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Author: Chris Clark

  • JP Morgan Chase is targeting even more customers who allegedly used ‘infinite money glitch’ to steal cash, report says — here’s how the scheme worked and what consumers should know

    JP Morgan Chase is targeting even more customers who allegedly used ‘infinite money glitch’ to steal cash, report says — here’s how the scheme worked and what consumers should know

    It was a scheme too good to be true — and now, the bank wants its money back.

    A number of fresh lawsuits have been filed against JPMorgan Chase customers nationwide accused of exploiting what became known on social media as the “infinite money glitch,” according to CNBC. The scam briefly let users withdraw phantom funds out of their bank accounts.

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    "We’re still investigating cases of fraud and cooperating with law enforcement — and we’ll do that for as long as it takes to hold fraudsters accountable," Drew Pusateri, a spokesperson for the bank, told the broadcaster in story published April 16.

    CNBC says a source familiar with the company’s actions revealed the bank is now targeting customers who allegedly stole amounts below $75,000, and letters were sent to over 1,000 customers demanding they repay funds.

    How the glitch worked

    The "infinite money glitch" involved depositing fake checks into an ATM and withdrawing the money before the checks bounced. It’s a form of check fraud.

    This scheme became widely known in August after spreading quickly on social media. The core exploit was that the bank’s system temporarily made funds from deposited checks available before the bank had time to verify and clear the check.

    JPMorgan Chase filed new lawsuits in multiple states, including Georgia, New York, Texas and Florida, against individuals accused of exploiting the glitch, per CNBC. The bank previously focused on larger cases in federal court but is now pursuing smaller cases in state courts.

    Read more: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    "On August 29, 2024, a masked man deposited a check in Defendant’s Chase bank account in the amount of $73,000," the bank said in a suit filed in Georgia on April 15, according to CNBC. The bank further claimed a series of cash withdrawals at two Chase branches in the state totaling $82,500 had been made before the check bounced after six days.

    CNBC withheld the defendant’s name, but says the lawsuit claimed they owe the bank $57,8847.69 and had yet to comply with requests to return the funds.

    A warning about social media-fueled fraud

    This isn’t the first time a financial hack has gained popularity online, and it may not be the last. If there’s one lesson here, it’s this: taking advantage of a "glitch" doesn’t make it legal, and companies will come after you.

    This case also highlights a broader truth in today’s finance world: viral "hacks" that promise fast cash almost always come with strings attached — whether legal, financial or ethical. If something seems like it breaks the rules, it probably does.

    And if you’re ever tempted by a so-called infinite money trick, remember: the banks have lawyers. Lots of them.

    It’s always best to stay on the cautious side.

    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 Florida art collector says $17K in goods went missing after a local consignment store abruptly closed — and the owners seem to have vanished, too. How to spot shady resellers

    This Florida art collector says $17K in goods went missing after a local consignment store abruptly closed — and the owners seem to have vanished, too. How to spot shady resellers

    Consignment shops can provide cheap finds for thrifty shoppers while serving as an alternative outlet for sellers. Rich Goren of St. Petersburg, Florida, sold art pieces at his local shop for years — only to one day arrive and find the shop empty, and his goods gone.

    Goren says two art pieces and two pairs of designer shoes — worth about $17,000 — are now missing after Retreat Consignment abruptly closed without any warning, according to Fox 13 Tampa Bay. The owners’ whereabouts are also unknown.

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    "I hope for the best, maybe [the items are] sitting in a warehouse and they want to return everything," Goren told the local broadcaster in a story published June 10. "But the fact that you have a business, people entrusting you with their valuables, and you just take off. Come on. That’s not great."

    Do the sellers have any recourse?

    Goren made numerous attempts to contact the store owners. At one point, he says an employee reached out to him.

    "She said, ‘Oh my gosh, I feel awful, we all do, we haven’t been paid, and it was unexpected. We thought they might sell the store, but we also thought they would be transparent about everything,’" Goren recalled. He has since made a report to the police.

    The store’s Yelp page has been littered with complaints from people claiming to be sellers who have lost items.

    Fox 13 says it spoke with an attorney who told them that since the store owners don’t own the sellers’ items — they were simply holding them for consignment — taking the items without quickly returning them could be considered theft.

    The broadcaster also says it repeatedly tried to reach the store owners, but all attempts went unanswered.

    Read more: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    Signs of a shady resale store

    The U.S. secondhand apparel market, which includes consignment, thrift and other resale shops, reached $40-plus billion in 2024 according to ThredUp’s 2025 Resale Report.

    One of the keys to buying or selling such goods is having confidence in the shop. Here are some red flags to consider:

    No official agreements: Be on the lookout for vague or verbal sales agreements that don’t cover details such as commission rates, payment processes and ownership. Especially watch out for a lack of procedure on what happens when items go missing.

    Bad or no inventory tracking: Disorganized shops that can’t clearly account for your items is a red flag. Reputable consignment stores should tag and log each item, so nothing disappears without record.

    Poor reviews or no reviews: Always do a deep dive on Google, Yelp and other review platforms to look for complaints of lost goods or sellers who haven’t been paid.

    Lack of communication: Difficulty reaching the shop’s owners is a cause for concern. Legitimate businesses are transparent and responsive to their clients.

    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’ve been studiously stashing away thousands in my daughter’s 529 plan for years — but suddenly she’s not even planning to go to college. What do I do with this fat fund now?

    I’ve been studiously stashing away thousands in my daughter’s 529 plan for years — but suddenly she’s not even planning to go to college. What do I do with this fat fund now?

    You’ve spent years saving diligently for your daughter’s education, only to learn she’s decided not to go away to college after all. If you have thousands stashed in a 529 plan, you might be wondering: What happens to that money now?

    At the end of 2024, roughly 17 million 529 plan accounts were open in the United States, worth a collective $525 billion in total assets. A 529 plan remains one of the most flexible education savings tools available, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood.

    That’s because even if plans change, 529 college plan funds can end up being used for things that have nothing to do with traditional notions of higher education. If it involves learning, there’s a solid chance your 529 savings can help cover related expenses.

    "It’s important for Americans to understand how flexible 529 plans have become,” said Andy Esser, a financial advisor Andy Esser at Edward Jones, which issued a report in May that found 52% of respondents said they didn’t know what 529 plans are.

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    What is a 529 plan and how does it work?

    Named after Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code, 529 plans are tax-advantaged saving plans for future education costs. They come in two main types: prepaid tuition plans and education savings plans.

    The plans typically involve contributing after-tax dollars and any investment growth is tax-free as long as withdrawals are used for qualified education expenses. These plans were created to make saving for college more attractive by reducing the sting of taxes on those savings.

    Typically, families use 529 money to pay tuition, fees, room and board, books — even certain technology costs at eligible institutions. In recent years, the definition of qualified expenses has expanded: You can also use up to $10,000 per year for K–12 tuition at private schools and even make limited payments toward student loans.

    The catch: If you use the money for anything that doesn’t qualify, you’ll owe ordinary income tax on the earnings portion of the withdrawal plus a 10% penalty, seriously eroding the value of your savings.

    What happens if your child doesn’t go away for college?

    If your daughter isn’t heading off to a four-year college campus, your first step is to figure out whether she’s forgoing higher education entirely or simply choosing another path. The good news is that “qualified education expenses” don’t just mean traditional, residential college costs.

    If she’s planning to attend a local community college, a trade school, or even take classes online from an accredited institution, you can still use 529 funds to cover tuition and other eligible expenses without penalty. Many families don’t realize that accredited vocational and technical schools are also fair game for 529 plans. Even if she commutes from home, her tuition and fees may be covered.

    If she’s decided to study part-time, you can still use the funds proportionally for eligible costs. Some families find that room and board expenses aren’t needed if their student is living at home, but tuition, books and required supplies continue to qualify.

    Read more: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    What exactly are qualified education expenses?

    Qualified expenses include tuition and fees at eligible institutions, books and supplies required by the program, certain technology costs (like a computer or software, if it’s required) and room and board for students enrolled at least half-time.

    For K-12 education, you can withdraw up to $10,000 per year per student for tuition at private or religious schools. There’s also a provision that allows up to $10,000 lifetime per beneficiary to pay down qualifying student loans.

    This all means that if your daughter is still interested in some form of learning, just not in the way you initially planned for, you may be able to spend most or all of the 529 balance penalty-free.

    What if your child opts not to pursue formal education at all?

    Let’s say your daughter has decided to forgo college, trade school, or any eligible training program altogether. You still have options.

    You can leave the money in the 529 account indefinitely. There’s no rule that says the funds must be used short-term. The account can keep growing tax-free. Your daughter might change her mind in the future — even as an adult.

    You can also change the beneficiary of the 529 plan and transfer the funds to another child, a niece or nephew, yourself, or even a future grandchild without triggering taxes or penalties, as long as the new beneficiary is a qualifying family member.

    If none of these options work for you, consider rolling some of the unused funds into a Roth IRA for your daughter. Thanks to recent rule changes, up to $35,000 of unused 529 funds can be rolled over to a Roth IRA in the beneficiary’s name over their lifetime, starting in 2024, subject to annual contribution limits and eligibility rules. This can turn unused education savings into retirement savings — a smart long-term play.

    Lastly, if you decide to take the money out for non-education expenses — say, buying a car or making home improvements — you’ll face that 10% penalty and pay ordinary income tax on the earnings portion. Only your original contributions come out tax-free, as you already paid tax on them. That could make non-qualified withdrawals the option of last resort.

    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.

  • ‘Mother Nature, she’ll claim it back’: Florida residents growing increasingly fed up with a vacant home on their street that’s been left to rot — here are the hidden costs of abandoned homes

    ‘Mother Nature, she’ll claim it back’: Florida residents growing increasingly fed up with a vacant home on their street that’s been left to rot — here are the hidden costs of abandoned homes

    In the southwest Florida coastal city of Cape Coral, residents of an idyllic neighborhood are fed up — and they say one vacant home is to blame.

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    The property in question has become a local eyesore, with overgrown vegetation, flimsy and open screens, and disconnected gutters that make the home look more like a haunted house than a coastal getaway.

    “It’s getting to the point where you leave places like this, it gets overrun by Mother Nature, she’ll claim it back, and she’s starting to,” Karl Grabner, whose property sits next to the home that has neighbors seeing red, told television station WINK.

    And they’re not just talking about appearances. Residents told WINK the home is attracting the wrong kind of attention, with one claiming he’d heard about a break-in. What was presumably once a quiet, well-kept block now feels unstable — with property values and community morale at risk.

    A home neglected, and a city finally responds

    One neighbor, Frank Tormenia, told WINK that he had heard someone broke into the home and took appliances, though the station couldn’t confirm that with police.

    "My neighbor … was taking the branches and stacked them up here. I says, ‘Why are you doing this?’ He goes, ‘I’m tired of looking at it,’” said Tormenia.

    But the good news is the city is finally stepping in. According to WINK’s June 12 report, a special magistrate found the owner guilty of three code violations, citing unsafe conditions, a lack of proper screening and unsightly pool conditions. They were given less than two weeks to make repairs.

    The news station said it was unable to reach the realtor selling the house or identify the owner of the property.

    The hidden cost of abandoned homes

    When a home sits vacant and neglected, the damage isn’t limited to peeling paint or an overgrown lawn. These properties can become magnets for crime, deterring would-be buyers and inviting safety concerns.

    Even the perception of abandonment can weigh on a neighborhood. Nearby homeowners may see their own property values drop, while feeling the social and emotional strain of living next to what essentially becomes a community liability.

    Read more: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    Break-ins, pest infestations, and mold are common consequences of unattended homes. And in storm-prone regions like Florida, a vacant, unmaintained house can pose serious structural risks to neighboring properties.

    For residents living near a neglected home, knowing your rights and options is important. Residents should report issues promptly through the city’s complaint channels and document concerns with photos or written statements.

    In Cape Coral, city officials put this homeowner on the clock.

    What homeowners need to know about leaving a home vacant

    Life happens. Sometimes you need to move, travel, or delay renovations. But leaving a property unattended comes with real responsibilities. Most cities require that homeowners maintain basic upkeep, like mowing lawns, securing doors and windows, and ensuring there’s no structural danger.

    Failure to comply can lead to city intervention. Owners of vacant properties should check local codes about property maintenance, arrange for regular landscaping and inspections, and stay in contact with local authorities to ensure the property hasn’t been completely abandoned.

    "When a municipality receives a code violation complaint, a city inspector will generally visit the property to verify if the complaint is valid. If it is, the property owner will be notified about what corrections are needed and how long they have to make them. If the property owner fails to take the proper steps to reach code compliance, monetary assessments and penalties may be imposed, and eventually the property may even be condemned by the government," said the Owners’ Counsel of America, adding that a property being condemned could "possibly lead to an actual demolition of the structure."

    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.

  • Florida widow, 84, says she asked for a $25 facial but was pressured into $26,000 of skin care products — here are the tactics shady salespeople use on seniors

    Florida widow, 84, says she asked for a $25 facial but was pressured into $26,000 of skin care products — here are the tactics shady salespeople use on seniors

    Everyday stresses like work, finances and just trying to get through the day can wear a person down. And sometimes, a little self-care seems like the perfect antidote.

    But for one Florida senior, a quick moment of relaxation quickly spiraled into a financial disaster. What started as a $25 facial at a skincare shop ended with her spending more than 1,000 times that amount, totalling more than $26,000 in charges to her credit card — and a deep sense of shame she kept to herself for weeks.

    Kathryn Taylor, an 84-year-old widow who had been aggressively convinced to spend thousands of dollars, was too embarrassed to tell anyone what happened to her — even though she is on Social Security and can’t afford the hefty bill.

    Her daughter, Jackie Gattoni, only recently found out about the credit card charge.

    “It’s a lot of money for anybody… she was devastated. She didn’t want to tell anybody,” Gattoni says.

    So how did a simple facial turn into a $26,000 mistake?

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    How a $26,000 mistake could happen

    Taylor says that when she went into Bee and Co in Fernandina Beach, she was thrown into a hectic sales pitch and ended up buying three expensive skincare products called Genesis Z, Sapphire X and a Phyto Thermal Collection. The products collectively cost $26,000, First Coast News reported, and Taylor says she had no idea what was going on.

    “Well, I was being shifted around and I didn’t realize, you know, what was happening.”

    Gattoni speculates the store moves employees around rapidly to keep making new, aggressive sales.

    “When you go into the store it’s always a different person… so I don’t know if they’re making a quick sale and quickly moving people around to other locations.”

    Gattoni couldn’t get the products returned for her mother, even though they were sitting unopened in their boxes. The store refunded a partial $4,500 the next day but refused to refund the rest. “I have made repeated attempts to get her money back. I’ve made phone calls. I’ve gone into the store several times,” Gattoni says.

    Gattoni eventually filed a police report. She later learned that several other Bee and Co customers — many of them seniors — were on the wrong end of aggressive sales pitches with the resulting thousands in charges. Some of them reported they were lured in with free samples and ended up spending $2,500. Another woman reported she was pushed into buying a facial wand and some skin creams totalling over $8,000.

    Fernandina Beach Police Chief Jeff Tambasco says authorities had received “multiple complaints” about Bee and Co and that the store was being investigated.

    A reporter from First Coast News went to the store in another attempt to get the rest of Taylor’s money refunded. The employee told the reporter that they believe Taylor had received a full refund, but that normal store policy was that all sales are final.

    Gattoni says her mother remains ashamed over the ordeal: “I mean, she felt stupid. You’re not stupid,” Jackie told her mother.

    Read more: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    Protecting your loved one from aggressive sales

    Elderly customers have increasingly become targets for aggressive sales tactics and fraudulent charges. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, seniors lose an estimated $3.4 billion annually to such exploitation, though the actual number may be higher because many incidents go unreported due to embarrassment.

    Salespeople who want to take advantage of an elderly customer will often prey on their emotions, using urgent and anxiety-ridden tactics of telling them to “act now” or purchase “immediately.”

    They will also hurriedly move through the sale and not fully explain the product or the cost, aiming to make the senior confused, disoriented and inclined to make the purchase in order to end the pressure-filled exchange.

    Experts say children of elderly parents should have regular conversations with them about such tactics and what to watch for, as well as to pay attention to any unusual or out-of-the-ordinary purchases.

    They should also occasionally review their bank and credit card statements for charges that could indicate pressured purchases. If they get cold calls, they should show their parents how to block those numbers and better yet, instruct them not to answer calls from unknown numbers.

    If you think they’ve been a victim of financial exploitation, try to contact the company directly to cancel. If the transaction can’t be reversed, dispute the charge with your bank as soon as possible. Some credit cards might offer protections or refunds as well.

    If the company shows signs of being shady and exploitative, consider filing a complaint with the Better Business Bureau and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

    What to read next

    Money doesn’t have to be complicated — sign up for the free Moneywise newsletter for actionable finance tips and news you can use. Join now.

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

  • I’m 67, retired and was bored out of my mind until I found a side hustle to keep myself busy while earning extra cash. Here’s how you can stay engaged in your golden years

    I’m 67, retired and was bored out of my mind until I found a side hustle to keep myself busy while earning extra cash. Here’s how you can stay engaged in your golden years

    After decades in the workforce, the prospect of a relaxing retirement might seem like paradise. Imagine waking up without an alarm, enjoying leisurely mornings and finally diving into all those hobbies you’ve dreamed about for years. Sounds perfect, right?

    But what happens when the novelty wears off and boredom creeps in?

    Picture this: Jake is 67 years old, one year into retirement and the leisurely lifestyle isn’t as fulfilling as he expected. Restlessness has him craving the stimulation and social connections work once provided. On top of that, the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) cheques feel a little underwhelming, which had him thinking about re-entering the workforce.

    If this description puts a fright in you, you’re not alone. A 2024 report from the National Institute on Ageing found that 43% of Canadians over the age of 50 are at risk of social isolation, while 59% experience some degree of loneliness. Additionally, 36% of Canadians over the age of 50 have very (13%) or somewhat (23%) weak social networks.

    So, what’s a frustrated retiree to do? Lucky for Jake, he found a solution. He decided to work as a driver for a ride share and courier company. Now, he gets the social interaction he craves while making a bit of cash. He also works only a limited number of hours.

    If you want to go back to work, you don’t have to jump straight back into a 40-hour workweek. Even a part-time gig can offer financial, psychological and lifestyle benefits. Let’s dive into why staying busy could be your secret to a truly satisfying retirement.

    Mental stimulation

    Picking up a side gig or part-time work during retirement is more than financially rewarding, it can also keep you socially engaged. Work provides plenty of opportunities for social interaction, either with customers or coworkers.

    It can also encourage a structured routine, helping to restore a sense of control and purpose. The American Psychiatric Association notes how some research indicates those who maintain a clear purpose experience less stress and greater resilience in challenging situations.

    Your expertise has value. If you find work in your old field — let’s say through consulting or freelancing — you have an opportunity to both refine your skills and pass on what you’ve learned. Sharing and growing your knowledge can be gratifying, and you can make a few extra bucks while you’re at it.

    Financial benefits

    Living on a fixed or limited income can be stressful, especially if you’re trying to balance achieving your retirement goals with paying the bills. Getting a side gig can help ease some of this stress, giving you extra cash flow for expenses that the CPP won’t cover.

    Even better, returning to work and finding a gig offering health benefits might cover reduce any prescription costs you may have.

    While your CPP payments get adjusted annually the longer you wait to start collecting it (8.4% per year), for many seniors this may not be sufficient in the current cost of living crisis. A side hustle can help limit uncomfortable belt-tightening so you can have money to travel, spend time with family and cross off some of your bucket-list items.

    Thankfully, if you choose to continue to work in some capacity after 60 (when you are eligible to receive CPP), you will not reduce how much you earn from the benefit. In fact, you could increase it by means of the CPP post-retirement benefit. The government will automatically pay you this benefit the following year and you’ll receive it for the rest of your life. However, CPP contributions will be cut off when you reach 70 years of age, even if you’re still employed in some capacity.

    Preparing for the calm

    If you’re nearing retirement and fearing a perceived boredom of life after your career, there’s still time to plan for a stimulating and fulfilling retirement. Let’s look at some ways you can prepare for the lifestyle change:

    Experiment now, avoid trouble later: There’s no time like the present — why not pick up some different hobbies before you retire? If you find one or more that really interest you, make that your passion project once you finish work. Consider picking an activity that can involve social interaction via clubs or classes you can join. That way, you get the benefits of social engagement and mental stimulation.

    Prepare a routine: Create a daily or weekly structured routine before retirement. In his 2022 TEDx Talk, Dr. Riley Moynes, author of The Four Phases of Retirement, says that phase two for retirees can bring on a sense of loss in identity and purpose. Avoid this by setting daily tasks and focusing on ways to keep yourself busy, ahead of time.

    Stay near friends and family: If you’re able, retiring near friends and family can provide a nearby support network and help avoid social isolation and loneliness. If you and your spouse are retiring together, consider building a plan that keeps you both active, engaged and communicative with each other.

    Sources

    1. National Institute on Ageing: Perspectives ongrowing older in Canada: The 2024 NIA Ageing in Canada Survey survey, by Natalie Iciaszczyk; Gabrielle Gallant; Talia Bronstein; Alyssa Brierley; Dr. Samir Sinha (Jan 28, 2025)

    2. American Psychiatric Association: Purpose in Life Can Lead to Less Stress, Better Mental Well-being (Dec 7, 2023)

    3. YouTube: The 4 phases of retirement | Dr. Riley Moynes | TEDxSurrey (May 26, 2022)

    This article I’m 67, retired and was bored out of my mind until I found a side hustle to keep myself busy while earning extra cash. Here’s how you can stay engaged in your golden years originally appeared on Money.ca

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

  • ‘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: You don’t have to be a millionaire to gain access to this $1B private real estate fund. In fact, you can get started with as little as $10 — here’s how

    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

    Money doesn’t have to be complicated — sign up for the free Moneywise newsletter for actionable finance tips and news you can use. Join now.

    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.

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    “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.

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    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.”

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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 got a great deal on a car on Facebook Marketplace — but now I’ve spent thousands on repairs and the transmission just failed. I’m already in debt with no emergency cash. What do I do?

    I got a great deal on a car on Facebook Marketplace — but now I’ve spent thousands on repairs and the transmission just failed. I’m already in debt with no emergency cash. What do I do?

    When you buy a used car through Facebook Marketplace, you’re usually hoping to snag a good deal on a replacement ride. But what happens when that “deal” turns into a money pit?

    Let’s consider the case of a 35-year-old woman who, needing a budget-friendly vehicle to get to a new job, buys a used sedan from a Facebook Marketplace seller. It looks solid, seems to drive fine and the price is right. But within months, she’s spent thousands on repairs — and now the transmission has completely failed. With no emergency savings and already deep in debt, she’s stuck. Should she pay even more to fix the car, or cut her losses and move on?

    Here’s how to weigh your options in a situation like this and what you can do to avoid falling into the same trap.

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    Weighing your repair options

    A failed transmission isn’t just another repair — it’s one of the most expensive issues your car can have. Replacing it could cost anywhere from $2,500 to over $5,000, according to J.D. Power. That’s a large bill for most people, especially for someone already in debt.

    • Get a second opinion. Transmission estimates can vary widely, and some shops may recommend a full replacement when a rebuild or repair would suffice. Independent mechanics or transmission specialists may offer better pricing than dealerships.

    • Look into used or rebuilt transmissions. These can be significantly cheaper than brand-new parts and often come with warranties.

    • Ask about payment plans. Many repair shops offer financing or “buy now, pay later” options. These can help in the short term, but be careful, they often come with high interest rates or fees.

    If the cost is still out of reach, it’s time to decide whether the car is worth saving.

    Should you repair or walk away?

    This decision depends on a few key factors:

    The car’s value

    If you’ve already spent thousands and the repair will cost thousands more, compare that total to what the car is actually worth. If the numbers don’t add up, continuing to invest might not be worth it.

    Your lifestyle and transportation needs

    Can you function without a car—at least temporarily? Public transit, biking, carpooling or rideshare services may be viable options while you regroup financially. But if you live in an area where a car is essential, you may have fewer choices.

    Your financial situation

    If repairing the car would prevent you from paying for essentials like rent, food or insurance, it’s probably time to move on. Even selling the car for scrap or parts might be a better outcome than digging deeper into high-interest debt.

    Ultimately, you want to avoid throwing good money after bad. A car that continues to drain your finances can impact your ability to build savings, pay off debt or even maintain your credit score.

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    Tips for avoiding costly used car pitfalls

    Facebook Marketplace doesn’t offer buyer protections like a dealership might, which makes it even more important to do your homework before purchasing a used car. Here are some smart steps to take before you buy:

    • Ask the seller to agree to a thorough inspection: Always insist on an independent mechanic’s inspection of any used car before purchasing. A professional evaluation can uncover hidden issues, saving you from future headaches.
    • Request vehicle history reports: Obtain reports from reputable services like Carfax or AutoCheck. These reports can reveal accident histories, mileage discrepancies or major repairs.
    • Verify maintenance records: Check if the previous owner maintained regular service intervals. Cars consistently serviced typically have fewer hidden problems.
    • Be cautious on social platforms: Buying cars on platforms like Facebook Marketplace can save money but comes with higher risks. Always meet in public, request comprehensive paperwork, and verify the seller’s identity.

    According to Capital One, more than 250 million people use Facebook Marketplace to sell items — but it’s still the digital Wild West when it comes to cars. Take precautions to avoid being stuck with someone else’s problem.

    Buying a used car off Facebook Marketplace can be a smart way to save. But when a deal turns into a debt trap, you need to act fast. Shop around, get honest repair quotes and take a hard look at whether fixing the car is financially feasible. And if you decide to buy again, be thorough. A little caution upfront can save you a lot of cash down the road.’

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

  • My mom now needs more care than my siblings and I can manage. We think it’s time for assisted living. But she has no retirement savings, only Social Security — what are her best options?

    My mom now needs more care than my siblings and I can manage. We think it’s time for assisted living. But she has no retirement savings, only Social Security — what are her best options?

    One of life’s hardest challenges is watching our parents grow old. The moment you realize you may need to move them out of their own home and into a facility can be an especially wrenching moment.

    It’s especially hard when you or your parent might not be financially prepared for the move — not to mention understandably stubborn about it, too.

    Consider this scenario: Your mother is aging fast, and you’ve witnessed a severe decline in her cognitive health. Her ability to take care of her own basic needs has diminished, but neither you nor your siblings are able to care for her around the clock.

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    You’ve decided it’s time to move Mom into an assisted living facility, but there’s a big problem: She has no retirement savings that you know of, and she currently gets by on a small Social Security check. You’ve toured facilities that accept those on Medicaid, but she doesn’t like any of them.

    How can you best set your parent up for assisted living and keep her comfortable for the final years of her life?

    Accessing lost savings

    While her finances may dictate whether she ends up in a low-end facility, you may want to make an effort to respect her wishes as best you can and see if she can afford a nicer place.

    Consider a thorough search for long-forgotten assets. While you’re mostly certain that your mom doesn’t have substantial savings, it’s worth trying to find out if she has any inactive financial accounts. According to a 2023 report by financial firm Capitalize, nearly 30 million 401(k) accounts worth $1.65 trillion were left behind by American workers who may have forgotten about them during job moves.

    You can search for these types of accounts using the government’s Lost and Found Database. Searching requires an ID-proofed Login.gov account for your mom. If she suffers from cognition challenges, getting access to funds might be tricky and require you to obtain legal authority such as through guardianship.

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    Paying for assisted living with no savings

    If a lavish facility is off the table, the focus should be on your mother’s safety and ensuring her daily needs are met.

    Medicaid generally does not cover room and board costs at an assisted living facility. However, many assisted and independent living facilities accept Medicaid Home and Community-Based Service Waivers that can cover some costs. housing support for seniors and those with disabilities. In some cases, nonprofit or church-affiliated facilities may offer support as well.

    If you don’t want to see your mom go somewhere she might be unhappy, you might decide to bite the bullet and chip in to pay for a private facility. The median cost of an assisted living facility is nearly $6,100 a month, according to SeniorLiving.org. Prices can vary based on location, level of care and length of stay.

    Talking with your elderly parent

    Moving our parents out of their home and into a facility is always challenging, but there are conversations families should have ahead of time to make the transition a bit easier.

    If your parents are late into their careers or at retirement age, and they have some retirement assets, it’s worth asking if they’ve considered future care costs.

    You may find one day you need access to your parents’ retirement accounts. Discuss getting power of attorney while your parent is still capable of granting it. They can’t sign a POA if they are incapacitated or a judge rules them mentally unfit, which could force you to pursue guardianship or conservatorship through the courts to gain authority over their financial affairs, including retirement accounts.

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