Millions of Americans are feeling financial pressure this summer, and for many, a side hustle has become about more than extra spending money.

If your bills feel like they’re piling up faster than you can pay them off, you’re not alone—and you may have more options than you think.

A Jacksonville roofing company once known for giving away free roofs on social media is now under investigation by the State Bureau of Insurance Fraud, as customers, employees and subcontractors say they are owed a combined total of nearly $1 million.

Consumer Reports’ latest food safety investigation found some rice products contain concerning levels of inorganic arsenic, a dangerous form of a heavy metal and known carcinogen.

Tens of millions of taxpayers may be entitled to refunds or reductions of penalties and interest the IRS assessed during the COVID-19 federal disaster period — but relief will not come automatically. For most, the window to act closes July 10, 2026.

More Floridians are turning to nonprofit credit counselors for help as household expenses rise and debt grows faster than income, according to new data from Money Management International.

Consumer Reports shares a quick way to protect your digital privacy and security using a simple tool you may already have.

If your monthly budget feels tighter than it used to, the culprit may not be one big expense. It could be a handful of small ones you forgot about.

If you’re looking to get fit without paying for a pricey gym membership, creating a simple home gym can save you money. But what do you really need for a workout, and how much do you have to spend? Consumer Reports tested home gym equipment to reveal the versatile essentials for at-home fitness.

Did you know JEA offers a FREE program that will send experts to your home to look at how much energy you’re using and how to save you money?

A newly renovated Publix opened its doors to welcome customers back after residents were left with limited grocery options for more than a year.

Are you planning a summer road trip? With gas prices taking a bit out of travel budgets, you might be wondering if it’s cheaper to rent an electric vehicle. The experts at Consumer Reports can help you decide.

America turns 250 this month, and retailers are celebrating with some of the biggest sales of the summer.

Starting your first corporate job can feel like walking into a room where everyone else knows the rules, except you. But experts say this “hidden language” can be learned.

JEA customers in Jacksonville will soon see higher monthly bills. The utility’s Board of Directors approved proposed rate increases on Tuesday, affecting electric, water, and sewer services.

Before you put on that new sweater, shirt, or baby outfit straight from the store, Consumer Reports says you should wash it first because you’re not just wearing a new outfit, you’re wearing everything it picked up along the way.

Grocery prices are still stretching family budgets, and many shoppers are looking for new ways to save. One option starts right on your phone. The app is called Too Good To Go. It connects customers with local businesses that have unsold food at the end of the day — items that might otherwise be thrown away.

More than 24,000 Duval County homeowners who appear to potentially qualify for Florida’s homestead exemption have not filed for the tax-saving benefit, according to a News4JAX I-TEAM analysis.

Mayor Donna Deegan on Thursday unveiled the Childcare Solutions for Early Learning Task Force report and recommended a new initiative, River City Care, aimed at making child care more affordable and accessible while strengthening Jacksonville’s workforce.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture released its annual Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program payment error rate data for fiscal year 2025, showing a national rate of 10.62% — well above the congressional threshold of 6%.

A new study shows that improvements to vehicle safety driven by Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash testing have saved an estimated 48,352 lives and more than $500 billion since the program launched in 1995.

Customers and employees at a Jacksonville discount store have been dealing with uncomfortable — and potentially dangerous — conditions for months. The Roses Discount Store on Lem Turner Road on the city’s Northside has been without working air conditioning, and now the property owner is headed to court.

UNF is moving forward with higher costs for some students starting in Fall 2026, including a 5% increase in on-campus housing rental rates and a 15% increase in out-of-state tuition-related fees.

Over the past week, shoppers have been getting used to the new ALDI at Market and Union. At the same time, Jacksonville City Council members are preparing to take up an incentives proposal tied to Gateway Jax’s planned N7 development at 119 W. Beaver St., a mixed-use tower that would set aside space for a Publix-sized grocery store downtown.

A new Winn-Dixie has opened in Jacksonville’s Brentwood neighborhood, bringing fresh groceries closer to residents who worried the area could become a food desert after the closure of a nearby Harveys Supermarket.

Consumer Reports tests hundreds of car seats, bassinets, strollers, and more. Here are CR’s 2026 Top Picks for Baby.

Florida gas prices dropped 20 cents as about 4.6 million residents prepare to travel for Independence Day, AAA said, with the majority — about 4.08 million — expected to take road trips.

The Department of Education has announced a reduction in interest rates for federal student loans, describing it as part of a plan to make higher education more affordable.

Winn‑Dixie will celebrate the opening of its new Brentwood store Saturday, marking the final Harveys Supermarket to be converted to the Winn‑Dixie banner across Florida and southern Georgia, the company said.

Consumer Reports says choosing the wrong size unit or skipping basic maintenance can leave you uncomfortable and paying more than necessary on your energy bills.

Fleas may be tiny, but they can cause big problems, and for pet owners, few problems are more frustrating. Consumer Reports says acting quickly is the key to protecting both your pets and your household.

The fate of incentives for a Downtown Publix has yet to be decided, but developer Gateway Jax is moving ahead with plans to demolish the former First Baptist Church main auditorium to make way for it, according to our news partners at the Jacksonville Daily Record.

When kids go online, they’re not just watching videos or playing games - they’re navigating virtual worlds where they can talk to real people and spend real money! Consumer Reports offers advice and tips on setting parental controls to prevent unauthorized charges and protect kids online.

Are you financially stressed? A new study by Coinfully.com, which analyzed Google searches tied to money worries, found Florida and Georgia rank among the top states where people are searching for help.

A new Consumer Reports investigation found that someone standing right next to you, requesting the same ride at the same time, could be shown a very different price—and most riders would never know.

JEA recently earned a key bond upgrade from Moody’s Ratings, which said the improvement was due to stronger finances and progress in the utility’s governance. But Moody’s report also included a warning. The ongoing turmoil at the city-owned utility could send the rating in the other direction.

If you want to enjoy what’s on tap at Bold City Brewery in Downtown Jacksonville, you have until June 27.

Alex Jacquez, former Special Assistant to the President for Economic Development and Industrial Strategy, joins us to discuss the recent bleak report finding that America's annual inflation rate has reached its highest levels in three years.

From taking out the trash to cleaning up toys, chores are part of growing up. But many kids today are doing fewer of them than generations before.

Consumer Reports partnered with Yuka, a product transparency app, to test 40 popular processed foods and drinks for food additives and contaminants linked to potential health concerns at certain exposure levels.

A sweeping tax cut for homestead property owners pushed by Gov. Ron DeSantis now waits for voters to act in November. But what exactly will be on your ballot?

June is shaping up to be a big month for deals, with early-summer sales from Amazon and other retailers giving shoppers a chance to save well before the usual holiday shopping season.

The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office is urging buyers and sellers on Facebook Marketplace to take extra precautions before meeting up after a spike in deals that have gone wrong.

Consumer Reports says if you’re struggling to keep up with car payments, the most important thing you can do is act early—before missed payments pile up.

The Florida property tax cut plan backed by Gov. Ron DeSantis is awaiting the voters' final say. Rick Mullaney, News4JAX political analyst and head of the Jacksonville University Public Policy Institute, joined us on The Morning Show to discuss the potential relief from rising property bills, but also the impact of forcing cities and counties to cut services or shift costs.

The AI boom comes with a hidden cost: data centers. These massive facilities house the servers and equipment needed to power the internet, cloud services, and AI tools.

A sweeping Florida property tax overhaul now headed to the November ballot is drawing growing concern from local leaders who warn it could reshape how cities and counties fund essential services like police, fire rescue and emergency response.

Pattillo Industrial Real Estate’s proposed 1.11 million-square-foot warehouse in its NorthPoint Industrial Park in North Jacksonville has generated industry speculation about a distribution center tenant.

If your grocery bill feels more expensive every time you shop, Consumer Reports says where you buy your food may be making a bigger difference than you realize.

A military family said they lost more than $7,400 after purchasing discounted Disney gift cards from a Jacksonville-area online business that Florida authorities accused of deceptive and unfair practices.

With hurricane season approaching and wildfire risks rising from drought conditions, Florida emergency experts are urging residents to go beyond the basics when building their emergency supply kits — and that includes protecting their most important financial documents.

Each hurricane season, a key part of every family’s hurricane preparedness plan should be to assemble a hurricane kit. The kit provides important supplies for your family, whether you remain at home during the storm or need to evacuate.

Even if you need a new refrigerator, dishwasher, or washing machine right away, Consumer Reports says there are still ways to save money—if you shop smart.

Want to save money for your travel plans on the road this weekend — without changing cars? AAA says your right foot is the biggest factor in fuel use. Here’s a quick “yes or no” checklist.

A Consumer Reports investigation reviewed complaints filed with the Consumer Product Safety Commission over a 15-month period and found nearly 400 incidents of exploding glass oven doors and more than 40 injuries.

Consumer Reports has released its annual sunscreen ratings after testing more than 100 products, including both lotions and sprays.

“Buy now, pay later” services are rapidly becoming a financial lifeline for some families struggling with rising costs, but consumer finance experts warn the increasingly popular payment option can quickly turn into difficult-to-manage debt.

Hillary Dolaher from “Anything with Plants” joined us on The Morning Show to offer some tips on matching that floral arrangement to suit Mom’s personality and making those flowers last.

Jacksonville residents said rising gas and grocery prices were forcing them to rethink everyday spending, from shopping trips to hobbies and commuting costs. A University of North Florida economist warned the financial pressure may continue for years as wages struggle to keep pace with rising prices.

More and more professionals are embracing what’s called job hopping, moving from one job to another every few years. Some say it can fast-track your career and boost your pay. But experts warn it can also come with real risks.

It has been more than eight weeks since the war with Iran began. Alex Jacquez, Chief of Policy & Advocacy at Groundwork Collaborative and former Special Assistant to the President for Economic Development and Industrial Strategy, joined us on The Morning Show to explain why the conflict is affecting gas prices, homebuyers and inflation.

A new job title can feel like a big step forward. But more workers are discovering that the promotion they celebrated may not be a real promotion at all.

The price of a gallon of regular gasoline climbed 31 cents in the past week, spiking to an average of $4.48 per gallon Tuesday, according to AAA.

After a slower stretch for sales, Spring is now in full swing, and this month, there are plenty of ways to save as we celebrate Mother’s Day and Memorial Day.

Travel industry analyst Katy Nastro joined us on The Morning Show to explain what travelers need to know right now.

Surveys show more than half of managers say they’ve passed over employees for promotion because of workplace habits, not skills.

Gas prices in Jacksonville are averaging around $4.30 per gallon, prompting many drivers to search for ways to cut costs at the pump.

Experts say about 60% of what we buy isn’t planned—and there’s a reason why. Welcome to your brain on bargains.

A recent survey found that just 38% of Americans learn about money from their families, and only 15% learn it in school. So, what should your grad know before that first paycheck?

Downtown Jacksonville continues to see significant growth in residents, development, and visitation, with more than 9,000 people now living downtown and $7 billion in projects planned or underway, according to the 2025 State of Downtown Report from Downtown Vision, Inc.

Calling all IT developers, a free event next week in Ponte Vedra is designed to give you more access to AI tools to help you work faster and more efficiently.

A free town hall on Thursday in Jacksonville will bring together several agencies and experts to help those with Medicare spot and prevent possible fraud.

Jacksonville City Council approved an expansion of the city’s 3 a.m. liquor ordinance to the Brooklyn neighborhood during a council meeting Tuesday.

Florida State University business analyst Wayne Hochwarter joins News4JAX anchor Bruce Hamilton on this week's episode of Politics & Power to discuss whether tariffs should be adjusted to shield small importers; what short‑term relief (tax credits, grants, fuel support) would help Main Street; and how state budgets should adapt to tourism and construction slowdowns.

Sean Way, owner of Sunsera Insurance Agency in Jacksonville, joined us on The Morning Show with important information for homeowners about protecting their property amid ongoing wildfires.

From a pop-culture staple in the 1950s to the popularity of Publisher’s Clearing House in the 1980s, a blast from the past is back in a big way: Sweepstakes.

From rising housing and insurance costs to everyday expenses, affordability is taking center stage on the Florida gubernatorial campaign trail, reflecting what experts say is a growing strain on residents’ quality of life.

Fraud is broad and is a growing problem across all of Northeast Florida, from romance scams to fake bank alerts. We got important advice from law enforcement to help you protect yourself.

Florida has paved the way for new SNAP restrictions starting April 20.

If your phone, TV, or computer has been acting glitchy lately, Consumer Reports says you may not need to replace it just yet because dirt and debris are often the hidden culprits behind everyday issues.

Florida has paved the way for new SNAP restrictions starting April 20.

A former Jacksonville pastor has been indicted on four counts of wire fraud for allegedly directing fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program loans, federal authorities said.

Amid ongoing scrutiny of Jacksonville’s public utility, the JEA Board of Directors will take part in a detailed budget workshop on Tuesday, where they will hear recommendations for rate increases.

Millions of people earn more than the poverty line but still feel one emergency away from financial disaster. Psychologists call it peniaphobia, a growing fear of running out of money.

A growing number of Americans are carrying significant credit card debt, and new data shows Jacksonville ranks among the highest in the nation.

An initiative is in motion to bring a Culinary Institute of America campus to Jacksonville’s Downtown riverfront as part of a proposed hotel, an alumnus of the New York-based private school told the Jacksonville Daily Record on Friday.

The latest numbers reveal that cyber criminals stole more than $16 billion last year, and nearly 6.5 million people reported fraud or identity theft, which is about one victim every five seconds.

A recent change by the Food and Drug Administration has consumer advocates worried that food labels are about to get a lot more confusing.

Consumer Reports looks at the scams costing people the most and how you can protect your money and identity.

The countdown to tax day is on, and several changes could impact your return this year. Retirement contribution limits are higher. Standard deductions have increased. And updated tax credits could save you money, if you know where to look.

As spring gets underway, retailers often start discounting products tied to outdoor living, yard work, and seasonal cleaning, making this a smart time to shop if you know what to look for.

Rising gas prices are squeezing Jacksonville food truck owners, forcing some to raise prices, rework their menus, and rethink where they park.

It’s time to tidy up your home with Spring cleaning on a budget, from paper towels to multi-purpose cleaners and tried and true hacks, but with so many cleaners on store shelves, how do you know which ones are worth buying? Consumer Reports put them to the test.

In Jacksonville, AAA reports the average for regular gas at $4.25, up from $2.87 just a month ago, and premium gas at $5.00, up from $3.69.

Downtown Jacksonville’s newest ordinance allowing bars to serve alcohol until 3 a.m. has been in effect for about a month, and early signs point to a boost in business.

Customers of JEA could soon see higher utility bills as the board moves forward with rate increases to address a projected budget shortfall exceeding $107 million.

The University of Florida Military Alumni Association is offering a $5,000 scholarship to incoming freshmen with military ties — and organizers said the need has never been greater. The deadline to apply is April 17 at 5 p.m. on the UFAMA website.

A Northeast Florida gift card company and its owner have been permanently banned from doing business in Florida. The decision, which was sparked by dozens of consumer complaints, was handed down against Gift Card Deal Marketplace Inc., which operated as giftcarddeal.com, and its owner, after a judge found the company was cheating customers.

The Winn-Dixie Company LLC confirmed on March 28 to News4JAX news partner The Jacksonville Daily Record that it will close two Harveys Supermarket locations in Jacksonville in May.

Families across Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia are noticing higher seafood prices this Lent, particularly for Friday fish fries and restaurant meals. A major local supplier says rising global shipping costs and tariffs are behind the increases.