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Electronic Publications:
Cars Computers Education Employment Family Federal Programs Food Health Housing Money Small Business Travel And more... |
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 <<Cars>>
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Air Bags & On-Off Switches - Discusses when using air bags is unsafe and specific steps to take to reduce the risk. Describes on-off switches and who should consider installing them. Includes the required form to request an on-off switch.
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Automotive & Home Inspection and Safety Guide - Comprehensive safety checklists for your car and home. Includes helpful tips and where to call for more safety and other consumer information.
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Child Transportation Safety Tips - This illustrated guide provides nine tips on how to protect your baby, what type of safety seat to use, how to secure a safety seat, and air bag safety.(PDF file)
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Collecting Used Oil for Recycling/Reuse - Contains tips on changing your own motor oil and explains why recycling oil helps the environment and saves energy.
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Consumer Tire Guide - Learn how to check for proper air pressure and signs of uneven wear; how and why to rotate your tires; special care in cold weather, and more.
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Finding the Best Used Car - Covers what to look for on the test drive, warning signs of hidden damage, and how to verify the car's history. (PDF file) |
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Keys to Vehicle Leasing - Learn the difference between leasing and buying a car. Explains required information on a lease agreement, as well as your rights and responsibilities.
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Primer On Gasoline Prices - How prices are determined, what causes them to fluctuate, and why they differ according to region.
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Underhood Tips to Help You Keep Your Cool - Your vehicle's air conditioning system probably contains Freon, which is no longer produced. Here are tips on how to maintain your a/c system and what to consider to convert your system to a non-Freon alternative.
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<<Computers>> |
Internet Fraud: How to Avoid Internet Investment Scams - Questions to ask about online investment opportunities, tips on the warning signs of fraud, and what to do if you run into problems.
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Making the Connection: How to Go Online - Explains how to get online and choose the best Internet service provider.
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<<Education>> |
All About Direct Loans - Discusses four types of direct student education loans, how much you can borrow, how to apply, how you'll be paid, repayment, and more.
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| Educational Poster on Water Pollution - This 17" x 11" poster explains where our drinking water comes from, potential threats to the safety of our water, and what is being done to protect it. (PDF file) |
Learning Partners - Activities to help your child learn reading, math, science, history, writing, and more.
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National Clearinghouse for Comprehensive School Reform - NCCSR is the central gateway to good information on comprehensive school reform (CSR). The Clearinghouse provides free resources for practitioners, policymakers, researchers, and the public interested in schoolwide education reform.
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Nontraditional Education: Alternative Ways to Earn Your Credentials - Get high school or college credit through the GED program, the National External Diploma program, correspondence and distance study, and standardized tests.
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Preparing Your Child for College: Resource Book for Parents - work sheets and checklists to help plan for college academically and financially.
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Think College? Me? Now? A Handbook for Students in Middle School and Junior High - The best time to start preparing for college is in the seventh and eighth grades. Learn about the benefits of planning ahead for college. (PDF file)
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<<Employment>> |
Careers: Conserving the Nature of America - (PDF file)
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Changing Your Job - Find out if your current job is right for you, what to do when you look for a new job, and what happens to your benefits when you change jobs. (PDF file)
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<<Family>> |
Ask, Listen, Learn--Kids and Alcohol Don't Mix - Geared towards kids, this booklet features interactive games, trivia cards with questions and answers explaining the facts about alcohol, tips on how to avoid peer pressure, and creative ways to say no. (PDF file)
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Breast Milk or Formula: Making the Right Choice - Every parent wants to give their newborn baby the best. But which is best for your baby: breast milk or formula? Use this booklet to learn the facts about breast-feeding and its benefits.
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C Esta enfermo uno desus hijos? (This is the Spanish language version of Got a Sick Kid?) - Siga estos consejos cuando esté dando medicamentos a sus hijos, y haga uso del itinerario recomendado de vacunas para protegerlos contra 12 enfermedades infantiles graves. (PDF file)
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Caring for an Aging Loved One -
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Childproofing Your Home - Use this guide to learn about 12 safety devices for your home and how they can protect your child.
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Citizens' Preparedness Guide - This helpful guide explains simple, but vital, steps you can take to prepare and protect yourself and your family in many different situations. (PDF file)
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Danger in the Home - Use this handy checklist to detect potential hazards to children and how to make your home a safer place.
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Grandparents' Guide to Family Nurturing and Safety - Practical grandparenting tips from Dr. T. Berry Brazelton. Includes a pullout safety checklist for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
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Growing Up Drug Free - Outlines what parents should know and can do to prevent or stop drug abuse, including alcohol and tobacco, at each age level.
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Help Your Child Improve in Test- Taking - Simple techniques to help children at all grade levels avoid "test anxiety" and prepare for various types of tests.
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Help Yourself to a Healthy Home: Protect Your Children's Health - Find out about potentially harmful products and how to make your home a healthier place. (PDF file)
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Helping Your Child Become a Reader - Help children gain the skills they need to become good readers. Here are ways to turn everyday activities into learning experiences for infants to 6-year old children.
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Helping Your Child Learn Geography - Teach 5-10 year old children geography in ways that are challenging and fun.
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Helping Your Child Learn Math - The tips provided in this book will help you explore math concepts with your children and make it a fun experience. All the activities use easy-to-find material, relate math to everyday life, and can be done in the home, at the store, while traveling or just for the fun of it.
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Helping Your Child Succeed in School - 15 fun activities to do with your children (ages 5-11) to help expand their imagination, obey, organize, help others, and much more.
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Home Playground Safety Checklist - Use this handy checklist to make sure your home playground is safe for your kids.
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How to Give Medicine to Children - You’ve tried everything from being an airplane to a choo- choo train--and nothing works. Here’s some help. Learn about avoiding drug interactions, measuring correct doses and more.
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How to Make Adoption an Affordable Option - Explains the adoption process, myths, state laws, terminology, time frames, expenses, and more. Includes a resource guide and checklist.
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Kids Aren't Just Small Adults - Important information about giving nonprescription medicine to your child.
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Kids' Vaccinations Get a Little Easier - Some vaccinations are now combined to make immunization faster, easier, and for kids, a little more bearable Learn what they are and how they work to keep your child healthy Includes a vaccination schedule.
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Kids, Cash, Plastic, and You - Tips and activities to teach young children about budgeting, handling an allowance, and how to make saving and spending decisions. (PDF file)
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Learning Activities for the Growth Season - A 7-week schedule listing daily, fun learning activities for elementary age children. Poster.
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Learning Disabilities - Explains the differences between learning problems and disabilities. Chart shows language and reasoning skills to watch for at different ages and more.
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Mr. Plug's Fun Book, Kindergarten through Third Grade - Fun-filled coloring book with activities and games to help teach children about electrical safety. (PDF file)
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Mr. Plug's Fun Book, Pre- Kindergarten - Coloring activity book geared towards preschoolers to teach them about electrical safety. (PDF file)
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Museums and Learning: A Guide for Family Visits - How to make museum visits enjoyable learning experiences for your 4-12 year olds. Includes activities for children and families to do before, during, and after the visit.
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Parents' Guide to the Internet - Information on equipment and software, costs, surfing the Internet, getting e-mail, and protecting your privacy. Lists interesting and fun online resources for parents and children.
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Planning For Your Special Needs Child - Learn about setting up a legal guardian and planning for your child’s financial, medical, and educational needs.
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Protecting Your Child - It’s a parent’s worst nightmare--a child lost or missing. Use this guide to teach your children about avoiding potential harm in person and in cyberspace.
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Use Your Head...Always Wear a Bike Helmet - Did you know that helmets can reduce the risk of head injury by 85%? This booklet includes guidelines on proper use, fit, and developing the "helmet habit."
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Your Child's First Day At School - Tips on how to prepare your child for preschool or kindergarten, with a checklist to help determine if your child is ready to start.
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Your Family Disaster Supply Kit - Lists kinds of food, first aid supplies, tools, and other items you should stock for an emergency.
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<<Federal Programs>> |
About...Social Security - Explains the facts about social security benefits.
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Choosing a Doctor: A Guide for People With Medicare - Useful information to find the right doctor, with worksheets, questions to ask, and more. (PDF file)
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Choosing a Hospital: A Guide for People With Medicare - Tips on choosing the best possible facility when you or a family member needs hospital care. (PDF file)
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Choosing Treatments: A Guide for People With Medicare - Provides advice and worksheets to help you work with your doctor to develop the best treatment plan for any health problem. (PDF file)
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Facts About Medicare Prescription Drug Plans - Learn how to apply for this insurance program, with details on eligibility, compatibility with other health plans, and more. (PDF file)
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Facts About Medicare's New Preventive Benefits - Learn more about coverage for cardiovascular and diabetes screenings, and a free one-time physical exam for new Medicare enrollees. (PDF file)
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Future of Social Security - Find out more about today’s Social Security system so you can help shape the system of tomorrow.
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Guide to Disability Rights Laws - Covers the rights of persons with disabilities regarding education, employment, fair housing, public accommodations, and telecommunications.
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Guide to Health Insurance for People With Medicare - Fill in gaps in Medicare coverage and avoid paying for duplicate benefits. (PDF file)
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It's Your Drinking Water: Get to Know it and Protect it! - You have a right to know what's in your drinking water and a role to play in your water's protection. Learn how you can become informed and involved. (PDF file)
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Medicare & You 2005 - Here are detailed facts about your Medicare benefits and the health plan options available to you. Includes a telephone directory of contacts and a worksheet for comparing Medicare health plans. (PDF file)
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Medicare and Home Health Care - Outlines the home health care benefit, who is eligible, how to find an approved home health agency, and more. (PDF file)
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Medicare and Other Health Benefits: Your Guide to Who Pays First - Determine whether Medicare or your other insurance pays first when you receive health care. (PDF file)
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Medicare and Your Mental Health Benefits - Learn what mental health care coverage you have under Medicare. (PDF file)
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Medicare Hospice Benefits - Hospice care is a special type of care for terminally ill patients. Tips on how to find a hospice program and where to get more information. (PDF file)
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Medicare Preventive Services...To Help Keep You Healthy - Use this guide to lower your risk of cancer, flu, pneumonia, diabetes, and other illnesses. (PDF file)
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Medicare Questions and Answers - Need to learn more about your Medicare benefits? This guide provides information in an easy-to- understand question and answer format, including definitions of important terms. (PDF file)
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Medicare Worksheet for Comparing Medicare Health Plans - Check off these easy-to-follow points to find the best health plan for your needs. (PDF file)
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Pay it Right! Protecting Medicare from Fraud - Learn how to spot warning signs of fraud and how to report errors and concerns. (PDF file)
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Prescription drug coverage is available for all people in Medicare - What does the Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage do for me? How do I get this Prescription Drug Coverage? How do I sign up?
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Selective Service System: Information for Registrants - Explains responsibilities, rights and obligations, induction, claims, and the appeals process. (PDF file)
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Social Security: Basic Facts - Describes the different kinds of Social Security benefits, who receives them, and how they're financed. (PDF file)
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Social Security: What Every Woman Should Know - Discusses how a woman's benefits may be affected by disability, divorce, widowhood, retirement, or other special circumstances. (PDF file)
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Time to Register: Selective Service & You - Covers who must register, when, where, and how.
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U.S. Real Property Sales List - Lists government real estate properties that are sold by auction or sealed bid and explains how to get more information.
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<<Food>> |
Action Guide for Healthy Eating - Easy ways to include more low fat, high-fiber foods in your diet.
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Are Bioengineered Foods Safe? - Get the facts on what bioengineering is, how it affects humans, and what the FDA is doing to regulate the industry.
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Bulking Up Fiber's Healthful Reputation - Create your own high fiber diet and help reduce your risk of certain cancers, digestive disorders, and other ailments.
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Consumer's Guide to Fats - Learn about the different kinds and what effect they have on your cholesterol level.
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Critical Steps Toward Safer Seafood - Discusses how the FDA helps keep seafood safe and gives tips on safe food handling practices and selecting wholesome seafood.
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Fruits & Vegetables: Eating Your Way to 5 A Day - Eating fruits and vegetables can reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. Gives ideas to help you meet the 5 A Day goal.
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Irradiation: A Safe Measure for Safer Food - Learn how irradiation helps control foodborne illnesses without making food radioactive.
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Keep Your Food Safe - Provides tips on the safe handling, cooking and storage of food in order to avoid food- borne illness.
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Listeriosis and Food Safety Tips - Eating foods with the listeria bacteria can seriously affect pregnant women, newborns, and older adults. Learn about this illness, its symptoms, and how you can prevent it. (PDF file)
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Pesticides and Food: What You and Your Family Need to Know - Learn how pesticides affect different members of your family and what steps you can take to limit your exposure. (PDF file)
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Pinch of Controversy Shakes Up Dietary Salt - Discusses the effects of hidden salt in your diet and gives tips on reducing salt intake to prevent the risk of high blood pressure.
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Safer Eggs: Laying the Groundwork - Discusses the benefits of eggs as well as new farm- to-table safety measures.
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Sugar Substitutes: Americans Opt for Sweetness and Lite - A sweet tooth can sabotage your effort to cut calories. Use this guide to find out how low-calorie sugar substitutes can fit into your diet.
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To Your Health! Food Safety for Seniors - Covers the basic rules of safe food preparation, including a list of foods not recommended for those over 65. (PDF file)
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Where Do Your Favorite Foods Fit? - How to follow the Food Guide Pyramid and fit the foods you like to eat--such as pizza, fast foods, and mixed dishes--into a healthy diet. (PDF file)
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<<Health>> |
Alzheimer's Disease - is a group of diseases that lead to the loss of mental and physical functions. Learn how Alzheimer's is diagnosed, possible causes, and current treatments.
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An Aspirin a Day...Just Another Cliche? - Read about the benefits of aspirin in preventing cardiovascular disease and if taking it is right for you.
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Anxiety Disorders - Lists treatments available and resources to contact for more information on panic phobias, stress, obsessive-compulsive, and other disorders.
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Anxiety--Fact Sheet - Describes different types of anxiety disorders and what you can do if you recognize these symptoms in yourself or a loved one. (PDF file)
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Aspirin for Reducing Your Risk of Heart Attack and Stroke - It can have significant benefits and serious side effects--get the facts and speak to a health professional first.
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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - Discusses symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatments of this disorder which affects many children and young people. (PDF file)
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Basik Lasik - Find out about Lasik eye surgery, who is a good candidate, possible risks and complications, and more. (PDF file)
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Being A Blood Donor - Explains who can donate, the screening processes for both donors and the blood supply, and the benefits of donating blood.
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Bipolar Disorder (Manic-Depressive Illness) - Learn signs and symptoms, available treatments, and how to get help.
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Breast Cancer: Better Treatments Save More Lives - Find out about improved diagnostic techniques, the stages of breast cancer, and new treatments and drugs that are available.
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Buying Medicine? Help Protect Yourself Against Tampering -
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Colds & Flu - This useful guide discusses cold and flu symptoms, how to treat them, and what you can do to avoid getting sick.
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Coping with Arthritis in Its Many Forms - Describes symptoms and treatments for the 7 most common types of arthritis, and how to avoid being a target for fraudulent "cures."
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Depression & Suicide Facts for Older Adults - More than 2 million of the 34 million Americans age 65 and older suffer from some form of depression. This publication will help you learn more.
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Diabetes Demands a Triad of Treatments - This pamphlet explores the different treatments for diabetes and how they can improve diabetics' lives.
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Dieter's Brews Make Tea Time a Dangerous Affair - Many dieter's teas contain stimulant laxatives, which can cause serious side effects. Learn how to check labels and recognize dangerous symptoms.
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Directory of Mental Health Resources -
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Do I Have Arthritis? - Read about common signs of arthritis and how medications and exercise can help. (PDF file)
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Do You Know the Health Risks of Being Overweight? - Being overweight increases your chances of developing serious health problems, like heart disease, diabetes, or cancer. This guide can help you lose weight safely and develop a healthier lifestyle.
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Eat 5 Fruits and Vegetables a Day -
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Exercise and Your Heart - Learn how to start a new exercise program, how to pace yourself, and effective ways to avoid injuries.
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FDA Sets Higher Standards For Mammography - This guide gives you the facts on mammography facility standards and how to find a certified facility.
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FDA's Tips for Taking Medicines - Tips to protect yourself from prescription and OTC drugs that may react in strange ways to each other, certain foods, alcohol, etc.
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Fitness and Exercise - Get fit and feel better with daily activities that fit the weather, your lifestyle, and your schedule.
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Getting Information From FDA - Learn more about the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), what it does, and what information it can give you.
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Getting Rid of Yeast Infections - There are a variety of drugs available to fight yeast infections. Learn more about this condition.
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Getting Treatment for Panic Disorder - Do you have episodes of intense, disabling fear? Learn when you need help and what treatment options are available. (PDF file)
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Guide to Contraceptive Choices - Compares 13 methods of birth control according to effectiveness, health risks, availability, convenience, and how well they protect you from sexually transmitted diseases.
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Guide to Health Insurance - Get answers to the most frequently asked questions and compare services and costs using the checklist in this guide. (PDF file)
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Healthy Heart Handbook for Women - Information on the seven major risk factors for heart disease and six self-help strategies to beat it. Includes a food guide, recipes, and a resouce list.
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Homeopathy: Real Medicine or Empty Promises? - Learn about this method of treating disease, including its history, current practices, and how it's regulated.
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How Folate Can Help Prevent Birth Defects - When and how to get enough folic acid in your diet.
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How to Hold Your Own Against Colds and Flu - Get the facts on lowering your chance of infection, treating difficult cold and flu symptoms, and when to see a doctor.
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How to Spot Health Fraud - That “miracle cure” could empty your pockets and harm your health. Here's useful tips on how to read labels and spot warning signs.
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It's Quittin' Time - Describes the benefits and side effects of five stop-smoking aids: the anti-smoking pill, nasal spray, inhaler, nicotine patch and gum. Gives suggestions on creating a plan to stop smoking and more.
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Keep Active - How older people can use exercise and sports to help lower the risk of common diseases, relieve arthritis pain, and recover faster from illness. Includes an activity log to track progress and lists tips to prevent injury.
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La Diabetes (This is the Spanish language version of Diabetes) - (PDF file)
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La Menopausia y las Hormones (Fact Sheet) - Explica los síntomas de la menopausia, y los beneficios y los riesgos asociados con el tratamiento de reemplazo hormonal. (PDF file)
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La Menopausia y las Hormones (Purse Guide) - Provee una lista de preguntas para hacerle a su doctor acerca de la terapia de reemplazo hormonal como tratamiento para los síntomas de la menopausia. (PDF file)
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Laser Eye Surgery: Is It Worth Looking Into? - Can the new surgical techniques get rid of your glasses and contacts forever? Find out if you're a good candidate and what risks are involved.
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Making It Easier to Read Prescriptions - Gives an example of a typical prescription and a list of what common symbols and terms mean so you can ensure you get what you expect.
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Medications and Older People - Learn how to prevent dangerous drug combinations, make taking medications easier, and reduce their cost.
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Mental Health Factsheets -
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Mis Medicinas (This is the Spanish language version of My Medicines.) - Por lo general, las mujeres se encargan de sus medicamentos y los de toda la familia. Por eso es importante leer las etiquetas, evitar problemas, hacer preguntas, y llevar un registro. (PDF file)
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New Drug Label Spells It Out Simply - Do you find it hard to read what’s on the labels of over- the-counter medicines? That's about to change. Read the sample new label and see the difference.
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New Hope For People With Sickle Cell Anemia - Sickle cell anemia is a painful disease. But there may be a new hope for treating this disease--a new drug called Hydroxyurea. Find out more about this new drug and how its used.
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New Vaccine Targets Lyme Disease - Food and Drug Administration licensed the first vaccine to help prevent Lyme disease, a bacterial infection transmitted by tick bites.
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New Ways to Prevent and Treat AIDS - Describes new home-use testing kits, drug treatments, and other advances in fighting AIDS.
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Osteoporosis: Are You At Risk? -
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Ovarian Cancer - Discusses the risk factors for ovarian cancer, how it is diagnosed, treatment options, and more.
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Over 65 & Feeling Depressed - Provides a checklist to identify symptoms of depression and explains causes and treatment for clinical depression.
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Overcoming Infertility - Discusses what a couple can do to help conceive a child. Includes information on medications, surgery, and other medical procedures.
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Over-the-Counter Medicines: What's Right for You? - Use labeling information to avoid harmful interactions, protect against unsafe products, and get the most effective relief from your symptoms. (PDF file)
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Panic Disorder - What to do when anxiety or sudden fear seems too much to handle. Lists symptoms, treatments, and where to get help.
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Personal Emergency Response Systems - Explains how different systems summon help. Includes a helpful checklist and must-ask questions.
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Progress in Blood Supply Safety - Discusses how the blood industry is regulated, and the test now performed on all donated blood.
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Prostate Cancer - ...is the second most common cancer in men. Learn how it is detected, what treatments are available, and where to get more information.
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Prostate Cancer: No One Answer for Testing or Treatment - How prostate cancer is detected, what the stages are, and what you need to know to choose the best treatment option.
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Questions & Answers About Arthritis Pain - Discusses conventional and alternative options for short- term relief and long-term pain management. (PDF file)
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Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before You Have Surgery - Use this booklet to become a better informed and prepared patient.
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Questions to Ask Your Pharmacist - Your pharmacist knows a lot about your medications and can alert you to any dangerous drug interactions. Learn what to ask and more.
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Real Men. Real Depression - An estimated six million men in the U.S. have a depressive disorder, but many don't admit it or seek help. Here's how to recognize the symptoms and get treatment. (PDF file)
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Setting Goals for Weight Loss - Maintaining a healthy weight has many benefits, but it’s difficult to lose weight if your goals are unrealistic. Check out the Body Mass Index (BMI).
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Seven Steps to Safer Sunning - When it's warm outside, everyone's thoughts turn to lemonade, the beach, and summer tans. But tanning can damage your skin. Learn how to protect your skin and still enjoy the sun with this guide.
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Should You Go on a Diet? - Discusses the risks of fad diets and diet pills for teenagers, and gives healthy tips for anyone trying to lose weight.
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So You Have High Blood Cholesterol - Here are the facts about high cholesterol and what you can do to lower yours.
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Stories of Depression: Does This Sound Like You? - Do you feel really sad, tired, or worried for extended periods of time? Read these stories to learn more and get help. (PDF file)
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Story of Bipolar Disorder (Manic-Depressive Illness): Does This Sound Like You? - Mood swings can be a serious problem. Read this story for more on symptoms, causes, and treatment. (PDF file)
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Sun, UV, and You - Explains what the UV (ultraviolet radiation) index is and how you can use it to avoid skin cancer, premature aging of the skin, and more. (PDF file)
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Surgeon General's Report on Mental Health: Executive Summary - (PDF file)
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Taking Charge of Menopause - Learn about menopause, its symptoms, and health risks associated with it.
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Taming Tummy Turmoil - Describes over-the-counter medications (and their possible side effects) for motion sickness, heartburn, indigestion, and overindulgence.
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The New OTC Medicine Label - All over-the-counter medicines now carry usage and warning labels. Learn what's important--for your health's sake.
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Time to Spring Into Action Against Seasonal Allergies - Explains how to treat chronic allergies, including medications, nasal sprays, and allergy shots. Covers common FAQs regarding over-the-counter medications.
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To Be Or Not To Be--On Hormone Replacement Therapy - Compares the benefits, side effects, and long-term health effects of hormone replacement therapy. (PDF file)
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Understanding Acute Low Back Problems - Learn what causes them, the most effective treatments, how to minimize future problems, and more.
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Understanding Breast Changes: A Health Guide for All Women - Describes the various types of breast changes that women experience. Also discusses breast cancer screening, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
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Understanding Prostate Changes: A Health Guide for All Men - Learn about prostate enlargement and prostate cancer, including screening and treatment.
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Unproven Medical Treatments Lure Elderly - Americans spend nearly $20 billion each year on unproven medical treatments. Learn why these can be dangerous and how to avoid fraud.
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Vision Correction Procedures - Discusses the latest surgical and non-surgical procedures to correct nearsightedness and how to properly evaluate the claims of each procedure.
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Vision Correction: Taking a Look at What's New - Use this guide to learn about the latest developments in laser and non–laser eye surgery, contact lenses, and eyeglasses.
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Ways to Win At Weight Loss - Tips on how to create a successful weight loss plan, including over-the-counter medications, prescription drugs, and diet and exercise programs.
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Weight Loss: Finding a Weight Loss Program that Works for You - Tips on comparing different weight loss programs and using the Body Mass Index (BMI) calculator to determine your BMI and set your weight goal. (PDF file)
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Your Guide to Choosing a Nursing Home - What to look for in a nursing home, alternatives to nursing homes, an evaluation checklist, and a list of helpful resources. (PDF file)
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Your Pharmacy Benefit: Make It Work for You! - How to get the best pharmacy benefit when choosing health insurance, including Medicare. How to appeal if your plan denies coverage for a specific drug. Includes a sample appeal letter. (PDF file)
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<<Housing>> |
Automatic and Programmable Thermostats - How to choose which of the five basic types is best for your home and will help you save the most money and energy.
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Buying Your Home: Settlement Costs and Helpful Information - Describes the home buying, financing, and settlement (closing) process. Also gives tips on shopping for a loan.
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Consumer Handbook On Adjustable Rate Mortgages - Basic features, advantages, risks, and terminology associated with adjustable rate mortgages. Explains how ARM's work, how to reduce your risk, and more. Includes a table for comparing mortgages. (PDF file)
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Don't Be A Victim of Loan Fraud - Be a smart consumer when buying or refinancing your home. Use these 11 tips to learn more about predatory lending, recognize tactics that predators use, identify warning signs of fraud, and more.
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Energy Efficient Mortgage Home Owner Guide - If you're buying, refinancing, or remodeling, save money with a mortgage that covers energy-saving repairs.
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Fixing Up Your Home and How to Finance It - Information about hiring a contractor, doing the work yourself, and the HUD Title 1 home improvement loan program.
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High-Cost "Predatory" Home Loans: How to Avoid the Traps - You can protect yourself by knowing the warning signs of predatory loan practices, questions to ask before signing a contract, and where to turn for help.
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Home Improvement - Helpful advice on when home improvements pay off, how to select different home improvement specialist, and comparing financing options.
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Home Sweet Home Improvement - Check for the warning signs of a shady contractor; ask questions to protect yourself from fraud; complete the post-job checklist; and get tips on how to resolve complaints. (PDF file)
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Homeowner's Glossary of Building Terms - Taking on a home improvement project can open a whole new world of terms you may not know. Here's a quick reference to help you keep up with the language of the trade.
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How To Avoid Foreclosure - Explains how homeowners with FHA-insured mortgages can avoid losing their homes and ruining their credit because of missed payments. (PDF file)
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Improving the Efficiency of Your Duct System - Fix potential problems that can affect your family's health and comfort and cost you money.
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Making Your Home Safe from Fire and Carbon Monoxide - Prevent fires, protect yourself with smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, keep carbon monoxide out of your home, and develop an emergency home escape plan for your family.
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Managing the Japanese Beetle: A Homeowner's Handbook - Discusses how to detect and control Japanese beetles, and choose plants that resist Japanese beetle feeding.
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Propane Prices - Explains what propane is, where it comes from, and how the season and geographic region affect prices. (PDF file)
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Protect Your Family From Lead In Your Home - Exposure to lead is dangerous, especially to young children. Learn how to check your home for signs of lead. (PDF file)
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Residential Heating Oil Prices - Sources of heating oil, reasons for fluctuations in oil prices, and tips to lower your monthly bill. (PDF file)
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Residential Natural Gas Prices - Where natural gas comes from, what gas bills cover, and factors that affect prices during the winter.
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Saving With Energy Star - How to choose products with the Energy Star label to help save energy, help the environment, and reduce the costs of utility bills.
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Should You Have Your Air Ducts in Your Home Cleaned? - Tips on deciding if your ducts need cleaning, choosing a cleaning service, evaluating health claims, and keeping ducts clean.
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Weather Patterns Are Changing, and So Are Your Chances of Being Flooded - In recent years, 2 out of every 3 U.S. natural disasters were flood related. Learn how to obtain the flood insurance you should have.
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Weathering the High Cost of Heating Your Home - Evaluate your heating system's energy efficiency, buy energy-efficient appliances, and get the best prices on heating oil.
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When Your Home Is On the Line: What You Should Know About Home Equity Lines of Credit - Here are questions, terms, tips, a checklist, and more to find the plan that meets your needs and protects your interest.
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<<Money>> |
401(k) Plans - Explains what these plans are, what happens when you change employers, and what to do if you need the money before retirement.
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Annuities - Learn the different types of annuities and take a helpful quiz to see if annuities are right for you.
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At-Home Shopping Rights - How to deal with late deliveries, unordered merchandise, billing errors and much more when making purchases by mail or phone order.
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Bankruptcy Basics - There are 5 basic types of bankruptcy cases used to obtain relief from debt. Learn the differences in debts discharged, assets kept, forms needed, where to file, and more. (PDF file)
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Build Wealth Not Debt - Join the American Saver program--learn five key savings strategies and receive a free quarterly savings newsletter.
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Building Financial Freedom - Features a worksheet to help track your spending, tips on creating a financial plan, and an investor's checklist.
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Buying Time: The Facts About Pre-Paid Phone Cards - How to buy long distance telephone services in advance.
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Choosing & Using Credit Cards - Credit cards vary widely in their charges and how fees are calculated. Learn how to compare costs for the best deal.
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Cold Calling - How can you stop sellers from calling, what are the signs of a scam or fraud, and who can you contact for help?
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Cuándo no es su cheque un cheque? Intercambio electrónico de cheques - Los comerciantes pueden ahora utilizar la información de sus cheques para retirar el dinero directamente de su cuenta bancaria. Aprenda sobre las sus derechas cuando viene a la conversión electrónica del cheque y qué a hacer si usted tiene un problema.
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Enjoying Retirement - What you need to plan for and know about retirement, such as exercise, recreation, diet, finances, and more.
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Fair Credit Reporting - Learn what's in your credit report, how you can get a copy, and more. (PDF file)
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Fair Debt Collection - How and where to complain if you are harassed, threatened, or abused by debt collectors. (PDF file)
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Federal Credit Unions - How they work, what services are offered, and how to become a member.
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Finding a Lost Pension - Here’s how to find out if you have an unclaimed pension, where to search, documents you’ll need, and what to do when you find your pension fund. (PDF file)
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From Here To Security - Provides specific advice and actions to take for each of five different steps to financial security - from setting goals and choosing investment products to checking your progress.
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Getting What You Pay For: Weights & Measures Tips for Consumers - Get the best buys on items like gasoline, groceries, and firewood sold by weights and measures. Tells who to contact with problems or questions.
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Guía del consumidor sobre Check 21 y cheques sustitutos - Una nueva ley, cheque 21, permite que los bancos le envíen el "substitite comprueba" en lugar de sus cheques cancelados originales. Descubra las sus derechas.
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How SIPC Protects You - If your brokerage firm closes due to bankruptcy or other financial difficulties, the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) works to return your assets. Find out what SIPC does and does not cover. (PDF file)
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How To Check Out Your Stockbroker or Brokerage Firm/When Your Broker Calls, Take Notes! - Get your stockbroker's history and background by requesting a Central Registration Depository report. Then follow the easy-to- use worksheet to record conversations with your broker and keep track of recommendations you receive.
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I Bonds Investor's Guide - Follow this easy-to-read Q&A format to find out if I Bonds are a good way for you to save and invest money.
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International Investing-Get The Facts - As the world becomes a smaller place, international investing is becoming a more popular option to investors. Here is the latest information on international investing in an easy-to-follow question and answer format. (PDF file)
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Invest Wisely - Basic tips to help you select a brokerage firm and representative, and make and monitor an investment Identifies questions to ask and warning signs to look for to avoid problems.
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Investment Swindles: How They Work and How to Avoid Them - Protect yourself against illegal, yet legitimate-sounding, telemarketing and direct mail offers. (PDF file)
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Keeping Family/Household Records - Every family household has some important records. Learn what to keep and how to safeguard your important documents.
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Making Sense of Savings - How to compare the various types of banking accounts available. Describes the different services and fees, and gives questions to ask about interest rates and service charges.
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Managing Your Debts: How to Regain Financial Health - Learn where to begin--what you can do for yourself, how credit counseling can help, facts about bankruptcy, and more.
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Microcap Stock: A Guide for Investors - Here are the details on these low-priced stocks issued by small companies and how to protect yourself from fraud.
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Need a Loan? Think Twice About Using Your Home as Collateral - Useful tips to help you protect your home and equity when applying for a loan.
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Predictable, Secure Pension for Life - Describes traditional benefit pension plans, how they operate, and the rights and options of workers covered by them. (PDF file)
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Pretexting: Your Personal Information Revealed - Pretexting is when others get your personal information under false pretenses. Find out how it happens, the laws against it, and how to protect yourself. (PDF file)
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Protejase de los cargos por cheques rebotados y sobregiros - Descubra cuánto saldo descubierto y honorarios despedidos del cheque pueden costarle y aprender cómo evitar estos honorarios.
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Shop...The Card You Pick Can Save You Money - Use the helpful chart of major credit card issuers to select the best card for you by comparing annual percentage rates, fees, and other features.
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Shopping With Your ATM Card - Describes the new and expanded ways you can use an ATM card. Also provides safety precautions and a listing of ATM networks and affiliated shopping services by state.
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Special Report: Are You Sure You're Fully Insured? - Bank failures aren’t common--but if your banking institution should fail, are your deposits protected? Here are the facts on FDIC insurance, tips for keeping your money safe, and answers to common questions.
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Tips You Can Bank On - Strategies to help you get better banking services, protect your investments, manage loans and credit card debt wisely, prevent fraud, and more.
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U.S. Savings Bonds - Learn about the different types of bonds, federal and state tax benefits, and how to purchase savings bonds online.
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What Savvy Consumers Need to Know About Debit Cards - Explains how debit cards work and what to do if your debit card is lost or stolen. Includes 10 tips on how to protect your card and a special form to keep track of card numbers.
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What You Should Know About Financial Planning - Discusses the benefits of financial planning for life-changing events, such as buying a home or retirement. (PDF file)
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Your Insured Deposit - Explains what is protected and what isn't if your bank should fail, how much of your money is insured, what types of accounts are covered, and more.
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Your Investments - Consumer facts about investments that are not deposits and are not insured by the FDIC
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Your Rights as a Financial Planning Client - Here’s a checklist of your rights, what to expect from your financial planner, and what to do if you have a problem. (PDF file)
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<<Small Business>>
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Americans with Disabilities Act: Guide for Small Businesses - Discusses basic requirements businesses must follow to ensure that facilities are accessible. Also includes toll-free sources for assistance. (PDF file)
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Doing Business with GSA - The General Services Administration (GSA) buys a wide variety of products and services for federal agencies. Learn about GSA's contracting opportunities. (PDF file)
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General Information Concerning Patents - Learn about patent laws, application procedures, costs, and more in this revision Includes application form with instructions.
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Introduction to Federal Taxes for Small Business/Self-Employed - This helpful CD-ROM explains what you need to document expenses and deductions and file federal taxes.
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Q's & A's for Small Business Employers - Use this guide to develop an effective safety and health program, identify safety hazards, reduce injuries, and more. (PDF file)
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SBA Programs & Services - Find out how the Small Business Administration can help you start or expand a business. Describes SBA’s financial assistance programs, business development programs, and more. (PDF file)
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Using Consumer Reports: What Landlords Need to Know - Learn how to use consumer credit reports to evaluate rental applications of prospective tenants and what you are legally required to do. (PDF file)
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<<Travel>>
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Discover America: Listing of State Tourism Offices of the U.S. - Use this list to order free vacation information including maps, calendars of events, travel guides, and more.
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Fly Smart - Gives more than 30 steps you can take to help make your flight a safe one.
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Personal Security for the American Business Traveler Overseas - It is important to be alert and aware of the customs, laws and possible dangers. Use these helpful tips to protect yourself abroad.
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Travel Tips for Older Americans - This booklet provides advice to help you plan a safe and healthy trip and to make your trip the exciting, memorable event it should be.
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<<And More>> |
Antitrust Enforcement and the Consumer - Explains how laws governing business competition are enforced and how consumers benefit.
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Conserving the Nature of America - Beautiful photos show how fish, wildlife, and plants are protected in more than 500 National Wildlife Refuges. Also gives details on volunteer and recreational opportunities. (PDF file)
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Consumer's Guide to Postal Services and Products - Discusses the product and service options the Postal Service offers to help you choose the right service to meet your needs and save you time and money. Information on priority and express mail, mail order fraud, pornographic and undesirable mail.
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Fishing Is Fun for Everyone - Find out what equipment you’ll need, what kind of bait to use, how to cast and tie knots, and where to get more information. (PDF file)
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Making the Best Call - Companies are now able to provide both local and long distance telephone service. Save money by comparing offers.
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Mud & Guts - We all know about George Washington and Valley Forge, but what was life like for average soldiers in the American Revolution? Find out about their food, weapons, clothing, diseases, and more with these down- to-earth stories and humorous cartoons by Bill Mauldin.
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Smart Consumer's Guide to Telephone Service - Handy tips on shopping for telephone service and discusses what help is available for low-income consumers. (PDF file)
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Swindlers Are Calling - Eight things you should know about telemarketing fraud, nine tip-offs that a caller could be a crook, and ten ways to avoid becoming a victim.
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Taking Legal Action - Discusses when legal action may be appropriate, how to file in small claims court, and when to consider hiring a lawyer.
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U.S. and the Metric System - Explains how to use metric in everyday life. Includes metric conversion charts and more.
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