Author: Cory Santos

Living in a mobile home park should provide affordable housing, not toxic mold and sewage backups — but for many Florida residents, that’s exactly what they’re getting.

"The floor is coming up. Mold is terrible. My doctor told me to move," said one Jacksonville resident in an interview with News4Jax. But with a household income under $2,000 monthly and Florida’s median rent hitting $1,555, this resident has nowhere to go.

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"I can’t even begin to tell you what is wrong with this house, but there’s no overhang on this trailer,” said the resident, who requested anonymity as she fears her landlord may raise her rent for speaking out. “When it rains, it rains in the doors. It comes through the windows. Mold is on the walls. You have to keep washing the walls and bleach inside."

Now, a troubling new report reveals how corporate owners may be systematically neglecting these communities while hiking rents — and warns of what potential mobile home park residents need to know before considering this increasingly risky housing option.

The health-related costs of “affordable” housing

The study by Health in Partnership and Manufactured Housing Action paints a troubling picture of how corporate mobile home park owners are transforming once-affordable communities into health hazards.

The health concerns documented in the study include:

• Contaminated water causing illness and chronic health problems.
• Failing sewage systems creating unsanitary conditions.
• Accumulated debris attracting pests and creating safety hazards.
• Crumbling infrastructure leading to dangerous living environments.
• Extensive mold triggering respiratory problems.

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The affordable housing trap

What makes this situation particularly troubling is the apparent lack of alternatives for mobile home park residents. According to research from the University of Florida, the median rent for housing seekers in the state was $1,555 as of July 2024, nearly 20% higher than the national average of $1,302 in 2024.

More alarmingly, Florida has only 26 affordable rental units available for every 100 households with incomes lower than 30% of the area’s median income. This shortage of affordable housing creates a desperate situation where lower-income residents sometimes have no choice but to endure hazardous living conditions rather than face homelessness.

Mobile home parks often represent one of the last options for stable, lower-cost living in Florida, but now some residents are facing predatory fees that are leading them to financial ruin.

The same Jacksonville resident mentioned above also noted that her rent has steadily increased from the initial $800 agreement. "Well, now every time I turn around, there’s more than that," she said, describing additional "junk fees" that keep appearing on her bill. And these mysterious charges affect "everybody in this neighborhood.”

Another mobile home park resident, identified only as Gerard, pays $700 monthly just to rent the lot where his mobile home sits — nearly as much as those who rent both the trailer and the land.

"I don’t think it should be near that high, the problems we’re having out here are terrible," Gerard shared with News4Jax. "700 plus dollars to live here, and I find that a lot of money just to park a trailer. And you pay your own electric, your own water. There’s no benefit of being here other than having your trailer parked."

Florida’s Mobile Home Act coming up short for residents

Florida’s Statute 723, known as the "Florida Mobile Home Act," provides some protections for mobile home owners who rent lots in parks with 10 or more spaces. These protections include:

• Required disclosures of fees, rules and regulations before someone moves in.
• Limitations on evictions to specific grounds such as non-payment, rules violations or change in land use.
• Rights regarding improvements to mobile homes.
• Provisions for forming homeowners’ associations.
• Notice requirements for lot rental increases or changes in rules.

But based on Health in Partnership’s report, these protections don’t seem to do enough for mobile home park residents.

Report issues policy recommendations

The Health in Partnership’s “Home Sick” report offers the following policy recommendations based on its findings:

1. Strengthen housing standards through licensing, inspections and accountability mechanisms.
2. Protect residents with rent regulations, good-cause eviction policies and anti-retaliation measures.
3. Promote community-friendly ownership with funding and transition policies.
4. Address corporate speculation via zoning regulations, portfolio caps, divestment and taxation.

Practical tips to protect mobile home residents

So, what can those who may be considering moving into manufactured housing do to protect themselves? If you’re considering manufactured housing as an affordable option in Florida (or anywhere else for that matter), here are some important considerations:

1. Understand the park’s ownership structure. In most mobile home parks, you own the home but rent the land, creating a unique legal relationship.
2. Research the park owner. Corporate-owned parks may have different priorities than locally owned communities.
3. Inspect the unit thoroughly before buying or renting. Look for signs of water damage, mold, structural issues and infrastructure problems.
4. Review all fees and rules of the unit and park. Get a clear picture of lot rent, utility charges and any other fees before committing.
5. Check for a homeowners’ association (HOA). Active HOAs can provide collective bargaining power with park owners.
6. Understand your rights. Familiarize yourself with the Florida Mobile Home Act to know your legal protections.
7. Verify insurance options. Mobile homes often require specialized insurance that can be more expensive.
8. Have an exit strategy. Be aware that selling a mobile home in a park can be more challenging than selling a traditional home.

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

Last October, Jonathan Stamper — owner of the now-defunct Stampede Lift Solutions — hired a trucking company to transport pumpjacks from oil fields in New Mexico to a business in Texas.

Little did the owners of that Texas business know that they were about to become unwitting accomplices in a brazen heist.

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Now, two companies are out more than $800,000 and caught in the middle of a multi-million dollar alleged theft that sees Stamper facing more than a dozen criminal charges.

The midnight heist

What seemed like a legitimate transport job was actually part of a carefully orchestrated theft, according to police.

Stamper “was able to get everything lined out to where the majority of the people that were involved thought it was a legit business,” Lea County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy J.W. Grady told KRQE.

Unbeknownst to Triple Express Trucking — the trucking company Stamper hired through 7C Logistic Services, LLC — the pumpjacks, valued at $2 million, had been stolen from two Texas-based businesses with operations in the Permian Basin oil fields of Lea and Eddy Counties in New Mexico, according to First Alert 7.

“They brought in trucks in the middle of the night and disassembled them [the pumpjacks], loaded them on trucks, and drove out,” said Grady.

Perhaps the most audacious aspect of the scheme is that Stamper had reportedly sold the pumpjacks before orchestrating the theft.

The business owner in Texas who received the pumpjacks told investigators he had no idea the equipment was stolen. He believed he had legally purchased the pumpjacks from Stamper’s company, which is located in Oklahoma, making the Texas business owner another victim in this elaborate scheme.

For Triple Express Trucking, what should have been a profitable job turned into a financial nightmare. Both Triple Express Trucking and 7C Logistic Services, LLC are now out more than $800,000 combined as the two companies join a growing list of businesses affected by equipment theft in the oil industry.

Stamper, meanwhile, is facing a slew of charges, including six counts of criminal damage to property, six counts of larceny and one conspiracy charge.

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Protecting your business

The oil industry has long been a target for thieves. With oil field equipment often located in remote areas with minimal security, criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their operations.

For businesses in the transport industry, this case serves as a stark warning about the importance of verifying the legitimacy of clients and cargo. Here are a few tips for transporting high-value items that could protect you from unwillingly participating in a crime.

1. Verify ownership documentation before transporting high-value equipment.
2. Conduct background checks on new clients, especially for high-value jobs.
3. Be wary of urgent jobs requiring night transportation of valuable equipment.
4. Document all aspects of unusual transportation requests.
5. Check with local authorities when transporting regulated equipment across state lines.

Additionally, businesses would be well advised to trust their instincts. If something seems unusual about a job, it’s worth taking extra steps to verify the legitimacy of the client and the cargo.

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If you’re handing over $1,100 each month to service maxed-out credit cards, you’re not alone.

The average credit card balance hit $6,371 as of the first quarter of 2025, according to a May TransUnion report, while interest rates now hover around 24.33% for new cards.

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That’s significantly higher than the average rates we were seeing only a few years ago. And with inflation rearing its ugly head, that debt burden can seem overwhelming (to say the least).

But there’s good news: you can escape this debt trap with the right strategy.

Let’s be clear — those wild experiences in your 20s happened. They’re part of who you are. But now it’s time to rebuild your financial life with the same energy you brought to your adventures.

Balance transfer credit cards offer a simple approach

The most basic advice for someone looking to pay down credit card debt is to consider getting a balance transfer credit card.

Balance transfer cards offer a low interest rate or interest-free way to pay off debt and re-start your financial life, helping you significantly pay down your debt — fast.

How much could you save with a balance transfer? Let’s check out a real-world example based on your particular situation.

Let’s say you transferred $6,371 to a balance transfer card with an 18-month 0% intro APR offer. Your total cost could breakdown as follows:

• One-time balance transfer fee: $6,371 × 5% = $318.55
• New starting balance: $6,371 + $318.55 = $6,689.55
• Monthly payment needed to pay off balance in 18 months: $6,689.55 ÷ 18 = $371.64
• Total interest: $0 (thanks to the 0% APR offer)
• Total cost: $6,689.55 (original debt + fee)

If you used a card with a 21.00% APR on transfers you’d have paid approximately $1,404 in interest over the same period — and that cost could rise significantly should you add to that outstanding card balance.

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What if you don’t qualify for a balance transfer card?

Of course, not everyone will qualify for a balance transfer card (and especially so if you’re dealing with maxed out credit cards and soaring credit utilization). But don’t worry — you still have options. Here’s what you can do if you’re struggling with a big credit card bill.

Contact your issuer about potential options

Your first move should be to contact your current credit card companies directly. While it might seem unlikely, credit card companies are sometimes willing to negotiate an existing debt burden. After all, most credit card debt is unsecured, meaning there’s no collateral for the bank to claim should you default on your credit card.

Speaking with your issuer offers a couple of options that might help your situation, which include:

• Requesting a lower interest rate: Many issuers will reduce your rate rather than risk you defaulting, especially if you’ve been making regular payments despite the struggle. It’s not a sure thing, but it’s worth a shot.
• Asking about hardship programs: Most major card issuers offer temporary hardship programs that can lower your interest rate, reduce minimum payments or waive certain fees. These programs aren’t widely advertised but exist specifically for situations like yours, so it’s worth asking.

Consider debt consolidation or a personal loan

Debt consolidation is another option for those with maxed out cards. A debt consolidation loan is typically easier to qualify for than a balance transfer card, with options for credit profiles ranging from excellent to poor. However, consolidation and personal loans for bad credit tend to carry significantly higher interest rates.

That doesn’t mean they’re bad options you should avoid. You may just need to be very careful and stick to a solid budget that reduces your spending and eliminates new debt.

These loans offer a few benefits, including:

• The potential to qualify for rates significantly lower than your current 20%-plus credit card rates — even with less-than-perfect credit
• Fixed payment schedules, which provide a clear path to becoming debt-free

If you have damaged credit (but at least a fair credit score), a local credit union might be your best bet. Credit unions are owned by their members, meaning they exist to offer the best terms and accessibility possible. Because of this, you may have higher approval odds — and get a lower rate — with your local lender instead of a high-street bank.

Credit counseling can reduce your monthly payments — even with bad credit

Another option is credit counseling — especially if you’re having issues managing this process on your own.

Credit counselling makes a lot of sense if:

• You’re making only minimum payments, but your balances keep growing
• Your credit cards are maxed out
• You’re starting to miss payments or fall behind
• You’re receiving collection calls and are afraid of more aggressive debt collection actions
• You still have enough income to make payments, just not at the current high interest rates
• Your credit score has declined, making other options like balance transfers difficult

The counselling process is straightforward, but you’ll need to make sure to have details about your income, expenses and debts. After an initial consultation, the credit counsellor will determine if you qualify for a debt management plan (DMP).

If you do, the counsellor will reach out to your creditors to negotiate terms and set up the payment arrangement. Then, you’ll make one payment to the agency each month, which they distribute to your creditors.

Most DMPs are designed to eliminate your debt within three to five years, giving you a clear end date to your financial struggles. That’s obviously longer than if you used a balance transfer card, but again, you might not qualify.

Not all credit counseling agencies are created equal.

Make sure your credit counsellor is an accredited, nonprofit organization (look for 501(c)(3) status), is a member of either the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) or the Financial Counseling Association of America (FCAA) and is transparent about their processes and fees.

What if you want to settle the debt on your own?

Is it possible? Absolutely.

If you’re tackling this on your own, the debt snowball approach works exceptionally well. The debt snowball method is a great way to keep your debt-repayment motivation high, as you pay off balances from smallest to largest.

Here’s how it works:

• Make minimum payments on all debts
• Put any extra money toward your smallest balance
• Once that’s paid off, roll that payment into tackling the next smallest debt

This method provides quick wins that build momentum and confidence as you see debts disappear one by one.

Comparing debt repayment methods

How do the repayment options mentioned stack up? Here’s a quick overview:

Balance transfer card

• Best for: People with good-to-excellent credit
• How long to pay off debt: 12 to 21 months
• Drawbacks: Balance transfer fees may apply (3% on average), then high interest after promotional period

Negotiating with your card issuer

• Best for: Current cardholders in good standing or experiencing hardship
• How long to pay off debt: Varies
• Drawbacks: Only a temporary solution; success isn’t guaranteed

Debt consolidation

• Best for: Those with fair-to-good credit and multiple debts
• How long to pay off debt: Two to seven years
• Drawbacks: Might require collateral; origination fees may apply

Credit counseling

• Best for: Those with damaged credit or struggling to manage payments
• How long to pay off debt: Three to five years
• Drawbacks: Monthly fees may apply, limited flexibility and possible account closure

Debt snowball method

• Best for: Self-disciplined individuals with multiple debts
• How long to pay off debt: Varies
• Drawbacks: Requires extreme discipline and reduced spending going forward

What’s the best strategy? That really depends on your situation and your motivation. The best strategy is one you can consistently follow through to completion.

What should you do next?

Overspending happens, but staying in debt doesn’t have to be your reality forever. What matters now is the disciplined financial foundation you’re about to build.

Keep your travel memories, but build your financial future with these steps:

• This week: Calculate your total debt and interest rates. Knowledge is power.
• Within 15 days: Choose your strategy based on your credit score. Good credit? Consider balance transfers. Damaged credit? Consult a nonprofit credit counselor.
• Within 30 days: Create a realistic budget that frees up extra cash for debt payments.
• Monthly: Track progress visually and celebrate each victory, no matter how small.

The discipline you develop isn’t just about eliminating debt. It will build you a financial mindset that will serve you for decades. Your $1,100 monthly payment could soon fund new adventures without the financial hangover.

It just takes time, patience and the right plan.

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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.

Loretta Byers had no concerns with re-upping her lease at her Las Vegas apartment — that is until she was hit with an unexpected $900 annual surcharge by her property management company.

Byers is just one of many residents at two Vegas apartment complexes where junk fees — or more specifically “tech package fees” — have been added to the cost of rent without consultation. Worse, management is forcing residents to sign addendums cementing the new fees — even though they weren’t part of the original lease agreements.

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Local authorities are now hoping to clamp down on these junk fees, seeking to help vulnerable citizens with their fight against corporate greed.

"More money. That’s what I believe,” Byers shared with KTNV Las Vegas when discussing the motives behind the new fees. “I really think it’s the greenbacks."

Vegas tenants hit with surprise internet fees

"No!" That was Byers’ emphatic response when KTNV Las Vegas reporter Darcy Spears asked Byers if she needed or wanted the new internet service her landlord was attempting to force on her.

Byers recently learned she would be charged an additional $75 monthly for Cox internet service. This came as a shock since she and her husband renewed their lease in February, 2025 — one that explicitly stated the "internet to your dwelling will be paid by you… directly to the utility service provider."

But despite this clear language in her contract, Byers received a letter dated April 29, 2025, informing her that the complex was changing terms for all tenants by adding this tech fee on top of current rent. The letter stated the fee would become part of her "standard lease obligations" and would require signing a lease addendum agreeing to these new terms.

"It’s being forced," said Byers. "Take it, or leave. And nobody wants to break their lease on purpose. I know I’m not going to. But I don’t want to feel that I’m going to be forced to do something because they want more money coming in."

But Intrigue Apartments, where Byers and her husband live, isn’t the only Vegas complex implementing this strategy. Residents at the Tides on Twain apartment complex also received similar notifications about a new mandatory $65 monthly internet fee for Cox’s service.

One Tides on Twain resident, who uses Cox’s ConnectAssist program for low-income households, currently pays just $30 monthly for internet. Under the new mandatory plan, her costs would more than double.

Like with Intrigue Apartments, the new changes at Tides on Twain were to come into effect on June 1.

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Management companies begin to backpedal

When confronted by KTNV’s 13 Investigates team, both Intrigue Apartments and Tides on Twain’s management companies quickly changed their tune about the surprise internet fees.

According to the management companies, their original notices contained significant errors in stating that the new internet charges would apply to all current residents starting June 1. Advanced Management Group, which oversees Intrigue Apartments, claimed it never intended to force existing residents with active leases to pay the new $75 monthly fee. Similarly, FPI Management insisted that its $65 fee announcement for tenants at Tides on Twain also contained errors.

Both companies have since backpedaled, stating the internet program was only meant to affect residents upon lease renewal or new tenants moving in.

Local authorities hoping to curb junk fees

With this story top of mind, Nevada politicians are looking to pass legislation designed to protect local residents from junk fees.

"I believe it’s predatory. I also believe it’s deceptive," Nevada Assemblymember Venicia Considine told KTNV Las Vegas. "The apartment complex is just telling all their residents it’s coming because there’s no law to stop it."

Considine is one of the backers of Assembly Bill 121, a recent measure that has already cleared both houses of the Nevada legislature and is awaiting signing by governor Joe Lombardo. AB 121 seeks to outlaw surprise charges and junk fees in rental contracts while also requiring more transparency to tenants. The bill mandates that rent be listed as one comprehensive number that includes all mandatory fees.

"If [something isn’t done], we are really sending a message that we are allowing corporations and hedge funds and private equities to come in here and take money from people deceptively. And I just don’t think that as a state, we want to be known for that," said Considine.

How renters can protect themselves from junk fees

While AB 121 seeks to address the issue of junk fees, it’s not as if Nevada residents have no protections from these predatory practices.

The biggest issue, it seems, isn’t existing legal protections for consumers, but rather that many tenants don’t understand their rights or feel powerless to enforce them, especially when faced with legal threats and complex lease documents with multiple addendums.

If you’re a tenant concerned about surprise fees, here are a few actionable steps you can take to protect yourself:

1. Document everything: Keep copies of all lease agreements, communications with management and payment records.
2. Carefully review your lease agreement: Before signing, request time to review the entire document, including all addendums. Note exactly what services are included in rent and which will be billed separately. You can also request a written, itemized list of all monthly charges.
3. Know your rights regarding changes: Landlords generally cannot change lease terms during the lease period unless the lease specifically allows for it or you agree to the changes. Nevada follows the principle that lease terms, once signed, are binding on both parties. Unilateral changes to existing lease agreements without tenant consent are generally not permitted.
4. Don’t sign addendums under pressure: If presented with a lease addendum, take time to review it. You are not obligated to sign immediately, so take your time and consider enlisting the help of an attorney so that you understand everything.
5. File a complaint: Report deceptive practices to your state’s Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection and the County Commissioner’s office.
6. Strength in numbers: Connect with neighbors facing similar issues. Collective action can be more effective than individual complaints.

As the battle against junk fees continues in Nevada, the experiences at Intrigue Apartments and Tides on Twain highlight a crucial reality: landlords often back down from illegal fee hikes when tenants stand their ground.

While Assembly Bill 121 represents a promising step toward protecting renters, your best defense is still vigilance and knowledge of your existing rights.

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• This is how American car dealers use the ‘4-square method’ to make big profits off you — and how you can ensure you pay a fair price for all your vehicle costs

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.

If you’ve ever sweated through a Midwestern summer without decent cooling, you know it’s more than just uncomfortable — it can be downright dangerous.

For folks at Countryside Village trailer park in South Bend, Indiana, this summer’s heat comes with an added challenge: remove your window A/C units or risk losing your home.

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"They won’t tell you why they want us to take them out," one resident shared with WNDU. "We’ve got elderly people that live in here, sick people that live in here, and they could die."

The situation has residents worried, with Indiana lawmakers scrambling to find legal remedies for those facing the potentially dangerous summer heat.

Cooling crackdown comes at the worst time

Since September, 2024, Countryside Village’s management has been crystal clear. "If you have window A/C units, you must remove them,” management stated in a letter sent to residents, according to WNDU. “After three violations, evictions can and will be filed."

What makes this situation particularly tricky is that while many residents actually own their trailers, they pay lot rent fees to YES Communities, which owns Countryside Village as well as hundreds of other trailer parks throughout the country. YES Communities’s guidelines, which all residents must sign with their lease, explicitly state that window A/C units are not permitted.

With South Bend summer highs historically averaging 83ºF in the month of July, residents could now face potentially hazardous indoor temperatures.

“With my medical issues, no it is not safe,” said another Countryside Village resident. “I had a doctor’s appointment yesterday, and my doctor physically wrote me a doctor’s note that I have to have an A/C unit in my trailer.”

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Residents bemoan unfair management rules

Stephen Dempsey, who lives in Countryside Village, is one of the fortunate residents with central air, but he worries about his neighbors who aren’t as lucky.

"I think they’re putting a lot of pressure on people unfairly, especially a lot of the longtime residents who are on fixed incomes,” said Dempsey. “They can’t afford to just go buy a whole brand-new air conditioner unit."

And he’s not wrong — portable air conditioners (which are the most likely alternative to window A/C units) typically cost between $300 and $700 at major retailers like Home Depot and Lowes, with additional costs for proper venting and installation. For those on Social Security or receiving disability benefits, that’s no small expense.

Dempsey also knows the dangers that a lack of air conditioning can have on elderly and infirm residents. "Especially for an older resident, anybody with any kind of health issues. It can be dangerous," said Dempsey.

And he’s not exaggerating. According to the Centers for Disease Control, heat-related illnesses cause more than 700 deaths annually in the United States, with elderly people and those with chronic health conditions at the highest risk.

YES Communities has not issued a statement on the situation at Countryside Village, despite WNDU’s multiple attempts to learn why it just started enforcing this long-standing ban. However, the situation at Countryside Village has stirred local politicians to step up for the trailer park residents.

State Senator David Niezgodski has formally requested Attorney General Todd Rokita to investigate, calling the situation "not just a housing issue; it’s a public health emergency," according to the Indiana Senate Democrats website.

What to do if you’re a renter in a similar situation

If you’re facing something similar to the situation in Countryside Village, there are several steps you can take before removing A/C units that could be essential for your health and wellbeing:

1. Check your lease for the exact policy details on window A/C units.
2. Get medical documentation if heat affects your health and window A/C units are not permitted.
3. Request accommodation in writing with management for health conditions that require A/C in your home.
4. Contact local legal aid for assistance if management isn’t cooperative.
5. Contact your local news outlet in the hopes of drawing attention to your situation, as the residents of Countryside Village had done.
6. Report potential violations to your state attorney general.

The Fair Housing Act protects individuals with disabilities, and extreme heat sensitivity related to certain medical conditions may qualify for reasonable accommodations.

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

When Tina Betterson picked up her 2019 Kia Optima from the dealership following engine repairs, she expected to drive home with some peace of mind.

But instead, she found herself recording a terrifying video just hours later as her car had burst in flames in her driveway. Betterson’s daughter, who was initially trapped inside the car when the fire began, was able to escape before the car was engulfed in flames.

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"She’s like ‘Oh my god, I can’t get out," Betterson told WFMY News 2, describing the terrifying moment when her daughter was briefly trapped in the burning car. “She then said she heard a click and the door opened and she jumped out.”

The harrowing incident left the family without a vehicle, thousands of dollars in debt and locked in a dispute with the dealership over who’s responsible for a car repair gone horribly wrong.

Major repair turns into a fiery nightmare

Betterson had reportedly taken her car to a local Kia dealership in Greensboro, North Carolina weeks earlier due to an issue with oil consumption. The mechanics at Kia wound up replacing the engine in Betterson’s car before she picked it up and drove it 10 miles back to her home.

That’s when the fire broke out, giving Betterson and her daughter the scare of a lifetime. Thankfully, Betterson’s daughter managed to free herself before the car was completely engulfed in flames, and Greensboro firefighters responded quickly and managed to get the blaze under control.

When Betterson contacted the dealership’s service manager about the incident, he couldn’t provide an explanation for what happened to Betterson’s car.

“The service manager… he didn’t know what to say, truthfully,” said Betterson.

Making matters worse, it took Kia four months to complete its investigation, which eventually found that an “improperly routed wiring harness contacted hot AC lines, melting insulation and leading to the electrical event which ignited nearby combustibles."

WFMY News 2 reporters spoke with several car dealerships about standard protocols for replacing an engine, and every one reportedly said a car should be test-driven for at least 50 miles following major engine work. Betterson’s car, however, was reportedly test-driven for just five miles before it was returned to her.

"You [the dealership] told me you test drove it, and it literally caught fire within 10 miles of me driving home," said Betterson. “This could have been an unimaginable tragedy. Thank God this is not a personal injury case that I’m sitting here talking about today.”

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

Taking legal action

While the dealership provided Betterson with a rental car and covered approximately $6,000 in rental fees during the investigation, this situation has put Betterson in a tough financial position.

“I finally said to my insurance, go ahead and pay it off so this doesn’t appear on my credit,” said Betterson, who filed a claim with her insurance company after months of back-and-forth with Kia.

After WFMY News 2 reporters contacted Betterson’s dealership, its insurance agreed to cover the remaining $3,500 balance on Betterson’s car loan. But Betterson has refused the offer as she believes the dealership hasn’t done enough to fix the situation. Betterson has also indicated that she plans to pursue legal action against the dealership for negligence.

For now, she joins the ranks of drivers fighting for accountability after repairs gone wrong, warning others about the potential dangers lurking under the hood even after professional work has been done.

How to protect yourself from a similar nightmare

Betterson’s experience highlights how vehicle repairs can sometimes turn into a disaster. While rare, post-repair vehicle fires are particularly concerning because they often occur when drivers believe their vehicles have just been made safer.

For drivers worried about finding themselves in a similar situation, here are a few precautions you can take before agreeing to major car repairs:

1. Get a written estimate before any work is done on your car.
2. Ask about post-repair inspection protocols, including test-driving distances.
3. Request documentation of all work performed, including parts replaced.
4. Consider having a second opinion from an independent mechanic for major repairs.
5. Understand your auto insurance coverage for post-repair incidents.

What to read next

• Financial aid only funds about 27% of US college expenses — but savvy parents are using this 3-minute move to cover 100% of those costs
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• How much cash do you plan to keep on hand after you retire? Here are 3 of the biggest reasons you’ll need a substantial stash of savings in retirement
• This is how American car dealers use the ‘4-square method’ to make big profits off you — and how you can ensure you pay a fair price for all your vehicle costs

Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now.

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

Cruising in their classic 1966 Ford Mustang was one of the joys of retired life for Mary and Dan Smith, but that joy took an unexpected turn when they received a fine for an alleged toll they never paid.

That fine was for the New Jersey Turnpike, a toll road that the Enfield, Connecticut couple hadn’t driven on in years, let alone in the very specific car that authorities had flagged.

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"Our Mustang was never there," Mary told WBTV. "We never drove that far with that old car to begin with."

Now the couple is sounding the alarm on so-called "ghost car fraud," a scam that is quickly becoming a growing problem for American drivers and state governments.

‘We haven’t been to New Jersey in at least 5 years’

It all started when Mary found a letter from the New Jersey Turnpike Authority in the mail. In it, the authority stated the Smiths’s license plates were recorded traveling through one of the state’s E-ZPass toll booths without paying. The fine? $11.50.

"We haven’t been to New Jersey in at least 5 years," said Mary.

The Smiths appealed the fine, but the couple was shocked when the appeal was denied. Making matters worse, their $11.50 fine had skyrocketed to $111.50 thanks to administrative fees. From then on, the bills just kept coming, almost daily.

Finally, a letter arrived with visual evidence of the supposed offense, showing a car distinctly different from the Smiths’s classic yellow Mustang. While unclear, the photo showed a vehicle with modern taillights that featured the same license plate as the Smiths’s Mustang. The couple sent replies to the New Jersey Turnpike Authority stating that while the plates seemed to match, the car captured in the photo was in no way theirs.

"We’re giving you all the information, the pictures, what more can we do?"

It was only after WBTV inquired on behalf of the Smiths that the error was rectified, with the couple no longer on the hook for the charges.

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

What is ‘ghost car fraud’?

Ghost car fraud is a type of scam where criminals steal or duplicate license plates and put them on different vehicles, causing the legitimate plate owners to receive toll violations and fines for roads they never traveled.

License plate theft scams typically involve criminals stealing plate numbers in a few common ways:

• Physically removing plates from vehicles.
• Creating duplicate plates to mask stolen vehicles.
• Using stolen plate information for identity theft or toll evasion.
• Capturing plate images to create fraudulent registrations.

The Smiths’s story is similar to those of other Americans who also found they had become victims of ghost car fraud. Joanne Barbara from New Jersey once discovered her temporary Audi SUV plates were duplicated on a black Audi sedan, racking up over $600 in tolls and fines, according to WABC. Similarly, Walter Gursky discovered his truck’s temporary license plates were also duplicated on a white Tesla, resulting in $167 in toll violations.

The states of New York and New Jersey have since taken steps to alert residents about this scam.

"Ghost plates and toll evasion cost our state millions each year," New York Governor Kathy Hochul said in a statement on NYC’s official website. "Working in partnership with Mayor Adams and law enforcement, we are prioritizing the safety of all New Yorkers by removing these vehicles from our streets and ensuring these brazen actions do not go unchecked any longer."

How to protect your license plates

While there might not be much you can do to thwart criminals from stealing the numbers and duplicating your license plates, there are a few things you can do to prevent your plates from being stolen from your car.

For starters, parking your car in the garage and keeping it off the street as much as possible can make it more challenging for criminals to steal your plates. You could also protect your plates by installing an anti-theft license plate cover, or replacing the screws on your plates with tamper-proof screws. These screws can only be installed or removed using a special wrench that comes with the screws.

If you’ve received a letter from a toll authority claiming that you owe money for tolls that were wrongfully applied to your license plate, you can follow the same steps the Smiths took to rectify their situation:

• Contact the toll authority to both verify and dispute the charge(s).
• Request photographic evidence of the supposed offense, as this could prove that your plates were duplicated and you did not incur the toll charges.
• If you hit a wall in dealing with the toll authority, consider alerting your local news outlet about your situation, as Mary Smith had done. Bringing local news into the situation could apply enough pressure to encourage the toll authority to recognize the fraud and clear the charges from your records.

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• This is how American car dealers use the ‘4-square method’ to make big profits off you — and how you can ensure you pay a fair price for all your vehicle costs

Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now.

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

Holding on to $89,000 in debt can be overwhelming. And you might feel like you’re dealing with an impossible financial situation.

Your 401(k) might seem like the only lifeline available, but to be crystal clear: tapping into retirement savings should be your absolute last resort.

When you’re drowning in debt at any age, you’re in a particularly vulnerable position. But at 52 it can seem calamitous.

And with potentially 10-15 years left until retirement, you’re in the critical accumulation phase where your retirement savings should be growing substantially.

That combination of high-interest credit card debt and the temptation to raid retirement funds creates a perfect storm of financial issues that requires some immediate action.

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What happens when you tap into your 401(k)

Dipping into your 401(k) might sound great. After all, it’s your money, just sitting there; why not cash in? If you’re 5-7 years from retirement with high-interest debt, the math sometimes favors taking a one-time withdrawal to clear that debt, especially if your debt interest rate significantly exceeds your 401(k)’s growth rate.

But you are likely more than a decade from your retirement, so it’s almost impossible to justify tapping into the savings right now. That’s because using your 401(k) to address debt comes with serious consequences that can severely derail your financial security in retirement.

Loans vs. hardship withdrawals

You have two main options for accessing your 401(k) funds before retirement:

1. 401(k) loans: You can typically borrow up to 50% of your vested account balance or $50,000, whichever is less. You’ll need to repay this with interest (usually prime rate plus 1-2%) within five years.

2. Hardship withdrawals: If your plan allows, you can withdraw funds for "immediate and heavy financial need." Credit card debt typically doesn’t qualify unless you’re facing eviction or foreclosure.

What’s the worst that could happen? A retirement disaster

It’s easy enough to state it plainly, but why should you avoid dipping into your 401(k)? Here’s your worst-case scenario:

• Immediate tax hit: A withdrawal (not a loan) triggers income taxes plus a 10% early withdrawal penalty if you’re under 59 ½ years old. On a $40,000 withdrawal, you could lose $14,000 or more to taxes and penalties.
• Devastating opportunity cost: Every $10,000 withdrawn at age 52 could cost you $21,500 in retirement funds by age 67 (assuming a 5% annual return).
• Loan default risks: If you take a loan and leave your job for any reason, the entire balance typically becomes due within 60-90 days. Failure to repay converts it to a distribution, triggering taxes and penalties.
• Bankruptcy protection lost: 401(k) assets are generally protected in bankruptcy, but once withdrawn, that protection disappears.

It’s recommended to avoid 401(k) withdrawals unless you’re facing an imminent threat to your living situation, like a foreclosure or eviction. The long-term consequences of tapping-in are just too extreme, especially at your age when any potential recovery time is limited.

Better alternatives to tackle your debt crisis

Before tapping retirement your funds, consider more sustainable approaches:

1. Balance transfer credit cards

For those with reasonably good credit despite high balances, a balance transfer card can provide breathing room with 0% interest for 12-21 months.

Let’s run the numbers on a theoretical scenario:

If you transferred $25,000 of your existing credit card debt to a card with an 18-month 0% APR offer:

One-time balance transfer fee: $25,000 × 3% = $750

Monthly payment needed to pay off in 18 months: $1,430

Total interest saved: Approximately $8,000 (compared to a 24% APR card)

This wouldn’t solve all your financial problems. However, it would give you the breathing space to continue working on your debt repayment plan or switching to another option.

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

2. Debt consolidation loan

A debt consolidation loan could combine your high-interest debts into a single, lower-interest payment. With fair credit, you might qualify for rates between 10-15% — significantly lower than credit card rates.

Benefits of personal or consolidation loans include:

Fixed payment schedule providing a clear debt-free date Potential interest savings of thousands over the life of the loan Improved cash flow with one manageable payment

3. Credit counseling and debt management plans

A nonprofit credit counseling agency can negotiate with creditors on your behalf, potentially reducing interest rates to as low as 8-11% and waiving fees. A debt management plan would:

• Consolidate your payments into one monthly amount
• Provide a structured 3-5 year repayment timeline
• Offer professional financial counselling support throughout the process

4. Bankruptcy as a strategic option

At 52 years old with $89,000 in debt, bankruptcy might actually be a more financially sound decision than raiding your retirement funds. Bankruptcy is often a last resort — and often seen as a personal failing — but it’s a legal financial tool designed specifically for situations like yours.

The truth is that bankruptcy, while damaging to your credit for 7-10 years, protects your retirement assets and gives you a chance at a fresh start. That said, filing for bankruptcy protection is a major decision and it’s recommended you consult with a bankruptcy attorney to understand if it’s right for your individual situation.

Strategic action plan to recover from your financial crisis

Based on everything covered, here’s a suggested plan of action, starting today:

1. Immediate step (next 7 days): Contact a nonprofit credit counseling agency for a free consultation to better understand all your options.

2. Short-term (next 30 days): Create a crisis budget that eliminates all non-essential spending. Every dollar you can save helps accelerate your debt payoff.

3. Medium-term (next 90 days): Based on the credit counseling assessment, commit to either a debt repayment plan, a debt consolidation plan, or filing for bankruptcy.

4. Long-term (next 12-24 months): Once your debt is under control, increase retirement contributions to make up for lost time. Delaying retirement by 2-3 years might help as well (as terrifying as that sounds).

Treat your retirement funds as absolutely untouchable except in life-threatening emergencies. The alternatives may be challenging, but they preserve your long-term financial security while still helping to address your immediate financial woes.

Remember: This debt crisis is temporary, but retirement insecurity would last the rest of your life — a time you could be enjoying your sunset years.Take a step back, think and make a decision today that your future self will thank you for.

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• How much cash do you plan to keep on hand after you retire? Here are 3 of the biggest reasons you’ll need a substantial stash of savings in retirement
• This is how American car dealers use the ‘4-square method’ to make big profits off you — and how you can ensure you pay a fair price for all your vehicle costs

Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now.

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

After spending years saving money in the hopes of starting a family, Russell Leahy and his wife are now forced to live paycheck to paycheck.

Leahy, a 28-year-old teacher from Fort Worth, Texas, recently lost $32,000 to scammers who tricked him into revealing sensitive financial information.

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"It was my entire life savings," Leahy told WFAA. "I had literally never felt like the wind had been taken out of my sails before. I’d never really felt like I was going to pass out before, but it really felt like the end of the world for me."

Leahy was reportedly contacted by scammers who claimed to be representatives of Chase Bank. The supposed bank reps called to inform Leahy that his account had been compromised and that he needed to protect his finances by moving the cash into a secure account. All it took were a few text messages and some counterfeit banking information in order to appear genuine.

"I couldn’t even believe how sophisticated it was," Leahy told WFAA.

Now, the newlywed is trying to warn people about the scam that cost him everything in the hopes of preventing others from falling for the same scheme.

Fraud vs. a scam

Unfortunately for Leahy, the situation went from bad to worse when he contacted Chase Bank to report the incident. According to WFAA, the bank told Leahy that his account isn’t covered by fraud protection, arguing that Leahy was the victim of a scam and not financial fraud.

In making this distinction, Chase Bank returned just over $2,000 to Leahy’s account, which is merely a fraction of his total loss. When WFAA contacted Chase Bank for comment, the bank offered clarification on the distinction between fraud and a scam.

"Fraud on a bank account involves someone illegally accessing someone else’s account and making withdrawals, transfers, or purchases without the account holder’s permission," the bank stated in its emailed reply.

A scam, on the other hand, is "a deceptive scheme or trick used to cheat someone out of their money or other valuable assets,” which is what happened to Leahy.

Chase Bank’s response likely isn’t what Leahy wanted to hear, but that hasn’t stopped him from sharing his story in order to prevent others from making the same mistakes.

"I’d rather I be the sacrificial lamb for the rest of these people and maybe save other people’s money from being stolen," he said. "I’m really hoping to look ahead and move on with my life and not have to start over from scratch."

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

How to avoid falling for similar scams

Unfortunately, Leahy’s heartbreaking story is not unique. The "phishing" scam, which is what Leahy fell for, is one of the most common scams in today’s digital world.

Phishing works by tricking a victim into revealing sensitive information over the phone, by email or by text message. Email used to be the most popular method for conducting phishing scams, but scammers have since expanded their practice to include phone calls, texts and social media. Phishing conducted over the phone is also known as "vishing."

While it’s difficult to pinpoint just how many people are victimized by phishing scams every year, 323,972 internet users throughout the world reported to authorities that they had fallen for a phishing scam in 2021, according to AAG IT Services.

To avoid falling for scams such as this, it’s imperative for people to be informed and alert in order to spot potential threats. Here are some practical steps you can take to protect yourself from becoming a victim:

1. Don’t rely on your caller ID, as scammers may spoof the phone number of your bank or another institution that you’re affiliated with in order to gain your trust.
2. Never share your account information with anyone who may request it. Your bank will never call or email you asking for this information.
3. Protect your accounts with multi-factor authentication. If a scammer were to gain access to your username and password, multi-factor authentication would make it tougher for the scammer to log into your account.
4. Ignore transaction requests through calls, texts or emails that you didn’t initiate yourself.
5. When in doubt, call your bank — or whatever institution the potential scammers may claim to represent — directly in order to verify any concerns that were shared with you.

What to read next

• Financial aid only funds about 27% of US college expenses — but savvy parents are using this 3-minute move to cover 100% of those costs
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• How much cash do you plan to keep on hand after you retire? Here are 3 of the biggest reasons you’ll need a substantial stash of savings in retirement
• This is how American car dealers use the ‘4-square method’ to make big profits off you — and how you can ensure you pay a fair price for all your vehicle costs

Stay in the know. Join 200,000+ readers and get the best of Moneywise sent straight to your inbox every week for free. Subscribe now.

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