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.
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.
Cost of Living Comparison Calculator
Compare costs of living between United States cities.
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).
Financial Calculators
Financial calculators for mortgages, car loans, student loans and more.
Fueleconomy.gov
Fuel economy ratings of vehicles from the EPA and Department of Energy.
Healthcare.Gov
Learn about insurance options, coverage, and consumer rights under the Affordable Care Act.
Houston Summer Camps
An up-to-date listing of summer camps in the Houston area.
Kelley Blue Book
Get help shopping for used cars.
Motor Trend
Reviews about new and used cars with pricing information and road tests.
Retirement Living
Buyer's guides, advice and tips for all things senior living.
Reviews.com
Data-driven reviews in the categories of Business, Education, Finance, Home & Lifestyle, and Insurance.
Texas Department of Insurance : Consumer Protection
Gives insurance buying tips and offers both auto and homeowners insurance price comparisons.
Texas Department of Safety Identity Theft Information Guide
Tips and information to prevent identity theft and steps to take if you have been a victim.
Tips for Choosing an Insurance Policy
Offers general tips and resources to use when buying insurance.
United Way of Greater Houston Community Resources
Online edition of the United Way's Community Resource Directory.