Attorney General's 2009 green calendar unveiled

Attorney General Martha Coakley's office unveils its 2009 green calendar online here.

The calendar features 12 months of helpful tips and information on issues such as: energy audits and weatherization, energy efficiency and seasonal tips, re-using and recycling, environmental health, and transportation alternatives.

The AGO also recently launched a new Web site section dedicated to Energy & Utilities, as a part of the office’s ongoing efforts to provide consumers with the tools and information to control their energy use.

Printed calendars here are available in limited quantities. The AGO will supply a maximum of two calendars per consumer request, and a maximum of 10 calendars for requests made on behalf of an agency or organization. To request a calendar, please email your name and mailing address to agoweb@state.ma.us.

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Consumers remain cautious as energy prices fall

Although the price of oil has fallen over $100 per barrel since reaching record levels this past July and gas costs only about $1.60 per gallon, consumers aren't spending their extra cash. Fears of an increasingly unstable economic climate seem to be causing consumers to save more aggressively.

Increasing unemployment rates and intensive media coverage of layoffs and foreclosures present a grim financial picture. "The average customer out there is saying, 'If I don't have to do it--if I absolutely don't have to do it--I ain't buying it,'" Ken Goldstein, an economist at The Conference Board, a New York nonprofit business group that tracks the economy, tells the Boston Globe.

America’s very low savings rate, however, has come to be considered one of the cracks in the foundation of the country’s financial system. While an increase in consumer savings is very likely to be helpful for the long-term economic conditions, it may make getting out of the recession more difficult.

Growth is closely tied to consumer spending, and when spending decreases, the economy contracts. There is less demand for goods and services and that in turn affects unemployment. In contrast, the current economic crisis illustrates the dangers of excessive spending. Reigning in spending is ultimately likely to make for a sounder financial system.

Gus Faucher, director of macroeconomics at Moody's Economy.com tells the Boston Globe, "We're going to see a different attitude toward debt. I think people are going to be less willing to borrow to finance their consumption."

--Bridget O'Sullivan

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Food costs steady despite drop in fuel prices

As gasoline crossed the $4 mark this summer, grocery stores were some of the first places consumers saw prices rise. Although the price of fuel has declined considerably since then, the prices of many food items have remained relatively constant.

"Prices always go up faster than they come down," John Rand, a grocery team leader at researcher and consultancy Management Ventures Inc. in Cambridge, tells the Boston Globe. "They raise prices in anticipation of costs. They very rarely lower them in anticipation of savings."

In addition, the costs associated with fuel and transportation make up only a portion of what consumers are actually paying for when they purchase an item from the grocery store. Meat and produce, for example, are also subject to variations in supply that are dependent upon weather and other unpredictable natural events.

Other items that have a very long shelf life, such as soap and paper towels, are dependent upon contracts between sellers and manufacturers. These contracts are often negotiated before either party knows what fuel or transportation costs will be at the time of delivery.

Just because grocery prices have remained relatively constant does not mean that there are not bargains, however. Stores still need to move their merchandise, and in response to weakening sales figures, more manufacturers may be offering coupons to entice shoppers.

"We also have thousands of temporary price reductions every single week," Judy Chong, spokeswoman for Shaw's, says. "If you just spend some time clipping coupons or you pay some attention, you can get some deals out there."

--Bridget O'Sullivan

Consumer United's Holiday Savings Game

Consumer United unveiled its new Holiday Savings Game here to whip you into the spirit of the season.

Are you on Santa's naughty or nice list when it comes to energy efficiency? Does the idea of high energy prices this winter make you feel anything but jolly?

See how much you can save by taking the following steps from Santa.

Happy holidays from Consumer United!

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Stay connected and save big on basic services

Household services such as cable, internet and telephone connections can be a big drain on the budget every month. Looking for deals and finding the best combination of services to match your household’s needs can lead to lots of savings.

Switching from a traditional landline telephone connection to Skype, the internet based calling service, can be very cost-effective. On Skype it's free to call other Skype members and their rates for calling landlines, even international ones, can be much lower than traditional providers. In addition, with many households already paying for at least one cell phone connection, internet based calling can easily provide a replacement for landlines.

If your household is committed to keeping its landline, however, be sure to find out if your provider offers bundled packages. Some companies offer telephone, internet, and cable for one monthly rate. Beware of introductory rates that make switching seem attractive but ultimately lead to higher bills.

Customers that currently get their services from different providers may be in a good position to negotiate, as well. Providers will sometimes match their competitors’ prices for certain services to prevent losing business. Don’t be afraid to ask for upgrades or other perks, especially if you’ve been a customer for a long time.

If you’re paying for services that you’re not utilizing, however, don’t waste any time in pulling the plug.

Click here for 33% off three or 12-month calling subscriptions from Skype

Inside Consumer United :: Kristin Williams

Kristin Williams began at Consumer United in September, working full time as a Consumer United Advocate. She loves to save Consumer United members money on basic services, especially for insurance products. Since Williams' arrival, Consumer United has expanded its reach to New Jersey and hired more people.

"It's amazing to see how much the company has grown in such a short time," she says.

What's Williams' favorite personal finance advice? She believes one should shop around, especially at the grocery store. Williams usually sticks to the store brand. "I always look at the price per pound/ounce to know that I'm getting the best deal for my money, and I hardly ever buy name-brand products." Williams also uses a monthly budget as a tool fo saving, and keeping her expenditures in check.

During her off time, Williams volunters at a local theater company called Bad Habit Productions. She loves every minute of it. Williams just finished working on "The Laramie Project," marking her fifteenth show. She works mostly behind the scenes, usually as a stage manager, director or in lighting/sound design. Not only is Williams dedicated to theater, she's a photographer as well. She does mostly landscape work, but loves photographing people.

Williams adds, "Consumer United not only helps people save money but we help people get set up with things they need at a great price, with only a phone call or a few minutes spent on the internet."

Before Consumer United, Williams graduated from Washington State University in May. She worked for an editor of a Scientific Journal while in school earning her degree in Entrepreneurship.

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Procrastinators rejoice while airlines slash fares

Good things come to those who wait ... especially for last-minute procrastinators booking flights and heading home this holiday season.

Travelers are finding the lowest airfares in years, due to the price of oil at a third of what it was last summer. With the economic slump, last-minute travel cancellations are being made because people are losing their jobs causing a low demand to fly.

If you want to travel this holiday season for cheap, don't expect to fly when everyone else is. Flying on an off day has caused some to have incredibly rewarding savings. George Hobica, founder and president of Airfarewatch.com, says "You'd be surprised how airlines are opening up cheap seats at the last minute. If you haven't made plans already, you may be rewarded." These fares are subject to change day by day, or even hour to hour.

A Saturday departure with a Tuesday returning flight had a fare of $535 round trip. If you depart a day later, on Sunday, that fare dropped to $447. That's not a bad deal. According to the Los Angeles Times, Bet Williams is planning on visiting her mother in Tampa, FL. this Christmas. She was able to find a round-trip fare of $240. Only a month ago, the fare was around $400.

Click here for the complete story.

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Americans are withdrawing from retirement funds

As unemployment rates reach levels that haven’t been seen for decades, a larger number of Americans are reaching into their retirement savings to help make ends meet.

Bank of America recently released a survey on retirement savings, and nearly 20 percent of respondents said they had drawn from retirement accounts to help pay bills since the downturn began.

Drawing from retirement savings often has serious repercussions because the tax consequences are high in the short and long-term financial health is impacted.

"Taking a distribution from a retirement account is one of the least tax-efficient places from which to get the money," Mark Nash, co-author of Pricewaterhouse Coopers' 2009 Guide to Tax and Financial Planning, tells MarketWatch.

Those who withdraw must pay an addition 10 percent penalty if they are under the age of 59 and a half. In addition, the amount that is withdrawn is considered income, so it could also affect other benefits that an individual or household receives based on their income.

If withdrawing from retirement funds is the only option a person has, there are certain circumstances that can lessen the penalties. For example, first-time home buyers can take a one-time distribution of $10,000. This money is still considered taxable income, but even if the person who withdraws is under the minimum age, the $10,000 is not subject to the additional 10 percent penalty.

Other situations such as medical expenses that exceed a certain percentage of income or college tuition can also sometimes exempt the borrower from paying the additional 10 percent penalty.

To learn more, click here.

--Bridget O'Sullivan

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Is now the time to buy a house?

Housing prices are falling. Is the buying opportunity of a lifetime almost here?

Housing prices are down to nearly 5.5%, and this week the federal government may be locking the rate down to 4.5%. The buying opportunity of a lifetime is reportedly on its way, although no one knows exactly when it will begin.

The time is certainly fast approaching, and unfortunately we will only be able to know the absolute bottom of housing prices when looking back. According to a New York Times article, the moment will probably arrive when everyone is feeling the most pessimistic.

There's still a downside to the housing market. A study called "The Changing Prospects for Building Home Equity" forecasts that many buyers will see a decline by 2012. There's even a potential six figure drop on homes in San Francisco, New York, Los Angeles and Seattle.

For those looking to buy, here are a few tips:

Don't spend more than 28% of your pre-tax income on mortgage payments, insurance and taxes. With the current unemployment rates, use caution if you think you may be at risk. A.C. Panella, who teaches at a University in CA, waited until she reached tenure before purchasing a home with her partner, Amy Goldman, a lawyer for a nonprofit organization.

"We could afford the mortgage payment on one salary, were something to come up." says Panella. Start now to get on track to improve your credit score. It takes time to qualify for the best mortgage rates.

Relief for those struggling with student loans

Many people who decide to pursue higher education end up paying the price for years. Without scholarships or other assistance, just one year at a private institution can cost upwards of $50,000. The only option many students have is to take out large loans.

Effective July 1, however, a new plan will allow lower income graduates to make smaller monthly payments.

This relief comes in addition to a plan the government already offers to forgive some of the debt of students who pursue public service career paths. After a graduate makes 120 payments, the remainder of the loan is forgiven. The only loans that are eligible for forgiveness, however, are the Federal Direct Stafford Loan, the PLUS loan, the graduate PLUS, or the Federal Direct Consolidation loan.

"Typically, it is projected that a borrower who performs public service under this program will repay only about one-fourth to one-half as much money as a borrower who does not," Peter Mazareas, vice chairman of the College Savings Foundation, a Washington-based advocacy association, says to The Boston Globe.

Some loan forgiveness programs are also based on the state in which the graduate lives, and Massachusetts, for example, offers additional programs. For graduates who pursue professions related to teaching young children or other forms of childcare, there are forgiveness opportunities available.

In addition, the federal government has discussed increasing its involvement in helping graduates handle the burden of student loan debt. Loan forgiveness or assistance could become available to those pursuing a wider range of professions. For more information on Massachusetts loan forgiveness, click here.

--Bridget O'Sullivan

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Online coupon sites are making a comeback

As more and more shoppers are paying careful attention to their budgets this holiday season, retailers are noticing a big increase in the popularity of online coupon sites and codes.

The recent rise in interest undoubtedly has to do with the economic downturn th ecountry is facing, but online coupon sites have also dramatically increased the accessibility of the codes.

Sites such as BetterDealsDaily.com, CouponCode.com, CouponMom.com, and CouponCabin.com are informational sites that gather and publish codes that shoppers can use when they make purchases online. Some codes have become so popular, in fact, that retailers limit the amount of times that they can be redeemed.

"Coupons had never been a big factor online the way they are offline. This is something new," Gian Fulgoni, chairman of comScore, tells the New York Times. "It's taken pricing power away from the retailers and given it to the consumers, because the consumer is totally up to speed on what the prices are."

The popularity of online coupon code sites is creating a whole new kind of value generation, and not just for the shopper. Some sites earn commissions from retailers when shoppers click through their sites to make purchases. On other sites such as ebates.com, the shopper himself earns a reward for making a purchase from a retailer connected to the site.

Another factor that may contribute to the popularity of onlinecoupons is how discreet shoppers can be. Instead of holding up a long line of people and making their coupon use public, online shoppers can enter coupon codes publicly identifying themselves as coupon shoppers. With the ever-increasing popularity of online shopping, the popularity of online coupon codes is expected to rise significantly.

Click here for the complete article.

--Bridget O'Sullivan

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Energy rally begins push for funding

Senator John Kerry was just one of the speakers at a clean energy rally held at Faneuil Hall last month. Community organizers came together and read from their “Declaration of Energy Empowerment” to lay out their plans to make homes more energy efficient and to create more “green collar” jobs.

A call to action to improve energy efficiency was one of the major themes of Kerry’s address. "We're losing this battle today. In fact, we're not even fighting this battle to the best of our ability to the best of our technological skill. To the creative genius that we have in this country, we haven't begun to really fight. ... I want you to understand the importance of the commitment that you've made in being here and going forward from here to translate these rights into a reality in the governance of our country,” Open Media Boston reports.

The organizers of the event focused their remarks on the importance of improving the weatherization of homes and on energy conservation to lower energy bills. With a lot of households facing challenging economic conditions this winter, the speakers emphasized the need to inform people of how to reduce their energy consumption.

In addition, a statewide effort to increase energy efficiency could create many more jobs for area residents. The savings generated by lower energy bills, especially in the wake of concerns over state and local budgets, could have an important environmental and economic impact on Massachusetts.

Click here for the complete story.

--Bridget O'Sullivan

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Consumer United: If you have our auto insurance, then you can save 20% off your home insurance- the average member saves $150-$200 per year

How low can gas prices go?

Gas prices are falling rapidly. When will they stop?

Back in June we were paying a record high $4.60. Now we can find gas prices lower than $1.75, and they are falling every day. What is the cause? The economic recession and the drop in the cost of crude oil are the main reasons. Crude oil was selling for $147 a barrel in July, and sold for $47 a barrel on Wednesday.

Will these unthinkable prices continue to fall? "There's a bottom out there somewhere," says AAA spokesman Michael Geeser, pointing out that prices can't fall below 45 cents a gallon because that's how much we pay in taxes. "We know gas will never go below that mark."

Not many are willing to take a jab at predicting the bottom, but most of those who do say prices will continue to drop until our 401(k)s stabilize and our rising layoffs die off.

In the meantime, think ample supplies and cheap gas. In California, more than 1 million barrels a day are being produced, far more than what motorists need. According to Mercury News, Chuck Brassfield sold 70,000 gallons of gas at his Capitol Premier Car Wash station on Capitol Expressway in San Jose last month. More than 101,000 gallons were sold a year ago.

How do consumers feel about cheap gas? Sarah Jowett almost cried when it cost her $25 to fill up her 1992 Camry, instead of $55. "I think that the gas prices going down was about as good as any stimulus package, or better." Rick Roberts of Los Banos, CA says,"I am quite happy, that the fuel costs have come down as low as they are." Roberts, a commuter spent more than $1200 for gas in July. Now he spends about $560.

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Mass. consumers search for higher power

In more and more communities across Massachusetts, local officials and community activists are looking into money-saving wind turbines to accommodate their power needs.

Large wind turbines can generate hundreds of kilowatts of electricity and provide substantial savings on utility costs. However, some communities such as those along Nantucket Sound, have objected to the turbines because of their size and effect on local views of the water.

The cost of the turbines is another factor that has kept them from catching on. A single turbine can be more than $1 million, but the state does award credits to some property owners who construct the turbines.

"The time for talking about this issue is over. We need action. We need hands-on learning," Medford's mayor, Michael J. McGlynn tells The Boston Globe. "But, obviously, the money is significant, too. Any time you're saving $25,000 or $30,000 a year, you're saving somebody's job."

In addition, if a particular turbine’s electrical production exceeds its demand, the owner can sell that power back to a local utility company. As a result, one turbine can provide cleaner energy to surrounding community. By harnessing the green electricity generated by the turbine, a utility company such as NSTAR could sell more kilowatts of wind power to its customers.

Since wind power could be the direction the electricity industry is moving, developers and entrepreneurs are sprouting up around Massachusetts. Kevin Schulte, for example, founded Sustainable Energy Developments Inc in New York to expand wind power throughout the region.

"It seems to be peppered all over society right now: green, green, green. Well, this is green. This is clean energy,” he said to The Globe. “This is 20 years of energy with no emissions. Twenty years of energy with no pollution you have to bury in the ground. I think that's all right."

Click here for the complete article.

--Bridget O'Sullivan

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Inside Consumer United :: Aaron Biedrzycki

Aaron Biedrzycki is a man with customer service on his mind and savings in his heart.

As a consumer advocate, Biedrzycki is motivated to save his clients money while navigating through the complexities of switching auto and home insurance providers.

"We're pioneers," the consumer advocate says. "Some select alumni groups or employers can get group discounts with certain insurance companies, but with Consumer United, anyone and everyone who signs up to be a member can enjoy these benefits. We're not elitists, we're just interested in helping those who need it the most to lower their cost of living."

Biedrzycki has experienced an enormous amount of growth since his beginning. The advocate call center has tripled in size. The scope of his job is constantly changing, which means there's never a dull moment at the office. Biedrzycki believes that everyone at Consumer United has contributed in creating a great atmosphere, and everyone is genuinely enthusiastic about the growing membership, one satisfied customer at a time.

How does Biedrzycki save money? He's real big on creating a budget, although he never used to be. "Once you take the time to map out all your expenses, you get a much better idea of how much 'disposable income' you have, and from there you can establish reasonable goals of putting some money aside or making a major purchase." He believes that one should live within one's means. Especially nowadays, there is an increased need to "trim the fat" and not make hasty or unnecessary purchases.

Biedrzycki grew up in New Hampshire, spending a considerable amount of time outdoors. He enjoys camping and hiking every chance he gets, in all seasons and weather conditions. When he's forced to remain indoors, he's a pretty big film/movie buff and enjoys live music whenever he can. Biedrzycki is an eagle scout as well. As soon as the office got wind of this, they immediately started calling him "Eagle,"a moniker that has now become permanent.

And his clients? "My clients can still call me Aaron though."

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New equipment provides heat and electricity

With winter right around the corner, many homeowners are looking for ways to lower their energy bills. At Boston's recent Greenbuild 2008 conference, the American Honda Motor Company unveiled an energy-efficient heat and power generator.

The machine can provide savings of up to $1000 when installed with a furnace system because it provides additional "free-watt" electricity.

The generator has been in existence for several years, but it did not arrive in the United States until 2007. Since it was introduced in Asia in 2003, however, Honda has sold more than 50,000 units.

"Across all markets in which we sell products, the Honda mission is to bring advanced, innovative and environmentally responsible products to our customers," Steve Bailey, vice president of power equipment forAmerican Honda, tells Green Building Elements."

Bailey continues: "The Honda MCHP systems fulfill this mission by helping homeowners save energy, reduce greenhouse gasses and save money ontheir home heating while enjoying the high level of comfort and performance they have come to expect."

By offering the combination of home or water heating and power generation during outages, the Micro-Sized Combined Heat and Powergenerator, or the MCHP, offers homeowners another resource to reduce their heating costs and make their homes more environmentally friendly.

Click here for the complete article.

--Bridget O'Sullivan

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Restaurant.com: Save 60% on gift certificates! Take someone to lunch-$25 gift certificates for only $10

OnSale.com: Top selling HDTVs- as much as $960 instant rebate

Hotels.com: Save between $20 and $100 on all hotel bookings now!

eFaucets.com: Save up to 40% on brand names for your kitchen and bath

Consumer United: Sign up with our home security service provider, Brinks, and get free installation on Brinks Home Security standard system. This is a $199 savings off their standard offer. Please say you're a Consumer United member and reference the promo code CCP# 28621.

CU Advocate's Deals of the Day

Walmart.com: Free sample of Benefiber drink mix

Angie's List: Tired of lousy service? Try Angie’s List

NeweggMall.com:12" Chess set gold accent and removable trays $19.99 and free shipping

Peapod.com: Shop Peapod for $10 in FREE groceries

ShoppersChoice.com: Save up to 30% on Lodge cast iron cookware

AutoAnything.com: Save up to 47% off list prices and get free shipping on air filters

Consumer United: Sign up and save $500-$1000 off home mortgage closing costs

Today is Black Friday!

Today is Black Friday, and the sales are out! Here are some stores with some serious savings:

Walgreens: Aiptek a-HD 8 Megapixel Camcorder for $79.99, InVion 4.3" screen GPS with spoken street names for $109.99, Philips Norelco Speed XL rechargeable razor for $79.99 (online only)

BestBuy.com: Sony Blu-ray player only $99.99, Silver Frigidaire gas or electric range for $399.99, Free online shipping fo vacuums and floor care appliances priced $79.99 and up, save $50 on the first generation 32GB iPod touch

Target.com: Casio keyboard for $69, Sportline watch for $39, TruTech 7" dual screen portable DVD player for $88, iPod doc with cd player and digital only $44

Walmart.com: Acer mini laptops from $250, HP deskjet F2110 al-in-one-printer for $29, Protege 6 piece spinner luggage set for $44, Black and Decker cordless drill/driver for $25, Eureka 4 in 1 stick vacuum for $9

Bed Bath an Beyond: 5 piece corkscrew set for $9.99, Innovative Technology retro turntable for $199.99, Krups Beertender for $279.99, Keurig single serve platinum brewer for $199.99, down slippers for $17.99

CU Advocate's Deals of the day

Head & Shoulders: Free sample of smooth and silky shampoo and conditioner

Neweggmall.com: Milwaukee 40-Piece screwdriving bit set $14.99 and free shipping

MagazineCity.com: Save on motorcycle magazines!

Stubhub.com: Savings on theater and arts tickets

Neweggmall.com: Winter boot sale and free shipping

Skype: Buy Skype credit now to make cheap calls internationally

Angie's List: As a Consumer United member, you qualify to save on Angie's List membership rates. Use promo code "SAVE TEN" for $10 off

CU Advocate's Deals of the Day

Tide.com: Free sample of Tide total care

Onsale.com: Apple iPod classic 80GB Silver only $169.99! ends 11/28

Restaurant.com: 70% off dinner of the month club and get $10 off a $75 purchase at Wine.com! Use the code THANKS

Angie's List: Find reviews on the services you need at Angie’s List – from electrician to physician Use promo code “SAVE TEN” for $10 off

TurboTax.com: Do your taxes for FREE with TurboTax Federal Free Edition - the #1 rated tax software

AutoAnything.com: Save up to 45% off list on K&N Cold Air Intake Kits ang get free shipping

Consumer United: Save up to $200 in additional savings with High Point New Jersey auto insurance

CU Advocate's Deals of the Day

Energizer.com: Receive a free sample of Energizer audioPRO batteries

NeweggMall.com: 50% off select handbags

OnSale.com: Save $480 on Samsung 46" 1080P LCD HDTV

Magazine City: Save on food and gourmet magazines

Dollar Rent a Car : 5% off any vehicle with code: CJ05

Peapod: Shop Peapod for $10 in FREE groceries

Consumer United: Save 5% on Consumer United's affinity group discount with High Point Auto Insurance in New Jersey

Banking fees hit customers hard

The troubled economy has hit the masses. Banks are smacking customers hard with new fees on checking accounts.

Citigroup Inc.'s Citibank is now charging customers $10 for an overdraft protection fee. J.P. Morgan Chase and Co.'s Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo and Co., have upped their ATM transaction fees for non-members to $3. Overdraft fees and bounced-checks will be the most painful to consumers.

Record highs for checking-account fees, ATM surcharges, bounced-check fees and monthly service fees have been hit due to the new implemented changes. Bankrate Inc., a research firm has conducted this study. Mike Moebs, chief executive of Moeb's $ervices Inc., an economic research firm in Chicago, states, "By the end of 2009, you will start to see fairly substantial increases in overdraft fees." This could be as high as $40 per overdraft.

The troubled economy is a major cause, however it is not the only one. Yahoo Finance has alerted us that the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation has proposed to increase the rates banks pay for deposit insurance, beginning next year. If the proposal goes through, banks will continue raising costs and fees.

So what can you do? Make sure to keep an eye on your spending. Free sites online such as Mint.com, or even pen and paper can save you a lot of money. You can consider moving your account to an online bank, where there will be no fees, and ATM charge reimbursements. Read the fine print, and ask your bank for a copy of the schedule of fees, which banks are required to have.

CU Advocate's Deals of the Day

Sports Medicine: Free Johnson and Johnson, lightweight cohesive tape here

Samsung HDTV: SAVE $32.50 Samsung Electronics 32" 720p LCD HDTV Only $579.99 (was $612.49)

Hotels.com: Save between $20 and $100 on all hotel bookings

External Hard Drive: SAVE $40! Fantom Drives GreenDrive 500GB External Hard Drive Now Only $59.99 (was $99.99)

MacBook Sleeve: MacCase 15.4" MacBook Pro Sleeve Pure Silver Only $17.99

Mini Laptop: Acer Aspire One 8.9-inch Mini Laptop (Intel Atom N270 1.6GHz & 160GB Hard Drive). Onyx black only $398.99! FREE Shipping. No rebate required

Consumer United: Save 5% on Consumer United's affinity group discount with High Point Auto Insurance in New Jersey

Sneak peek of upcoming Black Friday deals

Retailers are letting consumers in on their Black Friday specials a week early. Wanna shop 'til you drop? Here's a sneak peek:

Walmart: Black Friday sales will begin at 8 a.m.

Here's what you will find: 5.4-inch Compaq CQ50-139WM laptops for $298, Sony's 2GB Walkman player for $49, Samsung's S760 point-and-shoot digital camera in red for $89, Sanyo's 46-inch 1080p LCD HDTV for $798.

Target: Black Friday sales will begin at 6 a.m.

Here's what you will find: Kodak MX1063 digital camera for $89, Guitar Hero World Tour for $59, Magellan Roadmate 1200 GPS with 3.5” screen and preloaded maps of the U.S. For $99.99, 1” flat ceramic hairstyling iron by Chi for $99.99.

Circuit City: Some stores will be closing this quarter, so make sure to check online sales as well. Black Friday sales will begin at 5 a.m.

Here's what you will find: Lumisource Stingray Sound Gaming Chair for $39.99, Samsung 8GB MP3 player for $79.99, up to 70% savings on over 200 DVD & CD titles, iPod speaker dock for $24.99,

Best Buy: Black Friday sales will begin at 5 a.m.

Here's what you will find: eMachines laptop (eMD620-5777) for $299, Rocketfish Bluetooth Keyboard and Mouse for $39.99, Canon MX700 Network-Ready all-in-one printer for 99.99, SanDisk 4GB Memory Stick Pro Duo Memory Card for $14.99

Kmart: Black Friday sales will begin at 6 a.m.

Here's what you will find: 32-inch Sylvania LCD HDTV for $440, Wii Fit for $90, Buy one get one free i-Concepts speaker for iPod, MP3 players for $9.99, Basic Edition women's Luxura sweaters for $8.99, Athletech men's puffer jacket for $10, save 50% on heated massage seat cushion for your car

Sears: Black Friday sales will begin at 5 a.m.

Here's what you will find: Colormate flannel sheet sets for $19.99, reversible down alternative comforter for $29.99, Wine rack for $49.99, Kenmore dishwasher for $199.99, Kenmore Elite microwave for $472.49, NordicTrack E5 SI elliptical trainer for $1499.99

Staples: Black Friday sales will begin at 6 a.m.

The office supply store is offering several early bird specials on Friday, Nov. 28 that's only available from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Sales include a eMachine 19"-Wide Flat Screen Monitor for $99.98, the HP Notebook with AMD Athlon X2 QL-60 Dual-Core Processor for $399.98 with free printer, and the Tom Tom One 125 Portable GPS for $99.99.

Meanwhile, click here for our Top 10 countdown of our favorite Black Friday videos.

CU Advocate's Deals of the Day

Bertolli Sauce: Free sample of Bertolli's premium sauce in a microwavable pouch

AutoAnything: Special two-day sale. Save $15 off $99 plus free shipping* w/code THANKS at AutoAnything! Valid 11/24-11/25/08. *Restrictions apply

Dollar Rent A Car: Free one car class upgrade coupon from Dollar Rent A Car

Widescreen HDTV: SAVE $335 Samsung Electronics 61" 120Hz 1080p Widescreen Slim HDTV Now Only $1,264.99 (was $1,599.99)

Digital Photo Frame: Aluratek 11" High-Resolution Digital Photo Frame with 1GB Memory Now Only $109.99 was ($169.99)

Sony Clock/Radio: Sony Speaker Dock/Clock Radio for iPod Music Player - Black Only for $79.99

Restaurant.com: $25 gift cards to restaurants around the country from Restaurant.com can be had through Monday, Nov. 24 for $2 using Consumer United Advocate's special promo code SURPRISE.

Consumer United: Sign up and save $500-$1000 off home mortgage closing costs

Discounted MacBook fashion cases from OnSale

Yes, onSale will once again be bringing you a grand collection of the best and finest electronic deals.

*MacCase 13" MacBook / MacBook Air Messenger Bag with Free 13" MacBook / MacBook Air Sleeve only $22.99

*MacCase 13" MacBook Air Stealth Black Sleeve- Velvet Lined only $16.99!

*Belkin 15.4" Flythru Laptop Case only $39.99

*MacCase 13" MacBook / 15" MacBook Pro Sling Blade Runner - Charcoal / Black only $24.99

*MacCase 15.4" MacBook Pro Sleeve Pure Silver only $17.99

Hand-picked free stuff from BetterDealsDaily.com

The savings team at BetterDealsDaily.com updates its FREEBIE section daily with a cavalcade of free samples, coupons and other goodies.

Click here to access our free-stuff section on BetterDealsDaily.com.

Boasting additional savings from ConsumerUnited.com, Better Deals Daily is just that … a collection of deals from participating online retailers and service providers sent to members via e-mail and our blog’s RSS feed on a daily basis.

Sign up for our free bi-weekly e-mail blast here.

CU Advocate's Deals of the Day

Walmart.com: Get your free sample of Benefiber flavored stick packs. It's a delicious way to include more fiber in your diet and help promote your digestive health

Laptop: Acer Aspire ONEIntel Atom N270 1.6HZ Notebook, Onyx black only for $398.99. Free shipping (no rebate required!).

NeweggMall.com: 60% Off hiking gear utility knife and compass gift set- $7.99 and free shipping

MagazineCity.com: Save on health and fitness magazines.

StubHub.com: Save on theater and arts tickets this holiday season

Dollar Rent a Car: Save 5% off any vehicle with code: CJ05. Expires: 12-31-08 and some restrictions apply

TurboTax.com: Federal Free Edition - #1 trusted tax software. Prepare, print and e-file your federal return for free

BetterDealsDaily.com: Check it out for major savings on hot gifts

CU Advocate's Deals of the Day

Designer Ties: A free Designer Tie on sign-up for SuitVIP Newsletter

Dollar Rent-a-Car: Get 5% off on any vehicle with code CJ 05

Leather Jacket: Up to 70% off at Neweggmall.com

Griffin Amplifi: 2.1 Sound System for iPod, $70.99

Hotels.com: $20 off with 3 night bookings. Perfect for Thanksgiving break

Peapod: $10 worth of free groceries

BetterDealsDaily.com: Check it out for major savings on hot gifts

Home prices in Boston hold relatively steady

Though home prices have continued their decline around the country, financial value of homes in the Boston area have remained relatively strong. Boston was one of only two major cities to post gains in home prices in August 2008.

Although the gains were modest, prices went up by just 0.1 percent, the fact that Boston experienced any growth in the midst of the market downturn is a good sign.

Only Cleveland, Ohio posted biggest gains, with growth just over 1% in August. Some of the cities in the hardest-hit areas such as Phoenix and Las Vegas reported declines of about 2.5 percent in August alone. Since last year, home prices in Phoenix and Las Vegas have dropped more than 30 percent. Boston, in comparison, has experienced declines closer to about 5% over the course of the year.

According to an article by Les Christie writing for CNN Money, the steep decline of home values translates into a high rate of vacant homes. About one million homes, or nearly 3 percent of all existing homes, are vacant.

Since the end of the summer, it has become more difficult to fill the empty homes, in part because of September’s banking crisis which restricted access to credit. First-time buyers and other potential buyers must contend with banks that are more unwilling to lend now than in the past.

"I'm optimistic," Richard DeKaser, chief economist for National City Corp remarks to CNN. "More credit will be available and housing inventories will be reduced. The deterioration will give way to a more balanced market."

--Bridget O'Sullivan

MORTGAGE ANALYSIS: Looking to refinance or buy a new home? You're in luck. As a Consumer United member, you are eligible for a discounted 15- and 30-year regular fixed-rate mortgage. Nothing complicated or exotic, just a straight-forward mortgage where the payments don't change. Click here for a free analysis.

Inside Consumer United :: Brandon Morrocco

Brandon Morrocco is our newest team member at Consumer United, working full time as a Consumer United advocate. Morrocco feels it's inspiring to be a part of a company that is growing so fast. He says it's even more inspiring to imagine where it will be this time next year.

Morrocco believes in Consumer United and the group's mission to save its members money on basic services. When asked how Consumer United will help the average consumer, Morrocco replies: "Consumer United just plain helps, because every penny saved is another penny that can make life more enjoyable. Big-time companies tend to push the average consumer around, it's great to see an organization fighting for the consumer."

How does Morrocco save money? "I save money by putting it in an account with no debit card, or giving it to my girlfriend and telling her not to spend it. Or, I use Ramen noodles as my sole food group." In his free time, Morrocco likes to relax, spend time with his family and watch TV. He loves sports, and has a passion for food whether it be cooking or dining at one of his many area restaurants.

What is Morrocco's favorite financial advice? "Pay off all your debt before saving or investing. The rates on debts are generally 200 to 300 percent higher than investments so whats the point of investing when you have debt that completely washes out any profit you might accrue?"

Before Consumer United, Morrocco graduated from University of Vermont in 2006. He then moved to Florida and worked for Allstate. Now he's in Boston. Morrocco also enjoys travelling. He has been to Russia, Cuba, Spain, France, Italy and England.