Consumer Information Resources

Premium Resources

Legal Information Reference Center

Online full text for many of the top consumer legal reference books and thousands of legal forms. Content offers users detailed “how-to” instructions to address a wide-range of legal issues including business law, financial planning, family law, and property & real estate.

Weiss Financial Ratings

Independent and unbiased financial strength ratings for banks and credit unions, stocks and mutual funds, and all types of insurance companies including HMOs; customized Medicare Supplemental Insurance (MediGap) buyer's guide that includes plan features, pricing, and regional availability. Financial planning tips are also available. *

Recommended Websites

Annual Credit Report

Request your free annual credit report.

Bank Rates

A site providing bank interest rates for mortgages, loans, credit cards, various accounts, and certificates of deposit.

Better Business Bureau for the Houston Area

Information about companies and charities to encourage wise purchases and a fair marketplace.

BroadbandSearch

Unbiased ratings and side-by-side comparisons of Internet, television, and phone service providers in the Houston area and across the country to aid consumers in selecting the service that is right for them. Contact information for providers is included, as well as outlines of plans they offer, pricing, coverage areas, and other details.

Bureau of Consumer Protection

The BCP works to prevent fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices in the marketplace. Includes scam alerts as well as information on mortgages, money, privacy and identity and more.

Consumer Action

Provides tips and advice on consumer purchases and repairs, fraud, complaints, consumer privacy, and credit as well as links to related private and governmental organizations.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic Resources

The United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC) strives to protect consumers, provide guidance to businesses, and protect competition in the marketplace throughout the pandemic. Website includes information on how consumers can recognize and avoid scams, handle financial crises, and track complaints.

Cost of Living Comparison Calculator

Compare costs of living between United States cities.

Department of Housing and Urban Development

HUD is the Federal agency responsible for national policy and programs that address America's housing needs, improve and develop the Nation's communities, and enforce fair housing laws. HUD's mission is to create a decent home and suitable living environment for all Americans, and it plays a major role in supporting homeownership by underwriting homeownership for lower- and moderate-income families through its mortgage insurance programs.

DepositAccounts.com

Easy to find bank information and compare interest rates.

Edmund's Automobile Buyer's Guide

New and used car prices, as well as other information for car owners.

FDIC Consumer Protection

Financial literacy resources to educate and protect consumers.

Filing a Claim For Your Health or Disability Benefits

Describes some of your plan's obligations and briefly explains the procedures and timelines for filing a health or disability benefits claim (from the U.S. Department of Labor).