hard Times Cafe, which was featured on FOX 5 Money, is located in Bethesda. Follow this link to their website.
Nitrogen Facts & Resources The Get Nitrogen Institute is a nonprofit organization located in Denver. We formed in 2005 to provide consumers, over-the-road truckers, fleet managers and others about the benefits of using nitrogen in tires.
Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae links Find out what you need to know about lenders Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae by using our list of helpful links.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
Moving to a new home is a significant event that is often stressful, and the U.S. Government, in partnership with the moving industry, law enforcement and consumer groups, is arming consumers with the information they need to protect themselves against one of the most stressful situations that can plague a household move: being taken advantage of by a dishonest or rogue mover.
Better Business Bureau Our mission is to promote and foster the highest ethical relationship between business and the public through voluntary self-regulation, consumer and business education, and service excellence.
Montgomery County Office Of Consumer Protection Public Forum Planned to Address Financial Privacy and Identity Theft
Montgomery County's Office of Consumer Protection and the Advisory Committee on Consumer Protection are hosting a public forum to discuss financial privacy and identity theft concerns. Entitled "Protecting Your Financial Privacy and Preventing Identity Theft," the forum will be held on Monday, July 14 from 1:15 to 3:15p.m., at the Holiday Park Senior Center, 3950 Ferrara Dr., Wheaton.
SaferCar.gov The New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) rates vehicles to determine crash worthiness and rollover safety. The safety ratings are gathered during controlled crash and rollover tests conducted at NHTSA's research facilities.
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety The Institute rates vehicles good, acceptable, marginal, or poor based on performance in high-speed front and side crash tests plus evaluations of seat/head restraints for protection against neck injuries in rear impacts.
Store Adore.com Store Adore is an online forum for passionate shoppers to find and share insights and information on the very best boutiques and specialty stores in the cities where they live, where they travel, and online.
The Environmental Working Group's Cosmetics Database Until FDA requires that all sunscreens be safe and effective, Environmental Working Group's comprehensive sunscreen guide—including a list of 143 products that offer very good sun protection—fills in the gaps.
Skin Cancer Foundation The Skin Cancer Foundation is promoting early detection by providing free skin exams with the Road to Healthy Skin Tour, sponsored by AVEENO™ and Rite Aid.
FDA's Sunscreen Labeling Proposal FDA wants the labeling on your sunscreen to tell you more about protection against the sun's harmful rays.
Best Pawn Maryland-based Best Pawn will take things like unwanted jewelry or your old t.v. and turn them into cold, hard cash!
AP/AOL survey: Debt Stress in the United States A recent AP/AOL survey found that the average level of debt-related stress experienced by American adults has grown significantly in the four years since a similar survey was conducted.
Kinset.com 3-D Online Shopping Kinset is for those of us who like to shop. Stroll down an aisle with hundreds of items on display. Pause when something catches your eye. Browse and linger while discovering new things.
Washington Area Bicyclists Association The mission of the Washington Area Bicyclist Association is to create a healthy, more livable region by promoting bicycling for fun, fitness, and affordable transportation; advocating for better bicycling conditions and transportation choices for a healthier environment, and educating children, adults, and motorists about safe bicycling.
Big Wheel Bikes In 1971, Big Wheel Bikes opened for business at 33rd and M streets in Georgetown, D.C. next to the C & O Canal. The big bike on the yellow wall is a Washington landmark.
Telework Value Calculators Telework ExchangeSM is a public-private partnership focused on demonstrating the tangible value of telework and serving the emerging educational and communication requirements of the Federal teleworker community. The organization facilitates communication among Federal teleworkers, telework managers, and IT professionals.
Travel Weblinks:
Expedia.com Expedia delivers consumers everything they need for researching, planning, and purchasing a whole trip.
Orbitz.com Orbitz Worldwide is a leading global online travel company that uses innovative technology to enable leisure and business travelers to research, plan and book a broad range of travel products.
Travelocity.com We here at Travelocity believe that you deserve great travel experiences. That's why we created our own Travelocity Customer Bill of Rights and realigned our entire organization so that our products, policies and employees protect them.
Food Weblinks:
TheCouponClippers.com We are the nation’s largest online grocery coupon clipping service, offering more than a million national-brand coupons at any given time in our warehouse and shipping center. Browse our huge selection and start saving $$$ today!
CoolSavings.com It really is incredible how much you can save with grocery coupons! Whether you're one of those people who consistently looks for coupons every week and uses them every time you go to the store, or the type who never remembers to use them at all—online printable grocery coupons are the best way to go.
FreeGrocery-Coupons.com Grocery coupons can save consumers hundreds of dollars a year! Most of these free grocery coupons never get used. Why? Because people don't know they exist!
Housing + Transportation Affordability Index The Housing + Transportation Affordability Index, developed by CNT and its collaborative partners, the Center for Transit Oriented Development (CTOD), is an innovative tool that measures the true affordability of housing.
Center for Neighborhood Technology CNT has been promoting a new and more comprehensive way of thinking about the cost of housing and true affordability by exploring the impact that transportation costs associated with the location of the housing have on a household’s economic bottom line.
The Staged Homes Program The Staged Homes Program is a program that has been developed to assist property owners in presenting their homes for sale in the best possible way, by employing the unique skills of an Accredited Staging ProfessionalTM (ASP).
IAHSP Numerous Regional IAHSP chapters have begun to be started in several metropolitan areas across the US and Canada. These regional chapters are being founded to provide a professional business association for Home Stagers in localized areas. Their goal is to foster growth, unity, and networking amongst peers in the Staging Community.
Angie's List When you need help with repairs around the house, Angie's List members will help you decide which service companies to trust and which to avoid.
www.hulu.com Hulu is an online video service that offers hit TV shows, movies and clips at Hulu.com and other online destination sites - all for free, anytime in the U.S.
iTunes U. iTunes U delivers easy, 24/7 access to educational content from hundreds of top colleges, universities, and educationally focused organizations across the country. And it's accessible to anyone with a Mac or PC.
Popcap-Free Online Games You can play our web games right in your browser. Or download the free Deluxe games in just a few minutes, to enjoy anytime, anywhere - without being connected to the Internet.
Tips To Save Money At The Grocery Store With rising food prices, there are simple ways for people to save money at the grocery store. Washington consumers' checkbook and www.checkbook.org have put together a number of effective dollar- stretching tips that can work for almost any shopper.
www.floodsmart.gov Learn how the National Flood Insurance Program was established to help people recover from floods by offering them affordable flood insurance.
www.iii.org INSURANCE INFORMATION INSTITUTE 110 William Street
New York, NY 10038 212-346-5500 The mission of the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.) is to improve public understanding of insurance -- what it does and how it works.
http://knowyourstuff.org Welcome to KnowYourStuff.org, where you can download the I.I.I.'s new home inventory software for free! This software makes creating a home inventory fun and easy. Once you have completed your inventory, it is easy to keep your information up to date.
AOL's Getaways Under A Grand AOL's list of great affordable getaways for under $1000 dollars with consumer travel tips.
Angie's List Price At The Pump Poll Angie's List surveyed more than 1,700 service companies across the country to gauge how the price at the pump is affecting both ends of the service equation.
Fuel Surcharge Tips Know what you're paying for: Insist on itemized charges related to fuel costs so you know exactly what you are paying for.
SuperValu Grocery Stores SuperValu Grocery Stores Enables Customers to Stretch Economic Stimulus or Tax Refund Checks
Sears In a move to help Americans stretch their dollars, Sears will offer a 10 percent bonus to every customer who converts
their government stimulus checks into gift cards.
RadioShack RadioShack is 10 percent discount on purchases of $50 or more.
Home Depot Home Depot is encouraging consumers to spend money on energy-efficient products, with promotions on compact fluorescent lightbulbs and energy-star appliances.
Economic Stimulus Center The Economic Stimulus Act of 2008 raised the limit on the amount of equipment purchases that can be expensed (deducted immediately) this year.
AAA Fuel Price Finder AAA Fuel Price Finder - Latest Fuel Prices at More than 100,000 Stations Worldwide
GasBuddy.com GasBuddy.com can help you find cheap gas prices in your city. It is a network of more than 181+ gas price information websites that help you find low gasoline prices. All web sites are operated by GasBuddy and has the most comprehensive listings of gas prices anywhere.
FOX 5 Survival Guide: COST OF LIVING
COST OF LIVING Video Reports:
Energy-Saving Tips Are you trying to save money on your power bill these days? We've got five quick fixes that could save you cash on electricity..
Liberty Village Some people are sharing expenses to try and save cash, and others are taking it a step further. FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick found a local neighborhood that's blending new ideas with old tradition in an effort to cut back.
Saving at the Grocery From milk to meat to produce, groceries are getting more expensive all the time. Fox 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick reveals some valuable, money-saving tips to help you cut down on your food bill.
Fresh Produce It's no secret that good produce is pricey, but FOX 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick found a litle money-saving secret that could have you putting on your work gloves.
Retirement Tips Fox 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick and Alejandra Owens, from AARP, join us with tips for planning a healthy retirement.
Retirement Troubles Even with raises and promises of government help, just getting by is getting more difficult for those planning for retirement. Melanie Alnwick reports.
Commuter Connections Anyone who's driving into work knows how gas prices are taking a toll on their wallet. But there are alternatives besides the Metro, or your bike. Melanie Alnwick reports.
Cost of Your Commute Fox 5's Melanie Alnwick reports with more on easing the cost of your commute.
Overall Economic Picture Whether you call it a slump, a downturn, or a recession, everyone is feeling the effect of our economy. Fox 5 Money reporter Melanie Alnwick reports.
COST OF LIVING Weblinks:
AARP: Tools | 1-888-OUR-AARP Reverse Mortgage Calculator, Social Security Calculator, Retirement Calculator, Benefits QuickLINK, Economic Stimulus Payment Help and Gas-Saving Tips from AARP.
The Housing + Transportation Affordability Index The Housing + Transportation Affordability Index, developed by CNT and its collaborative partners, the Center for Transit Oriented Development (CTOD), is an innovative tool that measures the true affordability of housing.
AARP | 1-888-OUR-AARP AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization for people age 50 and over.
AARP is dedicated to enhancing quality of life for all as we age. We lead positive social change and deliver value to members through information, advocacy and service.
AARP Money Management Program This program offers daily money management service to help low-income older or disabled people who have difficulty budgeting, paying routine bills, and keeping track of financial matters.
Commuter Connections | Featured Businesses Commuter Connections features businesses that find transportation solutions that not only make their companies more successful, but improve the economic vitality and quality of life of the entire region.
Commuter Connections | Ridesharing Ridesharing means two or more persons traveling together in an automobile or van. Ridesharing is a great way to lower commuting costs, reduce congestion, and decrease parking demand.
Regional Businesses with Outstanding Commuting Programs for their Employees:
National Geographic Society, Washington, DC 1,400 employees total. NGS organized an ECOmmuting Awareness Day event attracting 450 employees, educating staff about economical and environmentally-friendly ways to get to work. Attendees had opportunities to learn more about NGS incentives such as pre-tax transit, discount parking rates for carpoolers and hybrid vehicle drivers, telework, flextime, compressed work weeks and bicycle racks and showers. NGS continues to encourage solutions that support alternative commute options. The great success of the event prompted the establishment of the Commuting Resources Page on the NGS Intranet.
Orange Business Services, Oak Hill, VA 345 employees total. Nearly 170 employees, an increase of 40 percent from last year, are taking advantage of OBS’s own cutting edge technology to telecommute. OBS recently supported the participation of 64 employees in a “Telework VA” pilot program. As the employees helped improve efficiencies for OBS they also enjoyed some benefits of their own, including an average $277 annual reimbursement for high-speed internet service at home. With more than half its staff traveling an average of 30 miles each way, flexible programs such as these help retain staff and reduce traffic congestion and air pollution. Through telework, efficient use of office space has reduced facility costs by $9,000 for each participating employee. Employees have also reduced annual vehicle miles traveled by over 644,000.
XM Satellite Radio, Washington, DC 800 employees total. XM Radio offers plenty of choice to its employees via an extensive assortment of employer-sponsored commuter benefit programs created to improve quality of life for people and protect and nurture the planet. Free shuttles to and from the Metro and commuter trains, pre-tax transit benefits, preferred parking for carpools, showers and lockers for bikers, $2 meal subsides to encourage onsite eating at the XM café, flexible work schedules, company-issued Blackberries, cell phones and laptops for telecommuters, flex cars, and after-hours escort vans to transit round out the various commuting incentives available to e
