INSIDER
These tips will save you money & extend the life of your air conditioning unit
Read full article: These tips will save you money & extend the life of your air conditioning unitTemperatures are heating up, and this summer, the cost of using air conditioning is expected to reach its highest level in over a decade.
Consumer Reports breaks down the best battery tool systems
Read full article: Consumer Reports breaks down the best battery tool systemsConsumer Reports testers say today’s battery-powered tools don’t just go head-to-head with gas—they sometimes outperform them. From trimmers to chainsaws, we’ll show you which brands cut through the competition.
Drones and AI help farmers save money while protecting the environment
Read full article: Drones and AI help farmers save money while protecting the environmentA new University of Florida study shows how drones can do more than just take aerial pictures and videos—they can help farmers grow better hemp by seeing the health of their crops with some artificial intelligence assistance.
‘It’s like free money’: Jacksonville program helps renters become homeowners
Read full article: ‘It’s like free money’: Jacksonville program helps renters become homeownersJWB Real Estate’s HomeStep program is turning tenants into proud homeowners by offering financial incentives and support services to help them make the leap.
Cracking the Code: How to beat applicant tracking system resume screening bots
Read full article: Cracking the Code: How to beat applicant tracking system resume screening botsAccording to recent studies, 99% of all Fortune 500 companies use ATS platforms on a regular basis, and they filter out three out of four applicants before a recruiter even sees them.
Helping car owners navigate insurance issues connected to the JAX garage fire
Read full article: Helping car owners navigate insurance issues connected to the JAX garage fireInsurance expert Matt Carlucci Jr. joined News4Jax anchor Bruce Hamilton on The Morning Show to help you navigate those potential headaches and find solutions.
Walmart warns of higher grocery prices as new tariffs take effect
Read full article: Walmart warns of higher grocery prices as new tariffs take effectWalmart is warning that new tariffs on imported goods may lead to higher grocery prices, with essentials like produce, coffee, and seafood at risk. Economists say shoppers could see increases in the coming weeks as trade policies impact the cost of everyday items.
FTC investigation shuts down company accused of student loan scams
Read full article: FTC investigation shuts down company accused of student loan scamsThe agency says Panda Benefit Services tricked borrowers into paying hundreds of thousands of dollars in illegal fees for fake student loan forgiveness.
Consumer Reports investigation with 2 news outlets finds errors in Kroger sales tags
Read full article: Consumer Reports investigation with 2 news outlets finds errors in Kroger sales tagsAn in-depth investigation by Consumer Reports and two news organizations found that customers were often charged higher prices at checkout than what was listed on store shelves.
As student loan collection resumes following four-year pause, local borrowers say system is broken
Read full article: As student loan collection resumes following four-year pause, local borrowers say system is brokenThe federal government is resuming collections on defaulted student loans after a more than four-year pause that began during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the effects of the decision are being felt locally.
Consumer Reports releases its report on the best sunscreens of 2025
Read full article: Consumer Reports releases its report on the best sunscreens of 2025Consumer Reports just released its exclusive annual sunscreen ratings, putting more than 100 products to the test, and revealing surprising gaps in how they protect you from the sun’s cancer-causing rays.
Distribution center in Baldwin to shut down, lay off nearly 500 workers
Read full article: Distribution center in Baldwin to shut down, lay off nearly 500 workersC&S Wholesale Services, a grocery supplier, sent the state a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification last week, alerting them of their plan.
Sun, sand and scams: How to spot the red flags of fake vacation schemes
Read full article: Sun, sand and scams: How to spot the red flags of fake vacation schemesMore than a third of Americans are planning to take a vacation. As the prices of hotels and flights surge during this time, scammers are hoping to take advantage of travelers’ desperation for a cheap deal.
More Americans are using ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ loans to pay for groceries, survey finds
Read full article: More Americans are using ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ loans to pay for groceries, survey findsAs grocery prices continue to squeeze household budgets, a growing number of Americans are turning to “buy now, pay later” loans to cover the cost of food, raising fresh concerns about consumer debt and financial vulnerability, according to a new survey.
Popping your brain back into focus: How to break the screen to screen cycle
Read full article: Popping your brain back into focus: How to break the screen to screen cycleThe average American spends 7 hours and 4 minutes looking at a screen each day, but do you often go from screen to screen, scrolling through one and immediately switching to another?
Take note: Keeping track of wins at work
Read full article: Take note: Keeping track of wins at workA win at work is a sign of success. It may earn praise from coworkers and managers. But will they remember it weeks, months, or even a year from now? Experts say keeping track of these moments as they happen could pay off down the road.
Consumer Reports tests vacuums to simplify spring cleaning and tackle embedded dirt
Read full article: Consumer Reports tests vacuums to simplify spring cleaning and tackle embedded dirtAfter a long winter of mud and grime, your carpets and floors might look worse, and that’s where Consumer Reports comes in. Its experts lab test dozens of vacuums to help you find the perfect one to make spring cleaning a breeze.
Cleaning fan or foe? Consumer Reports shares favorite spring cleaning products
Read full article: Cleaning fan or foe? Consumer Reports shares favorite spring cleaning productsOver the last year, Consumer Reports’ experts put dozens of cleaning products to the test in real-life situations, looking to find effective and versatile products that are also gentle on surfaces and that don’t contain irritating or harsh ingredients!
The Home Depot brings more jobs to St. Johns County, but expected to build on traffic woes
Read full article: The Home Depot brings more jobs to St. Johns County, but expected to build on traffic woesThe Home Depot opened a new location Thursday morning at the World Commerce Center in St. Augustine, just off International Golf Parkway.
Consumer Reports breaks down the best and worst phone plan providers
Read full article: Consumer Reports breaks down the best and worst phone plan providersThinking of making the leap to another cellphone carrier? To help you out, Consumer Reports combed through survey data to come up with a list of the best (and worst) phone plan providers.
Jacksonville woman charged with organized fraud, accused of stealing $142K from local masonry business
Read full article: Jacksonville woman charged with organized fraud, accused of stealing $142K from local masonry businessA 35-year-old Jacksonville woman is facing charges of organized fraud and identity theft after investigators said she embezzled more than $142,000 from a local business.
Egg-citing decorating ideas for Easter that won’t break the bank
Read full article: Egg-citing decorating ideas for Easter that won’t break the bankNews4JAX anchor Jennifer Waugh picked three ideas for Easter egg decorating to see if they are as easy as they seem, without causing a big mess and without costing too much money.
‘Hurtful and difficult’: Pastor responds after former church employee accused of embezzling over $570K
Read full article: ‘Hurtful and difficult’: Pastor responds after former church employee accused of embezzling over $570KAfter a former financial secretary for Amelia Baptist Church was charged with grand theft and accused of embezzling more than $570,000, the church’s pastor called the situation “incredibly hurtful and difficult.”
Local faith leaders are asking the mayor to consider a trust fund for affordable housing. Why they think it would work
Read full article: Local faith leaders are asking the mayor to consider a trust fund for affordable housing. Why they think it would workMayor Donna Deegan will be at the annual Nehemiah Action Assembly at Abyssinia Missionary Baptist Church to hear ICARE's thoughts on the city’s affordable housing crisis.
Economist analyzes how tariffs could affect your wallet, impact world markets
Read full article: Economist analyzes how tariffs could affect your wallet, impact world marketsJustin Begley, an economist with Moody Analytics, joined News4JAX anchor Bruce Hamilton on The Morning Show to discuss just how ugly things might get and the impact on world markets from the new tariffs.
25% tariff on imported vehicles takes effect this week. Here’s what this means for consumers
Read full article: 25% tariff on imported vehicles takes effect this week. Here’s what this means for consumersA 25% tariff on imported passenger vehicles, light trucks, and some auto parts goes into effect this week, raising concerns for consumers.
Discovering your device: The surprising phone hacks you should know
Read full article: Discovering your device: The surprising phone hacks you should knowWhether navigating cognitive or mobility challenges or looking for more innovative ways to use your device, Consumer Reports reveals the top accessibility tools that can make a big difference in your life.
Potholes vs. your tires: What can you do?
Read full article: Potholes vs. your tires: What can you do?Potholes can be a lot more than just a jarring, bumpy annoyance! They can wreak havoc on your car and drain your wallet. Consumer Reports breaks down the impact and provides tips to protect your wallet.
Millennials are drowning in debt, and it’s happening earlier than any generation before
Read full article: Millennials are drowning in debt, and it’s happening earlier than any generation beforeA new wave of financial hardship is gripping America’s largest adult generation — Millennials — as escalating debt, rising housing costs, and growing reliance on credit cards threaten their financial stability.
Experts warn of rising prices for new, used cars & car repairs due to Trump’s 25% auto tariffs
Read full article: Experts warn of rising prices for new, used cars & car repairs due to Trump’s 25% auto tariffsYou likely heard about the 25% auto tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. If you’re in the market for a new car, used car, or need to get your car repaired, perhaps you wonder, “How much more is this going to cost me?”
Lucky enough to be getting a tax refund? Here’s how to make the most of it
Read full article: Lucky enough to be getting a tax refund? Here’s how to make the most of itFrom paying off debt to investing in your home, the choices are endless, but which gives you the biggest bang for your buck? Consumer Reports breaks down the best ways to make every dollar count.
VyStar customer says banking error halted his plans to buy new home after significant credit score drop
Read full article: VyStar customer says banking error halted his plans to buy new home after significant credit score dropHundreds of VyStar Credit Union customers were left in financial limbo after a banking error negatively impacted their credit scores, including a local man who said the issue has put his plans of buying a new home on hold.
Human hacking: When cyber criminals target you
Read full article: Human hacking: When cyber criminals target youWhen you get anti-hacking advice, you’ve probably heard “Don’t use a simple password,” or “Don’t plug in that USB you found on the ground.” But there’s one form of hacking that doesn’t always require a computer, and it costs businesses about $4.88 million a year.
Should AI be allowed to deny your insurance claim? Fleming Island senator says no
Read full article: Should AI be allowed to deny your insurance claim? Fleming Island senator says noA Florida Senate Committee is considering a bill filed by a local lawmaker that would keep insurance companies from relying on artificial intelligence to deny claims.
VyStar customers report being penalized for mortgage payments they already made, lowering credit scores
Read full article: VyStar customers report being penalized for mortgage payments they already made, lowering credit scoresVyStar Credit Union is facing a growing controversy after several customers reported having issues with their credit scores.
Yes, your car might be spying on you. Here’s how to get it to stop
Read full article: Yes, your car might be spying on you. Here’s how to get it to stopThat new car of yours isn’t just tracking your mileage—a new Consumer Reports investigation reveals that nearly every major automaker in the U.S. is collecting so-called “driver behavior data”—everything from how hard you brake to how fast you accelerate.
Five Stars or Fake? How to spot deceptive online reviews
Read full article: Five Stars or Fake? How to spot deceptive online reviewsWhether we’re checking out a hotel, rental home or buying something on Amazon, online reviews play a huge part in our decision. In fact, 95% of customers read online reviews before making a purchase. But some of them might not be real at all.
Consumer Reports investigation reveals heavy metals in some infant formulas, highlights safer options
Read full article: Consumer Reports investigation reveals heavy metals in some infant formulas, highlights safer optionsExclusive new testing by Consumer Reports highlights safer infant formulas while also identifying some that contain potentially harmful levels of heavy metals, including lead and arsenic.
Florida lawmakers propose a slew of amendments. Here’s the list so far
Read full article: Florida lawmakers propose a slew of amendments. Here’s the list so farSince the latest Florida Legislative session kicked off earlier this month, lawmakers have been busy discussing new bills and proposals for state law.
Green means go: Northeast Florida clerks offer some financial relief for unpaid tickets through Operation Green Light
Read full article: Green means go: Northeast Florida clerks offer some financial relief for unpaid tickets through Operation Green LightThe clerks across the area have joined forces to offer two weeks of services that can help drivers save some money, reduce their financial stress and get them back on the road with a legal driver’s license.
Buyer Beware: How to spot signs of hidden water damage in used vehicles
Read full article: Buyer Beware: How to spot signs of hidden water damage in used vehiclesAfter repairs, a flooded vehicle may look OK, but Consumer Reports says it can take months or years for major water damage problems to show up.
Frugal Formula: How to spend less and save more
Read full article: Frugal Formula: How to spend less and save moreA click here, a click there. Twenty bucks for this, a hundred for that. Spending money is easier than ever! It just takes one simple click, or tap, and you’ve made a purchase! But are you overspending?
Interview: Economist joins The Morning Show to discuss recession concerns, tariff impacts on economy
Read full article: Interview: Economist joins The Morning Show to discuss recession concerns, tariff impacts on economyDan North, Senior Economist for Allianz North America joined News4JAX Anchor Bruce Hamilton on The Morning Show on Thursday morning.
Expect pricier Spring Break travel this year. How to enjoy a getaway without breaking the bank
Read full article: Expect pricier Spring Break travel this year. How to enjoy a getaway without breaking the bankMore than a quarter (26%) of Floridians are preparing to travel as spring break approaches. However, with costs rising year after year, it’s becoming more challenging to enjoy a getaway without breaking the bank.
Busting Burnout: Recharging with mini retirements
Read full article: Busting Burnout: Recharging with mini retirementsIt’s a growing trend, especially among younger generations. People are taking a temporary, extended break from work and calling it a mini retirement. While this concept is gaining steam, experts say it requires a lot of planning, and it’s not for everyone.
What’s really in your dog’s food? Consumer Reports has some answers
Read full article: What’s really in your dog’s food? Consumer Reports has some answersPet owners want the best when it comes to feeding their four-legged friends. And with so many dog food choices — from fresh to freeze-dried and everything in between — how do you even know what’s best for your pet?
March brings spring cleaning deals on vacuums, air purifiers, and more
Read full article: March brings spring cleaning deals on vacuums, air purifiers, and moreAs we welcome March and the official start of spring, many of us are diving into the fun of spring cleaning. To help us ditch the dirt and save some money, Consumer Reports rounded up some of the best deals of the month.
DeSantis again expresses support for reducing or eliminating property taxes during State of the State address
Read full article: DeSantis again expresses support for reducing or eliminating property taxes during State of the State addressGov. Ron DeSantis and other Republicans recently have floated the idea of eliminating or reducing local-government property taxes.
Egg prices could go up 20% more this year. How to decipher egg labels so you get what you think you’re paying for
Read full article: Egg prices could go up 20% more this year. How to decipher egg labels so you get what you think you’re paying forWith soaring prices, slim pickings at the supermarket, and many varieties of eggs, you want to make sure you’re getting what you think you’re paying for. Consumer Reports deciphers those confusing egg labels and explains what they mean.
Regency Square Mall continues to falter as sale discussion moves forward amid code violation fines, lawsuits
Read full article: Regency Square Mall continues to falter as sale discussion moves forward amid code violation fines, lawsuitsThe Regency Square Mall, a once thriving part of the Arlington community, now continues to hope for better days ahead.
Jacksonville man wins $1 million playing scratch-off game
Read full article: Jacksonville man wins $1 million playing scratch-off gameThe Florida Lottery announced Wednesday that a 35-year-old Jacksonville man claimed a $1 million prize from the 500X THE CASH Scratch-Off game at the Lottery’s Jacksonville District Office.
‘199% fake‘: Scammers target drivers with fake toll-collection messages
Read full article: ‘199% fake‘: Scammers target drivers with fake toll-collection messagesFraudsters are sending out phishing messages claiming you have an unpaid toll. The messages are designed to trick drivers into clicking malicious links and sharing personal information.
Travel expert shares deals for Spring Break and tips for dealing with flight anxiety after recent incidents
Read full article: Travel expert shares deals for Spring Break and tips for dealing with flight anxiety after recent incidentsKaty Nastro a travel expert with Going joined The Morning Show to share the questions she is fielding about “flight anxiety” and travel deals with “Spring Break” right around the corner.
Local, state leaders meeting Wednesday to give update on years-long construction on First Coast Expressway
Read full article: Local, state leaders meeting Wednesday to give update on years-long construction on First Coast ExpresswayThe focus is 2030, which is the projected year when all of the construction is expected to be done.
Online shopping warning: Bike helmets found on major marketplaces don’t always meet U.S. safety standards
Read full article: Online shopping warning: Bike helmets found on major marketplaces don’t always meet U.S. safety standardsOnline shopping is quick, convenient, and sometimes cheaper—but a new Consumer Reports investigation reveals a hidden danger: What are supposed to be life-saving products sold on major online marketplaces could be putting your safety at risk.
Consumer Reports releases list of top cars of 2025
Read full article: Consumer Reports releases list of top cars of 2025If you’re shopping for a new ride, Consumer Reports has you covered with its highly anticipated annual list of the best cars, trucks, and SUVs for 2025, helping you make the smartest choice before you buy.
Jacksonville ranks 3rd in financial distress among US cities, new survey finds
Read full article: Jacksonville ranks 3rd in financial distress among US cities, new survey findsJacksonville ranks third in financial distress according to a new WalletHub survey, highlighting concerns over credit scores, debt, and housing costs. The city’s rapid growth and rising rent prices contribute to the challenges facing residents.
New advice to help you finally stop robocalls
Read full article: New advice to help you finally stop robocallsSpam calls are not only annoying but also costly, with unsuspecting consumers losing billions of dollars to fraud every year. So how can you prevent it from happening to you or a loved one? Consumer Reports has some new advice to stop those annoying robocalls.
What to know about this risky way to pay for your next vacation
Read full article: What to know about this risky way to pay for your next vacationAre you thinking about booking your next vacation but don’t have the cash up front? Many travel sites now offer Buy Now, Pay Later loans, allowing you to split the cost over time.
Florida lawmakers to consider ordering study on impacts of eliminating property taxes
Read full article: Florida lawmakers to consider ordering study on impacts of eliminating property taxesA Senate Republican on Tuesday filed a proposal that would lead to studying the possibility of eliminating property taxes in Florida.
Politics & Power: Does Elon Musk have the power to alter history with his growing political sway?
Read full article: Politics & Power: Does Elon Musk have the power to alter history with his growing political sway?On Politics and Power, News4JAX anchor Bruce Hamilton and political analyst Mike Binder from UNF get to the bottom line of the issues around an unelected Elon Musk wielding political power despite glaring conflicts of interest.
JEA launches new app to pay bills, monitor energy usage
Read full article: JEA launches new app to pay bills, monitor energy usageThe app is called “My JEA” and can be downloaded on a smartphone. Some of the features include customers securely accessing their accounts and seeing how much they owe in real time, rather than waiting on a bill.
Single-family home prices have increased in Orange Park over the last year & so has the number of houses on the market
Read full article: Single-family home prices have increased in Orange Park over the last year & so has the number of houses on the marketThe number of homes on the market in the Town of Orange Park has increased over the past year, and so has the median sale price.
DeSantis begins push to lower Florida property taxes, wants constitutional amendment to increase homestead exemption
Read full article: DeSantis begins push to lower Florida property taxes, wants constitutional amendment to increase homestead exemptionAs the end of his term nears, Gov. Ron DeSantis said he wants to make a major push to lower property taxes in Florida.
Market strategist explains fallout from tariffs Trump is leveling against Mexico, Canada and China
Read full article: Market strategist explains fallout from tariffs Trump is leveling against Mexico, Canada and ChinaKarl Schamotta, Chief Market Strategist for Corpay Cross Border, joined us on The Morning Show to explain the fallout of President Donald Trump's tariffs against Canada, Mexico and China.