ConsumerAffairs News

How to save money at IKEA: The playbook for furnishing your home without blowing your budget

Kyle James — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 21:30:28 +0000

The IKEA savings tricks most shoppers completely miss

June 4, 2026

Join IKEA Family and hit the As-Is section: The free membership unlocks exclusive discounts, while the As-Is area often has furniture marked down 20%70%.
Watch for yellow tags: Yellow price tags often signal clearance, member pricing, or discontinued items that may not be restocked.
Shop smarter, not bigger: Skip most decorative accessories, use room displays for ideas, and compare prices before furnishing an entire room in one trip.

IKEA has a reputation for being affordable and compared to many traditional furniture stores, that's certainly true.

But what most shoppers don't realize is that there are actually two ways to shop at IKEA.

The first is the way most people do it. They wander through the showroom, fall in love with a few room displays, grab a cart, eat some Swedish meatballs, and spend far more than they planned.

The second way is how savvy IKEA shoppers approach the store. They know where the clearance deals are hidden, how to use IKEA Family benefits, when markdowns happen, and which products offer the best value for the money.

The difference can easily be hundreds of dollars on a single shopping trip. Here's how to do it.

Join IKEA Family before you buy anything

If you're shopping at IKEA without joining IKEA Family, you're leaving money on the table. The program is completely free and unlocks a bunch of great perks. I highly recommend you take a couple minutes and sign-up.

Members receive the following:

Special member pricing
Exclusive discounts
Free coffee or tea at many locations
Product protection benefits
Occasional coupons and offers
Discounts on select services

Also, many items throughout the store have separate IKEA Family prices attached to them that can be significantly lower than the regular shelf price.

Pro tip: Before visiting IKEA, always be sure to log into your account and check current member offers. The reason is because some discounts never appear on the regular sales floor.

Head straight to the As-Is section

Veteran IKEA shoppers already know the As-Is section of the store is where the best deals live, and youll typically find it by the checkout area and store exit.

The As-Is section (sometimes called Circular Hub) is where returned items, discontinued merchandise, floor models, opened boxes, and slightly damaged products end up.

Discounts often range from 20% all the way up to 70% off. Personally, I've seen bookshelves with tiny scratches discounted by $100 or more simply because the box was opened. The best deals are usually on large furniture items like a sofa, dining set, and bookshelf.

The key is to shop this area when you first enterIKEA. This is because if you find what you came for, your entire shopping trip changes and youll save a ton of money.

The key is to make sure all the hardware and assembly pieces are included. If you notice some hardware is missing, ask an employee as they often have replacement parts available for free.

Pro tip: Look beyond any small cosmetic flaws and look for structural damage. Pass on anything structural that you dont want to spend the time fixing. But a small dent on the back of a cabinet, or a torn box, will often results in a huge discount for damage nobody will ever see.

Don't buy everything in one trip

This might be the least IKEA thing you'll ever hear, but resist the urge to furnish an entire room in one visit.

Many IKEA products cycle through promotions, member discounts, and clearance markdowns throughout the year. So, if you aren't in a rush, save your favorites to your online shopping list and monitor prices for a few weeks.

Patience can often save you 10% to 30%. This is especially true for larger purchases like dining tables, dressers, storage systems, and home office furniture.

Learn the yellow tag system

Not all IKEA price tags are created equal. In particular, savvy shoppers pay close attention to the yellow tags.

Yellow tags often indicate the following:

Temporary markdowns
Member pricing
Clearance merchandise
End-of-line products

When you see a yellow tag combined with a low inventory notice, that's often a sign that a product may not be restocked. In those situations, waiting can sometimes mean missing the deal entirely.

This is one of the few times where impulse buying at IKEA can actually save you money.

Use IKEA for the expensive stuff and skip the accessories

Dont make the common mistake of spending hours comparing sofa prices at IKEA and then casually toss 15 small decorative items into your cart.

If you do this, youll notice that often the accessories end up costing as much as the furniture.

Its a fact that IKEA's furniture often provides tremendous value. But dont throw away that value by also buying a bunch of over-priced decorative accessories.

Here are the items worth buying:

Shelving systems
Storage solutions
Bookcases
Dressers
Desks
Basic furniture

Conversely, the items worth price-checking elsewhere include candles, decorative baskets, artificial plants, throw pillows, and seasonal dcor. Those impulse purchases are where budgets quietly fall apart if youre not paying attention.

Always look up your closest IKEA before you go

Before you head to your closest IKEA, be sure to look up your store details on their website. By doing so, youll find out about any discount days that are specific to your IKEA.

For example, my closest store is in Sacramento, and by looking up that location, I discovered that I need to plan my trip on a Wednesday. Thats the day where they offer IKEA Family members an extra 10% off when shopping the As-Is department, as well as 5% off all Shop & Go purchases.

Every location is slightly different and not every store has discount days, but you never know until you check.

Use Lowes kitchen design consultation

Lowes offers a free in-store or virtual kitchen consultation where a designer will help you create a detailed kitchen layout, including cabinet sizes, measurements, and countertop dimensions.

You can then take that plan and price out comparable IKEA products, potentially saving thousands of dollars compared to buying everything directly through Lowe's.

Even if you have no intention of buying cabinets from Lowe's, their free design service can save you hours of measuring and planning while giving you a professional blueprint to use at IKEA.

Use IKEA's room displays as a shopping hack

Most shoppers see the various room displays as inspiration only, but frugal shoppers see them as research.

In particular, pay attention to how IKEA combines storage products, lighting, furniture, and the clever small-space solutions.

By paying close attention, you'll often discover cheaper ways to solve a problem than the solution you originally planned.

For example, a $40 shelving system might accomplish the same thing as a $200 piece of furniture. That's not just saving money, that's shopping smarter.

Pro tip: Im a big fan of taking photos of the room displays you like, rather than buying stuff in the displays immediately. Then review your pics at home, in peace and quiet, and decide then what you actually need after the excitement wears off.

Smoke isn’t just smoke: What researchers found in air after neighborhood fires

Kristen Dalli — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 16:28:07 +0000

New study suggests urban fire smoke may contain more harmful chemicals than expected

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

June 4, 2026

Researchers found that smoke from fires burning through neighborhoods contained elevated levels of toxic metals, chemical compounds, and other pollutants.
Standard air-quality measurements suggested pollution levels were acceptable, but the composition of the particles told a different story.
The findings highlight the importance of understanding what is burningnot just how much smoke is in the air.

When wildfires sweep through forests, the smoke they produce is largely made up of burned vegetation. But what happens when fires move through neighborhoods filled with homes, cars, electronics, and other manufactured materials?

A new study from researchers at Rutgers University examined air and ash samples collected during the 2025 Los Angeles fires and found that smoke from these so-called wildland-urban interface fires may contain a much more complex mix of pollutants than traditional wildfire smoke. The research suggests that commonly used air-quality measurements may not tell the whole story when communities burn

The findings come at a time when more people are living in areas where developed neighborhoods and wildfire-prone land meet, increasing the likelihood of these types of fires.

I do not want the message to be simply scary, lead study author Jos Guillermo Cedeo Laurent said in a news release The point is that if we want to understand the risks, we need to know the composition of the particles, not just the amount.

In a wildland-urban interface fire that burns both urban and wild areas, you are not only burning trees. You are burning cars, batteries, wiring, metals, plastics and building materials.

The study

The research team collected air and ash samples near the Eaton Fire in Pasadena, California, during January 2025.

They analyzed the material for a range of contaminants, including metals, volatile organic compounds, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and PFAS, often called forever chemicals.

The findings

One of the most notable findings was that traditional air-quality readings appeared relatively normal. Average levels of fine particulate matter remained below the federal 24-hour standard. However, the particles themselves contained unusually high concentrations of potentially harmful substances.

Researchers found elevated levels of toxic metals in ultrafine particles tiny particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs. These metals were roughly 30 times higher than typical Los Angeles levels.

The study also detected PAHs at about 10 times normal concentrations and found benzene-related compounds at levels nearly five to 13 times higher than typical urban background measurements. Ash samples also contained metals, PAHs, and PFAS.

What this means for consumers

The study does not determine how these pollutants affect human health, and the researchers caution that their analysis was limited to one location over a short period. Still, the findings suggest that relying solely on standard air-quality measurements may underestimate the potential hazards associated with neighborhood fires.

For consumers, the key takeaway is that the source of smoke matters. Smoke produced by burning homes, vehicles, batteries, wiring, plastics, and building materials may carry a different mix of pollutants than smoke from vegetation alone.

These fires leave a chemical legacy, Cedeo Laurent said. To protect communities, we need monitoring and cleanup strategies that reflect what burned, not just how much smoke was measured."

Could AI be making it harder to think for yourself? New study raises questions

Kristen Dalli — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 16:25:29 +0000

Researchers found short-term gains from AI use, but independent performance suffered afterward

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

June 4, 2026

A new study found that AI assistance improved performance in the moment but reduced problem-solving ability once the tool was removed.
Researchers observed the effect after just 10 to 15 minutes of AI-assisted work on math and reading tasks.
The findings suggest that how people use AI may matter, with hints and clarification appearing less problematic than asking for direct answers.

Artificial intelligence has quickly become part of everyday life. People use AI tools to write emails, answer questions, brainstorm ideas, and even help with school or work assignments. While these tools can save time and make difficult tasks feel easier, new research suggests there may be a downside to relying on them too heavily.

Researchers from several universities, including Carnegie Mellon University, the University of Oxford, MIT, and UCLA, wanted to understand what happens when people use AI for reasoning-intensive tasks and then have to continue without it.

Their findings suggest that AI can boost performance in the short term, but that benefit may come at a cost when users are later asked to work independently.

The study

The study focused on two abilities that are important for learning and problem-solving: persistence, or the willingness to keep working through a challenge, and independent performance, meaning how well someone can complete a task without assistance.

The research involved more than 1,200 participants across a series of randomized experiments.

In one experiment, participants solved fraction-based math problems. Some completed the work on their own, while others were given access to an AI assistant for about 10 minutes before the assistance was unexpectedly removed.

The results

Not surprisingly, the AI-assisted group performed better while the tool was available. However, once the AI was taken away, their performance dropped noticeably.

Researchers found that participants who had relied on AI solved fewer problems correctly and were more likely to skip questions altogether than those who never had access to AI in the first place. Similar patterns appeared in reading-comprehension tasks.

The researchers also discovered an important distinction. Participants who used AI mainly to obtain direct answers experienced the largest declines. Those who used the tool more as a tutor asking for hints, explanations, or clarification did not show the same level of impairment.

What this means for consumers

The findings do not suggest that AI is inherently harmful or that people should avoid using it. Instead, the study highlights the importance of how these tools are used. According to the researchers, AI may be most beneficial when it supports learning rather than replaces the thinking process altogether.

For consumers, the takeaway may be simple: use AI as a guide rather than a substitute. Asking for explanations, examples, or feedback could help reinforce understanding, while relying on AI to provide complete solutions may make it harder to develop and maintain problem-solving skills over time.

The researchers note that their experiments measured short-term effects, not years of AI use. Still, because the changes appeared after only a brief interaction with AI, they say more research is needed to understand what frequent, long-term reliance on these tools could mean for learning, persistence, and independent thinking.

Pet ownership is getting pricier — but most Americans say it's worth every penny

Kristen Dalli — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 16:23:41 +0000

As costs for food, supplies, and veterinary care climb, pet parents continue to prioritize their furry companions

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

June 4, 2026

The cost of pet ownership continues to rise, with the lifetime cost of a medium-sized dog now exceeding $39,000 and the average cat costing more than $32,000.
Despite higher prices for veterinary care, food, and supplies, most pet parents consider their pets' needs essential and are willing to make personal financial sacrifices to cover those costs.
Experts say pet owners can help manage expenses by adopting instead of buying, considering an adult pet, choosing breeds with lower long-term costs, and taking advantage of rewards programs, coupons, and bulk purchases.

From higher veterinary bills to rising prices on food and supplies, owning a pet is becoming more expensive for many Americans.

Rover recently released its 2026 Cost of Pet Parenthood Report, which found that the lifetime cost of caring for a medium-sized dog now tops $39,000, while cat owners can expect to spend more than $32,000 over their pet's lifetime.

Yet despite growing financial pressures, pet parents say the rewards far outweigh the costs.

ConsumerAffairs spoke with Philip Tedeschi, a human-animal connection expert with Rover, who described the powerful bond between people and their pets. While many households are adjusting budgets and looking for ways to save on pet-related expenses, most continue to view food, veterinary care, and other pet needs as essential spending.

The report offers a closer look at how Americans are balancing rising costs with their deep commitment to the animals they consider part of the family.

Pet care costs are increasing

Tedeschi broke down the primary factors that are causing increased pet care costs:

Increased veterinary fees: Have continued to rise beyond the national inflation rate.
Tariffs: Have pushed prices on everything from pet food to gear and accessories higher.
More advanced vet care: The veterinary industry is seeing rapid innovation, including improved diagnostics, advanced imaging, specialized surgeries, and chronic disease management that more closely mirrors human healthcare. While these advances improve quality and length of life for pets, they also raise operating costs for clinics and pet parents.
Inflation: Rising costs affect rent, utilities, wages, fuel, and insurance all of which impact veterinary clinics, manufacturers, and retailers magnifying price increases when layered on top of rising medical complexity and global trade costs.

Pet owners making trade offs to care for their pets

Despite these rising costs, many pet parents arent looking to cut back on their pets needs. Rovers study found that more than half (56%) of pet parents say pet food, supplies, and veterinary care would be the last thing they cut back on.

To make ends meet, half of pet owners in the survey said theyre cutting back on dining out, four out of ten are reducing unnecessary shopping, and more than a quarter are delaying a large purchase, like a new car. Another quarter of pet parents have delayed personal financial goals, like savings and debt repayment.

The decisions about financial prioritization tell another compelling story about the importance of these relationships, Tedeschi said. Our pets offer love and support, which can significantly reduce feelings of loneliness. Research has shown that these relationships also can reduce stress and anxiety dramatically improving mood and a sense of wellbeing and stability.

Our pets are also an integrated part of our wellness strategies, including improved levels of cardiovascular health and of a routine form physical activity and social support.

Strategies to save

Pet costs are high, but there are always ways to save or decrease spending. Tedeschi offered some of the best tips for pet owners to consider:

Costs vary significantly based on breed, size, and health conditions. Smaller dogs are generally less expensive over time.
The age of the dog you bring home makes a massive difference. Puppies need a lot of shots and checkups, and they are more likely to get into mischief, such as swallowing a sock or a toy, in their first year. Adult dogs typically only need annual check-ups as part of their preventative care routine.
Where and how you get your dog is another huge price difference. Adding a specific breed to your family, instead of adopting, can be exponentially higher, and adoption fees often include many of the up-front costs, such as the spay/neuter surgery, a microchip, and the first round of vaccinations.
Change how you shop. Pet parents are increasingly using rewards programs, buying in bulk, using coupons, and switching regular pet products to more affordable alternatives.

Cheap summer fun for kids who can't stop saying 'I'm bored'

Kyle James — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 16:13:54 +0000

Before you pay for camp, try these budget-friendly ideas

By Kyle James of ConsumerAffairs

June 4, 2026

Skip the pricey camps: Parents spend nearly $900 per child on summer activities, but many of the best memories are made for free.
Use local freebies: Libraries, outdoor movies, free concerts, and kids' workshops can keep children busy all summer long.
Let kids be bored sometimes: Bike rides, sprinklers, scavenger hunts, and backyard camping often beat expensive entertainment.

Summer can get expensive really fast. Between costly camps, sports, amusement parks, and other organized activities, a recent survey found that parents spend nearly $900 per child during the summer months.

But before you spend hundreds of dollars trying to keep your kids entertained, experts say some of the best summer memories can be made for little or no money at all.

Here are some of the best free and low-cost summer activities families should consider.

Start with your local library

If there's one place parents shouldn't overlook this summer, it's the public library.

Many libraries offer free summer reading programs complete with prizes, special events, guest performers, science demonstrations, and other family-friendly activities.

A library card can also unlock benefits many families don't realize exist, including free streaming services, digital books, audiobooks, museum passes, and educational resources.

On a hot summer afternoon, it can be one of the cheapest forms of entertainment available.

Look for free community events

Many cities and towns offer free summer programming that often flies under the radar.

These can include:

Outdoor movies in the park
Free concerts
Community festivals
Museum free-admission days
National Park fee-free days
Discount movie programs for kids

Checkyour city's parks and recreation websiteor Facebook page, and see what you can add to your summer calendar without spending much money.

Pro tip: Create a "boredom jar." Fill a jar with free activity ideas like scavenger hunts, bike rides, water balloon games, and library trips so kids can choose their own adventure when boredom strikes.

Bring back the backyard classics

Not every summer activity needs a big ticket price.

Some of the most memorable summer activities are also some of the cheapest especially since you can repeat the ones your kids love every week or two:

Sprinklers and water play
Sidewalk chalk
Scavenger hunts
Homemade obstacle courses
Bug hunts and nature walks
Backyard camping

These activities cost little but can keep kids occupied for literally hours on end.

Turn the kitchen into an activity

Cooking can be both entertainment and educational for kids this summer.

Parents can encourage children to make their own lunches, help bake cookies or treats, create homemade popsicles, or even plan a family dinner.

The cost is quite minimal, but the life skills can last for years.

Take a simple day trip

A memorable family outing doesn't require expensive airfare or hotel reservations.

Many families can create a mini-adventure by packing sandwiches and visiting a nearby state park, hiking trail, small town they've never explored, or a local beach or river.

Oftentimes the biggest expense is simply a tank of gas, which while not cheap these days, sure beats airfare or a hotel.

Don't overlook free kids programs

Several national retailers and organizations offer free or low-cost activities throughout the summer.

Popular examples include:

Many families are surprised to discover how many community programs are available once they start looking.

It's OK for kids to be bored

Perhaps the most important lesson for parents is that every hour of summer doesn't need to be scheduled.

Child development experts have long noted that unstructured play encourages creativity, problem-solving, and independent play.

While it's tempting to fill every day with organized activities, some of the best childhood memories often come from the simplest experiences. A sprinkler, a bike ride, a library card, and a little imagination may go a lot further than many parents realize.

Social Security insolvency is coming, and every state will be affected

Mark Huffman — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 14:27:08 +0000

Without action, average benefits will decline by $500 by 2032

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

June 4, 2026

A projected Social Security insolvency in 2032 would trigger an automatic 24% benefit cut under current law, reducing monthly retirement benefits by an average of about $500 nationwide.
Every state would be affected, with estimated average monthly benefit reductions ranging from $459 to $556.
Retirees in Connecticut, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Delaware, and Maryland would face the largest average monthly cuts.

No state would escape the effects of a looming Social Security funding crisis, according to a new report from the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget (CRFB). The report warns that millions of retirees could face substantial benefit reductions if lawmakers fail to address the program's finances before its trust fund is exhausted.

The report, No State Spared: Mapping the Impact of Social Security's Insolvency, examines how a projected insolvency of the Social Security retirement trust fund in 2032 would affect beneficiaries across the country. Under current law, benefits would have to be reduced by an estimated 24% to align payments with incoming payroll tax revenue.

CRFB estimates that the average monthly benefit cut would total about $500 nationwide. The organization notes that amount exceeds what the average retired household spends on groceries in a month.

Why where you live matters

The projected reductions would vary by state, largely reflecting differences in benefit levels. According to the report, average monthly cuts would range from $459 to $556. Connecticut retirees would experience the largest average reduction at $556 per month, followed closely by New Jersey ($554), New Hampshire ($553), Delaware ($549), and Maryland ($541).

Other states facing some of the largest average cuts include Washington, Minnesota, Massachusetts, Michigan,and Utah, each with estimated reductions exceeding $520 per month.

Social Security currently provides retirement benefits to roughly 63 million Americans and serves as a primary source of income for many older households. The report argues that the program's financial challenges are no longer a distant concern, noting that less than seven years remain before projected insolvency.

Call to action

The CRFB, a nonpartisan fiscal policy organization, is urging Congress and the White House to act sooner rather than later. The group warns that delaying reforms could leave policymakers with fewer options and increase the likelihood of abrupt benefit reductions for current and future retirees.

The report includes state-by-state estimates and interactive maps designed to illustrate how insolvency could affect beneficiaries and local economies nationwide. Its central conclusion is that the consequences would not be limited to a handful of states or regions.

No state would be spared from the potentially devastating effects of insolvency, the report concludes, adding that policymakers should enact changes as quickly as possible to avoid across-the-board benefit cuts.

Ford recalls nearly 420,000 SUVs over seat belt defect

Mark Huffman — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 14:25:02 +0000

2018 to 2022 Ford Expeditions and Lincoln Navigators are affected

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

June 4, 2026

Ford is recalling nearly 420,000 SUVs because defective seat belt retractors may increase the risk of injury.
The recall affects certain 2018-2022 Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles.
Ford says dealers will inspect and replace affected seat belt retractors free of charge.

Ford Motor Co. is recalling nearly 420,000 SUVs because a defect in the front seat belt system could increase the risk of injury during a crash.

The recall covers approximately 342,283 Ford Expedition and 77,684 Lincoln Navigator vehicles from model years 2018 through 2022, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The affected vehicles are equipped with seat belt pretensioners that may inadvertently lock the driver's or front passenger's seat belt while the engine is running.

NHTSA said the malfunction can prevent the seat belt from extending or retracting properly. Although the primary locking function of the belt remains operational, a seat belt that cannot move freely may fail to restrain occupants as intended during a crash. In some cases, the defect may also cause rapid seat belt retraction that could injure occupants.

What happens next

Ford will instruct dealers to inspect the seat belt retractors and replace them as necessary at no cost to owners. The automaker plans to begin mailing owner notification letters on June 8, with a second notification expected once replacement parts become available, which Ford anticipates will occur in August.

The recall expands and replaces two previous Ford recalls with NHTSA campaign numbers 24V099 and 25V197. Vehicles that were previously inspected or repaired under those recalls will still require the updated repair.

Ford has reported one injury potentially related to the defect, along with two warranty claims and two field reports. No fatalities have been reported.

Owners can contact Ford customer service at 866-436-7332 and reference recall number 26S34. Vehicle owners can also check whether their SUV is affected by entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at NHTSA's recall website.

US gasoline stockpiles are falling at a record rate

Mark Huffman — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 12:25:34 +0000

Federal data show inventories are 5% below their five-year average

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

June 4, 2026

U.S. gasoline inventories have been running below seasonal norms, raising concerns as the summer driving season gets underway.
Lower supplies do not automatically mean higher prices, but they leave the market more vulnerable to refinery outages, storms, or unexpected demand spikes.
Consumers could see greater price volatility at the pump in the weeks ahead, especially in regions that already face tight fuel supplies.

U.S. gasoline supplies have been shrinking in recent months, a trend that energy analysts say bears watching, as Americans head into the peak summer travel season.

According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), gasoline inventories have spent much of the spring below their five-year average, reflecting a combination of strong demand and tighter supplies. In late May, gasoline stocks had fallen for 15 consecutive weeks and stood roughly 6% below seasonal norms before posting a modest rebound in the latest weekly report.

Even after that increase, inventories remained about 5% below the five-year average for this time of year.

The decline has attracted attention because gasoline inventories serve as a cushion against supply disruptions. When stockpiles are low, markets have less flexibility to absorb unexpected events such as refinery outages, hurricanes along the Gulf Coast, or spikes in consumer demand.

Record rates of declines

Recent reports have focused on the pace of inventory declines. A Forbes analysis described the drop in U.S. gasoline inventories as occurring at a record pace, raising concerns about refinery capacity and fuel availability during the busy summer driving season.

Gasoline supplies are closely linked to oil supplies, which have also been rapidly declining during the Iran War. ExxonMobil senior vice president Neil Chapman recently warned about global oil inventories, suggesting oil prices could top $150 a barrel before the end of the summer.

Were approaching unheard-of inventory levels, Chapman said at a conference hosted by Bernstein, and reported by the New York Post. You can debate whether thats going to hit those really low levels in two weeks or three weeks. Once you get to that point, then youll see the price shoot up.

Consumers should brace for volatility

For consumers, the most immediate impact could be increased volatility at the pump. Gasoline prices are determined by several factors, including crude oil prices, refinery operations, taxes, and distribution costs. While crude oil prices have recently fluctuated amid global geopolitical developments, tight gasoline inventories can amplify price increases when markets face supply pressures.

Regional differences are also likely. Areas that rely heavily on imported fuel or have limited refining capacity, such as parts of the West Coast and Northeast, can experience larger price swings when supplies tighten.

Still, there are reasons consumers should not panic. U.S. refineries are operating at high utilization rates, and the latest EIA data showed a 3.4 million-barrel increase in gasoline inventories after weeks of declines. That suggests refiners are responding to seasonal demand and may be able to rebuild stockpiles if operations remain stable.

The key question for motorists is whether refiners can keep pace with summer demand. If inventories continue to recover, gasoline prices could remain relatively stable. If stockpiles resume their decline, however, drivers may face higher prices and greater uncertainty at the pump as the summer travel season reaches its peak.

Paying cash? You’re subsidizing the rewards that credit card users get

Mark Huffman — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 12:23:08 +0000

Harvard study finds cash and debit card users pay $30 billion more than credit card users

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

June 4, 2026

A new Harvard study estimates that credit card interchange fees transfer about $30 billion annually from cash and debit card users to credit card users.
Researchers found the payment system creates a regressive wealth transfer, with lower- and middle-income households effectively subsidizing rewards earned by higher-income consumers.
The study concludes that consumer sorting and lower fees negotiated by large merchants reduce the size of the transfer but do not eliminate it.

Paying with cash or a debit card will definitely prevent you from running up an unmanageable credit card bill. Theres nothing wrong with that.

However, a new study from researchers at Harvard University, Stanford University, Northwestern University, and Georgia State University concludes that America's payment system redistributes roughly $30 billion annually from cash and debit card users to consumers who use rewards credit cards.

The study, "Who Pays for Payments?", examined payment data from approximately one million U.S. merchants and found that interchange fees the charges merchants pay when customers use credit cards are largely passed through to consumers in the form of higher retail prices.

Because merchants generally do not charge different prices based on payment method, all shoppers help cover the cost of those fees. If you pay with cash or a credit card, you dont get any kind of break. However, shopping with a cashback credit card gives that consumer a slightly lower price.

"All consumers pay higher retail prices, but the users of high-interchange-fee credit cards capture most of the rewards," the authors wrote.

The researchers estimate that the resulting cross-subsidy transfers about $9.2 billion annually from households earning less than $150,000 per year to higher-income households, who are more likely to use rewards credit cards and premium cards with richer benefits.

Loss of purchasing power

According to the study, cash users effectively lose about 96 basis points of purchasing power because of interchange fees, while users of regulated debit cards lose about 47 basis points. By contrast, users of basic and premium rewards credit cards gain approximately 54 basis points in purchasing power through rewards funded by merchant fees.

The researchers compared the impact to a hidden tax. They estimate that interchange fees have an effect similar to increasing sales taxes for cash users by about 16% and for regulated debit card users by about 8%, while effectively reducing sales taxes for credit card users.

However, the study challenges the conventional view that every cash or debit user is equally subsidizing every rewards cardholder. Researchers found that consumers often shop at different types of merchants depending on their preferred payment method. High-income consumers who use premium credit cards tend to shop at merchants frequented by similar customers, reducing the amount of cross-subsidization.

In addition, large merchants such as grocery chains and major retailers often negotiate lower interchange rates or receive sector-specific discounts. Because these merchants are also where shoppers using different payment methods are most likely to overlap, the lower fees reduce the amount of redistribution that occurs.

The study estimates that consumer sorting reduces the annual transfer by about $8.6 billion, while merchant fee discounts provide an additional $1.7 billion benefit to cash and debit users. Together, those factors cut the size of the transfer by roughly 25%, though they do not eliminate it.

Synear Foods recalls 71,603 pounds of soup dumplings

Mark Huffman — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 12:20:40 +0000

The product contains an undeclared peanut allergen

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

June 4, 2026

Synear Foods USA is recalling about 71,603 pounds of frozen pork and crab soup dumplings because the products contain undeclared peanut, a major food allergen.
The recalled dumplings were distributed to retailers in California, New Jersey, and Washington and were also exported to Canada.
Federal officials say no illnesses or allergic reactions have been reported, but consumers are urged not to eat the products and to discard them or return them for a refund.

Synear Foods USA is recalling approximately 71,603 pounds of frozen pork and crab soup dumpling products because they contain peanuts,a known allergen that is not listed on the product label. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced the recall on its website.

The company is recalling frozen, not-ready-to-eat pork and crab soup dumplings produced between Oct. 15, 2025, and Feb. 23, 2026. The recall was classified as a Class I recall, the agency's highest-risk category, indicating a reasonable probability that use of the product could cause serious adverse health consequences or death in people with peanut allergies.

According to FSIS, the problem was discovered during a routine allergen verification task. Inspectors determined that the products were made with peanut oil, but peanuts were not declared on the finished product labels. The company later determined that a formulation change had led to the labeling error.

The recalled products

The recalled products include 13.23-ounce bags of Synear Supreme Soup Dumpling Pork & Crab bearing best-by dates ranging from Oct. 15, 2026, through Feb. 23, 2027, as well as 375-gram bilingual packages labeled Supreme Soup Dumpling Pork & Crab with best-by dates of Oct. 15, 2026, and Jan. 26, 2027. The products bear establishment number EST. 45942 inside the USDA mark of inspection.

FSIS said the products were shipped to retail locations in California, New Jersey, and Washington and were also exported to Canada.

No confirmed reports of adverse reactions related to consumption of the products have been received. However, consumers with peanut allergies are advised not to consume the dumplings.

FSIS said the products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

Consumers with questions about the recall can contact Synear Foods USA, while anyone concerned about an illness or allergic reaction should contact a healthcare provider.

How smart shoppers use ChatGPT to find coupons and other hidden discounts

Kyle James — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 21:30:04 +0000

The new couponing hack: Let ChatGPT do the work

By Kyle James of ConsumerAffairs

June 3, 2026

Ask smarter questions: Have ChatGPT look for coupon codes, cashback offers, rewards, free shipping deals, and other discounts all at once.
Skip the coupon-site rabbit hole: ChatGPT can quickly identify the most promising savings opportunities without opening a dozen browser tabs.
Build a savings plan: Use ChatGPT to compare discounts, find the best deal, and even determine the best time to buy.

If you've ever searched for a coupon code online, you already know the drill. You click on a coupon site that promises "27 active promo codes." You copy one. It doesn't work. You try another. Still nothing. Five minutes later you're staring at a checkout page, wondering why you wasted your time.

The good news is that ChatGPT can dramatically speed up the process.

No, ChatGPT can't magically create secret coupon codes that don't exist. But it can help you find likely working discounts, identify the best places to look, uncover overlooked savings opportunities, and even help test different savings strategies before you buy.

Here's how savvy shoppers are starting to use AI to save money.

Start by asking the right questions

The biggest mistake people make is being too vague when coming up with their prompts.

Instead of asking: "Are there any coupon codes for Macys?"

Try asking ChatGPT: "Find the best current ways to save money at Macys, including coupon codes, student discounts, cashback offers, free shipping promotions, and loyalty rewards."

That broader question often uncovers savings opportunities that are actually worth more than a simple promo code.

For example, many retailers offer:

Student discounts
Military discounts
Teacher discounts
First-time customer offers
Email signup coupons
App-exclusive discounts
Cashback opportunities

ChatGPT will tell you exactly whats available and often those savings will beat a coupon code.

Pro tip: Ask ChatGPT, "What's the best stackable discount strategy for this retailer?" Many stores allow shoppers to combine multiple promotions and coupons. So instead of digging through the boiler plate on the stores site to find the rules, just ask ChatGPT and itll tell you the best strategy to maximize your savings.

Let ChatGPT do the research

One of the biggest advantages of ChatGPT is that it can quickly summarize information from multiple sources.

Try prompts like:

"Find current coupon codes for Kohl's."
"What's the best discount available at Home Depot right now?"
"Are there any hidden discounts for Target shoppers I should know about?"
"What's the best way to save money at Ulta this week?"

Instead of opening ten browser tabs yourself, ChatGPT can often narrow down the most promising options.

That doesn't guarantee a code will work, but it can eliminate a lot of the junk.

Ask ChatGPT to compare coupon codes

Suppose you find several offers for a particular retailer. Perhaps like the following:

15% off
$20 off $100
Free shipping
10% cashback

Have ChatGPT help you figure out which one actually saves you the most.

Instead of guessing or pulling out your calculator, ask ChatGPT to quickly compare different offers based on your cart total.

For example, say something like: "My cart total is at $135. Which discount will save me more: 15% off or $20 off $100?"

The answerisn't always obvious. Especially when you factor in taxes, shipping costs, and any minimum purchase requirements that enter into the equation.

Pro tip: Paste your actual cart contents into ChatGPT and ask: "What's the cheapest way to buy these items?" Sometimes the answer involves splitting orders or buying a "filler item"so youll qualify for a higher discount threshold.

Use ChatGPT to uncover hidden discounts

It's worth mentioning this again: many retailers offer discounts that don't necessarily show up on your typical coupon sites. But ChatGPT will uncover them for you!

So get creative and askChatGPT stuff like: "Does Costco offer any discounts that most shoppers overlook?"

Or: "What savings programs does Lowe's offer besides coupon codes?"

By doing so, youll discover things like price matching policies, rebate programs, membership discounts, cashback portals, employee discounts, and loyalty rewards.

Keep in mind that these hidden discounts can often provide bigger savings than a standard promo code can.

Have ChatGPT build a savings plan

This is where things get interesting and how you can really take your discount savings to the next level.

Instead of asking for a single coupon code, ask ChatGPT: "How would a professional couponer buy this item at Kohls?" Then add,"I want to buy a Ninja air fryer from Kohl's."

ChatGPT will suggest things you probably never considered like:

Waiting for a Kohl's Cash event
Using a percentage-off coupon
Earning rewards
Shopping through a cashback portal
Timing the purchase around a sale

Suddenly you're saving far more money at Kohls than the typical shopper.

Pro tip: Timing matters, too. For example, ask ChatGPT for the best time to buy. Take a prompt like this: "Should I buy this at Kohl's today or wait for a better promotion?" The answer herecan help you avoid pulling the trigger before an upcoming Kohl's Cash event, Friends & Family sale, or major clearance markdown.

Watch out for expired coupon codes

The one limitation that ChatGPT currently has is the inability to control a retailers coupon systems.

In other words, even when a coupon code appears valid, retailers can:

Expire it early
Limit it to certain products
Restrict it by region
Limit it to first-time customers

That's why every coupon should still be tested at checkout before you click the buy button.

Think of ChatGPT as more of a shortcut to finding promising discounts and coupons, not a guarantee.

The smartest coupon prompt you can use

If you're in a hurry, try this: "Help me save the most money possible at [RETAILER NAME]. Include coupon codes, loyalty rewards, cashback opportunities, student or military discounts, free shipping offers, and any stacking opportunities."

That single prompt often reveals multiple ways to save that many shoppers never discover.

The bottom line

Couponing used to mean countless Google searches, digging through a bunch of shady coupon websites, then hoping something might actually workwhen you typeit into the coupon code box.

Today, ChatGPT can act like your personal shopping assistant that helps you identify discounts, compare offers, explain store policies, and uncover savings opportunities you might otherwise miss.

The surprising part of fasting that may help extend lifespan

Kristen Dalli — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:42:54 +0000

New research suggests refeeding could matter more than the fast

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

June 3, 2026

A new study found that the benefits of fasting may depend heavily on what happens when eating resumes.
Researchers discovered that shutting down fat-burning processes after a fast appeared to be important for lifespan extension in laboratory worms.
The findings could help scientists better understand the biology of aging, though the research has not yet been proven in humans.

Fasting has long been studied for its potential effects on health and longevity. Scientists have known for years that calorie restriction and intermittent fasting can extend lifespan in a variety of organisms, but exactly why that happens has remained something of a mystery.

Now, researchers from UT Southwestern Medical Center say they may have uncovered an important piece of the puzzle.

Their findings, published in Nature Communications, suggest that the life-extending benefits associated with fasting may not come from the fasting period alone. Instead, a critical factor could be how the body responds when food becomes available again after a fast.

Our discoveries shift the focus toward a neglected side of the metabolic coin the refeeding phase. Our data suggest that the health-promoting effects of intermittent fasting are not merely a product of the fast itself, but are dependent on how the metabolic machinery recalibrates during the subsequent transition back to a fed state, study leader Peter Douglas, Ph.D., said in a news release.

The study

The study was conducted in Caenorhabditis elegans, a tiny roundworm frequently used in aging research because many of its biological pathways are similar to those found in other animals.

While the results don't directly translate to humans, they provide new clues about the cellular processes that may influence aging.

During fasting, the body shifts from using readily available glucose for energy to breaking down stored fat. The researchers focused on a protein called NHR-49, which helps activate this fat-burning process when nutrients are scarce.

The results

Initially, scientists expected that this fat-burning activity would be responsible for the lifespan benefits linked to fasting. However, experiments revealed something unexpected.

Even when the worms lacked NHR-49, fasting still increased lifespan and helped older worms maintain more youthful movement.

The more significant finding emerged after the fasting period ended. Researchers discovered that when worms were refed, a separate biological mechanism switched off NHR-49 and slowed fat breakdown. When scientists interfered with this shutdown process and kept fat-burning pathways active after refeeding, the lifespan benefits of fasting disappeared.

In other words, the ability to transition efficiently from a fasting state back to a fed state appeared to be crucial.

What this means for consumers

The findings add to a growing body of research suggesting that metabolic flexibility the body's ability to adapt to changing nutrient conditions may play an important role in healthy aging. Rather than focusing solely on what happens during fasting, scientists may need to pay closer attention to the biological changes that occur when eating resumes.

It's important to note that this study was conducted in laboratory worms, not people. The researchers say much more work is needed before these discoveries could lead to recommendations for human health or aging.

Still, the research offers an intriguing new perspective. If future studies confirm similar mechanisms in humans, scientists may eventually be able to develop treatments that mimic some of fasting's benefits without requiring people to follow strict fasting regimens.

For now, the study highlights just how important the body's recovery and rebuilding phase may be after periods without food.

Structured lifestyle programs may help older adults stay healthier as they age

Kristen Dalli — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:41:04 +0000

New research suggests coaching and accountability could make healthy habits more effective

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

June 3, 2026

A two-year clinical trial found that structured lifestyle programs improved measures of frailty in older adults.
Participants who received coaching, goal-setting support, and regular check-ins saw greater benefits than those following a self-guided approach.
Researchers say combining healthy eating, exercise, social engagement, and cognitive activities may help support healthier aging.

Many people know that eating well and staying active are important parts of healthy aging. But new research suggests that how those habits are implemented may matter just as much as the habits themselves.

A study from researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine found that older adults who participated in a structured lifestyle program experienced greater improvements in a key measure of aging compared with those who followed a more independent approach.

"These findings suggest that adopting accessible healthy behaviors may help slow important aspects of aging, researcher Mark A. Espeland, Ph.D., said in a news release.

The study

The findings come from the U.S. POINTER trial, a large clinical study designed to examine whether lifestyle changes can help protect brain health in older adults who are at increased risk for cognitive decline.

In this latest analysis, researchers looked at another important marker of aging: frailty, which reflects the accumulation of health-related challenges that can increase the risk of chronic disease, disability, and other age-related problems.

The study included more than 2,100 adults between the ages of 60 and 79 who were considered at increased risk for accelerated cognitive decline. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups and followed for two years.

One group took part in a structured program that included coaching, goal setting, regular monitoring, and support for adopting healthier behaviors. The program focused on several areas at once, including physical activity, healthy eating, social engagement, cognitively stimulating activities, and monitoring of health risk factors. The second group received guidance as well, but followed a more self-directed approach.

What the study found

Both groups showed improvements over the course of the study. However, participants in the structured program experienced significantly greater reductions in frailty scores.

Researchers found that these benefits were consistent across a variety of participant characteristics, including age, sex, body weight, and diabetes status.

The study does not suggest that any single habit can slow aging on its own. Instead, the findings point to the potential value of a comprehensive approach that combines multiple healthy behaviors and provides ongoing support to help people stick with them.

This shows the benefits of taking a structured approach to a healthy lifestyle, Dr. Espeland said. We know exercising and eating right is going to improve our health, but making efforts to participate in programs that offer guidance and accountability could be especially effective at keeping us healthy as we age.

Researchers also noted that improvements in frailty did not fully explain the cognitive benefits observed in the broader trial, indicating that healthy aging is likely influenced by multiple interconnected factors.

The results also add to growing evidence that targeting multiple areas of health at once, rather than focusing on a single behavior may be the key to maintaining independence and quality of life later in life, Dr. Espeland added.

New study suggests airborne viruses can travel between apartments

Kristen Dalli — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:38:49 +0000

Researchers traced a COVID-19 outbreak to a shared ventilation system in a multifamily building

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

June 3, 2026

A new study suggests airborne viruses can move between some apartments through shared bathroom ventilation systems.
Researchers investigated a COVID-19 outbreak in a Spanish apartment building and found ventilation ducts were the most likely transmission route.
The findings highlight the importance of building ventilation and indoor air quality in multifamily housing.

A study published in PLOS One examined a COVID-19 outbreak that occurred in a seven-story apartment building in Santander, Spain, during the early months of the pandemic. Researchers found evidence suggesting the virus likely spread between apartments through a shared bathroom ventilation system rather than through direct contact between residents.

The findings add to growing research showing that airborne viruses can move through connected indoor spaces. While the study focused on one specific building design, it offers new insight into how ventilation systems may influence the spread of infectious diseases in multifamily housing.

We tend to think that if we shut the door in our apartment, we are safe and cant get infected. But our study shows that, depending on the ventilation system in place, that may not be the case, senior author Shelly Miller said in a news release.

The study

The outbreak occurred in June 2020 when 15 residents living in four vertically stacked apartments became infected with COVID-19.

To understand how the virus spread, researchers analyzed epidemiological data, genetically sequenced virus samples, measured airflow and air pressure within the building, and used computer simulations to model the movement of airborne particles.

The building used a shared vertical bathroom ventilation shaft, a design common in many older buildings in Spain. Unlike modern systems that rely on mechanical fans, these ducts use natural airflow to move air upward and out of the building.

The findings

Researchers discovered that weather conditions could sometimes reverse airflow within the shaft, pushing air back into apartments. They also found that running a kitchen exhaust hood could increase air movement between units.

In one experiment, elevated carbon dioxide levels were detected inside a vacant apartment, suggesting that air from occupied units was entering the space.

Based on the combined evidence, the researchers concluded that the shared bathroom ventilation duct system was the most likely pathway for transmission during the outbreak.

What this means for consumers

The study does not suggest that all apartment buildings pose the same risk. In fact, the researchers note that the ventilation design examined is uncommon in newer buildings and is relatively rare in the United States today.

Still, the findings underscore the importance of ventilation and indoor air quality in multifamily housing. According to the researchers, connected air spaces can sometimes allow contaminants to move farther than people might expect.

While this is a special building design more common in Spain, it illustrates a broader concern that even if you are far from the source, if your air is connected, you can still get sick, said Miller. This can happen in a multifamily apartment building through the ducts, in a hotel between the hallway and rooms off the hallway, in office buildings between offices, or on a cruise ship.

The authors say building designers, managers, and policymakers should pay closer attention to ventilation systems, particularly in older buildings. They also point to measures such as properly designed exhaust fans with backflow prevention features as potential ways to reduce risk.

For renters and homeowners, the study serves as a reminder that healthy indoor air depends not only on what happens inside a single apartment, but also on how an entire building is designed and ventilated.

Why Kidoodle.TV provides a safer streaming options for kids

Kyle James — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:08:21 +0000

The service just might be what many parents are looking for

By Kyle James of ConsumerAffairs

June 3, 2026

Human-reviewed content: Every video is screened by human moderators before it reaches kids, helping reduce the surprises that can come with algorithm-driven recommendations.
Built for families: Parents get age-based filters, screen-time controls, and custom child profiles to create a safer viewing experience.
Budget-friendly option: The service is free with ads or $4.99 per month without ads, with access to more than 40,000 kid-friendly episodes.

Between monitoring YouTube videos, managing screen time, and worrying about what an algorithm might recommend next, many parents feel that keeping their kids safe online is a never-ending job.

On the heels of my article on YouTube-style' kids content invading streaming apps, I wanted to share a solution that can actually help parents in the fight.

Enter the safe streaming service called Kidoodle.TV.The company believes the problem isn't that parents aren't doing enough. It's that many online platforms place too much of the responsibility on parents in the first place.

What exactly is Kidoodle.TV?

Launched back in 2014, Kidoodle.TV is a streaming service designed specifically for children and families.

Unlike your traditional video-sharing platforms that rely heavily on algorithms to recommend content, Kidoodle.TV says every piece of content on their platform is reviewed by human moderators before it becomes available to viewers.

The company's goal is to create a streaming environment where parents don't have to constantly worry about what video might appear next.

That approach has helped the platform stand out, as many parents grow increasingly frustrated with content recommendations, autoplay features, and the challenge of monitoring what children watch online.

Cost breakdown of Kidoodle.TV

If you dont mind watching some ads, the streaming service is completely free. If you want ad-free, youll pay $4.99/month for the premium version.

Here is whats included in both plans:

40,00050,000+ episodes of kid-friendly content
Human-vetted content rather than open-user uploads
Individual child profiles
Age-based content filters
Screen-time controls and bedtime settings
Access on phones, tablets, smart TVs, streaming sticks, and web browsers
Available on more than 1,000 devices in over 160 countries

Why parents are taking notice

One of the biggest concerns parents have with mainstream platforms is unpredictability.

A child may start watching an age-appropriate video, only to be served recommendations that parents find questionable, overly commercialized, or simply not aligned with their family's values.

Kidoodle.TV says its human-review process is designed to reduce that risk.

Instead of relying solely on automated systems, content is screened before it reaches the platform. The result is a curated library focused on children's entertainment, educational programming, music, games, and family-friendly content.

For many parents, that can provide a level of reassurance that is difficult to find on larger platforms.

Features built with families in mind

Beyond content moderation, Kidoodle.TV includes several tools designed specifically for parents.

These features include:

Custom viewing profiles
Age-based content controls
Screen-time management settings
Parental controls
No public comment sections
Child-focused programming libraries

The service allows parents to tailor the viewing experience to the age and maturity level of each child rather than relying on one-size-fits-all settings.

A different approach to screen time

Kidoodle.TV isn't positioning itself as a way to eliminate screen time. Instead, the company argues that parents should have access to platforms that make screen time safer and easier to manage.

That distinction matters because many families aren't trying to remove technology from their children's lives. They're trying to find age-appropriate ways to use it.

More young people are turning to AI chatbots for mental health advice, study finds

Mark Huffman — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 14:54:37 +0000

Nearly half who use it make use of it monthly

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

June 3, 2026

Nearly one in five U.S. adolescents and young adults say they have used an AI chatbot for mental health advice, according to a new study.
Most young people who seek emotional support from AI tools never tell anyone they are doing so.
Researchers say the trend highlights the growing role of AI in youth mental health and the need for parents and clinicians to discuss chatbot use.

A growing number of American teenagers and young adults are seeking mental health advice from artificial intelligence chatbots, and most are keeping it to themselves, according to a new study published in JAMA Pediatrics.

Researchers found that 19.2% of adolescents in the U.S. and young adults ages 12 to 21 reported using AI chatbots for mental health advice in 2025, up from the roughly 13% reported in a similar national survey a year earlier.

The findings suggest that AI tools such as ChatGPT and other conversational chatbots are becoming a significant source of emotional support for young people during a period when the nation continues to grapple with high rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide among youth.

"AI chatbots are already embedded in many youths' mental health information ecosystem," the researchers wrote.

The study was based on a nationally representative survey of 1,009 adolescents and young adults conducted in November 2025. Weighted to reflect the U.S. population, the survey represents more than 42 million young people.

Frequent use and high satisfaction

Among respondents who said they had sought mental health advice from an AI chatbot, nearly 43% reported using the technology at least monthly.

Most users also viewed the experience positively. More than 91% said the advice they received was either somewhat helpful or very helpful.

Researchers found that young women were more likely than young men to use AI chatbots for mental health advice. Older respondents ages 18 to 21 also were significantly more likely to use the technology than younger adolescents.

Young people who had spoken with a physician about their mental health within the previous six months were also more likely to report using AI chatbots.

Most users tell no one

One of the study's most striking findings was how rarely young people disclose their chatbot use.

Nearly two-thirds (63.3%) of respondents who sought mental health advice from AI tools said they had not told anyone about it.

Researchers said the finding raises concerns because conversations with chatbots occur without oversight from parents, mental health professionals, or other trusted adults.

The authors noted that AI chatbots may appeal to young people because they are available around the clock, offer anonymity, and can provide immediate responses at little or no cost.

A growing role in mental health care

The findings arrive as researchers, clinicians, and policymakers debate the benefits and risks of AI in mental health settings.

Advocates argue that AI tools can help address gaps in mental health care access, particularly for young people who face long waits for counseling or who are reluctant to seek help from adults.

Critics, however, have warned that chatbots can sometimes provide inaccurate, misleading, or potentially harmful advice, particularly during mental health crises.

The study did not evaluate the quality of advice provided by AI systems. Instead, it focused on how many young people are using the technology, how often they use it, and whether they tell others about it.

The researchers said the rapid growth in chatbot use underscores the need for parents, physicians, and mental health professionals to proactively discuss AI tools with young people and set appropriate expectations about their role in mental health support.

Study links diet heavy in ultraprocessed food with greater dementia risk

Mark Huffman — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 16:59:09 +0000

Researchers focused in on the abundance of artificial ingredients

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

June 3, 2026

Researchers found that people who consumed the highest amounts of ultraprocessed foods had a significantly greater risk of developing dementia.
The study suggests replacing even a portion of ultraprocessed foods with minimally processed alternatives may help lower risk.
Experts say the findings add to growing evidence linking diet quality to long-term brain health.

A new study has found that people who consume large amounts of ultraprocessed foods may face a significantly increased risk of developing dementia, adding to mounting evidence that diet plays a critical role in brain health.

The research, published this week in a peer-reviewed medical journal, tracked thousands of adults over several years and examined the relationship between dietary habits and cognitive decline. Investigators found that participants whose diets contained the highest proportion of ultraprocessed foods were substantially more likely to develop dementia than those who consumed the least.

Ultraprocessed foods include products such as packaged snacks, sugary breakfast cereals, soft drinks, instant noodles, and many ready-to-eat meals. These products often contain additives, preservatives, artificial flavorings, and ingredients not typically used in home cooking.

Researchers said the findings remained significant even after accounting for factors such as age, education, physical activity, smoking, and other health conditions that can influence dementia risk.

The findings

"Our findings suggest that diet quality may be an important and potentially modifiable factor in maintaining cognitive health as people age," the study authors wrote.

The study also found that replacing a portion of ultraprocessed foods with minimally processed alternatives including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and lean proteins was associated with a lower risk of cognitive decline.

While the study does not prove that ultraprocessed foods directly cause dementia, experts say it strengthens concerns about the long-term health effects of heavily processed diets. Previous research has linked high consumption of ultraprocessed foods to obesity, cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.

The role of diet

Neurologists not involved in the study noted that the brain depends on a steady supply of nutrients and that diets high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and sodium may contribute to inflammation and vascular damage that can affect cognitive function over time.

More than six million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, according to health officials. As the population ages, researchers continue to investigate lifestyle factors that could help reduce risk.

Experts say the latest findings support existing recommendations to emphasize whole foods and limit heavily processed products as part of an overall healthy diet.

Motor City Pizza Co. 5 Cheese Bread recalled over Salmonella risk

Mark Huffman — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 12:32:23 +0000

The product was sold at Costco, Walmart, Target, Kroger and other major chains

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

June 3, 2026

Champion Foods has recalled certain batches of Motor City Pizza Co. 5 Cheese Bread because of potential Salmonella contamination linked to a recalled milk powder ingredient.
The affected frozen products were sold nationwide through major retailers including Costco, Walmart, Target, Kroger and Publix.
No illnesses or injuries have been reported, but consumers are urged not to eat the recalled products and to return or discard them.

Champion Foods LLC has issued a recall for certain batches of its Motor City Pizza Co. 5 Cheese Bread after learning that an ingredient used in the product may be contaminated with Salmonella

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported the recall on its website. It appears to be another case in which a contaminated ingredient has spread through the supply chain.

The New Boston, Michigan-based company said the recall was prompted by a separate recall involving milk powder supplied by California Dairies Inc. The milk powder was used in a seasoning blend incorporated into the cheese bread's sauce.

Although routine testing of the seasoning blend showed no positive results for Salmonella, Champion Foods said it initiated the recall as a precautionary measure.

The recall applies to specific lots of Motor City Pizza Co. 5 Cheese Bread sold in both single-pack and two-pack formats. Affected products can be identified by their UPC codes and sell-by dates printed in black within the cheese bread image on the front of the package.

Product Name	UPC Code	Sell By Dates
Motor City Pizza Co. 5 Cheese Bread Single Pack	8 70375 00511 1	2/4/2027, 2/5/2027, 2/23/2027, 2/24/2027, 3/9/2027, 3/10/2027, 3/17/2027, 3/18/2027, 3/24/2027, 3/25/2027, 4/7/2027, 4/8/2027, 4/20/2027, 4/21/2027
Motor City Pizza Co. 5 Cheese Bread 2 Pack	8 70375 00509 8	2/3/2027, 2/4/2027, 2/24/2027, 2/25/2027, 3/10/2027, 3/11/2027, 3/18/2027, 3/25/2027

Nationwide distribution

The products were distributed nationwide through a wide range of retailers, including Costco, Walmart, Target, Kroger, Publix, Meijer, Food City, and other grocery chains.

Salmonella can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, the infection can spread beyond the intestinal tract and cause more severe illness.

Champion Foods said it has received no reports of illnesses or injuries associated with the recalled products. Consumers who purchased affected packages are advised not to consume them and should discard the products or return them to the place of purchase.

The recall is one of several food safety actions tied to California Dairies' milk powder recall, which has led to recalls involving multiple food brands and products nationwide.

The spring housing market is smiling on renters

Mark Huffman — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 12:27:11 +0000

Landlords are ponying up record incentives and concessions

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

June 3, 2026

Nearly 40% of rental listings on Zillow this spring include concessions such as free rent, waived fees, or discounted move-in costs, the highest share recorded for this time of year.
A surge in apartment construction has boosted rental inventory and pushed the national vacancy rate to 7.3%, giving renters more negotiating power.
Denver, Charlotte, Dallas, Austin, and Nashville led the nation in rental concessions, while Buffalo, Providence, and New York have the fewest deals.

The spring housing market has been somewhat disappointing for both buyers and sellers. However, renters across the U.S. are finding more bargaining power this spring as landlords increasingly offer incentives to fill vacant units, according to a new Zillow analysis.

Nearly 40% of rental listings on Zillow featured concessions this spring, up from about one-third a year ago and more than double the share seen before the pandemic. The incentives include offers such as free rent, waived application or parking fees, and reduced move-in costs.

The trend reflects a significant shift in market dynamics. After years of intense competition among renters, a wave of apartment construction has added substantial inventory in many metro areas, particularly across the Sun Belt. As a result, the national rental vacancy rate has climbed to 7.3%, compared with 5.6% in 2021, when demand far exceeded supply.

Renters are in the drivers seat

"Renters don't have to settle this spring," Zillow Senior Economist Kara Ng said in the report, noting that increased supply has created more opportunities for renters to negotiate pricing, lease terms, and other perks.

The most concession-heavy markets are concentrated in fast-growing Sun Belt cities where apartment development has surged in recent years. Denver tops the list, with 68.3% of listings offering incentives, followed by Charlotte (66.6%), Dallas (64.2%), Austin (63.8%), and Nashville (62.6%).

In contrast, landlords in highly competitive rental markets have less need to entice prospective tenants with discounts. Buffalo reported the lowest share of concessions at 11.1%, followed by Providence (12.6%), New York (18.4%), New Orleans (19.2%), and Chicago (21.7%).

So, just how much can you save?

For renters, the savings can be substantial. Zillow estimates that a typical U.S. renter now needs an annual income of nearly $77,200 to comfortably afford rent. With the typical rental costing about $1,930 per month, a concession such as one month of free rent can translate into nearly $2,000 in savings.

The report suggests the rental market is becoming increasingly favorable for tenants, particularly in regions where new housing supply continues to outpace demand.

As landlords compete for residents, industry analysts say renters may find opportunities not only to secure lower upfront costs but also to negotiate better lease terms overall.

The FTC and Nevada secure a $10 million fraud settlement

Mark Huffman — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 12:25:09 +0000

The defendant was accused of misleading consumers about its tax-relief services

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

June 3, 2026

A federal court settlement will require operators of an alleged tax-relief scam to surrender nearly $10 million in cash and assets.
The Federal Trade Commission and the State of Nevada accused the defendants of falsely claiming they could dramatically reduce consumers' tax debts and impersonating government agencies.
The settlement permanently bans the defendants from marketing or selling tax-relief services and imposes strict restrictions on future telemarketing activities.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the State of Nevada have reached a settlement with the operators of an alleged tax-relief scheme that regulators charge deceived consumers with false and misleading claims.

Under the proposed court order, the defendants will be required to turn over cash and assets valued at nearly $10 million and will be permanently barred from offering tax-relief services. The settlement resolves allegations that the companies misled consumers seeking help with IRS debt and collected millions of dollars for services that frequently failed to deliver the promised results.

According to regulators, the defendants operated under the American Tax Service brand and told consumers they could settle tax debts for "pennies on the dollar" or for only a fraction of the amount owed. The FTC alleged those claims were often made before the companies had reviewed a consumer's financial circumstances or determined whether they qualified for any relief programs from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Misleading marketing

The agency also alleged the companies used mailers and other marketing materials that appeared to come from government agencies, including the IRS, in order to generate sales leads. Consumers were allegedly told their tax situations had been flagged as high risk or were under investigation, creating pressure to purchase the companies' services.

Federal and state regulators filed the lawsuit in October 2025, accusing the defendants of violating the FTC Act, the Telemarketing Sales Rule, the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, and the FTC's Impersonation Rule. A federal court subsequently halted the operation and froze assets while the litigation proceeded.

The settlement represents one of the larger recoveries in a tax-relief enforcement action and demonstrates regulators' continuing focus on companies that target financially vulnerable consumers with misleading debt-relief promises. In addition to the monetary judgment, the defendants will face ongoing compliance and record-keeping requirements designed to prevent future violations.

Will consumers be compensated?

The settlement requires the defendants to surrender nearly $10 million in cash and assets, funds that could ultimately be used to compensate consumers who paid for the allegedly deceptive tax-relief services. However, the FTC has not yet announced whether consumers will receive refunds or how any recovered money would be distributed.

Consumer advocates have long warned taxpayers to be wary of companies that guarantee debt reductions or advertise blanket solutions to tax problems. The FTC advises consumers to be skeptical of unsolicited communications claiming to come from the IRS and to verify any tax-relief claims before paying for services.

How to coupon at Kohl's: The playbook that can cut your bill in half

Kyle James — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 21:35:38 +0000

The coupon stacking tricks that turn good deals into great ones

By Kyle James of ConsumerAffairs

June 2, 2026

Stack your savings: Combine Kohl's Cash, Rewards, coupons, and clearance deals to cut your bill by 40% to 70%.
Use Kohl's Cash wisely: Treat it like a rebate and spend it on clearance items to stretch its value even further.
Shop seasonal clearance: Holiday and seasonal merchandise often drops 70% to 90% off, creating some of Kohl's best deals.

Kohl's is one of the few stores where stacking discounts isn't just allowed, it's practically encouraged. That's the primary reason why savvy Kohl's shoppers rarely pay full price.

Between Kohl's Cash, percentage-off coupons, rewards points, and special promotions, it's often possible to cut your final bill in half or more if you know how the system works.

Despite what some shoppers think, couponing at Kohl's isn't nearly as complicated as it looks from the outside. Here's how to do it.

Start with a Kohl's Rewards account

Before buying anything, sign up for Kohl's Rewards. The program is free and gives shoppers 5% Kohl's Rewards on every purchase you make.

Those rewards eventually convert into Kohl's Cash certificates that can be spent on future purchases. The rewards aren't huge by themselves, but they become much more valuable when combined with the other discounts that Kohl's offers.

Your earned Kohls Cash will be issued to you in $5 increments on the firstof every month.

Pro tip: Get in the habit of always entering your phone number at the checkout register, even on small purchases. Many shoppers forget to do this and miss out on the rewards they already earned.

Understand Kohl's Cash (it's basically free money)

If Kohl's has a secret weapon, it's definitely Kohl's Cash.

Throughout the year, Kohl's regularly runs promotions that help you earn additional Cash.

These often include the following:

Earn $10 Kohl's Cash for every $50 spent
Earn $20 Kohl's Cash for every $100 spent

The biggest mistake shoppers make is treating Kohl's Cash like a bonus. Smart shoppers instead treat it more like a rebate.

For example: Spend $100 during a promotion and receive $20 Kohl's Cash. Your effective purchase price isn't really $100 anymore. It's closer to $80 if you know you'll use the Kohl's Cash later.

Also, its worth noting that Kohls Cash does have an expiration date on it, but I was told by several employees that theyll still accept it (in-store) for up to 10 days after the expiration date. Unfortunately, you cant use expired Kohls Cash when shopping online.

Pro tip: Try to hit the Kohl's Cash threshold exactly when possible. If you're spending $47, find a small clearance item and get over the $50 mark. Leaving $10 in Kohl's Cash on the table is one of the most common mistakes shoppers make.

How Kohl's stacks your discounts

One thing many shoppers don't realize is that Kohl's applies discounts in a specific order, regardless of how you enter coupon codes online or hand over coupons at checkout.

Here's how the math typically works:

First, any department-specificcoupons are applied, such as $5 off a fragrance purchase or a similar category-specific promotion.
Next, percentage-off coupons are deducted from eligible items. For example, a 15% off beauty coupon would be applied to qualifying beauty products.
Then, Kohl's subtracts dollar-off rewards, including Kohl's Cash, Rewards Cash, and qualifying storewide dollar-off coupons.
Finally, if you have a storewide percentage-off coupon, such as 15%, 20%, or 30% off your entire purchase, Kohl's will apply the single highest-value coupon you're eligible to use.

Also, when shopping online, if your order still meets the $49 free shipping threshold after all discounts are applied, the free shipping promotion will kick in automatically.

Pro tip: Before spending your Kohl's Cash, be sure to do a quick calculation. Sometimes using a percentage-off coupon first and saving your Kohl's Cash for a future clearance purchase can lead to bigger overall savings.

The best places to find these coupons

Kohls coupons can be found in a wide variety of places.

Specifically, they can be found on the Kohls app, Kohls website, in the emails they send you, and they even still mail you coupons the old-fashioned way.

Also, get in the habit of doing a Google search for Kohls coupon codes and youll find a plethora of coupon websites that have verified coupons that you can either use online or print out and use in-store.

Download the Kohl's app

The Kohl's app is the easiest ways to manage your savings and keep track of your balances.

Inside the app you'll find the following:

Digital coupons
Kohl's Cash balances
Rewards tracking
Sale notifications

The app also helps you prevents the classic mistake of forgetting a coupon at home as they are all stored within the app.

You can also take a picture of a paper Kohl's coupon with the app, and it will save the coupon to your account so it's ready to use at checkout.

Pro tip: Make it a habit to open the app before you head to checkout. Kohl's will often load surprise coupons and bonus offers into the app that many shoppers never notice.

Use Kohl's Cash on clearance items

Did you know that you can use Kohls Cash on items on clearance? This is where experienced Kohls shoppers really separate themselves.

Its not uncommon for a $10 Kohl's Cash certificate to completely wipe out the cost of a clearance shirt, toy, kitchen gadget, or seasonal item completely.

Remember that Kohls Cash works just like store credit, which means it can be used on clearance merchandise, even when percentage-off coupons no longer apply. Consider saving your Kohls Cash specifically for clearance racks because the value stretches much further.

Pro tip: Consider making your Amazon return at your local Kohls,as many locations will hand you a 15% off Kohls coupon or $5 Kohls Cash when you make the return.

Shop seasonal clearance at the right time

Kohl's aggressively clears out their seasonal inventory, perhaps more than any other department store.

For this reason, the biggest opportunities often happen right after:

Christmas
Valentine's Day
Easter
Halloween
Back-to-school season

In particular, items like holiday dcor, gift wrap, seasonal clothing, and themed merchandise can become ridiculously cheap.

Markdowns often start around 50% off and eventually climb to 70%, 80%, and even 90% off.

Pro tip: Its not unusual to find items marked down 70%, then you can use your Kohls Cash to bring your total to nearly zero. Many shoppers walk out with clearance merchandise while paying only the sales tax.

Pay attention to excluded brands

This is where many shoppers get frustrated as not every Kohl's coupon works on every product.

Popular brands frequently excluded from percentage-off discounts include Nike, Levi's, Under Armour, Adidas, and certain premium beauty brands.

Before getting super excited about a coupon, be sure to take a close look at the exclusions list.

That doesn't mean these brands are never discounted. It simply means you'll often need to rely on sales, Kohl's Cash, or Rewards instead of percentage-off coupons.

Breast cancer risks are shifting for younger women, major study finds

Kristen Dalli — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 16:44:35 +0000

Nearly 50 years of data reveal changing trends in who faces the greatest danger

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

June 2, 2026

A new study found that breast cancer deaths are increasingly affecting younger women, while survival rates have improved among older women.
Young Black women with triple-negative breast cancer remain the highest-risk group, but researchers also identified elevated risks among some younger Hispanic and Asian women.
Researchers say age, race, and tumor subtype should be considered together to better identify women who may face higher risks.

Breast cancer remains one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among women in the United States, but researchers have increasingly recognized that not all patients face the same risks. Factors such as age, race, ethnicity, and tumor subtype can influence both treatment outcomes and survival rates.

To better understand how these patterns have changed over time, researchers at Houston Methodist conducted a large-scale analysis of breast cancer trends spanning nearly 50 years.

Their goal was to determine whether certain groups have benefited more than others from advances in screening, diagnosis, and treatment, and to identify populations that may continue to face elevated risks.

How the study was conducted

The researchers analyzed data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) Program, a national cancer registry that tracks cancer incidence and outcomes across the United States. The study covered the period from 1975 through 2022.

Using this extensive dataset, the team evaluated breast cancer incidence, mortality, and survival trends among women of different ages and racial and ethnic backgrounds. They also examined outcomes according to molecular subtypes of breast cancer, including triple-negative breast cancer, which is often associated with poorer outcomes and fewer targeted treatment options.

Rather than looking at age, race, ethnicity, or tumor subtype independently, the researchers analyzed how these factors interact with one another. This approach allowed them to identify patterns that may be missed when each factor is studied separately.

What the researchers found

The analysis revealed a notable shift in breast cancer mortality patterns over time. While older women have experienced substantial improvements in survival, younger women are accounting for a growing proportion of breast cancer deaths.

Rising mortality among younger women alongside improved survival in older women shows how breast cancer risk is shifting, researcher Stephen Wong, Ph.D., said in a news release. Importantly, we found that Asian women under 50 experience poorer outcomes and face elevated risk of mortality than previously recorded.

Researchers also found significant differences among racial and ethnic groups. Young Black women with triple-negative breast cancer continued to experience the highest mortality risk. However, the study also identified elevated mortality risks among younger Hispanic and Asian women with certain breast cancer subtypes, particularly triple-negative disease.

According to the researchers, these findings suggest that age, race, ethnicity, and tumor biology should be considered together when assessing breast cancer risk and outcomes. The results highlight persistent disparities and may help guide future research aimed at improving detection, treatment, and survival for populations facing the greatest challenges.

Age, race and tumor type should not be treated as separate issues as they interact to drive these disparities, said first author Lin Wang, research fellow in the Wong Laboratory at Houston Methodist. When we look at them together, we uncover risks that would otherwise remain hidden.

Dollar General launches 30 Days of Deals ahead of America’s 250th anniversary

Kristen Dalli — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 16:41:15 +0000

New month-long promotion offers daily discounts on food, barbecue essentials, travel items, and Fourth of July favorites

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

June 2, 2026

Dollar General is rolling out a new "Stars, Stripes and Savings" event featuring a different deal every day throughout June.
Weekly promotions will focus on seasonal categories like food, grilling supplies, outdoor fun, and travel essentials.
Shoppers can find patriotic decorations and party supplies at budget-friendly prices ahead of Independence Day.

As summer kicks into high gear, bargain hunters have a new reason to visit Dollar General.

The retailer has announced its new "Stars, Stripes and Savings" promotion, a month-long event designed to help shoppers save on seasonal essentials leading up to Independence Day. Running throughout June, the promotion features a different deal every day, giving customers fresh opportunities to stretch their budgets during one of the busiest spending seasons of the year.

For more than 85 years, our mission has been to bring affordability to consumers who rely on us for convenient access to everyday essentials, Tony Rogers, chief marketing officer at Dollar General, said in a news release.

Customers can unlock even more value with each shopping trip by signing up for a myDG account, where theyll find digital coupons and cash back offers. Were also bringing convenience to your doorstep with myDG Delivery, where your first delivery is free using your myDG account, plus the option to receive your order in an hour or less with an additional $1 ASAP fee making it easier than ever to save on your summer stock-up.

A month of rotating discounts

Dollar General's 30-day savings event officially began on June 1 and is organized around weekly themes that align with summer activities.

Heres a breakdown of what shoppers can expect during every week of the sale:

Week 1 (June 1-6): Food and Beverage
- Deals to jumpstart summer entertaining, including savings on two-liter Coca-Cola products, ice cream, chips and pantry favorites.
Week 2 (June 7-13): Backyard Barbecue Essentials
- Savings on everything customers need to fire up the grill including charcoal, propane, brats and franks, coolers and paper goods.
Week 3 (June 14-20): Patriotic & Outdoor Fun
- Discounts on patriotic and outdoor dcor, pools and water toys, select apparel and gift cards to help customers celebrate in style.
Week 4 (June 21-27): Travel & Staycation
- Value on sun care, personal care products and more to keep summer adventures affordable.
Week 5 (June 28-30): Countdown to July 4
- Special daily deals on food and beverage items, each featured daily deal priced at just $2.50 to kick off Independence Day celebrations

In addition to the daily promotions, Dollar General is stocking stores with a wide assortment of patriotic merchandise for summer celebrations. According to the company, more than 85% of its patriotic-themed products are priced at $5 or less, with many items available for just $1.

What shoppers should know

For consumers looking to maximize savings, it may be worth checking Dollar General's website, app, or weekly advertisements regularly since new deals will rotate throughout the month.

The retailer is also encouraging shoppers to use its myDG loyalty program, which offers digital coupons and cash-back opportunities that can be combined with sale pricing in some cases.

With costs remaining top of mind for many households, promotions like this can help families save on everything from cookout supplies to holiday decorations. Whether you're planning a backyard barbecue, a road trip, or a Fourth of July gathering, keeping an eye on the daily deals could make summer spending a little more affordable.

Remote work is still hiring: 10 entry-level jobs new grads should be watching in 2026

Kristen Dalli — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 16:36:12 +0000

From customer service to sales, these fast-growing remote roles offer new graduates a chance to launch their careers from anywhere

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

June 2, 2026

New graduate hiring is expected to rise 5.6% for the Class of 2026, creating more opportunities for entry-level job seekers.
Customer service, administrative, and sales roles saw some of the biggest increases in remote entry-level openings over the past year.
Major employers across healthcare, technology, and finance are actively recruiting Gen Z talent for remote and hybrid positions.

Landing that first job after graduation can feel overwhelming, especially in a competitive job market.

To help job seekers navigate the changing workplace, FlexJobs recently released its 2026 New Grad Guide to Remote Work, highlighting the industries, job titles, and employers offering the most opportunities for entry-level talent. The report found strong demand in fields such as customer service, administration, and sales, with remote openings in these areas growing by more than 30% over the past year.

ConsumerAffairs spoke with Toni Frana, Career Expert Manager at FlexJobs, who explained that whether you're preparing to graduate or looking for your first professional role, knowing which jobs are in demand can provide a valuable roadmap for launching a career in today's increasingly flexible workforce.

The top 10 list

FlebJobs report breaks down the entry-level remote job market in a few key ways: the top 10 industries for remote entry-level jobs, 10 companies leading hiring for entry-level remote jobs, and the most in-demand entry-level remote job titles. Heres a look at whats currently trending.

Top 10 Industries for Entry-Level Remote Jobs

Customer Service
Administrative
Sales
Project Management
Medical & Health
Communications
Operations
Accounting & Finance
Business Development
Education

10 Employers Leading Hiring for Entry-Level Remote Talent

Mass General Brigham
Thermo Fisher Scientific
HCA Hospital Corporation of America
State of North Carolina
T-Mobile
IQVIA
Stride, Inc.
Raymond James
Centene Corporation
Toast, Inc.

Most In-Demand Entry-Level Remote Job Titles

Sales Development Representative
Customer Service Representative
Business Development Representative
Account Executive
Financial Analyst
Staff Accountant
Administrative Assistant
Software Engineer
Registered Nurse
Project Coordinator

The impact of AI in the entry-level job search

Frana explained that there are a few key ways for entry-level job seekers to be mindful of AI in their job search.

First, in terms of the application and hiring process, the increased usage of AI tools that help make applying for jobs more efficient, has increased the number of applicants per opening, especially for remote roles, Frana said.

Beyond this, AI is impacting the way many entry-level jobs are done, with many required tasks able to be done by an AI tool. Its important for job seekers to have a good understanding of how these tools work and how they can be used effectively so they remain a competitive applicant for entry-level roles.

Even with the competitive nature of the entry-level job market, AI has also brought new opportunities for AI specific roles, AI support staff, and the need for people to bridge the space between the technology and the important human aspect of the work we do.

Advice for job seekers

Whether youre a recent grad or you know a recent grad, Frana has some tips for the entry-level remote job search.

Knowing short and long term career goals will help with creating a structured job search, which is a key to success, Frana said. Outlining daily, weekly, and monthly tasks will help with focus to ensure the right activities are being completed.

Also, persistence is key. For many, even with the increase in hiring, the job search is taking several months. Be kind to yourself, keep up with applications and networking, evaluate your efforts periodically to determine what is working, make adjustments where needed and your job search will be a success.

Amazon just announced Prime Day 2026: Here's how to shop it smart

Kyle James — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 22:45:08 +0000

Before you click "Buy," read these Prime Day tips

By Kyle James of ConsumerAffairs

June 2, 2026

Prime Day is moving up: Amazon's biggest sale of the year runs June 23-26, giving shoppers an earlier chance to score summer and back-to-school deals.
Track prices before the sale: Create a wish list now and screenshot current prices so you can tell if a Prime Day discount is actually a good deal.
Shop around: Walmart, Target, and Best Buy often run competing sales during the same time period. Always compare prices before clicking "Buy."

Amazon has officially announced that Prime Day 2026 will run from June 23 through June 26, marking a major shift from its traditional July timing. The sale will once again last four days, giving shoppers extra time to score discounts.

The move to June is a notable change. Amazon says it considered major summer events, including the FIFA World Cup and America's 250th birthday celebrations, when selecting the dates. The earlier timing could also help shoppers get a jump on summer purchases and back-to-school shopping before prices potentially rise later in the season.

But before you start filling your cart, remember that Prime Day is not automatically the cheapest time to buy everything. Some deals are excellent, while others simply look impressive because Amazon compares them to inflated list prices.

Here's how to shop Prime Day like a savvy consumer instead of an impulse buyer.

Start a wish list now

The smartest Prime Day shoppers start planning a few weeksbefore the sale begins.

I always add the items Im already planning to buy to an Amazon Wish List or save them for later in my cart. This gives me a baseline so I can quickly see whether a Prime Day discount is actually worth it.

Too many shoppers wait until the sale begins and end up buying things they never intended to purchase simply because the discount appears large.

Pro tip: Take screenshots of current prices on any big-ticket items you're considering. That way you'll have proof if the Prime Day "deal" is really a deal or not.

Focus on categories that historically see the best discounts

While every year is slightly different, Prime Day tends to offer its strongest discounts on:

Amazon devices
TVs
Laptops and tablets
Small kitchen appliances
Robot vacuums
Home security products
Back-to-school supplies
Everyday household essentials

Amazon says shoppers can expect discounts across electronics, kitchen items, apparel, beauty products, groceries, and household goods this year.

Meanwhile, products from Apple, Dyson, Shark, Ninja, Samsung, and other major brands are expected to be heavily featured again.

Compare prices before clicking 'Buy'

One of the biggest mistakes Prime Day shoppers make is assuming Amazon automatically has the lowest price.

Every year retailers like Walmart, Target, Best Buy, and others launch competing sales during Prime Day week. Be sure to check these competitors around Prime Day as theyll often have pricing thatll undercut the Amazon sale price.

A quick comparison can save you money and sometimes get you faster pickup options if it's something you need right away.

Pro tip: The price tracking toolCamelCamelCamel is going to be very usefulon Prime Day. You can use it to quickly tell if the Prime Day price (on any item) is actually a sale price or the same price the item was a couple weeks ago.

Watch for Lightning Deals

Lightning Deals are limited-time offers that can sell out quickly, especially during Prime Day sale events.

While these discounts can be excellent, be aware that theyre designed to create a sense of urgency and a fear of missing out, which often leads to impulse buying.

Before grabbing a Lightning Deal, I like to ask myself one simple question:

"Was I planning to buy this before I saw the discount?"

If the answer is no, skip it altogether. A 50% discount on something you don't need is still money spent.

Stock up on everyday essentials

Prime Day isn't just about gadgets and electronics.

Some of the best savings can come from boring household purchases you'll use anyway. Think of things like laundry detergent, toilet paper, coffee, pet supplies, vitamins, batteries, and cleaning products.

Buying these items when they're heavily discounted can reduce your grocery and household spending for months.

Don't forget the October sale

Many shoppers feel pressure to buy everything during Prime Day.

Keep in mind that Amazon has another regularly held Prime-exclusive event in October, often called Prime Big Deal Days. Historically, many of the same products go on sale during this event.

Bottom line: If you're unsure about a purchase during Prime Day, there will most likely be another opportunity to buy the item on sale before the holiday shopping season begins.