Brand-name pharmaceutical companies can delay generic competition that lowers prices by agreeing to pay a generic competitor to hold its competing product off the market for a certain period of time. These so-called “pay-for-delay” agreements have arisen as part of patent litigation settlement agreements between brand-name and generic pharmaceutical companies. “Pay-for-delay” agreements are “win-win” for […]
The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) promotes the accuracy, fairness, and privacy of information in the files of consumer reporting agencies. There are many types of consumer reporting agencies, including credit bureaus and specialty agencies (such as agencies that sell information about check writing histories, medical records, and rental history records). Here is a […]
The FDIC protects depositors from failing banks. Most FDIC-insured institutions are well-capitalized and well-managed, so it’s unlikely that you will have deposits in a bank that fails. But it’s common for people to ask, What should I know and do if I hear that my bank has been closed? We hope the following will answer […]
Part 6 of How to Choose a Credit Counselor. Steer clear of debt relief companies that: charge any fees before it settles your debts guarantee they can remove your unsecured debt tout a “new government program” to bail out personal credit card debt promise that unsecured debts can be paid off with pennies on the […]
Part 2 of How to Choose a Credit Counselor. Reputable credit counseling organizations advise you on managing your money and debts, help you develop a budget, and usually offer free educational materials and workshops. Their counselors are certified and trained in the areas of consumer credit, money and debt management, and budgeting. Counselors discuss your […]
Part 1 of How to Choose a Credit Counselor. Living paycheck to paycheck? Worried about debt collectors? Can’t seem to develop a workable budget, let alone save money for retirement? If this sounds familiar, you may want to consider the services of a credit counselor. Many credit counseling organizations are nonprofit and work with you […]
Part 4 of Energy-Efficient Water Heating. Most consumers use more hot water in the evenings and mornings than at other times of the day. For those who have an electric water heater, this usage contributes to the electric utility company’s “peak load,” or the largest amount of power demand that they have to meet on […]
Part 1 of Selecting a New Water Heater. Many homeowners wait until their water heater fails before shopping for a replacement. Because they are in a hurry to regain their hot water supply, they are often unable to take the time to shop for the most energy-efficient unit for their specific needs. This is unfortunate, […]