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Author: Chris Clark

  • ‘A lot of people are struggling’: Growing number of Americans using BNPL loans to pay for groceries — and they’re increasingly paying those bills late. What’s behind this troubling trend

    ‘A lot of people are struggling’: Growing number of Americans using BNPL loans to pay for groceries — and they’re increasingly paying those bills late. What’s behind this troubling trend

    When Americans start financing their weekly groceries the same way they might finance a new phone or a plane ticket, something is clearly off.

    New data suggests that’s exactly what’s happening — and for many, it’s not going well.

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    A fresh study from LendingTree reveals a troubling shift: More people are turning to buy now, pay later (BNPL) loans to pay for essentials like groceries, and many are falling behind on payments. The online survey, released in April 2025, polled 2,000 U.S. adults ages 18 to 79. It found that not only are Americans increasingly using these short-term installment loans for basic needs, but roughly 2 in 5 users have missed a payment.

    “A lot of people are struggling and looking for ways to extend their budget,” Matt Schulz, Lending Tree’s chief consumer finance analyst, told NBC News. “Inflation is still a problem. Interest rates are still really high. There’s a lot of uncertainty around tariffs and other economic issues, and it’s all going to add up to a lot of people looking for ways to extend their budget however they can.”

    Financing your food?

    According to the survey, 25% of American BNPL users said they used the method to buy groceries in the past year. For Gen Z, that figure jumps to 33%. Across all categories, 41% said they made a late payment on a BNPL loan in the last year — a worrying sign that a short-term lifeline is becoming a long-term burden.

    So, why is this happening? Inflation and high grocery prices have backed many Americans into a corner. Even as overall inflation has cooled, grocery costs remain stubbornly high. The price of basic staples — eggs, bread, milk — keeps climbing, stretching household budgets thinner by the month.

    “For an awful lot of people, that’s going to mean leaning on buy now, pay later loans, for better or for worse,” Schulz said.

    And while BNPL loans can offer short-term relief, they weren’t designed to be used repeatedly for perishable goods. Originally meant for discretionary spending on things like electronics or travel, BNPL is now being used to put food on the table — and that’s raising alarm bells about both spending habits and wider economic strain.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    The rise and risks of BNPL

    Companies like Klarna, Afterpay and Affirm offer BNPL plans. The model is simple: Split a purchase into several payments over a few weeks, often with no interest if you pay on time. The option is easy and built into the checkout pages for everything from Target to DoorDash.

    That frictionless convenience is exactly what makes BNPL so appealing — and so risky.

    Only recently have BNPL lenders been required to follow some of the same rules as credit card companies, including clearer disclosures and the right to dispute charges. For many purchases, lenders use soft credit pulls or none at all. Users can also open multiple loans across different platforms, often without realizing how quickly the debt adds up.

    LendingTree’s study found 60% of users had multiple BNPL loans open at once. While each payment might seem small — $25 here, $15 there — the total impact can wreck a budget, especially when combined with rent, utilities and gas.

    But the danger is clear: using debt to buy items you’ll consume in days, then repaying that debt over weeks or months, creates a disconnect between cost and consequence. And if you miss a payment? You could face late fees, overdraft charges and even hits to your credit score.

    How to avoid the BNPL grocery trap

    For Americans feeling squeezed, BNPL can seem like a lifeline. But it’s important to use these services strategically — not impulsively.

    If you’re thinking about using BNPL to pay for groceries, look into why your budget doesn’t cover the essentials. Are you overspending in other areas? Could you cut back on subscriptions or dining out?

    If there’s truly no room to maneuver and BNPL is your only option for putting food on the table, treat it like a serious financial obligation — not just a few taps at checkout. Stick to one BNPL provider to better track your payments. Set reminders to avoid late fees. And don’t use BNPL on multiple purchases in a single pay period. It’s not free money — it’s a debt, and it needs to be managed.

    If you’re in a tough spot, explore grocery assistance programs like SNAP or visit local food banks. If your income allows but you’re tempted to lean on BNPL anyway, consider building a small buffer in a high-yield savings account. Budgeting apps can also help you flag overspending and keep you on track.

    What to read next

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    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • Donald Trump’s new housing chief launches major shakeup at Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac — here’s what it could mean for your mortgage

    Donald Trump’s new housing chief launches major shakeup at Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac — here’s what it could mean for your mortgage

    President Donald Trump‘s newly appointed housing chief has made waves by launching a dramatic shakeup at mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, potentially reshaping America’s mortgage market.

    William Pulte, a private equity executive whose family founded one of the country’s largest homebuilding companies, took charge of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) on March 13. The regulator is responsible for overseeing both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Pulte wasted no time in executing a dramatic purge of leadership at both mortgage giants.

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    According to multiple reports, a number of board members across Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac were swiftly replaced, with Pulte installing himself as chairman of both entities. Freddie Mac’s CEO Diana Reid, a long-serving executive, was also removed — sending a clear message about the scope and seriousness of this transformation.

    So, what do these abrupt changes signal for the housing market and the mortgages of millions of American homeowners?

    Privatization speculation

    Pulte’s bold moves have ignited speculation the Trump administration is pushing to privatize Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. In a Truth Social post on May 27, Trump said he was “working on taking these amazing companies public,” but also promised the government “will keep its implicit guarantees.”

    Both are government-sponsored entities (GSEs) and have been under federal conservatorship since the 2008 financial crisis in which they were bailed out. Together, the companies back 70% of the mortgage market, according to The New York Times. Skeptics believe privatization would make buying a home more expensive in the midst of a housing affordability crisis.

    “It would mean that mortgage rates would increase — definitely,” Laurie Goodman, founder of the Housing Finance Policy Center at the Urban Institute, a think tank in Washington, D.C., said to the news publication.

    Meanwhile, privatization could be a boon for both investors and the federal government. Depending on the structure of the deal, privatizing could generate billions of dollars in revenue for an administration that’s focused on cutting down wasteful spending across the board. Placing these companies in private hands would also free the government from potential future bailout obligations.

    Following Trump’s recent post on Truth Social, however, Pulte told Bloomberg Television on May 29, “I don’t see any scenario where the president isn’t in control of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.” Previously, he told CNN that “it’s critical to ensure any discussion about exiting conservatorship needs not only to ensure safety and soundness but how it would affect mortgage rates.”

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    Impact on the housing market

    Why do critics think privatizing these entities would increase borrowing rates? Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac don’t directly issue mortgages — rather they buy mortgages from lenders and package them for investors as securities. This maintains cash flow within the mortgage industry, allowing lenders to offer stable, affordable rates, experts say.

    But if the federal government no longer backs these entities, their safety net goes with it.

    “When the government is backing an entity’s products and services, it helps to reduce risk, especially in the generating of loans,” Alex Beene, financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek. “Removing it opens the door to higher interest rates for those looking to buy or refinance. It could also lead to more restrictive policies in even getting a loan, as lenders react more cautiously to some buyers.”

    Increased rates could affect affordability, particularly for first-time buyers or those with modest incomes already stretched thin by soaring home prices.

    As for homeowners with existing mortgages may also be affected if they ever want to refinance their loan. It may be less likely you can reduce your monthly payments if you’re struggling to get by.

    The long-term impact of this housing shakeup remain uncertain, however, homebuyers and homeowners could serve themselves well by staying informed so they can navigate potential changes effectively.

    What to read next

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    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • Houston man says city contractors used his property as a dumping ground, then left his driveway unfinished for 8 months — and he suspects they still got paid anyway

    Houston man says city contractors used his property as a dumping ground, then left his driveway unfinished for 8 months — and he suspects they still got paid anyway

    Houston homeowner Juan Corrales didn’t ask for much — just that his driveway be repaired like the rest of his neighbors’ as part of a city-funded sidewalk replacement and accessibility project. Instead, Corrales says he got skipped entirely, his property turned into a dump site for construction debris and, worse – the city’s contractors were still paid.

    “The porta potty smelled really bad,” Corrales told KPRC 2 News, describing the area in front of his unattended driveway.

    “There were animals everywhere, and then neighbors started stopping by and throwing trash because they saw more trash.”

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    Corrales complained to city hall, calling out what he says is a broken system that fails to hold contractors accountable — even when residents are left cleaning up the mess.

    Skipped and dumped on, by the city

    Houston’s Pedestrian Accessibility Review Program has been working to upgrade sidewalks and driveways across the city’s neighborhoods. The goal: improve accessibility for pedestrians and those with disabilities.

    In theory, Corrales’ street should have been a beneficiary of that effort. Crews rolled in, broke ground and upgraded most of the driveways and walkways on his block. But somehow, when it came time for Corrales’ home, the work stopped. His driveway was never completed.

    “The city started pouring all the driveways on both sides of the street,” Corrales said. “But they didn’t pour mine.”

    Instead, after agreeing to let the contractor store heavy equipment on part of his property, he says the area in front of his driveway became a dumping ground for concrete chunks, dirt and refuse.

    To make matters worse, Corrales suspects the contractors got paid, even though the job on his property was never finished.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    He called, emailed and waited — but nothing changed

    Frustrated, Corrales says he spent months trying to get answers. He documented everything: the state of his driveway, the construction debris and trash as it piled up. At one point, city crews did return and cleaned up some — but not all of the mess.

    For Corrales, it’s not just about an unfinished driveway.

    “They came back just to take stuff away. Not to fix anything,” Corrales said. “How does that make sense?”

    Finally, the city told KPRC that cleanup and the actual repairs that his neighbors received would be completed by mid-May.

    What you can do in your city

    The city’s promise might bring some closure for Corrales, whose story highlights a common frustration for residents dealing with city projects: When things go wrong, it can be tough to get help, and even tougher to get accountability.

    So what can you do if your property is damaged or neglected during city work?

    1. Document everything

    Take clear photos and video of the issue, including time stamps if possible. Keep records of any communication with city departments or contractors.

    2. File a formal complaint

    Most major U.S. cities, including Houston, have 311 systems or online portals where you can submit service requests. The 311 number service was first introduced in Baltimore in 2001 and has since been adopted by many large cities, including New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas and Washington, D.C. If you call 311, have your notes ready: Be specific and include all your documentation.

    3. Follow up, repeatedly

    It’s often not enough to file once. Call back, email and escalate to higher offices if needed, including your city council representative.

    4. Ask about compensation

    Cities may offer compensation or reimbursement for damage, but you often have to request it — and the bar is high. And, approval isn’t guaranteed.

    5. Seek legal advice

    If your property is seriously damaged or you believe fraud is involved, it may be worth consulting a lawyer or consumer advocacy group. It’s also worth checking whether the contractor was bonded or insured. If so, you may be able to pursue a claim through that route as well.

    What to read next

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    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • ‘Republicans now hate us in California more than ever’: Is California’s dreaming of secession legit or is the state just fed up with federal government?

    ‘Republicans now hate us in California more than ever’: Is California’s dreaming of secession legit or is the state just fed up with federal government?

    Are you an American planning to stay at the Hotel California? Well, bring your alibis — and maybe your passport too.

    For the third time, supporters of what’s known as “CalExit” are attempting to get a measure on the ballot that asks California voters a once unthinkable question: Should the state secede from the United States and become its own nation?

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    The question has failed twice before, but movement leader Marcus Ruiz Evans has managed to shepherd the initiative to the signature-collection phase. And he says he believes the third time might be the charm.

    His reasoning? The current presidential administration and American Republicans “hate” California.

    “Republicans now hate us in California more than ever. The hate was palpable in 2016. But now it’s palpable and focused,” Evans told the San Francisco Standard. Between the state’s severe political divide with the current administration and President Trump’s response to the devastating wildfires in January, Evans says Californians are fed up.

    So, as Billy Joel rues in his eponymous song, is it really time for America to “say goodbye to Hollywood”?

    How could CalExit happen?

    Secession appears highly unlikely. The legal and political hurdles would be immense. But does that mean CalExit has no shot at all?

    Secession attempts have happened before — the most famous being the Confederate States during the Civil War and Texas’s bid to break away, both in the 1800s. Both were declared illegal.

    Still, while the idea sounds extreme, 61% of Californians say the state would actually be “better off” if it seceded peacefully, according to the January 2025 Independent California Poll from YouGov. At the same time, 62% of respondents said they didn’t think a peaceful and legal break-up would be possible.

    The California Constitution says the state “is an inseparable part of the United States of America” and affirms that the U.S. Constitution is the supreme law of the land. Notably, the U.S. Constitution neither grants nor explicitly prohibits states from seceding — an omission that has fueled debates since the 19th century over whether secession is an inherent state right.

    Evans faces an uphill battle to get the question on the 2028 ballot. He needs at least 545,000 valid signatures by July. Even if he gets them, bigger hurdles await: If 55% of voters approve the initiative, a commission would be formed to analyze whether California could function as an independent nation.

    Key questions for the commission:

    • Could it govern itself?
    • Could it sustain its own economy?

    Even if the commission said yes, the debate wouldn’t end there. The federal government isn’t obligated to honor the results or recommendations. A legitimate path to secession would likely require a constitutional amendment — meaning approval by Congress and 38 states.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    Could CalExit work?

    Let’s say the Golden State clears all the voting hurdles, survives a constitutional change and legally declares itself independent. Could it sustain itself?

    Consider California’s economic might: its $3.9 trillion GDP in 2023 places it among the top five economies in the world. The state is home to global tech giants like Apple and Google, vast agricultural operations and it’s chock full of more Fortune 500 companies than any other US state.

    On top of all that, California controls the entire Pacific coastline, giving it access to vital trading ports. And, of course, there’s the entertainment behemoth that is Hollywood.

    Still, the state would face major adjustments. It would need to establish new trade agreements and tariffs to keep global imports and exports flowing. Businesses might experience supply chain disruptions and the loss of federal subsidies. (Would President Trump slap tariffs on a newly seceded California?)

    The state would have to establish its own military, build new diplomatic ties and govern a population of 39 million people speaking hundreds of languages and practicing religions and cultural traditions.

    A new California Republic is unlikely — but the idea is clearly on many people’s minds. Is it more than just California Dreaming? Time will tell.

    What to read next

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    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • This disabled Florida veteran is facing the loss of his home over $40,000-plus in solar panel debt — here’s why his ‘PACE’ loan was denied and how to avoid a similar nightmare

    This disabled Florida veteran is facing the loss of his home over $40,000-plus in solar panel debt — here’s why his ‘PACE’ loan was denied and how to avoid a similar nightmare

    When Florida veteran Esteban Ortiz signed up for solar panels, he thought he was making a smart, sustainable choice — lower energy bills, a greener home and no money down. Instead, he found himself in a nightmare: a fight for his home he never saw coming.

    “I got a notice that my house was going to be for sale on the courthouse steps on the 21st of this month,” Ortiz told WFTS in Tampa Bay. “My life really hasn’t been the same since all this started physically, mentally, emotionally.”

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    Rather than reaping the benefits of renewable energy, Ortiz is on the brink of losing his home. In a desperate attempt to stop the financial bleeding, he had no choice but to declare bankruptcy.

    His story is a cautionary tale for homeowners looking to go green: not all solar financing is as good as it sounds.

    The problem with PACE

    Ortiz’s troubles started when he financed his solar panels through the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program, a government-backed initiative designed to make home improvements more accessible.

    PACE offers 100% financing for energy efficiency, renewable energy, water conservation and disaster resiliency upgrades. The catch? Instead of a traditional loan, the debt is added to the homeowner’s property tax bill and repaid over time — sometimes up to 30 years.

    But PACE loans come with a catch: they function as tax liens. If payments aren’t made, foreclosure can happen fast.

    That’s exactly how Ortiz got trapped. Not all Florida counties participate in the PACE, and while his county allows commercial loans under the program, it doesn’t permit residential ones. Ortiz believed he was approved for full financing, but the funding never materialized because of this restriction.

    Despite that, Volt Solar Solutions went ahead and installed the panels. When Ortiz couldn’t pay, the company filed a mechanic’s lien against his home. Compounding the issue, the attorney who prepared the lien, Joe Falluca, is also the president of Lien Liquidators — the company now trying to foreclose Ortiz’s home.

    Falluca told WFTS that the PACE program had failed to provide the financing it promised.

    Suddenly, Ortiz owed thousands of dollars he couldn’t afford, and his debt quickly escalated into a foreclosure threat. Unlike missing a mortgage payment — where homeowners often have time to negotiate — tax liens move fast, leaving little room to fight back.

    “I should have gotten an attorney, but not everyone has $3,000 or $4,000 on hand to pay for an attorney,” Ortiz said.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    Avoiding solar scams

    Across the country, homeowners are lured into questionable solar financing deals with promises of lower bills, tax credits and no upfront costs. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) warns that solar financing issues are rampant, with common problems including misleading claims about financial benefits and energy savings.

    Another common trap is misleading loans. Some financing options, like PACE, aren’t structured like traditional loans. Because the debt is tied to the property taxes through a lien, homeowners may not realize they’re putting their house on the line.

    Before signing anything, homeowners should ask, how the loan is repaid, whether it affects property taxes and if it carries foreclosure risks.

    Vetting both the contractor and the financing program is just as important. Checking online reviews, consulting local consumer protection agencies and verifying a company’s standing with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) can help avoid shady deals. And if a financing offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.

    Safer alternatives include home equity loans or solar-specific credit programs, which don’t automatically place a lien on the property and offer more flexibility in case of financial hardship.

    Save on energy without risking your home

    While solar power is a great way to reduce energy bills, homeowners should explore other cost-effective solutions.

    Installing a heat pump can significantly reduce heating and cooling costs, with federal rebates to offset installation expenses. Smart thermostats and energy-efficient appliances can also lower electricity bills without long-term debt.

    For those still interested in solar, explore legitimate incentive programs that don’t require risky financing arrangements. The Department of Energy’s Solar for All initiative is a good starting point, though funding freezes implemented by the Trump Administration have cast uncertainty over its future.

    Electric vehicles (EVs) are also gaining traction as an alternative way to cut household energy costs, especially when paired with off-peak charging strategies. And sometimes, the simplest fixes — like sealing air leaks, upgrading insulation or switching to LED bulbs — can cut energy consumption by 30% or more without taking out a loan.

    What to read next

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    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • ‘I want to live’: West Virginia miners say the stakes for them are life-and-death as Trump hollows out safety support. How POTUS’s pickaxe is hitting colliers where it hurts

    ‘I want to live’: West Virginia miners say the stakes for them are life-and-death as Trump hollows out safety support. How POTUS’s pickaxe is hitting colliers where it hurts

    “You are suffocating. And that’s what’s going to kill you.”

    That’s the bleak reality facing Virginia coal miners, retired miner John Robinson told ABC News, as he opened up about work underground while living with black lung disease.

    Now federal cuts to safety programs raise the life-and-death stakes for miners like him even higher.

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    Black lung disease, a severe respiratory illness, is on the rise as miners work deeper than ever beneath the Earth’s surface. At such depths, they’re exposed to silica — a naturally occurring compound 20 times more toxic than regular coal dust.

    While Trump has promised to get coal booming again in the U.S., he is cutting funding to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

    Since it was set up in 1970, this federal agency has enforced worker safety across the U.S., including maintaining health surveillance programs to monitor and protect miners from black lung disease and other job-related risks.

    The Trump administration’s cuts have essentially shuttered the agency. As their layoffs loom in June, agency employees say that without adequate safety enforcement, there won’t be any people to extract coal. Miners agree.

    "You don’t take care of the miners, you ain’t going to mine coal," said one. "The machine don’t run by itself, you know what I’m saying?"

    Federal safety workers and politicians rally to protect miners

    About 800 NIOSH employees placed on leave have set up a “war room” in West Virginia to keep campaigning for mining safety until they are officially let go.

    One of them, epidemiologist Dr. Scott Laney was blunt about the impact of gutting of the agency.

    “It’s going to lead to premature mortality and death in these miners,” he said. “There’s just no getting around it."

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    Amanda Lawson, a West Virginia healthcare employee, is seeing the effects. Miners who come to her for care have “horrible” lung X-rays. She blames the Trump cuts, specifically the slashing of its right-to-transfer program, which shifts miners with high silica exposure to other locations.

    "There’s nobody to send them to get them some protection and get them moved out of the dust," Lawson told ABC.

    While Trump’s supporters on Capitol Hill have celebrated his efforts to cut government spending, some say he’s going too far, criticizing him and Robert F. Kennedy, Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, for slashing mining protections.

    In April, West Virginia Senate Republican Shelley Moore Capito wrote a letter to Kennedy arguing that while she supported Trump’s efforts to ‘right-size government’ she did not feel the NIOSH coal programs and research should be cut as they are unique.

    How can miners protect themselves?

    Unions like the United Mine Workers of America and community-based health monitoring programs might have to step up to monitor X-ray scans and correctly enforce PPE standards.

    Moreover, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration protections are still in place. Miners should aggressively report any unsafe working conditions — for their own sakes and their families.

    “I got a wife and two kids and two grandbabies, you know, and I want to live,” Robinson said.

    What to read next

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    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • ‘They scratch the walls’: Washington woman, 66, was stuck in raccoon-infested government housing for a year — pest control removed 15 critters, called it worst infestation they’d ever seen

    ‘They scratch the walls’: Washington woman, 66, was stuck in raccoon-infested government housing for a year — pest control removed 15 critters, called it worst infestation they’d ever seen

    Few things are as inconvenient than an unwanted visitor who just won’t leave. But the reality was more than mere annoyance for Washington, D.C. resident Linda Chaplin, whose apartment was overrun by raccoons for more than a year.

    After months of unanswered complaints, Chaplin has finally been able to move into a new space, according to ABC 7News. But the path to a new home has been anything but easy.

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    Here’s how she finally broke free from the infestation.

    Wildlife intervention

    After getting basically ignored by her Congress Park Plaza landlord, who had only put up wooden boards over the holes in her home, Chaplin reached out to 7News in one final attempt to get help.

    Chaplin shared photos of raccoons poking their heads through holes in her home with the news team. The animals had dug their way through the wooden boards, and when local reporters visited Chaplin’s government-managed property, they witnessed a raccoon knocking a clock off her wall.

    “I’m going crazy, makes me seem like I’m going crazy, losing my mind,” Chaplin told 7News. “If I go to sleep, I’m scared they’re going to come out. They scratch the walls.”

    The team at 7News looked into Chaplin’s management company, SE Washington Development Associates II LP, and discovered they’re facing numerous violations, fines and lawsuits. And that landlord is managed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

    After 7News aired its report, the building finally called out a wildlife team to her home to remove one of the raccoons — and returned to remove 14 more. The critters had clearly made their home in Chaplin’s apartment, as well as the neighboring units.

    Wildlife Solutions said that Chaplin’s infestation was the worst they’d seen in a single property and that if the landlord had called them six months earlier, Chaplin would have been able to remain in her home safely. But now, the only way to address the situation was to move Chaplin out.

    “They might as well pay rent in here then," Chaplin told 7News, referring to the animals. “They might as well pay rent, not me, they’re running me out [of] my home. It’s crazy.”

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    Obligations to keep tenants safe

    Throughout the station’s investigation, reporters found the process for reporting unsafe conditions in government housing was a challenge, contacting multiple government offices, housing agencies and tenant associations.

    HUD rules show that government-managed properties have no less obligation to ensure safe living conditions for tenants than private management companies. Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) and property owners are expected to be communicative with residents on all issues, and any complaint should be resolved as soon as possible. Property agents are not allowed to retaliate, intimidate, harass or neglect any resident filing a complaint.

    HUD codes hold that PHAs are “required to either make repairs to such conditions within a reasonable period of time or to abate the situation (usually by moving the tenant’s family).”

    Making your voice heard in unsafe living conditions

    Chaplin’s situation is unfortunately not unique. About 2.2 million Americans are living in public housing and thousands may be experiencing poor conditions such as mold, plumbing issues, pest infestations and lead paint, according to governing.com. In such cases, it’s important for tenants to advocate for themselves and demand their rights to a safe dwelling.

    One of the first steps to reporting unsafe conditions is to contact the PHA managing your property. If management doesn’t immediately address the issue, like in Chaplin’s case, a tenant may need to contact HUD directly to report housing discrimination. Make sure to include documentation of complaints already filed with the PHA and include descriptions and photos of the conditions.

    A tenant may also want to reach out to local tenant organizations or legal aid groups who can help access free or low-cost legal help, as well as help locate a replacement dwelling if the PHA won’t address the conditions.

    According to HUD, a tenant has the right to organize with neighbors and distribute information to other residents if the issue is widespread throughout the property.

    And, like Chaplin, a tenant might consider contacting local news stations, which often have hotlines or other ways to lodge complaints, create unwanted attention for the landlord and force a quick resolution.

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    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • 5 big things that disappear after you retire in Canada: Are you prepared?

    5 big things that disappear after you retire in Canada: Are you prepared?

    Retirement is often seen as the long-awaited reward after years of hard work. The daily grind of morning alarms, office politics and stressful commutes finally come to an end, regaining full control over your time and how you spend it.

    While retirement offers newfound freedom, it also brings some unexpected losses. Some, like a steady paycheque, are obvious. Others, like a sense of purpose, might sneak up on you.

    Without proper planning, these changes can leave you feeling unprepared. Here are five major things that tend to disappear in retirement, and what you can do in the present to make sure they don’t catch you off guard in the future.

    1. The financial safety of your paycheque

    The most immediate change when you retire is the loss of your steady income. For years, your paycheque arrived on a set schedule. In its place, you’ll rely on withdrawals from your RRSP, TFSA, CPP, OAS and any other savings, pension plans or investments you’ve built up over time.

    Many Canadians find this transition more jarring than they expected. Moving from earning and saving to withdrawing and budgeting can feel uncomfortable. Diversifying income streams through investments, rental income or part-time work can help ease financial stress.

    With CIBC Investors Edge you can invest in low-cost exchange traded funds (ETFs) and reap the benefits of consistent long-term investing as a way to build up your retirement nest egg and mitigate the stress of losing your paycheque.

    Build your own investment portfolio with the CIBC Investor’s Edge online and mobile trading platform and enjoy low commissions. Get 100 free online equity trades when you open a CIBC Investor’s Edge account using promo code EDGE100.

    2. Your risk tolerance

    While working, taking risks with investments can feel manageable because you’re still earning and contributing. If the stock market dips, you have time to recover.

    But in retirement, market downturns have a bigger impact on your portfolio and your ability to withdraw funds safely.

    This is why it’s essential to optimize your savings and spending so you have a cash cushion in retirement. Using a chequing account that pays high interest — like the EQ Bank Personal Account —will allow you to earn high interest on your day-to-day spending and be better prepared if you need funds to fall back on.

    The EQ Bank Personal Account offers the interest-earning potential of a high interest savings account, at a rate of 3.50% per dollar, while also having easy access to your money when you need it.

    To further prepare yourself for retirement, you should consider paying down any high-interest debts as soon as possible, so you’re not saddled with high payments during your golden years.

    You can make this process easier by finding a debt consolidation loan through Loans Canada

    Loans Canada is a lending platform that specializes in matching Canadians with suitable lenders, so you can find a rate that works best for your financial circumstances, lessen your financial burdens and enjoy your retirement.

    3. Your sense of purpose

    Work isn’t just about earning money. It also provides structure, social interaction and a sense of accomplishment. Retirement can leave many people feeling lost.

    A study by the National Library of Medicine found that lacking a sense of purpose can lead to depression, substance use and self-derogation. Social isolation is also a growing concern, particularly for men, who tend to have fewer social connections outside of work; The Government of Canada states how 30% of seniors are at risk of becoming socially isolated.

    The best way to avoid this emotional downturn is to plan beyond just your finances. Volunteering, pursuing hobbies or even taking on part-time work can help create structure and fulfillment.

    4. Employer-sponsored benefits

    Losing a paycheque is one thing, but losing employer-sponsored benefits — especially health insurance — can be even more challenging. In Canada, provincial healthcare covers many medical expenses, but not everything.

    Prescription drugs, dental care, vision care and long-term care costs can add up quickly. A report from Innovative Medicines Canada found that nearly 70% of Canadians — or more than 27 million — rely on employer-sponsored health plans for supplemental coverage.

    If you retire before 65, you may need to purchase private health insurance or pay out-of-pocket for certain medical expenses. Planning ahead by setting aside savings specifically for healthcare or considering a retirement health plan can help bridge the gap.

    5. Your spending habits

    Many retirees enter what financial planners call the “retirement honeymoon” phase — travelling more, dining out frequently and taking on expensive hobbies. While this newfound freedom is well-deserved, it can lead to financial trouble if spending isn’t balanced with long-term needs.

    Just like in pre-retirement life, emergencies can happen at any time that might blow up your fixed monthly budget.

    Let’s say, you have a pet that needs emergency care or regular vet visits, you can avoid breaking the bank on these costs by getting a pet insurance policy through Spot Pet Insurance. Spot offers customizable deductibles and reimbursement rates so you can choose what is best for you. Get a quote today so you can be prepared for unexpected costs during retirement.

    Tracking expenses and adjusting for different phases of retirement can help maintain financial stability throughout your later years.

    Consider using a money management app like Monarch Money to help keep you on track. Monarch Money allows you to track your spending, investments and account balances all in one place so making a budget is streamlined.

    Sign up for Monarch Money today and Get 50% OFF your first year with code MONARCHVIP.

    Sources

    1. National Library of Medicine: Purpose in Life in Older Adults: A Systematic Review on Conceptualization, Measures, and Determinants, by PV AshaRani, Damien Lai, JingXuan Koh and Mythily Subramaniam (May 11, 2022)

    2. Innovative Medicines Canada: Unlocking the Benefits: Private Drug Coverage’s Role in Canada’s Healthcare Landscape

    3. Scotia Wealth Management: Healthcare costs in Canada: Planning for inflation-adjusted care (Jan 14, 2025)

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • Adidas warns US customers will soon pay more for its shoes as company runs up against Trump’s ‘tariff wall’ — joins 76 footwear brands pleading with the president to walk back tariffs

    Adidas warns US customers will soon pay more for its shoes as company runs up against Trump’s ‘tariff wall’ — joins 76 footwear brands pleading with the president to walk back tariffs

    A fresh pair of Adidas kicks might leave you light on your feet. Your wallet may feel the same.

    The German footwear giant, which makes the popular Samba, Stan Smiths and carbon-plated racing shoes setting running records across the globe, is warning customers that U.S. tariffs on imports from China and other Asian countries will drive the cost of its shoes higher.

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    Even as the company announced better-than-expected first quarter earnings, CEO Bjørn Gulden said Adidas will cost more in the U.S.

    “Although we had already reduced the China exports to the US to a minimum, we are somewhat exposed to those currently very high tariffs,” Gulden said. “What is even worse for us is the general increase in US tariffs from all other countries of origin.”

    He added that Adidas cannot currently make its shoes in the U.S.

    Adidas isn’t alone: Tariffs hit big brands everywhere

    Tariff headaches aren’t exclusive to Adidas, which co-signed a letter with bitter rival Nike and other shoe brands asking President Trump for a tariff exemption.

    “Many companies making affordable footwear for hardworking lower and middle-income families cannot absorb tariff rates this high, nor can they pass along these costs,” the letter stated.

    “Without immediate relief from the reciprocal tariffs they will simply shutter.”

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    Like Adidas, other industry leaders are making public-facing announcements that they are raising their retail prices due to the Trump administration’s tariffs.

    Fashion-focused platforms Shein and Temu, which rely heavily on inexpensive Chinese imports, each posted statements on their websites about price hikes, directly citing increased operating costs from tariffs.

    President Trump introduced tariffs to push back against perceived unfair trade practices from China and other nations — and to encourage multinationals to set up factories in the U.S.

    “Bring your factory here,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in a recent interview with Tucker Carlson.

    “That’s the best solution for getting away from a tariff wall. So move your factory from China, from Mexico, from Vietnam – bring it here.”

    But critics say it will be nearly impossible for companies to produce goods in the U.S. as cheaply as overseas — so for now, businesses and consumers will continue to pay more for imports.

    Smart moves for savvy shoppers

    With the looming reality of higher prices across multiple product categories, consumers should consider getting proactive about budgeting. Here are some ways to do that.

    1. Cut unnecessary expenses. Review subscriptions (streaming services, gym memberships, unused apps) and cancel anything non-essential. Small trims add up quickly, providing breathing room for unavoidable price hikes.

    2. Shop smarter. Like most footwear brands, Adidas or Nike discount older models to clear inventory. Some brands, like New Balance, have a dedicated used shoe store online where buyers can get gently used models at much lower prices.

    3. Buy local. You can bypass tariff trouble with locally sourced products and as a bonus, support your local economy. Visit farmers markets, boutique shops and local artisans frequently offer competitive pricing without import tariffs eating into the final cost.

    4. Keep an eye on tariff-impacted goods. Follow news about tariffs and if possible, delay big-ticket purchases until prices stabilize. For essentials, look into alternative or generic brands that deliver similar quality at a lower cost.

    5. Leverage technology to stay ahead. Use price-tracking apps and browser extensions to spot deals and compare prices across online retailers. Alerts for price drops can help you pounce on savings, providing additional cushioning in your monthly budget.

    Adidas’ warning is just one example of how economic policy decisions ripple through your daily spending. Staying informed, shopping smarter and adjusting your habits can help mitigate some of the pain — and maybe even uncover new ways to stretch your dollars further.

    What to read next

    Like what you read? Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise straight to your inbox every week. Subscribe for free.

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

  • ‘Breakfast, lunch and dinner’: Multiple guests launch lawsuits against 2 Las Vegas Strip hotels, claiming they were ‘massacred’ by bedbugs — how to avoid sleeping in an infested room

    ‘Breakfast, lunch and dinner’: Multiple guests launch lawsuits against 2 Las Vegas Strip hotels, claiming they were ‘massacred’ by bedbugs — how to avoid sleeping in an infested room

    A pair of hotels along the Las Vegas Strip are facing lawsuits after guests reported being bitten by bedbugs, one requiring a hospital visit.

    Four visitors filed three lawsuits — two against the Luxor Hotel & Casino and one against Treasure Island — on April 21, according to 8 News Now, with guests saying in court documents they were “massacred” by bedbugs and left with scars.

    Don’t miss

    “The hotel operator has a responsibility to make sure that that room is bedbug-free,” Brian Virag, an attorney representing the guests, told the local broadcaster in a story published May 12.

    Here are the details behind the story, and what you can do if you’re ever in this situation.

    Bedbug lawsuits

    One lawsuit involves California woman Teresa Bruce, and says she stayed at the hotel Treasure Island last June. According to 8 News Now, Bruce’s lawsuit alleges staff confirmed the presence of bedbugs in her room. After switching rooms, she noticed further bites, and staff allegedly once again found bedbugs.

    Illinois residents Courtney and Stephen Gully have sued the Luxor Hotel after Courtney allegedly had a reaction to bedbugs in their room in which she felt like her throat was closing. Per 8 News Now, the lawsuit states staff had to send an EMT to her room and an ambulance took her to the hospital where she was seen in the parking lot and given narcotics. Luxor refunded the resort fee following the incident last June.

    The final guest, Brianna McKenzie of Washington, stayed at the Luxor when the hotel allegedly confirmed the presence of bedbugs in her room last July, according to the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

    Virag shared photos with the broadcaster of bite marks he says were from his clients. Every hotel guest, he says, regardless of how nice an establishment, should be protected from bedbugs.

    “It doesn’t matter if you’re paying $60 a night for a room, or $600 a night for a room. The obligation on the hotel operator is the same — you have to keep the guests safe,” he said.

    Read more: Want an extra $1,300,000 when you retire? Dave Ramsey says this 7-step plan ‘works every single time’ to kill debt, get rich in America — and that ‘anyone’ can do it

    Journalists reached out to MGM International, owner of the Luxor, and Treasure Island for comment but did not immediately get a response.

    This isn’t the first time Las Vegas hotels have been accused of bedbug infestations. Last fall, 8 News Now published a story on guests reporting bedbugs at four other hotels over a six-month period, according to the Southern Nevada Health District.

    Avoiding bedbugs

    Staying in a hotel with bedbugs is more than just an inconvenience. Bites can occasionally result in severe reactions and your personal belongings may become infested.

    While even the cleanest hotels can fall victim to bed bugs, there are preventative measures you can take to try to avoid staying in an infested hotel.

    Make sure to check reviews through websites like Google, TripAdvisor or Yelp and specifically search for the term “bedbugs.” Keep an eye out for any reviews about recent infestations.

    If you wish, you can call the hotel to inquire about their bedbug protocols and other pest control procedures, and specifically ask how often each room is checked and/or treated.

    Once you arrive at your room, inspect common bedbug locations for signs of an infestation. They may be found in mattresses and around headboards, wall art and baseboards. Bedbugs are small and reddish-brown colored. Their eggs appear as tiny white specks and their feces are small black dots. Be on the lookout for blood spots on bedsheets. Bedbug bites may appear as clusters or in a linear pattern on exposed skin.

    “They typically will bite in linear patterns,” Virag said while gesturing a bite sequence on his arm. “We call it breakfast, lunch and dinner.”

    What to read next

    Like what you read? Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise straight to your inbox every week. Subscribe for free.

    This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.