Coming Soon to Cell Phones: Faster Speeds and More Options, Along with More Fees and More Confusion

“You could be charged based on usage or by speed difference, or you could do both. There are no definitive answers here.”

It’s a Deal: 25% Off Everything at Macy’s

Use the coupon code MACYSFF for online purchases or print out this coupon (thanks Buxr) for an in-store discount of 25% off everything—including sale and clearance items—at Macy’s. The in-store coupon is valid from December 1 to 6, while the online discount works as of today, and free standard shipping is available for purchases with [...]

Today Is Supposed to Be the Absolute Best Day of the Year to Buy a New Car

Tuesday, November 30, has been identified as the best day of year to get a deal on a new car, with discounts sometimes in excess of 35% off the sticker price.

Fee-Heavy Kardashian Kard Is Killed Off

Less than a month ago, the Kim Kardashian and her reality show sisters introduced a prepaid debit card—the Kardashian Kard—that featured Kim’s ample cleavage, along with monster fees, including a $99.95 charge to use it for a year. It’s just been announced that the card has been pulled off the market—perhaps because the sisters had [...]

Consumer Phrase of the Day: ‘Licensing Effect’

While you may have never heard of this expression, it explains why, during the season focused on gift giving, you’re probably going to selfishly get something for yourself in the course of holiday shopping excursions.

Debit Card Overdraft Protection: How Many Customers Actually Opted In?

Bank customers used to be automatically enrolled in overdraft programs, which “protect” the customer by covering debit card expenses even if it exceeds the account balance. The fee for this protection—which only protects the customer from having his card rejected—is about $35 for each and every transaction. As of August 15, however, customers aren’t automatically [...]

Cheapskate Wisdom … About Why People Just Keep Going to the Mall

“People enjoy shopping in physical stores. Shopping will continue to be this nation’s highest form of entertainment.”

It’s a Deal: 50% Off Everything and Free Shipping at New York & Company

To celebrate Cyber Monday, New York & Company is offering a simple, substantial, straightforward discount of 50% off all merchandise. Free shipping is available too if you use the promo code 6123, with no minimum purchase requirement. Valid for purchases today only, Monday, November 29.

5 Things We Learned from the Black Friday Weekend Shopping Experience

Black Friday isn’t just about cheap prices. It’s also about participating in a cultural phenomenon and doing otherwise nonsensical things.

Shout Out: Saturday Night Live’s Take on Black Friday

Finally, the Black Friday you’ve always wanted: Super slippery recently waxed floors! Narrow aisles packed with exciting fire hazards! Box cutters handed out at the door! No pesky security guards to get in your way!

Smart Holiday Shopping Tip: Bring Your Psychologist With You to the Mall

What, does that sound impractical? If so, consider at least reading these two stories filled with insights that’ll help you make smart purchases—and help you avoid ones you’ll regret so much you’ll have to talk them over with your shrink.