Author: Danielle Antosz

As political tensions rise between the U.S. and Canada, partly fueled by President Donald Trump‘s tariff policies, some people are caught in the middle.

Denise Amato, who currently lives in Tonawanda, New York, is a dual citizen of both countries. She says the current political climate has been challenging to navigate with her family and friends.

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"I’ve noticed there’s some strain," Amato told WKBW TV in a story published March 24. "I’m a little concerned with that because we’ve been allies for so long."

Born in Niagara Falls, New York, and raised in Welland, Ontario, she has deep roots on both sides of the border. She says recent conversations with family and friends increasingly revolve around politics.

Tensions beyond trade policy

Early in March, Trump imposed 25% tariffs on most imports from Canada, with an exemption for products that are compliant with the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). On March 12, he placed 25% tariffs on global steel and aluminum imports, including from Canada. On April 3, the president imposed 25% tariffs on imported vehicles with some exemptions. Trump has also threatened further tariffs on Canadian dairy and lumber products.

Canada, for its part, has responded by issuing retaliatory tariffs of its own on U.S. goods.

But these aren’t the only actions that have caused friction between both nations. Trump has repeatedly suggested making Canada the 51st state of the U.S. — even mockingly referring to former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as "governor" — comments Canadians perceived to be a threat to the country’s sovereignty.

Regardless of whether or not Trump’s quips were simply playful jabs, current Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has signaled that the old relationship between Canada and the U.S. is over.

"It’s clear the U.S. is no longer a reliable partner," he said at a press conference on March 27. "It is possible that with comprehensive negotiations, we could re-establish an element of confidence, but there will be no going backwards."

Despite the turmoil and economic uncertainty between both countries, Amato insists she’s optimistic that the long-standing relationship between the U.S. and Canada will endure.

“We are friends, and we will be friends forever,” she said. “So, let’s please not allow the political climate to affect that.”

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How international relations can affect your wallet

International tensions aren’t just another headline for American consumers — they can have real-world impacts on personal finances.

In the case of Canada and the U.S., individuals living near the border — particularly those with income or assets in both countries — can feel financial strain beyond the effects economic tools such as tariffs have on the price of goods. Fluctuations in currency exchange rates between the U.S. dollar (USD) and Canadian dollar (CAD) can significantly impact purchasing power, investment returns and the cost of living.

For example, when tariffs escalate tensions, investor confidence may fall, causing currency volatility. If the CAD weakens, Canadians who earn income in Canadian dollars but have expenses or investments in the U.S. face reduced spending power. Conversely, a stronger CAD could mean Americans pay more for Canadian goods and services.

Here are some ways to manage your personal finances in this time of uncertainty:

• Don’t stop contributing to your 401(k) if you’re more than 10 years away from retirement. Market fluctuations can make contributing to retirement feel risky, but long-term investing can weather these swings.
• Look for ways to spend less so tariffs don’t impact your budget as much. For example, now is not the time to invest in a new vehicle unless you must.
• If you’re holding both USD and CAD, pay attention to exchange rates and identify favorable times to transfer funds between them.
• Limit large cross-border purchases when exchange rates aren’t in your favor — this includes everything from appliances to real estate.
• Diversify your assets by holding investments or accounts in both currencies and spending from whichever account is more favorable.

While politicians debate policy, consumers on both sides of the U.S.-Canada border are left navigating the ripple effects — making it more important than ever to stay informed and financially flexible.

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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 Alphonso and Tierney Whitfield first moved into their College Park, Georgia home in 2022, they were eager to start their new life together. But that hope quickly turned into a headache when they discovered plumbing issues, Atlanta News First (ANF) reported.

Every time the couple flushed their toilets, wastewater appeared in their yard. Unsure of the cause, they hired a local plumbing company. Estes Plumbing discovered the sewer line needed to be replaced and applied for a permit from the city to complete the work.

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The total cost was $8,000 — a hefty sum for anyone, but especially for new homeowners. The worst part? Replacing the line didn’t fix the couple’s sewage issues.

That’s because the issue could only be solved by fixing an issue on city property, something that only happened this month.

“It feels like I finally started living in my home, living in my yard, having people over,” Alphonso told ANF Consumer Investigator Harry Samler.

But why did the city take so long to intervene?

Why didn’t the plumbing line replacement work?

Estes Plumbing technician Logan Cumby determined that the Whitfields’ issue had nothing to do with the new line but instead with part of an old line located on city property.

“When a plumbing company replaces a residential sewage line, it typically does not do work on city property,” Cumby told ANF. “We determined the break is in the street, and we can’t fix it because it’s not on the homeowner’s property.”

But city officials pushed back, saying the plumbing company must have connected the Whitfields’ new line to a city pipe no longer in use. But Bill Knox, a manager at Estes Plumbing, insisted that wasn’t true.

“If we mess something up, we stand by it, and we’ll fix it,” Knox told reporters. “But in this case, we’ve done everything right.”

The Estes team returned to the Whitfields’ property and ran a camera through their sewer line. The footage showed the new sewer line was properly connected and intact until it reached an older pipe located under the street — and on city property.

The footage showed an older clay pipe that seemed to have collapsed, likely causing the Whitfields’ sewer issues. A neighbor a few homes away had also reported problems with their sewer, indicating the cause likely wasn’t the new sewer line on the Whitfields’ property.

Following further investigation, a College Park City spokesperson confirmed the city would connect the Whitfields’ line to the city tap for $1,600. A few days later, Department of Public Works officials showed up to replace the collapsed pipe and connect the city line to the Whitfields’ home.

After the lines were replaced, everything was finally flowing correctly for the first time in two years.

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How to budget for unexpected home repairs

Unexpected home repairs, like the plumbing nightmare the Whitfields experienced, can strain homeowners financially. Here are several proactive steps to protect yourself:

Consider a home warranty

A warranty typically covers the repair or replacement of major home systems for a relatively affordable annual fee. However, carefully read the fine print to understand exactly what’s included. Often, issues arising from normal wear and tear are excluded from coverage.

Early intervention can reduce costs

Addressing minor issues quickly can prevent them from escalating into major repairs. Regular home maintenance, like routine plumbing inspections, gutter cleaning or HVAC system checks, can help you catch problems early, reducing long-term costs.

Create a sinking fund for home costs

Setting up a dedicated savings account specifically for home-related expenses ensures you’re prepared when unexpected costs arise. Experts generally recommend setting aside between 1% to 3% of your home’s value annually. If your home is valued at $300,000, this translates to saving between $3,000 and $9,000 per year.

Compare quotes from multiple service providers

When faced with a major repair, request estimates from several contractors. Prices can vary dramatically between providers, and reviewing multiple quotes ensures you’re getting a fair price and helps you better understand the scope of work required.

Research legal aid options

If your home repair involves another party, such as a neighbor, the city or a contractor, knowing where to find legal assistance can be critical. Local legal aid societies, homeowner advocacy groups or a real estate attorney can provide guidance and representation if needed.

Finally, make sure you understand what your homeowner’s policy covers. Depending on the nature of the repair, your home insurance may cover some or all of the expense.

Being proactive in financial and home management strategies can save you significant time, stress and money in the long run.

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A 38-year-old father is navigating an all-too-common balancing act of full-time work, single parenting and, now, caregiving for his mother.

After a fall and early signs of dementia, his 73-year-old mom moved in. While he’s not in a financial crisis, the pressure is mounting. Between work, caring for his 6-year-old son and supporting his mom, he’s not sure how he’ll manage the situation.

On the financial side, he has to decide whether he should rent or sell his mom’s vacant condo. And emotionally, he needs advice on how to set boundaries with his mother without feeling guilty. He’s also feeling isolated as most of his friends aren’t in his situation, yet.

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His story isn’t unique. According to the Pew Research Center, a third of all Americans — and half of Americans in their 40s — are finding themselves part of the “sandwich generation” that cares for both children and parents at the same time.

Here’s what to know if you’re in a similar spot.

Find support for aging parents

Caring for a parent with early-stage dementia can be overwhelming — but you don’t have to figure it out alone. The first step is to tap into local, state and federal resources that can help reduce both your workload and out-of-pocket costs.

Start by contacting your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA). Every state has one, and these agencies can help you build a care plan, connect you with adult day programs and explain what in-home services might be available. You can search for yours at Eldercare.acl.gov or by calling 1-800-677-1116.

Next, research Medicaid and Medicare programs. (Medicare helps aging Americans while Medicaid helps low-income Americans — your parents may be eligible for one or both.) The Medicaid waiver program, for example, can help cover in-home care costs. Some of these programs even allow family members to be compensated for caregiving, which could help if you decide to reduce your hours or shift your work schedule in the future. Searching "Medicaid waiver programs [your state]" should point you in the right direction.

If you’re considering selling or renting your mom’s vacant condo to fund care, consult with an elder law attorney first. Medicaid has strict rules about assets and income, and the timing of a sale could affect eligibility and costs. An attorney can also help with important legal documents, like advance care directives or a power of attorney — both crucial while your mom is still in the early stages of cognitive decline.

Finally, organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association and AARP offer free resources, like caregiver support groups, toolkits and financial guides, that can help you understand what to expect as your mom’s needs evolve. These resources can help you connect with others in similar situations — and remind you that you’re not alone.

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Shore up your finances

As a caregiver and a parent, it’s easy to put yourself last. But just like on a plane, where we’re directed to put on our own oxygen mask before assisting others, protecting your financial stability is key. It’s not just for your own future, but also for your ability to keep supporting your family.

Track what you’re spending

Start by building a simple monthly budget that reflects your new reality. Include fixed expenses (like your mortgage), flexible spending (like groceries), and expected caregiving costs. Track these for a few months to get a clear picture of where you may need to adjust.

Build an emergency fund

Try to build your emergency fund slowly and consistently. The standard recommendation is saving three to six months of expenses — but your needs may be more depending on your caregiving responsibilities. Even setting aside $50 a month can help you weather unexpected costs without draining savings. If your mom’s condo eventually generates rental income, consider earmarking part of that toward this fund.

Look for tax breaks that can ease the financial burden

The IRS may allow you to claim your parent as a dependent if you provide more than half of their financial support, and you might also qualify for the Child and Dependent Care Credit if you’re paying for adult day services. A tax professional can help you find benefits you might be eligible for.

Look for financial planning support

When it comes to long-term planning, remember that you don’t have to do it alone. A fee-only financial advisor or a local nonprofit that offers free financial counseling can help you weigh the pros and cons of selling assets, applying for Medicaid and balancing short-term expenses with retirement savings.

Remember, protecting your financial and mental health is not selfish — it’s essential. Communicate clearly with other family members (if any are involved), and don’t be afraid to ask for help or delegate responsibilities. Caregiving is a marathon, not a sprint, so try to build a plan that works for everyone — including you.

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

With Trump’s 25% tariffs on imported cars now in effect, car shoppers are scrambling to get into a new vehicle before prices climb even higher.

Walnut Creek Toyota in California sold 70 cars the weekend before the tariffs took hold April 3, fueled by promotions warning, “The tariff clock is ticking.”

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"All the dealerships all over the Bay Area are seeing this increase in sales right now," the dealership’s general manager Irina Ellis told ABC7 reporters.

Additional tariffs on imported auto parts are due by May 3, triggering would-be car buyers to accelerate their search — though it may already be too late.

How will tariffs impact car prices?

Experts say the new 25% import tax on foreign-made cars will result in higher sticker prices overall, including for used vehicles.

"We anticipate cars impacted by this, prices that are impacted by this will likely see a 15-20% increase in price. Vehicles that aren’t directly impacted by this may be 5% off the bat just from rising demand and used car prices we expect to go up as well," said Erin Keating, executive analyst with Cox Automotive.

That could translate to an average increase of $6,000 for imported vehicles and $3,600 for locally made vehicles — plus an extra $300 to $500 due to tariffs on steel and aluminum, Cox estimates.

Even cars already on ships or trains got hit with price hikes as soon as they reached port, with buyers asked to cough up thousands more than originally quoted. An ABC7 reporter was told her own order would go up by as much as $5,000 to $10,000.

Trump has framed tariffs as a way to bring back American jobs and reduce trade deficits.

"If you make your car in the United States, you’re going to make a lot of money. If you don’t, you’re going to have to probably come to the United States, because if you make your car in the United States, there is no tariff,” Trump said in an interview with NBC.

While the moves have already shut down factories in Canada and Mexico, U.S. workers who supplied parts for those factories are being laid off as a result. And vehicles made locally will soon be affected by the coming tariffs on imported car parts.

Even if the industry is able to adjust, experts warn that price increases may be permanent.

"Once you let that genie out of the bottle, it’s virtually impossible to pull it back," said Keating.

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How to budget for price increases when car shopping

If you’re worried about getting priced out of the car market, here are a few smart strategies to manage the new normal:

Consider buying used cars

Used car prices are expected to rise, but they’re still likely to be cheaper than new models hit with full tariff increases. Models that are already on lots or were assembled before the tariffs took effect may offer the best deals in the near term.

Delay the purchase for a few months

Nothing is certain, but if you can wait a few months, you may avoid buying during peak demand. Tariff policies are volatile and may shift again depending on public and industry pressure.

Fix your current vehicle

Investing in repairs or routine maintenance may be more cost-effective than trading in your car right now. Even big-ticket repairs could cost less than the inflated price of a new vehicle.

Shop around for better rates

Interest rates are still relatively high, but some lenders may offer promotional deals or financing options that can soften the blow of higher prices. Compare offers from credit unions, banks and dealer financing.

Look for other ways to cut costs

If you do decide to buy, try to offset the cost by trimming other expenses. Shop around for cheaper car insurance, ditch non-essential monthly subscriptions or refinance other debt to free up room in your budget.

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

Claudette Merchant was doing what millions of parents do every day — grocery shopping for her kids. But when she got to the checkout at her local H-E-B, her Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) card was declined.

She had received her monthly deposit — nearly $700 — just hours earlier, but by lunchtime, nearly all her funds were gone.

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“I said, you got to be kidding me,” Merchant told KPRC 2. “$5 on my card. I thought he meant $500, but $5. That’s crazy.”

With just a few dollars left on her card and three kids to feed, the Houston single mom says every day has been a struggle.

"I’ve been scammed,” she told KPRC 2. “It’s hard for single parents, especially single mothers that don’t have help like they’re supposed to.”

Why can’t the funds be replaced?

Unfortunately, the SNAP funds cannot be replaced — even though they were taken without her permission through no fault of her own.

Merchant is among the many victims of “SNAP skimming,” a growing type of electronic theft in which criminals install hidden devices on card readers to steal card numbers and PINs. Once the information is cloned, they can wipe out an account in minutes.

Until recently, stolen SNAP funds could be reimbursed under a federal protection program — but that law expired on Dec. 20, 2024, and Congress has not renewed it. That means any benefits stolen after that date — including Merchant’s — are not eligible for replacement unless the state sets up its own replacement program. Texas has not.

“It sounds like you’re not getting that money back,” KPRC 2 reporter Gage Goulding told her.

“Nope. And that’s wrong, and that’s why it’s so much fraud — because no one’s doing nothing about it,” Merchant replied.

Merchant has since canceled her old card and ordered a new one, as advised by Texas Health and Human Services. But that doesn’t solve the larger issue: how to feed her children with almost no funds for the month.

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How to protect your SNAP benefits — and what to do if you’re scammed

SNAP provides monthly food assistance to low-income households. In Texas, funds are loaded onto a Lone Star Card, which works like a debit card at grocery stores. Households can receive anywhere from roughly $300 to nearly $2,000 per month, depending on income and family size, according to Texas Health and Human Services.

However, as electronic theft rises, protecting those benefits has become a major concern.

Here are some ways SNAP recommends you protect your account — and what to do if you’re targeted.

Never share your PIN

State officials will never ask for your PIN, and neither should store clerks, friends or anyone outside your household. Only share your PIN with trusted adults who live in your household.

Be wary at checkout

Check card readers for loose parts or hidden devices often used for phishing — tug slightly to see if anything moves. If you see wires or if the card reader moves or comes apart, don’t use your card. When entering your PIN, use your hand or body to shield others from seeing it.

Change your PIN every month

Set a reminder to change your PIN each month. The USDA recommends changing it the day before your benefits are expected to be deposited. That way, if phishers have your current PIN, they won’t be able to access the funds.

Report fraud immediately

If your card is compromised, contact your local SNAP office right away. Cancel the card and request a new one. States can use their own funds to replace stolen benefits, so check in your area before assuming they won’t be replaced. Even if benefits can’t be reimbursed, reporting the incident helps officials track skimming trends and locations.

How to access food if your benefits are stolen

Start by contacting your local food bank, which may offer emergency groceries or prepared meals. Community organizations, churches and mutual aid groups can also provide short-term support.

If you’re on social media, look for “Buy Nothing,” “Food Not Bombs” or other neighborhood support groups where members often share food or supplies. These steps won’t replace the stolen funds, but they can help you get through a tough time while you explore your options.

What to read next

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• ‘Liberation Day’ just triggered a 60% chance of a US recession, warns JP Morgan — use these ‘anti-shock’ money hacks to protect yourself ASAP

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

Not so long ago, Mario Kelly was homeless and sleeping in his van in Detroit, parked outside the kind of expensive homes he dreamed of owning one day.

Now the self-made millionaire lives in one of those homes, and was featured as 2024’s Entrepreneur of the Year in Beautiful + Machine Magazine.

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He tells his story — and how it all started with a $6,500 fixer-upper and $27 worth of cleaning supplies — in his book, The $27 Millionaire.

From homeless to high-value entrepreneur

Kelly shared his story with Fox 2 Detroit.

Once married with a job at Ford, Kelly eventually found himself divorced, unemployed and living in his van. He told Fox 2 that what kept him going was his belief in a better future.

One day, he noticed police placing an abatement notice on a run-down house, warning of hazards inside. Kelly learned more about problems with the home and believed he could tackle them himself.

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He tracked down the owner and bought the home for $6,500. Room by room, he fixed it up, building skills along the way. He soon put those skills to work on a larger scale.

While touring a Shinola factory, Kelly overheard an employee complain about the poor job their current cleaning service was doing.

Seizing the moment, Kelly said he had a cleaning company. In fact, all he had was $27 worth of cleaning supplies. He landed the Shinola cleaning contract and 313 Cleaning was born.

"I’m the cleaning guy," he said. "My whole journey started with cleaning, so let’s show them where it started at, where the $27 started at."

In 2021, Kelly realized businesses were struggling to find workers. He launched Believe 313 Staffing, a company that gave second chances to people who, like him, were once down on their luck.

Now he’s venturing into AI, promoting an AI-powered personal assistant.

Apply this self-made millionaire’s approach

Mario Kelly is sharing his story as a powerful reminder that anyone — regardless of background — can move toward financial independence with a combination of grit, self-confidence and resourcefulness.

Be open to new opportunities

Kelly didn’t wait to be “ready.” He leaned into opportunity, even if it meant figuring the details out later. New industries are opening up every day, for example in AI, e-commerce and content creation. If something sparks your interest, start learning and see where it leads.

Find ways to fill gaps in the market

The key to every business Kelly built? Solving someone else’s problem. He listened closely, noticed what was missing and then offered a solution. From poor cleaning services to companies struggling to hire, he turned unmet needs into new revenue. Look for ways you can fill gaps and solve other people’s problems.

Focus on people, not perfection

Kelly hired those who often get overlooked — people who spent time in the criminal justice system, people with gaps in their work history — and built a team around shared values and work ethic. Business isn’t just about strategy; it’s about people. Whether you’re hiring, selling, or networking, treat others with empathy and respect.

Mario Kelly didn’t wait for the perfect moment. He made the most of the moment he had. His path wasn’t linear. He failed. He improvised. But he kept moving forward.

Whether you’re chasing financial freedom or simply looking to start something new, his story is proof that with belief, action and a little hustle, big change is possible.

What to read next

• 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
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• Do you rely on your monthly Social Security check to get by? Here are 5 simple money moves for American seniors during Trump’s presidency

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

For more than 100 years, roads and bridges in Washington state have been paid for with gas taxes. But thanks to more fuel-efficient and electric cars, the tax revenue is declining, says House Transportation Committee Chair Rep. Jake Fey.

In a press release, he noted that gas tax revenue funds more than a third of the state’s transportation budget ($1.3 billion annually), and without action gas tax revenue will decline by over 70% by 2050, leaving roads significantly underfunded.

Fey’s new proposal is to charge car owners an annual fee based on the mileage of their vehicles. This alongwith a nine-cent increase to the state gas tax is part of the House $15.2 billion transportation budget proposal.

“It’s easy to collect," Fey said to King 5. "It’s easy to get the information on miles per gallon."

The proposed fee would not apply to cars that get less than 25 miles per gallon — meaning vehicles that use more gas will not be charged the fee, since they already pay more in gas taxes.

What could this mean for Washington drivers?

Fey’s proposed per-mile fee would only apply to cars with more efficient engines — not plug-in hybrids or electric cars, which pay an annual registration fee. Traditional hybrids would no longer have to pay the $75 hybrid registration fee. Instead, they would be subject to the new Highway Use Fee.

For example, a car that gets 26 miles per gallon would be charged about $7 per year in fees. A vehicle with 50 miles per gallon efficiency would pay $94 annually, according to KING 5.

“This is going to start in addition to the gas tax, which is also going to be raised, so there are some concerns there,” said Rep. Andrew Barkis, the top-ranking Republican on the House Transportation Committee, to King 5. “But if this is a model that over time can morph into a road usage charge that replaces the gas tax, this is a good model.”

Despite his support, Barkis ultimately voted against the transportation budget proposal, saying he’d prefer to see the state use sales tax from car purchases or the Climate Commitment Act to pay for road repairs.

The Washington House and Senate must now negotiate and reconcile their transportation budgets to reach a final agreement before the end of the legislative session on April 27.

While the proposed Highway Use Fee might not break the bank, it comes at a time when many Washington residents are already feeling the pinch of rising car-related costs.

Washington already has one of the highest gas taxes in the country at 49.4 cents per gallon and this may go higher. Auto insurance rates are climbing across the country, and drivers are also paying more for repairs, parts, and vehicle registrations. When viewed together, these incremental increases can put additional strain on household budgets.

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

Through back surgery, a stroke and heart attack, one San Jose couple has been making due without a home in which to recover. Now, thanks to interim housing built by the city, they’re able to move indoors, grateful for comforts they’ve not had in a decade.

“I’m glad we have a bathroom. It’s rough out there,” resident Charlotte told CBS News as she and partner Robert toured their unit.

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The city just opened this largest of seven interim housing communities, and plans to open more. The building is the most significant step the city has taken yet — able to house more than 200 people — and is located at the site of an old encampment.

“This was a site of frustration, of anger, of fear … of hopelessness, frankly,” San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan said on move-in day.

“I can’t believe this transformation.”

Community reactions to the initiative

The city of San Jose is working hard to help unhoused people and limit where they encamp.

“I spoke to a lot of the folks in the tents who said ‘I don’t know where to go. You can abate me, but where am I going to go?’ Just down the railroad tracks, right?” Mayor Mahan said. “And, that’s what’s so powerful about this model.”

The city fast-tracked this latest site by using prefab, modular buildings that allowed the development to open in just under two years.

When asked during the groundbreaking in 2023, area resident Robyn Estrada said the development would likely benefit their community.

"It’s great they are using the exact land that the homeless were on anyways, in an official way. In a way that neighbors won’t think it’s an eyesore," Estrada told CBS News at the time.

Jaime Navarro spoke at the groundbreaking in 2023. He’d spent nine years living on the streets before moving into a similar temporary housing community.

"I’m able to hold down a job. I work at Chevron. That’s all I needed was a little bit of help,” Navarro said.

“To have a warm meal and to take a shower. That was a lot for me man, you know?"

As CBS News reports, San Jose is also developing tiny homes as part an interim housing initiative to provide housing for its more than 6,000 residents who are homeless.

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How housing initiatives impact your property taxes

There are two ways housing initiatives like these could impact property taxes — by raising property values, which can increase taxes, and by funding for the projects. So, could your community’s good deeds hit your pocketbook? Probably not, say experts.

The Urban Institute, which performed a study in Alexandria, Virginia, found that affordable units are associated with "a small but statistically significant increase in property values of 0.09% within 1/16 of a mile of a development, on average — a distance comparable to a typical urban block."

A less than 1% increase in property values is unlikely to increase property taxes significantly.

Karen Nemsick, director of the Housing Justice Initiative for United Way Bay Area, calls the idea that affordable housing lowers a community’s value or raises taxes a "myth." In a recent post on the United Way Bay Area website, she shared the following:

• This housing shortage in major metropolitan areas costs the American economy about $2 trillion a year in lower wages and productivity. … Researchers estimate the growth in GDP between 1964 and 2009 would have been 13.5% higher if families had better access to affordable housing. This would have led to a $1.7 trillion increase in total income, or $8,775 in additional wages per worker.

But who is paying for these initiatives? ​Funding for these types of projects often comes from a mix of local tax revenue, state grants or bond measures, which can lead to shifts in tax rates.

According to the mayor, San Jose’s interim housing project at Branham Lane and Monterey Road is funded through a combination of state, local and philanthropic contributions that cover construction as well as a reported $6 million annual operating cost.

The California Department of Housing and Community Development’s Project Homekey program awarded a $51.8 million grant to support the project. The City of San Jose invested $38.8 million, while Santa Clara County contributed $4 million. Additionally, John A. and Sue Sobrato Philanthropies donated $5 million toward the development.

While initiatives generally aim to reduce long-term costs by decreasing emergency services and health care expenses associated with homelessness, the immediate financial impact on residents varies depending on how the city funds the projects. Engaging at the local level can help residents minimize the effect on their local taxes.

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Customers across Knoxville were left without their cars — or their money — after trusting auto shop owner Jason Beeler with costly repairs, according to WATE 6 On Your Side.

Beeler, the sole operator of Affordable Automotive Repair, is under investigation after police found more than a dozen vehicles in his locked shop, many of them untouched despite advanced payments.

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Several customers said they were strung along for months with excuses, and some claimed Beeler even refused to return their cars when they asked for them back. One even prepaid $10,000 for repairs they never received.

“I have the receipts and everything,” said Kevin Villatoro, who hadn’t seen his 2002 Honda sports car since early 2024.

By this point, customers just needed answers.

What did authorities do?

After receiving multiple complaints, Knoxville Police obtained a search warrant and had the building manager unlock Affordable Automotive Repair’s garage. Inside, investigators found over a dozen vehicles in various states of disrepair. Some engines had been removed; others appeared untouched.

Among the cars was Len Nymeyer’s 1964 Ford Thunderbird. He paid Beeler $8,000 in January and hadn’t seen his car since.

“I’m hoping it is in the building, but I don’t know,” Nymeyer said before the search. His car’s engine hadn’t been touched, according to WATE 6 News.

John Kohlman’s 1967 Pontiac Grand Prix was also in the shop for a front-end repair. Beeler said it would take two weeks. But five months later, during the police search, officers found the engine had been removed.

Police documented each vehicle as part of their ongoing investigation. In some cases, parts were found scattered across the shop floor. Erasto Abalos had waited two years for an engine rebuild on his 1956 Ford — only to discover the engine in pieces.

“He kept saying it would be ready in two weeks,” Abalos told reporters.

Beeler was charged in March with three felony counts unrelated to his auto repair business and is currently in Knox County Jail. Detectives are expected to conclude their investigation soon, which will determine whether additional charges related to the alleged repair fraud will be filed.

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How to avoid getting scammed by repair shops

Stories like these are unsettling — especially for busy car owners who may not know the warning signs to watch for. Here are a few ways to protect yourself from shady shop owners.

Ask for a written estimate before agreeing to repairs

Always request a written estimate that includes parts, labor and potential additional costs from a licensed shop. This gives you a baseline for comparison and can help you dispute charges later if something feels off. If the bill seems high, consider taking the vehicle to a second repair shop for another opinion.

Ask for an explanation of the repairs

Trustworthy mechanics will take time to explain the repairs, show you the issue and won’t pressure you into immediate service. Ask for the specific diagnostic code or the part that’s causing the problem. If a mechanic can’t explain the issue clearly — or seems evasive or rude — it’s a sign to find another shop. The mechanic’s explanation will also help you learn more about your vehicle — which could save you from unnecessary repairs in the future.

Learn about car mechanic red flags

Be wary of pushy upsells, especially on services like fluid flushes or premature brake pad replacements. Dishonest mechanics might pull out a dirty air filter (that may not be yours) and tell you it’s urgent to replace it, or claim to find a cracked hose or damaged part caused by their inspection.

Research prices before you go to the shop

The more you know about your car’s symptoms — like odd noises, warning lights or performance issues — the better. Research common fixes and average costs ahead of time. Being informed gives you leverage and helps you spot inflated estimates or unnecessary repairs.

Not every mechanic is out to scam you, but the ones who are often count on customers being uninformed. Doing your homework and asking the right questions can go a long way in protecting your vehicle — and your wallet.

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Scammers have left many Illinois residents unable to feed their families after stealing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, reports CBS News Chicago. SNAP provides monthly food benefits to low-income households to help fund groceries, but over the past two years, criminals have siphoned off millions.

From October 2022 to December 2024, scammers stole nearly $21 million in SNAP benefits from more than 38,000 households across Illinois through almost 124,000 fraudulent transactions.

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"My family and I can’t buy groceries this month," one victim wrote to CBS News.

Another Chicago victim said they checked their balance and found $1,039 was stolen from their EBT card in six separate transactions after someone used their benefits hundreds of miles away at a deli and grocery store in New York.

“I am not the only victim," she wrote. "When the clerk gave me the report to file she said this has been severe since 2022."

But how are thieves getting away with it?

How does the fraud happen?

Much of the fraud stems from skimming, a tactic where scammers use hidden devices to copy EBT card data during a transaction.

“Skimming is a big part of the SNAP EBT fraud,” James Morley of the U.S. Secret Service Chicago Field Office told CBS News. "You could have criminals in another state or another country that are getting that data real-time as it’s being captured."

These skimming devices, often installed on payment terminals at stores, can transmit card data via Bluetooth to criminals in real-time — sometimes in other states or even countries.

The core issue is that most EBT cards still use magnetic stripes, not the chip-enabled security found in modern debit and credit cards. That leaves them vulnerable to data theft with a single swipe.

"What I don’t understand, though, is how in the world when the entire world switched to chip-enabled cards over a decade ago, why the food stamp program didn’t do the same thing," said Haywood Talcove, CEO of Government Business for LexisNexis Risk Solutions.

The fraud isn’t just ongoing — it’s accelerating. In 2024 alone, thieves made off with $12.5 million, accounting for 57% of all fraud losses since Illinois began tracking the problem, reports CBS News. Worse still, stolen benefits are no longer reimbursed. The federal reimbursement program ended in December 2024, leaving victims on their own.

Some states are taking steps to prevent EBT card fraud. California has rolled out chip-enabled EBT cards, and Oklahoma plans to do so soon. Chips use tokenization, which makes it nearly impossible for fraudsters to skim the information.

Illinois is participating in the USDA Mobile Payment Pilot program instead, set to launch later this year. This program allows people to add their EBT card to their mobile wallet and then tap to pay at checkout. While this program may be more secure, it requires users to have a smartphone, which could be a barrier for SNAP recipients who don’t own or regularly use smartphones.

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What can you do to prevent SNAP fraud?

Unfortunately, since federal reimbursements ended in December 2024, there’s no guarantee your stolen funds will be replaced. Some victims, like a Chicago man who lost $698 in under a minute, say they’ve been told to wait until next month’s benefits.

"IDHS isn’t replacing any of the benefits for the month. They are just giving people new cards, telling them to wait until next month’s benefits," he wrote to CBS News.

The best way to prevent SNAP fraud is to be alert and proactive. If your state is offering chipped SNAP cards, request a replacement. Otherwise, you can:

• Block out-of-state transactions
• Turn your card off after making a purchase
• Block internet transactions

If you think your funds have been stolen, take immediate action, and:

• Contact your state’s EBT provider or local health services office right away to report the theft.
• Request a new EBT card as soon as possible.
• Monitor your EBT account regularly for suspicious or unauthorized charges.
• Document everything, including the date and amount of stolen funds, and where the transactions occurred.

U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky of Illinois says she’s working to change the lack of reimbursement.

“I have heard from constituents who have had their benefits stolen and have not been reimbursed…I will not back down. I plan to continue to work with my colleagues in the state legislature to ensure all Illinoisans can access their benefits,” she said in a statement.

In the meantime, many Illinois families are left waiting — and wondering how they’ll put food on the table.

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