BREAKING NEWS
No, the CFPB is not handing out cash to people scammed on Zelle or Cash App, Consumer Reports warns
Read full article: No, the CFPB is not handing out cash to people scammed on Zelle or Cash App, Consumer Reports warnsFree money from Zelle or Cash App—just for filling out a government form? That’s what some TikTok videos claim. But Consumer Reports has a warning: it’s not a windfall—it’s simply not true.
Shad Khan’s net worth grew by over $2 billion in one year, Forbes reports
Read full article: Shad Khan’s net worth grew by over $2 billion in one year, Forbes reportsJacksonville Jaguars owner Shad Khan’s net worth grew from $12.2 billion a year ago to $14.3 billion as of Sept. 1, Forbes said in a story posted on its website Sept. 9.
St. Johns County officials warn residents of jury duty scam making the rounds
Read full article: St. Johns County officials warn residents of jury duty scam making the roundsThe St. Johns County Clerk of the Circuit Court and County Comptroller are warning residents of a jury duty scam, which is circulating right now via email and/or text message.
How to spot a scam as you apply for scholarships, financial aid
Read full article: How to spot a scam as you apply for scholarships, financial aidThe start of a new school year means thinking ahead to college for many high schoolers. If you’re applying for scholarships, some of those deadlines are quickly approaching. Scholarship scams are on the rise. How to spot a scammer
Americans would save $100B if credit card rates were capped as Trump proposed, researchers say
Read full article: Americans would save $100B if credit card rates were capped as Trump proposed, researchers sayA new paper from Vanderbilt University suggests Americans could save about $100 billion annually if credit card interest rates were capped at 10%, as proposed by President Donald Trump.
Can you spot the signs of gambling addiction?
Read full article: Can you spot the signs of gambling addiction?An estimated 2.5 million U.S. adults face a severe gambling problem every year, and another 5 million to 8 million more have mild or moderate issues, according to the National Council on Problem Gambling.
Buy an island, move out: Here’s what residents say they’d do if they won the Powerball jackpot
Read full article: Buy an island, move out: Here’s what residents say they’d do if they won the Powerball jackpotWith only a few hours left to buy tickets for one of the largest Powerball jackpots in American history, News4JAX asked Jacksonville residents what they would do if they won the big prize on Monday night.
Experts say 30% of reviews are fake: How to tell the real from the phony
Read full article: Experts say 30% of reviews are fake: How to tell the real from the phonyIn an era where 92% of consumers read reviews before buying, that little star rating can make or break a purchase. But experts say 30% of reviews may be fake. Knowing all that, how can you spot a legit review?
FTC recovers $6.7M for victims of deceptive job listing
Read full article: FTC recovers $6.7M for victims of deceptive job listingThe FTC says the gig working company “Arise Virtual Solutions” targeted people looking for work-from-home side hustles and promised pay of up to $18 an hour. In reality, the FTC says, the jobs paid far less.
New Uber feature focuses on making women feel safe using app
Read full article: New Uber feature focuses on making women feel safe using appUber's "Women Preferences" allows women to request female drivers. The new option comes as Uber has long grappled with preventing sexual assault on its platform.
Housing advocates warn ‘grace period’ in lease can be trap for renters. Florida law says you have to pay by due date
Read full article: Housing advocates warn ‘grace period’ in lease can be trap for renters. Florida law says you have to pay by due dateWhile the option of a "grace period" that allows you to pay a few days later than the due date without penalty might seem like a nice bonus from your property manager, it could also be a trap.
Evicted despite paying rent: One Jacksonville renter says cases like hers are fueling the affordable housing crisis
Read full article: Evicted despite paying rent: One Jacksonville renter says cases like hers are fueling the affordable housing crisisA Jacksonville renter says her “affordable” apartment turned into a legal and financial nightmare after she tried to pay rent and then learned days later that she’d been evicted, a case housing advocates say reflects a broader trend worsening the city’s affordability crisis.
College Park brings Winn-Dixie, homegrown shops to revived Arlington hub
Read full article: College Park brings Winn-Dixie, homegrown shops to revived Arlington hubJWB Real Estate Capital has invested more than $20 million to transform the former Town and Country Shopping Center off Arlington Expressway and University Boulevard.
Politics & Power: Are the Trump administration’s DOGE efforts truly improving efficiency or is it all an illusion?
Read full article: Politics & Power: Are the Trump administration’s DOGE efforts truly improving efficiency or is it all an illusion?Attorney Max Stier, who is president and CEO of the Partnership for Public Service, joins News4JAX anchor Bruce Hamilton as they ask whether DOGE’s actions are indeed ill-conceived and chaotic, if there is “efficiency” in DOGE, and what will the cost of DOGE cuts be for the American economy and everyday Americans.
What the cluck? Want to learn how to raise your own chicken farm? Here’s how
Read full article: What the cluck? Want to learn how to raise your own chicken farm? Here’s howFrom scrambled eggs to Sunday roasts, more families are trading fluorescent aisles and rising food costs for fresh, homegrown alternatives—starting with chickens.
TELL US: Do you know a local Hispanic-owned business that deserves recognition?
Read full article: TELL US: Do you know a local Hispanic-owned business that deserves recognition?As part of our Hispanic Heritage Month coverage, News4JAX wants to recognize those in the Hispanic community locally who own businesses!
Early Retirement: Smart moves to try and common mistakes to avoid
Read full article: Early Retirement: Smart moves to try and common mistakes to avoidFinancial freedom, more travel and less stress sound ideal. But experts warn: if you’re not prepared, early retirement can turn into a financial mistake.
AI-proof careers: These jobs won’t be easily replaced
Read full article: AI-proof careers: These jobs won’t be easily replacedA Goldman Sachs report predicts AI could displace 300 million jobs globally by 2030, less than five years from now. But some jobs are still safe, and you don’t need a four-year degree to land them. You can AI-proof your career.
In Jacksonville, new construction is emerging as the more affordable path to homeownership
Read full article: In Jacksonville, new construction is emerging as the more affordable path to homeownershipA new report from Realtor.com shows the price gap between new construction and existing homes has fallen to a record low, and Jacksonville is among the metro areas seeing some of the steepest declines in new-home list prices.
The cost of daycare is surging in Florida and parents are faced with a difficult decision: work or stay home?
Read full article: The cost of daycare is surging in Florida and parents are faced with a difficult decision: work or stay home?As some parents take their children back to school, others are sending their younger children to daycare — and it is expensive.
Trying to save some green? Try planting the produce aisle in your own front yard
Read full article: Trying to save some green? Try planting the produce aisle in your own front yardFamilies are flipping the script — growing fruits and veggies right in their own front yards. They’re fresh, they’re local and they never saw a truck or plastic bag!
Cigar lounge among elements planned for 2-story restaurant, retail project in Middleburg: Jax Daily Record
Read full article: Cigar lounge among elements planned for 2-story restaurant, retail project in Middleburg: Jax Daily RecordA two-story retail and restaurant project could be coming to an uncleared 2-acre lot in Middleburg, according to our news partner, the Jacksonville Daily Record.
New data signals higher prices are on the way for consumers amid tariffs
Read full article: New data signals higher prices are on the way for consumers amid tariffsNew data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that consumers could be staring down higher prices in the future. The latest Producer Price Index, which measures the average change in prices paid to producers, jumped 0.9% from June, bringing the annual rate to 3.3%.
Freshmen move in Friday at UNF amid growing demand for housing
Read full article: Freshmen move in Friday at UNF amid growing demand for housingThe need for more student housing in Jacksonville is hitting the University of North Florida hard, but the school is spotlighting part of the solution on Wednesday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Osprey Ridge dorm hall.
From streaming services to snacks, Consumer Reports reveals best deals so college students can save more and stress less
Read full article: From streaming services to snacks, Consumer Reports reveals best deals so college students can save more and stress lessCollege students often try to make ends meet on a small budget. The good news: There are a lot of student discounts out there, from streaming services and smartphones to snacks and takeout.
12-year-old avid thrifter shows off ‘thrill of the deal’ as she prepares for new school year
Read full article: 12-year-old avid thrifter shows off ‘thrill of the deal’ as she prepares for new school yearEmerson Smith loves thrifting and took her frugal shopping sense to Goodwill of North Florida’s Lakeside store on St. Augustine Road in Jacksonville.
LIST: Local Black-owned businesses in Northeast Florida & Southeast Georgia
Read full article: LIST: Local Black-owned businesses in Northeast Florida & Southeast GeorgiaAugust is Black Business Month and News4JAX is highlighting the contributions of Black Americans to the workforce across various industries. So we've compiled a list to help you find them in your neighborhood.
Economist explains how Fed hopes to get interest rate recipe ‘just right’
Read full article: Economist explains how Fed hopes to get interest rate recipe ‘just right’Justin Begley, an economist with Moody’s Analytics, joined us on The Morning Show to share his insights into the Fed's decision not to change interest rates, despite pressure from the president.
No Room on Campus: The off-campus housing crisis facing college students
Read full article: No Room on Campus: The off-campus housing crisis facing college studentsAs part of News4JAX’s Addressing Affordability series, we’re taking a closer look at how rising housing costs are reshaping the college experience.
Jacksonville store shows how to take advantage of deals as Florida’s Back to School Sales Tax Holiday starts Aug. 1
Read full article: Jacksonville store shows how to take advantage of deals as Florida’s Back to School Sales Tax Holiday starts Aug. 1Each week in August, Goodwill is offering certain items at 40% off. Goodwill is also offering 50% off on all books and media to customers who are a part of the store’s free loyalty program between Aug. 8-10.
Why you should wash new clothing before you wear it
Read full article: Why you should wash new clothing before you wear itBefore you slip on that new shirt or cozy sweater or dress your baby in that fresh off the rack purchase, you should wash it first. Consumer Reports explains why that matters and how to do it without damaging your new find.
How to lower your AC costs during record-high summer heat
Read full article: How to lower your AC costs during record-high summer heatSummer cooling costs can make up as much as 60% of energy bills, according to Florida Power & Light. And with temperatures pushing 100 degrees in Northeast Florida, air conditioning systems are likely working around the clock.
Back-to-School: Money-saving secrets for school supplies and more
Read full article: Back-to-School: Money-saving secrets for school supplies and moreNews4JAX Consumer Investigator Tiffany Salameh hit the aisles -- and the internet -- comparing prices at Walmart, Amazon and Target to find out which store really gives you the best deal this year on back-to-school supplies.
Looking for a dependable laptop? Consumer Reports shares some top picks and insider advice
Read full article: Looking for a dependable laptop? Consumer Reports shares some top picks and insider adviceAs the countdown to the new school year begins, one back-to-school essential is more important than ever — a dependable laptop. With fluctuating tech prices and uncertainty over tariffs, Consumer Reports shares some top picks and insider advice on scoring the best laptop for any budget.
Click to cancel remains on hold for now. Here’s how to protect yourself from sneaky subscriptions in the meantime
Read full article: Click to cancel remains on hold for now. Here’s how to protect yourself from sneaky subscriptions in the meantimeAn FTC rule to make it easier to cancel subscriptions is scrapped - for now. We look at how consumers can protect their money in the meantime.
Get heart-shaped falafel, handmade croissants and ice cream with ‘a little Jesus’ at these must-eat spots in Springfield
Read full article: Get heart-shaped falafel, handmade croissants and ice cream with ‘a little Jesus’ at these must-eat spots in SpringfieldIn an effort to learn about the best food offered in the Springfield area, we called around and were provided three spots, though if we had time, we would have visited every restaurant.
How do you save money during high heat weather? JEA has some tips
Read full article: How do you save money during high heat weather? JEA has some tipsThe National Weather Service in Jacksonville has issued a Heat Advisory for the Jacksonville region on Friday, and the extreme weather is expected to continue this weekend, with heat index values expected to reach 113 degrees.
Steps to success for freelancers when it comes to finances
Read full article: Steps to success for freelancers when it comes to financesAbout 38% of the U.S. workforce engages in freelance work. While it can be convenient and flexible, there are financial factors to consider before going full-time freelance.
Kitchen appliances you won’t regret
Read full article: Kitchen appliances you won’t regretIf you’re in the market for appliances, say a new dishwasher, refrigerator, or range—or maybe all three—Consumer Reports can help you with smart shopping strategies to help you find the right, reliable one at the best price for your budget.
Economics expert explains President Trump’s flip-flop on Fed Chair Powell
Read full article: Economics expert explains President Trump’s flip-flop on Fed Chair PowellBrad Hershbein, a senior economist for the W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research, said the president and Powell disagree on economic policy, but firing Powell could cause a major ripple in global markets.
Want to advance in your career? Ask your boss these tough questions
Read full article: Want to advance in your career? Ask your boss these tough questionsOver 55% of workers say they need more opportunities to develop their skills and improve their work. So, who do you ask for advice on how to move up the ladder? The obvious answer: your boss.
There are 1,400 short-term rentals in Jacksonville Beach. Locals say that’s driving up home prices and changing the city
Read full article: There are 1,400 short-term rentals in Jacksonville Beach. Locals say that’s driving up home prices and changing the cityAs part of News4JAX’s Addressing A4dability series, we’re taking a closer look at how short-term rentals, like Airbnb and Vrbo, are reshaping housing markets, neighborhoods, and the ability for locals to afford a place to live.
Skills that pay: Here’s what hiring managers are really looking for
Read full article: Skills that pay: Here’s what hiring managers are really looking forWith nearly 6 million Americans looking for work, standing out to potential employers is crucial. Recent data suggests the average job seeker spends around three to six months trying to secure employment.
Changes your family needs to know before applying for student loans
Read full article: Changes your family needs to know before applying for student loansBig changes are coming to how students and parents will borrow money to help pay for college. Under President Donald Trump’s "Big Beautiful Bill," borrowing for student loans will have limits, and the number of repayment options that you can choose will be reduced.
Power Interviewing: Strategies for neurodivergent job success
Read full article: Power Interviewing: Strategies for neurodivergent job successYou can be the most qualified candidate on paper, yet the interview process itself can be a significant hurdle. For some, particularly those who are neurodivergent, navigating traditional interview expectations can present unique challenges.
72% of parents surveyed say they’re cutting expenses, picking up extra shifts to cover school supply costs
Read full article: 72% of parents surveyed say they’re cutting expenses, picking up extra shifts to cover school supply costsMost families expected to spend more on school supplies this year, and many are concerned about the impact of tariffs. We've got a shopping strategy to help you save money as your kids go back to school.
75% of kids who rely on this local nonprofit face homelessness or housing instability. Their state funding was just cut
Read full article: 75% of kids who rely on this local nonprofit face homelessness or housing instability. Their state funding was just cutThe Giving Closet Project has quietly become a safety net for thousands of Jacksonville students facing homelessness and housing insecurity. But after losing $150,000 in state funding through Gov. Ron DeSantis’ budget vetoes, the organization is now leaning heavily on the community to survive.
This Week in Jacksonville - Business Edition: Navigating the Florida real state market in transition
Read full article: This Week in Jacksonville - Business Edition: Navigating the Florida real state market in transition“This Week in Jacksonville: Business Edition” host Kent Justice recently spoke with Tim Weisheyer, president of Florida Realtors, the largest realtor association in the United States. He offered a nuanced perspective on what homebuyers and sellers can expect.
How to protect packages from thieves
Read full article: How to protect packages from thievesOnline shoppers are scoring hot summer deals right now with retailers like Amazon offering big discounts. But all those purchases mean packages piling up outside your door and it’s an opportunity for thieves to steal your stuff.
A local mom thought the car seat she picked out for her daughter was cute. She later found out it was an unsafe knockoff
Read full article: A local mom thought the car seat she picked out for her daughter was cute. She later found out it was an unsafe knockoffA Jacksonville mom learned a lesson the hard way when she unknowingly buckled her newborn into a fake car seat, thinking it was safe.
Federal funding freeze threatens after-school programs in Northeast Florida
Read full article: Federal funding freeze threatens after-school programs in Northeast FloridaThousands of families in Northeast Florida face cuts to after-school and summer programs due to a federal funding freeze affecting education and food assistance grants.
Yes, you can buy a home with $0 down. A Jacksonville mortgage broker is working to spread the word on social media
Read full article: Yes, you can buy a home with $0 down. A Jacksonville mortgage broker is working to spread the word on social mediaAs part of our “Addressing A4dability” series, we spoke with longtime loan officer Jason Kindler, who says zero-down mortgages are not only possible, they’re happening every day.
More than half of the Jacksonville City Council members are millionaires. Here’s how much each is worth
Read full article: More than half of the Jacksonville City Council members are millionaires. Here’s how much each is worthRecently filed financial disclosure forms by members of Jacksonville’s City Council have revealed that the majority of them have a net worth exceeding $1 million. The forms, which are required to be filed by July 1 under Florida’s ethics law, show that at least 10 millionaires, all of whom are Republicans, make up the River City’s council.
Stock up any time: Florida ends sales tax on hurricane prep supplies
Read full article: Stock up any time: Florida ends sales tax on hurricane prep suppliesFloridians can now save on disaster supplies year-round. A new law removes sales tax on essential items like batteries, generators, and tarps — no more waiting for seasonal tax holidays.
‘This is a compromise’: Green Cove Springs approves 12% electric rate hike
Read full article: ‘This is a compromise’: Green Cove Springs approves 12% electric rate hikeMore than a month after Green Cove Springs council members shot down a 20% increase in electric rates, they unanimously approved a 12% increase in electric rates Tuesday night
From campus to career: Important advice as graduates look to land their first job
Read full article: From campus to career: Important advice as graduates look to land their first jobThe diplomas are signed, sealed, and delivered, and the tassel has been tossed, but for the class of 2025, the real work now begins: landing that first job.
What’s next as Fernandina Beach prepares to demolish local mainstay Brett’s Waterway Café
Read full article: What’s next as Fernandina Beach prepares to demolish local mainstay Brett’s Waterway CaféBrett’s Waterway Café has long been a mainstay in the community, known for its scenic views and special events. But it is set to be demolished next year due to safety concerns.
BMW X3 believed to have sparked devastating fire removed from JAX hourly garage
Read full article: BMW X3 believed to have sparked devastating fire removed from JAX hourly garageMore than a month after a devastating fire in the hourly parking garage at Jacksonville International Airport, the BMW believed to have sparked that fire has been removed from the garage.
Making money but still stressed: Are you a HENRY?
Read full article: Making money but still stressed: Are you a HENRY?Ever wonder what income level actually makes people feel like they've "made it"? New research from Empower found the average American thinks you need to be pulling in around $270,000 a year to feel truly successful.
How to get some welcome relief from hidden ‘junk’ fees
Read full article: How to get some welcome relief from hidden ‘junk’ feesA new federal rule targets some of the worst offenders, but many hidden charges remain legal. Consumer Reports breaks down what this means for your wallet and how to avoid them.
US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites could mean rising costs at your local gas pump
Read full article: US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites could mean rising costs at your local gas pumpGlobal markets appear to have taken the U.S. strike against nuclear targets in Iran in stride as investors awaited moves by Iran.
At least $38 million, 18 months to repair hourly garage at Jacksonville airport after massive fire
Read full article: At least $38 million, 18 months to repair hourly garage at Jacksonville airport after massive fireJust over a month after a devastating fire in the hourly parking garage at Jacksonville International Airport, leaders with the Jacksonville Aviation Authority estimated Wednesday that it will cost at least $38 million to repair the damage.
The heat is on! How to save money while planning for a cooler future
Read full article: The heat is on! How to save money while planning for a cooler futureRising temperatures are not just uncomfortable; for many families, they are hitting their health and their wallets hard. That’s why it’s important for us all to look at what we can do, and what our communities can do to tackle these problems head-on.
Florida lawmakers approve state budget after weeks of gridlock and a missed deadline
Read full article: Florida lawmakers approve state budget after weeks of gridlock and a missed deadlineAfter weeks of gridlock and a missed deadline, Florida lawmakers finally voted on this year’s state budget on Monday, just two weeks before the fiscal year begins on July 1.
Nearly half of Floridians are struggling to make ends meet, new report finds
Read full article: Nearly half of Floridians are struggling to make ends meet, new report findsThe State of ALICE in Florida: 2025 Update on Financial Hardship report, which analyzed the latest available data from 2023, found that an estimated 47% of households in Florida were below the ALICE Threshold in 2023. The ALICE Threshold represents the minimum income level necessary for survival for a household.
Public can share input Thursday as liquor store requests distance waiver for being near Westside elementary school
Read full article: Public can share input Thursday as liquor store requests distance waiver for being near Westside elementary schoolShores Liquor is requesting a waiver to build within 1,500 feet of an elementary school because of a tasting room that would be included inside the store, which means there would be alcohol consumption on site.
United Way brings $5M housing development loan fund to low-income neighborhoods to make home ownership accessible
Read full article: United Way brings $5M housing development loan fund to low-income neighborhoods to make home ownership accessibleThe United Way of Northeast Florida will hold a news conference on Wednesday afternoon to announce a partnership with LISC Jacksonville, aiming to bring more housing to low-income neighborhoods.
Steps to success for freelancers when it comes to finances
Read full article: Steps to success for freelancers when it comes to financesAbout 38 percent of the U.S. workforce engages in freelance work. While it can be convenient and flexible, there are financial factors to consider before going full-time freelance.
Father’s Day spending to reach $24 billion -- but we still spend more money on mom
Read full article: Father’s Day spending to reach $24 billion -- but we still spend more money on momFather’s Day is around the corner, and spending is expected to reach a record $24 billion. The National Retail Federation estimates that people will spend $199.38 per person this year.