Consumer World

Our new survey of a dozen top retailers' return policies has just been released. Most stores continue to have extended holiday return periods into January so there is no need to wait in those long lines the day after Christmas. Contrary to various media reports, none of the mass merchandisers and retail chains in our survey imposed new or increased fees to return online purchases by mail.

Year-End Tax Saving Strategies

There are still some moves you can make to limit your April 15th tax bill. Here are last minute tax savings tips from Fidelity Investments and from Forbes.

Consumer World Original

Mouse Print* -- Skimpflation Hits the Medicine Counter: Cough Syrup Strength Cut in Half

[A new Mouse Print* story will be published on January 2nd.] If you haven't checked the dosing instructions on your "Tussin DM" store brand cough syrup lately... surprise! Major store brands are finally catching up to the change that Robitussin made several years ago. They are cutting the active ingredients in half, thus requiring you to take twice as much as previously. That is our Mouse Print* story this week.

Final Week
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For 27 years, Consumer World has served readers with the latest consumer news, money-saving tips, and independent investigations. It is your generosity (and not advertising alone nor corporate support) that keeps this site and Mouse Print* available as free consumer resources. So MrConsumer turns to you and humbly asks for your support again this year. Your gift will be most appreciated.

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5 "Secrets" to a Longer, Better Life

Up to age 80 or so, longer life is mostly due not to genetics, but to environmental factors including healthy behaviors. The formula for maximizing our health can be as straightforward as getting off the couch, eating right, connecting with others, and avoiding hazards.

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Bargain of the Week

Christmas Clearance

Don't just settle for 50% off during after Christmas sales. Stores like Target raise their discount next to 70% off and then to 90% off if anything is left. (Last year, nothing was.) And all that happens during this week and next weekend. Expect drugstore discounts at some chains like Rite Aid to go to 70-75% off by January 2 or earlier. Lowe's is already offering 75% off Christmas lights (in stores that have any left).

Good News for AT&T $300/yr Prepaid Customers

If you signed up for AT&T's prepaid cell service for $300/yr over a year ago, the company is now doubling your data allowance for free to 16-gigs from 8-gigs, and you still get rollover data. At the equivalent of $25 a month, this is a hard to beat deal directly from a major carrier. And 5G is now included. Check your account page for the upgrade notice. New subscribers can visit AT&T Prepaid for details.