Consumer

Consumer Make sure your tax preparer is legit Make sure your tax preparer is legit (Video)
By Connie Thompson Published: Mar 21, 2013 at 10:05 AM PDT
When you decide to have someone else do it for you, it's critical to make sure they're licensed with the state, and registered with the Internal Revenue Service .
Consumer Even over-the-counter drugs still have some risk Even over-the-counter drugs still have some risk
By Herb Weisbaum Published: Mar 20, 2013 at 9:19 AM PDT
When you have a minor health problem, non-prescription drugs can be a convenient and inexpensive way to go. But Dr. John Swartzberg at the UC Berkeley Wellness Letter reminds us that over-the-counter does not mean harmless.
Consumer Do you have enough money in your emergency fund? Do you have enough money in your emergency fund?
By Herb Weisbaum Published: Mar 18, 2013 at 8:30 AM PDT
Half of us don't have enough money saved to cover living expenses for three months, according to a recent survey done by bankrate.com. Another 28 percent have no emergency savings at all!
Consumer Pocket Hose: Does it work? Pocket Hose: Does it work? (Video)
By Connie Thompson Published: Mar 15, 2013 at 8:18 AM PDT
Even people who enjoy yard work complain about dealing with cumbersome garden hoses. So who wouldn't be interested in a hose that promises to eliminate the hassle? The Pocket Hose looks like an extra-long hair scrunchie.
Consumer Doing your own painting? Don't skimp on prep work Doing your own painting? Don't skimp on prep work
By Herb Weisbaum Published: Mar 14, 2013 at 11:33 AM PDT
When it comes to most painting jobs around my house, I hire a professional. I know my limitations. Maybe you're the do-it yourself type. If so remember this: proper preparation is the key to success.
Consumer Need a kennel to board your pet? It pays to shop around Need a kennel to board your pet? It pays to shop around (Video)
By Connie Thompson Published: Mar 11, 2013 at 8:22 AM PDT
Some people take their pets with them when they travel. but many others board their pets in a local kennel. Based on feedback from local pet owners, it pays to shop around.

"There are a lot of great kennels out there, but there are also some that don't do very well.
Consumer Transit riders to get a bigger tax break this year Transit riders to get a bigger tax break this year
By Herb Weisbaum Published: Mar 6, 2013 at 11:15 AM PDT
Transit riders will get a bigger tax break this year, thanks to the deal that averted a fall off the fiscal cliff. That law gives those who take mass transit to work the same pretax benefits as those who drive and pay to park.