Consumer Action

Consumer Action INSIDER – February 2012

2012-02-01T17:03:06Z

In this month's INSIDER you'll find a report on a meeting with CFPB Director Rich Cordray, an update California LifeLine trainings, a heads up for our 2012 fundraiser and a look at how we can help journalists and other members of the working media.

Know the Signs of Housing Discrimination

2012-01-12T21:24:45Z

The denial of housing opportunities because of race, color, religion, sex, nationality, familial status or disability is housing discrimination, and it’s illegal. You can recognize if you are a victim of housing discrimination—and protect your rights—if you know what actions by landlords, sellers, lenders and others are against the law.

Filing a Housing Discrimination Complaint

2012-01-12T19:57:48Z

Fair housing laws protect renters and buyers from discrimination. If you believe you were a victim of housing discrimination, you have the right to file a housing discrimination complaint with HUD. Understanding the complaint and resolution process will help you weigh your options and take action.

Recognizing & Fighting Housing Discrimination - PowerPoint Slides

2012-01-12T19:50:47Z

This 23-slide presentation, available for download in the “Download File” section of this page, is designed to be used in conjunction with the "Recognizing & Fighting Housing Discrimination Lesson Plan and Class Activities."

Recognizing & Fighting Housing Discrimination - Lesson Plan and Class Activities

2012-01-12T19:40:04Z

This 24-page packet, available only as a PDF download, contains a detailed curriculum for teaching consumers what their fair housing rights are and how to file a housing discrimination complaint. It is designed to be used in conjunction with the "Recognizing & Fighting Housing Discrimination PowerPoint Slides."

40TH ANNIVERSARY VIDEO: Watch it now!

2012-01-04T22:49:09Z

Consumer Action celebrated its 40th Anniversary in 2011. This short film includes footage from the Anniversary Event in Oct. 2011.

Consumer Action INSIDER – January 2012

2011-12-30T12:00:32Z

In our first issue of the INSIDER for the New Year, we review our latest efforts in the various coalitions to which we belong. We cover the CFPB's latest meeting concerning financial education for the military community, and what to do when the "talent agency" says you're beautiful enough for prime time? These and other stories in our latest edition of the INSIDER.

California LifeLine Case Studies

2011-12-12T21:08:39Z

These five case studies will give Lifeline workshop participants an opportunity to apply what they have learned about California LifeLine discounts, service options and eligibility.

NEW! WIRELESS DEVICE Buying Guide

2011-12-09T18:13:22Z

Just in time for the holidays, Consumer Action releases its WirelessED Wireless Buying Guide.

WirelessED Wireless Device Buying Guide

2011-12-09T14:38:11Z

Just in time for the holidays, Consumer Action releases its WirelessED Wireless Buying Guide.

California LifeLine Public Assistance Programs

2011-12-08T03:53:33Z

Detailed description of various federal and state assistance programs.

2011 California LifeLine - PowerPoint Training Slides

2011-12-08T03:53:27Z

California LifeLine provides discounts on basic residential telephone service to eligible low-income households. These PowerPoint slides were developed to help trainers and advocates explain the features and benefits of Lifeline phone service, how to apply for the program, and what consumers must do to continue their participation.

List of Toll Free Numbers for California LifeLine Service

2011-12-08T03:51:09Z

Useful list of toll free numbers to give out to consumers while teaching the California LifeLine module.

Lifeline Eligibility and Application Worksheets

2011-12-06T21:13:59Z

These worksheets will help consumers determine if they are eligible for Lifeline discounts and track their progress through the application and renewal process. A short "quiz" can be used in class to help participants understand key points about the Lifeline program.

Consumer Action INSIDER – December 2011

2011-12-01T20:17:07Z

Consumer Action hosted its second annual Financial Empowerment Conference in Chicago. We've got some pics from our 40th anniversary you'll want to check out. The Outreach guys were at it again with another smashing training on Internet safety. These and other stories are featured in December's issue of the Insider.

SECURED CREDIT CARD SURVEY: Hot off the presses!

2011-11-30T22:31:54Z

The Fall 2011 issue of Consumer Action News features our new Secured Credit Card Survey. Secured credit cards are backed by a security deposit that you provide to the card issuer. Terms vary widely among surveyed cards so it pays to compare before you apply for a secured credit card.

2011 Fall Issue: Secured Credit Card Survey

2011-11-29T04:05:10Z

BE JOLLY NOT SORRY: Holiday shopping tips

2011-11-22T14:57:29Z

Avoid the “hangover” of holiday spending by employing some of our tips.

Connect to California LifeLine and Save! (2011)

2011-11-07T20:00:32Z

California LifeLine provides discounts on basic residential telephone service to eligible low-income households. Consumers who qualify for California LifeLine pay a fraction of the regular cost for telephone connection and monthly local telephone service. This brochure explains the features and benefits of Lifeline phone service, how to apply for the program, and what you must do to continue participation.

Wireless Providers Approved to Offer Lifeline Plans in California

2011-11-07T18:59:44Z

This PDF chart will help California LifeLine customers who choose wireless (cell phone) service rather than wired (landline) service understand their choices. The chart can be used as a stand-alone resource or as part of the California LifeLine module.