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This Contract Clause Is Costing Consumers Thousands
By Jessica Long
Published Apr 18th, 2025 4:00AM
A Georgia woman paid off her lease-to-own furniture early—only to be told she still owed nearly $3,000. Learn how tricky financing contracts trap consumers and how to protect yourself before you sign.
Why Paying in Cash Can Cost You More
By Jessica Long
Published Apr 18th, 2025 4:00AM
Some companies charge extra just because you pay your bill in person or with cash. Learn why these fees exist, who they impact most, and how to avoid them with simple, low-cost alternatives like prepaid debit cards.
Behind the Breakdown: What Appliance Companies Aren’t Telling You
By Jessica Long
Published Apr 18th, 2025 4:00AM
One homeowner’s refrigerator repair spiraled into a months-long mess. Discover what went wrong—and how to protect yourself from warranty traps.
Don’t Let a Payment App Drain Your Wallet
By Jessica Long
Published Apr 18th, 2025 4:00AM
Mobile payment apps like Venmo and Cash App are convenient—but they aren’t insured. Learn how to protect your money from crashes, hacks, or company failures with these smart financial moves.
Unlicensed or Just Unverified? The Truth Behind Business Licensing
By Jessica Long
Published Apr 18th, 2025 4:00AM
Concerned about hiring an unlicensed HVAC company? Learn how to verify licenses in Georgia, why it matters, and what steps you can take to protect your home—and your wallet.
The $6 Scam: When “Convenience Fees” Cross the Line
By Jessica Long
Published Apr 17th, 2025 4:00AM
A $6 insurance fee sounds harmless—until you're charged another $6 just to pay it. Learn how consumers are being caught in a loop of bogus processing charges and what you can do to avoid falling for this sneaky billing tactic.
Return Denied, Refund Delayed: What to Do When a Company Fights Your Chargeback
By Jessica Long
Published Apr 17th, 2025 4:00AM
A company ignored your return request—now they want you to cancel your chargeback and pay to ship it back. Here's why you shouldn’t give in, and how to let your credit card company fight for you.
High-End Hype, Low-End Hustle: The New Face of an Old Scam
By Jessica Long
Published Apr 17th, 2025 4:00AM
A parking lot pitch led one shopper to spend $340 on a “high-end” projector that wasn’t what it seemed. Learn how modern scammers are revamping old cons—and how to protect yourself.
$7,500 for a Car He Didn’t Keep? How a Rental Turned Into a Financial Nightmare
By Jessica Long
Published Apr 17th, 2025 4:00AM
A Georgia man was charged $7,500 for a rental car he had already returned. When customer service failed, he fought back—and won. Here’s how persistence (and a little backup) helped him beat a corporate billing disaster.
Paint Job Pitfalls: How to Avoid a Curb Appeal Catastrophe
By Jessica Long
Published Apr 17th, 2025 4:00AM
Hiring a painter? Don’t get stuck with peeling paint and no recourse. Learn how to vet pros, avoid scams, and protect your home’s exterior with these smart curb appeal tips.
The Hidden Benefits of Duct Cleaning: Why It’s Worth It
By Laura Lovejoy
Published Apr 17th, 2025 4:00AM
Discover the benefits of duct cleaning, from improved air quality and reduced allergens to increased HVAC efficiency and odor elimination. Keep your home healthier and energy-efficient. TrustDale connects you with reliable professionals for quality s
She Was Sold a Dream—Then Left to Fight for Repairs
By Jessica Long
Published Apr 16th, 2025 4:00AM
A new RV should offer peace of mind—not a series of costly breakdowns. Learn how one owner faced a race against time as her warranty neared expiration, and what every RV buyer should do to avoid being left with repairs and no recourse.
Looks Can Lie: The Rental Warning Signs You Can’t Ignore
By Jessica Long
Published Apr 16th, 2025 4:00AM
Thinking of renting? Don’t ignore negative reviews. Learn how to vet property management companies and protect yourself from hidden fees, poor service, and red flags.
The Voice Isn’t Real: How AI Scammers Are Fooling Families
By Jessica Long
Published Apr 16th, 2025 4:00AM
Scammers are using AI to clone the voices of loved ones, tricking people into sending money. Learn how to spot the signs and protect your family from this alarming new fraud.
The Fee Trap: When ‘Great Deals’ Come with Hidden Costs
By Jessica Long
Published Apr 16th, 2025 4:00AM
A Georgia couple exposed hidden dealership fees on a used car—then used state law to fight back. Learn how to protect yourself from deceptive car pricing.
Don't Get Scammed: Get Smart!
dales-book
SCAMMERS BEWARE: Seasoned consumer investigator Dale Cardwell gives readers a game plan to avoid rip-offs.