With the YouTube channel 画说美国 / America, Illustrated (opens in a new tab). Informational only.

Life in the US

Spending less

Official labels for internet and appliances, plus a local way to review charges. No cash-back apps and no referral links.

Flag repeat charges locally

Someone with authority to review the account can use the same local tool to mark repeat charges, subscriptions under an unfamiliar name, and charges worth a second look. Flags are for a person to review. They are not a fraud finding, they are not financial advice, and they do not cancel a subscription.

English and Chinese. Processed in your browser, without uploading transactions. Flags need human review; they are not fraud findings. For human review only. Does not determine fraud, block transfers, or guarantee recovery. Do not enter banking passwords or full account numbers.

Open the PainFix tool

Source: PainFix tool ·

Stop an automatic bank payment

The CFPB explains how to ask a bank or credit union to stop an automatic debit, and how that differs from canceling with the merchant. Follow that page. This site does not contact the bank for you.

Open link (opens in a new tab)

Source: CFPB ·

Compare internet plans with the FCC label

The FCC requires broadband providers to show a consumer label at the point of sale, with the price, speeds, and fees. Compare the label the provider gives you. This page does not list plan prices.

Open link (opens in a new tab)

Source: FCC ·

Lifeline for eligible households

Lifeline is a phone or broadband discount for households that qualify. The Universal Service Administrative Company runs it. Whether you qualify is decided on the official application. This page does not state a dollar amount.

Open link (opens in a new tab)

Source: USAC Lifeline (opens in a new tab) ·

Energy Star labels

Energy Star is the U.S. energy-efficiency label, run by the EPA and the Department of Energy. Use it to compare appliances. It is not a coupon, and this page does not estimate how much you would save.

Open link (opens in a new tab)

Source: Energy Star ·

Prepaid fees are on the card’s own chart

Prepaid cards, debit cards, and credit cards charge fees in different ways. The FTC compares them. Monthly and reload fees are on the chart for your card, not on this page. This section also does not list cash-back or coupon apps.

Open link (opens in a new tab)

Source: FTC ·

Search unclaimed property officially

State governments hold unclaimed property. Start from the USA.gov search. If a caller or an ad says you must pay first so they can “find” the money, do not hand over account details.

Open link (opens in a new tab)

Source: USA.gov ·

Weekly note

A later note may list new entries. Subscription is not open.

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