Can you spot the fake? fairfaxcounty / Flickr

This is a post by BargainBabe.com writer Yazmin Cruz.

Even if you’re not in the market for designer bags or clothes, knowing how to spot counterfeit merchandise is a must to avoid getting duped. This is especially true since common targets include cosmetics, perfumes, computer software, jewelry, and more! The latest issue of ShopSmart lists tips to learn how to spot a fake and what to do if you’re sold inauthentic merchandize. I summarize them below.

Beware of too-good-to-be-true deals. Seems obvious, but many fall for the “bargain.” Finding products at steep discounts can be a sign that it’s a fake.

Become a counterfeit detective. Research online to see what the differences are between the real and fake product. Trust me, there are some dead giveaways for some of these things. Many designers have information on their websites about detecting and avoiding knock-offs, so start there.

Skip shopping online. There’s just no way to inspect products before they arrive and you have to rely on photos that may be phony. If you like the convenience of shopping online, it can be done, but it takes a few more steps.

Check out a sellers reputation. Unless, you are shopping on a trusted retailers website, check the seller’s reputation. A quick search for the seller’s name and words like “rip-off” or “complaints” can spare you a headache later on. If you’re shopping on sites like Amazon and eBay, consider the seller’s ratings.

Use an escrow. ShopSmart suggests using an escrow service like Escrow.com where your payment will he held until you can inspect the merchandise. Skip this step by using sites like eBay that promise to refund your money if you end up with counterfeit products.

Swipe your credit card. One of the best ways to protect yourself is to use plastic. Like this you’ll be able to dispute charges.

If you end up with a fake, here’s what to do:

Demand the real thing. By law you’re entitled to the real thing. The retailer’s return policy doesn’t apply.

Get your money back. If you can’t get the real thing, you’re legally entitled to a refund.

File a complaint. Let authorities know you were sold a fake by contacting your state consumer officials.

Have you ever been sold fake merchandise?

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This is a post by BargainBabe.com writer Yazmin Cruz.

Right smack in the middle of a fancy schmancy dinner I received a text meant to swindle me out of money. On our way home I checked my phone and found the text, at right. I had received the Walmart text scam that’s been going around.

There were red flags all over this thing. For one, I am not a Walmart shopper. Though it was my birthday, I knew it wasn’t my lucky day as I hadn’t entered any giveaways. The biggest clue this was a scam was the number. It was a regular 10-digit number instead of the usual shortcodes used by legitimate companies.

I was just going to delete the text when my sister’s phone began vibrating.

“It’s the same text,” she said.

Remember Julia saying it was scary when she thought she was a victim of identity theft? Well, I was more annoyed than anything. I hate spam when I receive it in my inbox and now, it’s being delivered to my phone. Darn!

“Ok, let’s report it.”

This type of scam has come to be known as “Smishing” and is occurring more often. If you receive a fraudulent text, report it. It only takes a couple of minutes. Here’s what to do:

Forward the text to the shortcode 7726 (which spells “SPAM”). You’ll then receive an automated message from your wireless carrier, asking you to enter the phone number from which the spam text was sent.

This will allow mobile carriers to investigate and block senders. You can see my exchange with AT&T above. Don’t forget to follow these other six steps to keep your personal information safe.

If you have been defrauded, you may want to contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at http://www.ftc.gov, or the Consumer Protection Division of your state’s Attorney General’s office.

Echo9er / Flickr

I subscribe to your daily emails.  I live in CA and I’m going to Washington, DC soon.  I was looking online for Night Tours of DC and found a great deal on a site called “Kgb Deals”.  They appear to be a Groupon like company.  Have you ever heard of them or done business with them?  I tried to research online and one guy said they were not legit.  There really wasn’t a lot of info about them, but they have supposedly been in business for a long time.

Thanks for your time and I LOVE your daily emails!

Debbie

kevin dooley / Flickr

This is a post by BargainBabe.com writer Yazmin Cruz.

Reader AliceB is puzzling over a Target purchase where she expected to get a bonus gift card, but didn’t. She left the comment below on one of our drugstore freebies and deals post. She wrote:

Last week I thought there was a $5 gift card from Target when you bought a Scrubbing Bubbles One Step Toilet Bowl Cleaner Starter Kit — when I purchased it, I was told that it was not eligible for the $5 gift card.

TobiasMik / Flickr

This is a post by BargainBabe.com writer Yazmin Cruz.

Reader Asia wants to sell her furniture online. She’s looking for a website to safely get rid of items in her home. Asia writes:

Hi,

Previously I noticed on your website that there is a website if you want to exchange household items for use by others in your area. I was wondering if you know a website (other than Craigslist) where I can safely sell my furniture.

Thank you,
Asia

Asia, I suggest you try eBay. It’s similar to Craiglist, but people will bid on the items you post. If you’re on Facebook and Twitter, make sure to post your listing in case your friends and followers are interested. A quick search online revealed several sites to sell furniture, but I’ve never used used the sites so I’m hesitant to suggest them. If you decide to go with any of these websites, make sure you can post your listing for free.

If you’re not set on selling your furniture online, consider donating the furniture to your local Goodwill and then writing it off your taxes next year. You can also search online for local furniture stores that buy used furniture. This will help you get rid of items sooner instead of waiting around to answer inquiries. Share your suggestions for Asia below.

Got a question or tip? Shoot me an email.

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GoodNCrazy / Flickr

This is a post by BargainBabe.com writer Yazmin Cruz.

A recent story in Time Moneyland analyzed a study that found parents are terrible financial role models. The study reveals only half of the 1,008 parents surveyed regularly set aside money to save. That’s definitely not behavior kids should be imitating! Parents also said it’s easier to talk to their children about drugs, smoking, and bullying than money. I share tips below to help you talk to kids about money.

1. Use teachable moments – Though I’m not a parent I have a younger sister who I look after and try to instill good money habits. The trips to the mall, grocery store, and ATMs are always a good conversation starter. Try to talk to your kids about money decisions without sitting them down to have a talk.

2. Be an example (even if it’s not a good one) – One of the main reason parents don’t talk to kids is because they feel they’re not qualified to hand out financial advise, the study found. I’ve muttered the saying do as I say and not as I do a few times. Even when I’ve messed up like charging my coffee on my credit card, my bad example has helped my sister realize there are consequences. Sometimes they’re costly and sometimes it means you just can’t afford a new pair of jeans. I casually mentioned – er – complained about paying interests. This got the conversation rolling and she now knows credit cards are not free money.

3. Don’t lie about money – Older kids know when they’re being lied to and this brings up issues. They may think you don’t trust them or worst that you don’t think they can handle the truth. Keeping kids in the loop about your family’s finances will make it easier on you when they start asking for expensive items. Note: You don’t want younger kids to worry about money so reveal as much as they can understand for their age.

4. Set goals as a family – Get your kids involved in planning and saving for family trips and college educations. This will help them understand how much goes into organizing a fun activity and preparing for college.

5. Let them get a job – My first job taught me a lot about money and what I wanted to do in the future. Allowing your child to get a part time job when they are old enough can help you teach them about managing their money. If you’re able to give your kids an allowance the same is true.

Finally, if you don’t feel confident about your financial literacy don’t shy away from seeking help. Ladies, this is particularly important as kids turn to mom first to talk about money, according to the study. Who does your child turn to when it’s time to talk about money? How do you teach your kids about money?

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Neil T / Flickr

This is a post by BargainBabe.com writer Yazmin Cruz.

The April 2012 issue of ShopSmart, published by Consumer Reports, points out five scenarios that can get consumers in trouble when using their debit card. The story made me realize I’ve become careless. I summarize the dos and don’ts of staying safe when you use a debit card below. How do you keep safe when using your debit card?

The dont’s.

• Using your debit card for big online purchases. Guilty! Though, I’m not making big purchase. I recently bought a subscription to Bon Appetit and used my debit card. I haven’t received the mag and it’s been a while. A credit card gives you more protection and they can intervene when things go wrong. We’ve told you before that your liability for fraudulent charges on your credit card is lower than debit cards. You can lose up to $500 using a debit card if you don’t report the theft or loss of your card within two business days. Yikes!
• Using your debit card at a restaurants. Since the use of debit cards increased, I’ve heard many stories of people getting their card information stolen while dinning at restaurants. The reason is because you hand your card to a stranger and don’t know what’s going on when they leave the table.
• Don’t use an obvious PIN. I know, I know. You’ve probably heard this before, don’t use your birthday as your PIN. But how long has it been since you’ve changed it? Change it regularly.

The dos.

• Save receipts. Double check that the amount is accurate when your statement arrives. Pounce on errors to correct them.
• Sign up for online banking. I have my banks app on my iPhone and it lets me track every purchase at real time. I don’t have to wait for my statement to arrive to check for errors.
• Use your banks ATMs only. Not only will this help you cut down on the bank fees, but it cut’s down the risk of getting your info stolen.

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401K / Flickr

This is a post by BargainBabe.com writer Yazmin Cruz.

This past weekend I did my taxes and found out I owe Uncle Sam a nice chuck of change. Thankfully, I prepared for this by stashing away money. If you find yourself in this predicament without any savings, I share five tips to pay off your tax bill below.

1. Take a deep breath and face the situation head on. Avoiding your tax bill will only lead to penalties that will end up costing you more in the long run. The IRS can also go after your assets and wages if you attempt to avoid them.
2. Filing an extension is not the solution. An extension only extends the time to file your tax return and not the time to pay your taxes.
3. Figure out what payment options are available to you. You can set up an installment plan with the IRS, or you can pay using a credit card – but it will cost you! You’ll have to pay interest with both options. Make sure to do the math to see which will cost you less. There is also a $43 fee when entering into an installment plan with the IRS. Another option to consider is borrowing money from a relative or friend.
4. Buy yourself some time. Pay as much as you can when you file and then wait till the IRS sends you a bill. Keep in mind that interest and penalties continue to accrue on the unpaid balance, but if money will be coming in soon, this may be the option for you.
5. Settle with the IRS. This option may save you a lot of money, but it will take time and there is a $150 fee. Along with an application, financial statements and other paperwork must be turned in. This option is not for haggling a lower tax bill, but to come up with an agreed amount to pay.

Will college eventually be free? Credit: Will Folsom

This post is brought to you by Event Management Degree.

I was wide awake at 2 a.m. with my new baby, Lucy Ellen, when a story on my iPhone about free online college classes caught my eye. The classes are free, and job recruiters pay for leads to top grads. Sounds like a winning formula to me.

Could this model of higher education be the answer to the crushing cost of college? Something my husband and I are now thinking about. (A friend told us he’d saved every month and the account for his daughter, now a senior in high school, won’t even cover one semester of college. So much for a 529 plan!)

I’m not talking about online degrees, which can cost as much as attending a school with a physical campus. No, these so-called Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) are taught by professors from A-list schools like Stanford, MIT, and the University of Virginia, according to a recent story in the New York Times. The MOOCs are not accredited but garner credibility from their teachers.

Students across the world are signing up by the hundreds of thousands. The courses are limited to science, math, and technology, including anatomy, cryptography, game theory and computer programming. Sound familiar? Previously, we blogged about MIT’s free online courses, which have been around for years and are one of many free educational tools homeschoolers use. The New York Times story says:

“We’re going to have detailed records on thousands of students who have learned these skills, many of whom will want to make those skills available to employers,” said Mr. Evans, the Virginia professor. “So if a recruiter is looking for the hundred best people in some geographic area that know about machine learning, that’s something we could provide, for a fee. I think it’s the cusp of a revolution.”

Is it a revolution?

As a parent, it’s certainly exciting to think that I may be able to give my child a college education for free. College is expected to cost a half million dollars in 18 years, and I don’t even know if we’re going to be able to save enough to retire!

Will the Internet force colleges, like so many other industries, to become more competitively priced?

M+M Photographers / Flickr

This post is brought to you by Mediation.com where you can find mediation lawyers.

This is a post by BargainBabe.com writer Yazmin Cruz.

Lets face it, many of us do not want to confront the inevitable, but we all eventually kick the bucket. A will protects your family and assets, and creating one does not have to cost you thousands of dollars. Below are four affordable ways to create a will.

Note, I am not a lawyer and this is not intended as legal advice. When it comes to legal matters, consult an attorney.

1. Draft it yourself – If you’d like to create your own will, make sure to do some research before starting. I found Nolo.com helpful when researching information about wills. Creating a simple will is best for those who are under 50 years of age and do not expect to leave assets valuable enough to be subject to estate tax. Expect to pay estate taxes if your taxable estate is worth more than $5.12 million for 2012 deaths. Price: Free
   
2. Websites – A quick search online and you’ll find all sorts of websites that can help you create a will. Look for one that is state specific so the document you create includes information required by the state you live in. I found some of these websites to be similar to tax software. The website will ask you questions and you respond to customize the will. The ones with fees usually included the option to get attorney support. Free – $80
3. Software – Low-priced software is another option that allows you to sit down and create a will. Quicken WillMaker Plus is one of them. I haven’t used this software, but I consider it to be trustworthy as it is from Quicken, the same company that has money management software. The software is similar to the websites I mentioned in option No. 2 and will guide you through the process of creating a will. If you decide to go for the software, make sure to check the system requirements. Quicken software is only for windows users. Price: $40 – $70
4. Hire an attorney – This option is best for anyone with a complicated will, including having control over their property after death, a child with a disability, estate taxes due after death, children from a previous marriage, or fear someone might contest the will. A lawyer will be much more expensive, but you’ll rest assured knowing thing are in order. The attorney should be willing to begin with a free consultation, and he or she should give you an estimate of the total cost before you hire them. Make sure the lawyer can practice in your jurisdiction. Two benefits that come along with hiring an attorney are he or she can make sure that your will is executed (which an online service can’t do) and they can also keep a copy of your testament for safe keeping. Price: A few hundred to a few thousand dollars

This is one of those times where it’s worth paying for competent legal advice to make sure you end up with a valid will that does what you want it to do. What do you think? Would you create your own will or pay to make sure it’s valid?

fayehuang / Flickr

This is a post by BargainBabe.com writer Yazmin Cruz.

Reader Sharon has a tip and question for all of us.

Was wondering if anyone else has had trouble with EBates automatically issueing cash back credits? I have spent more time and aggravation dealing with this, and all is rectified now, but just wanted to warn others to keep track of what they purchase through EBates, and make sure they get credit where credit is due!

We want to know as well. Have you had trouble getting your cash back? I do very little online shopping. When I do shop online, I use Ebates. I haven’t had any problems so far. After every purchase I’ll go back to make sure I receive credit. It usually takes 24 to 72 hours for the site to reflect the cash earned.

Got a hot tip? Email us.

THEMACGIRL* / Flickr

This is a post by BargainBabe.com writer Yazmin Cruz.

A couple of days ago, I bought what I thought would be a yummy cake from Whole Foods. It was stale. I was torn between complaining and letting it go.

I had paid $43 for a pumpkin sponge cake with cream cheese frosting that looked delish in the display case. I was splurging for a get-together.

When it was time to cut the cake, I had a hard time getting the knife through it. UGH! I was so disappointed and embarrassed.

So why did I hesitate to complain? I didn’t want to be drag. With the holidays in full swing it seemed like an inopportune time. I was simply too busy with other things and I knew the same was true for the store’s manager.

Then I remembered Bobbi’s post about speaking up when the service was bad. After thinking of the best way to let them know about my discontent, I sent an email to the store’s customer service.

I got all the facts straight. Price. Time. Date.

I was polite, but not in a grossly obsequious way.

I was direct about how I wanted the matter to be resolved. I asked for my money back.

I also asked for a response to my email.

Within an hour from sending the email, I received an apology along with instructions to call the store at a convenient time. The manager I spoke to seemed genuinely concerned and told me to drop by the store’s front desk when ever possible.

Here’s what I wrote:

I frequently shop at this Whole Foods location and I’ve had many good experiences including great customer service and finding quality products. On Friday evening, I bought cake from your bakery that was subpar. I paid $43. I don’t know if it sat on the display for days, but it was stale. Needless to say I am not satisfied with my purchase and would like to get my money back. I know it’s a really busy time for you, but I’d appreciate a response to my email at your earliest convenience.

His response:

I’m really sorry. Please call me. My name is David (I’ve erased his last name and number.) I want to make it up to you.

Almost a week later, I dropped by the store and got my money back plus a $50 gift card. According to the cashier who returned my money, I received the $50 gift card because the manager was impressed by how I handled the situation.

I’m not going to lie, I was astonished by what a simple thought out email got me. Have you ever complained? What happened?

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Is it safe to buy appliances from an outlet? Credit: Editor B/Flickr

Jeannie is not sure she can trust an appliance outlet store. What do you think?

Dear Julia, Love your site. Question for you or the readers: we need a new dishwasher and Consumer Reports recommends 2 Whirlpool models in our price range. I did “Bargain Babe” due diligence in looking around for a great price and came across the Whirlpool Outlet store, which claims it has brand new products. But how do I know I can trust them?

Their site looks legit, but they’re based in the Midwest and we’re on the East Coast, so it makes me wonder if I’d be better off paying a little more and buying from a brick-and-mortar store, which feels so 1990s to me! Any advice you could offer would be great! Thanks, Jeannie

Jeannie, I would check a few things off my list before making a major purchase from an online retailer you are new to.

1. Is the site a manufacturer site for Whirlpool, or just a reseller?

2. Does the site have an address and phone number listed for customer service?

3. When you call the customer service phone number, do you get a legit response?

4. What is the site’s return policy? Does it seem reasonable to you?

5. Is the price on this Whirlpool Outlet ridiculously lower than anything else you’ve seen? I know the Sears “scratch and dent” store 45 minutes from my home sells appliances 40-70% off, but they are a legit branch of Sears that sells damaged items. We bought a freezer there and have been very happy with it.

Here are 12 more indicators that an online retailer might be fraudulent.

What do you think Jeannie should do?

MCalatayud / Flickr

This is a post by BargainBabe.com writer Yazmin Cruz.

I was sitting in the dentist chair looking into the light when he told me exactly what I didn’t want to hear.

“You need a root canal.”

Ouch! The thought of having the dentist drill my molar was not as painful as wondering how much this was going to set me back.

I immediately began blaming myself. If only I hadn’t put off

going to the dentist, or had actually sat down to research and purchase insurance. I was going to get to it, eventually.

It just happened out of the blue. There was no pain. I was having toast and cereal for breakfast and felt a hard piece in my mouth.

“Eww, what’s in this cereal?”

I’ll spare you the yucky details. It was a piece of my molar. I found out after running my tongue and feeling a sharp edge.

After freaky out, I texted my dad. He directed me to go to the dentist.

“If it’s not that big, they’ll probably just patch it up,” he said.

That’s how my Friday morning started. By the end of the day, I was so thankful I had at least been diligent enough to put money away in an emergency fund.

So how much is it going to cost me? $1,400. Not bad considering the bill started at $2,800 for the root canal, two fillings and deep cleaning.

I managed to negotiate a lower price by offering to pay cash upfront. It also didn’t hurt that my little sister recently got her braces with their orthodontist.

This shrunk my emergency fund and left me feeling irresponsible. It also left me wondering if I should have taken the money from my budget or savings (as a form of punishment as a percentage is for fun) instead of my emergency fund.

You see, although necessary and urgent, I’m having doubt about whether it’s an emergency as there is no pain or blood just a lot of worrying and extensive Google searches about broken teeth and root canals.

Where would you have taken the money from?

Related posts:

Should I dip into savings to meet my budget?
Your question: Affordable health insurance options?
Cash v. credit: easier to save money with paper or plastic?

Top 10 most shoplifted items below. Credit: kate*/Flickr

This list of the Top 10 most shoplifted items of the season was compiled by Yahoo! and based on info from AdWeek. Yahoo says that “one in every 11 people walks out the door with at least one item they didn’t pay for.” That is truly shocking. More stats:

• Shoplifting is up 6% this year
• Retailers will lose about $119 billion of merchandise to shoplifters in 2011
• 75% of shoplifters are adults, most of whom have jobs

The top 10 items most stolen items are not what you would think! My guesses included iPods, kids toys, and clothes. Yahoo says (my comments in italics):

1. Filet mignon – So many people are tucking choice cuts of meats under their jackets that supermarkets are now considered the stores with the most theft. No way.

2. Jameson – Those with an unquenchable thirst for booze just help themselves to a free bottle of expensive liquor. Isn’t that why liquor bottles have that bulky black plastic cap?

3. Electric tools – Apparently the the most common items men nab are electric toothbrushes and power tools. At least they’re fighting cavities.

4. iPhone 4 – Electronics like smartphones and video games are high risk items, and one research group claims 100,000 laptops are stolen annually from big box stores. How exactly does one walk out of the store with a stolen laptop?

5. Gillette Mach 4 – Anyone who uses non-disposable razors knows they’re pretty expensive, so in tough financial times people don’t want to pay for them anymore. No wonder they keep these behind the counter!

6. Axe- The men’s deodorant and body wash we love to hate are often stolen in mass quantities and resold at flea markets and corner stores. Dial is popular amongst thieves too.

7. Polo Ralph Lauren – Clothing theft is up 31% since 2009. It’s hard to look good in a bad economy, so some score fresh threads the illegal way.

8. Let’s Rock Elmo – The Sesame Street toy topped the Toys ’R Us “Hot Toys” list this year, so parents are stealing this must-have toy for their kids if they can’t afford it. That’s sad. But remind me of a story I heard on NPR yesterday about mall santas lowering kids’ expectations.

9. Chanel No. 5 – Who wouldn’t love a bottle of this popular woman’s fragrance? Expensive perfumes make up nearly four percent of loss in stores that carry them.

 10. Nikes – As Ad Week points out, some shoppers wear flip-flops into a store, try on a pair of sneakers, and walk out wearing them. Sneaker heads will do whatever it takes to score the kicks on their wish list.