|
Consumer Electronic Publications
These electronic publications made available by various government agencies provide access to a wide variety of
consumer related
information. Please use the the directory links below in red for easier navigation.
Most Recently Added:
Cars - Computers - Education - Employment - Español - Family - Federal Programs
Food - Health - Housing - Money - Small Business - Travel - And more...
|
Cars
(These booklets are available to view, print or download only. Printed copies are not
available.)
|
Fuel Economy and Guide - This guide helps car buyers choose the most fuel-efficient vehicle that meets their
needs.
|
|
Air Bags & On-Off
Switches - Discusses when using air bags is unsafe and specific steps to
take to reduce the risk. Describes on-off switches and who should consider installing them. Includes the required
form to request an on-off switch.
|
|
|
|
Consumer Tire
Guide - Learn how to check for proper air pressure and signs of uneven
wear; how and why to rotate your tires; special care in cold weather, and more.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Inspecting A Used Car - Whether you buy from a dealer or private party, always inspect the vehicle
thoroughly before bringing it to a mechanic for a final inspection. You can learn a great deal just by using your
eyes, ears, and nose.
|
|
Keys to Vehicle Leasing - Learn the difference between leasing and buying a car. Explains required information
on a lease agreement, as well as your rights and responsibilities.
|
|
|
|
|
Computers
(These booklets are available to view, print or download only. Printed copies are not
available.)
|
Get Net
Safe - Offers some easy ways to help keep you, your computer, and your
family safer when you go online. (PDF file)
|
|
|
|
|
|
Online Security &
Safety Tips - Outlines three important steps you can take to protect your
computer and your personal information, with additional tips and resources to consult for more
information.
|
|
Shop Safely
Online - Is it really safe? Here are the facts about buying over the Internet
and how to protect yourself.
|
|
|
Education
(These booklets are available to view, print or download only. Printed copies are not
available.)
|
All About Direct
Loans - Discusses four types of direct student education loans, how much
you can borrow, how to apply, how you'll be paid, repayment, and more.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
We the People "Created Equal"
Poster - Poster describes how 17 classic books are related to the theme of
“all men are created equal.” Books are divided into groups for grades K-3, 4-6, 7-8, and 9-
12.
|
|
We the People "Picturing
America" Poster - Poster lists classic books for readers from K - 12, all
related to the "Picturing America" theme. The books help young readers experience some of the best-loved
stories in American history and culture.
|
|
|
Employment
(These booklets are available to view, print or download only. Printed copies are not
available.)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Tomorrow's Jobs - Discusses changes and trends in the economy, labor force, occupational growth,
education and training requirements, and more.
|
|
|
Español
(These booklets are available to view, print or download only. Printed copies are not
available.)
|
|
|
Dieta Para un Corazón Saludable (Eating
for a Healthy Heart) - Aprenda a escoger alimentos que reducirán sus
posibilidades de adquirir enfermedades del corazón, la causa número uno de muerte en los Estados Unidos.
Obtén sugerencias de como consumir menos grasa, menos sodio, menos calorías y más fibra, las cuatro claves
de una dieta saludable. (PDF
file)
|
|
El futuro en tus manos (CD) (Hands-on
Banking) - Todas las personas - niños, adolescentes y adultos - estan
interesados en el dinero y en cómo administrarlo mejor. Nunca es demasiado temprano, ni demasiado tarde, para
obtener nuevos conocimientos y habilidades con el fin de crear un futuro financiero
mejor.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
When is a Check not a
Check? - Los comerciantes pueden ahora utilizar la información de sus
cheques para retirar el dinero directamente de su cuenta bancaria. Aprenda sobre las sus derechas cuando
viene a la conversión electrónica del cheque y qué a hacer si usted tiene un
problema.
|
|
|
Family
(These booklets are available to view, print or download only. Printed copies are not
available.)
|
Accidents with Poison and
Children - Accidents can happen even if you are careful to keep poisons
away from children. Here are some tips to help you prevent poisoning accidents and spot the signs of poisoning. (PDF
file)
|
|
|
|
Caring for an Aging Loved
One - How to determine the best care for an older family member. Helpful
advice on living arrangements, care options, legal aspects, adjustment strategies, additional resources, and more. (PDF
file)
|
|
Childproofing
Your Home - Use this guide to learn about 12 safety devices for your home
and how they can protect your child.
|
|
|
|
Danger in the Home - Use this handy checklist to detect potential hazards to children and how to make your
home a safer place.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Growing Up Drug
Free - Outlines what parents should know and can do to prevent or stop
drug abuse, including alcohol and tobacco, at each age level. (PDF file)
|
|
|
|
|
|
Helping Children Cope With
Disaster - Environmental disasters can be overwhelming for children.
Includes common reactions by age group, useful tips on what to expect, and how to help your child
adjust.
|
|
|
|
Helping Your Child Learn Math - The tips provided in this book will help you explore math concepts with your children
and make it a fun experience. All the activities use easy-to-find material, relate math to everyday life, and can be
done in the home, at the store, while traveling or just for the fun of it.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Helping Your Overweight
Child - If you are the parent of an overweight child, or are concerned about
your child's eating habits, this guide can help put your family on the path to good nutrition and health. (PDF
file)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Protecting Your
Child - It’s a parent’s worst nightmare--a child lost or missing. Use this guide
to teach your children about avoiding potential harm in person and in cyberspace.
|
|
|
|
Start Smart: Money
Management for Teens - Teens have access to more money than ever
before, thanks to allowances and gifts and, for many, income from chores, summer jobs or part-time jobs. Teens
also are becoming more responsible for handling money and making decisions - for everything from small,
everyday purchases to bigger-ticket items (such as a bike or a camera) to saving for college. If you consistently
make smart decisions about your money, you can have more of it for what you truly
need.
|
|
|
|
Your Child's First Day At
School - Tips on how to prepare your child for preschool or kindergarten,
with a checklist to help determine if your child is ready to start.
|
|
|
Federal Programs
(These booklets are available to view, print or download only. Printed copies are not
available.)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Medicare & You - Here are detailed facts about your Medicare benefits and the health plan options
available to you. Includes a telephone directory of contacts and a worksheet for comparing Medicare health
plans. (PDF
file)
|
|
Medicare Questions
and Answers - Need to learn more about your Medicare benefits? This guide
provides information in an easy-to- understand question and answer format, including definitions of important
terms. (PDF file)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Show Someone
You Love How Much You Care - Provides information on extra help with
Medicare prescription drug costs available to some people with limited income and resources. Provides a
worksheet to help complete an application for this benefit. (PDF file)
|
|
|
|
Social Security: What Every Woman Should
Know - Discusses how a woman's Social Security benefits may be affected
by disability, divorce, widowhood, retirement and other special circumstances. Also covers benefits for your
family, what to do if you change your name, and Social Security numbers for children. (PDF
file)
|
|
|
|
|
|
U.S. Real Property
Sales List - Lists government real estate properties that are sold by auction
or sealed bid and explains how to get more information.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Food
(These booklets are available to view, print or download only. Printed copies are not
available.)
|
|
|
|
|
Eating Well as We Age - Many older people have trouble eating well. This booklet gives ideas on what you can
do about it, including using the food label. (PDF
file)
|
|
|
|
|
|
Kitchen
Companion: Your Safe Food Handbook - Provides extensive information on
food-borne bacteria; preparing, storing and transporting food; food thermometers; guidelines for poultry, eggs and
leftovers; food safety during a power outage; and more. (PDF file)
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revealing Trans
Fats - Trans fat is used to increase food shelf life and stabilize its flavor. Get
tips on reducing your trans fat intake and use a chart that lists the fat content of some common foods to lower
your risk of heart disease.
|
|
|
Health
(These booklets are available to view, print or download only. Printed copies are not
available.)
|
|
|
Anxiety
Disorders - Lists treatments available and resources to contact for more
information on panic phobias, stress, obsessive-compulsive, and other disorders. (PDF file)
|
|
|
|
Basik Lasik - Find out about Lasik eye surgery, who is a good candidate, possible risks and
complications, and more. (PDF
file)
|
|
Being Healthy - Examples and tips on getting exercise, following the dietary guidelines for good
nutrition, and choosing and working with physicians to keep yourself healthy and fit. (PDF
file)
|
|
Better Health and
You - A balanced eating plan and regular physical activity are the building
blocks of good health. By eating right and being active, you may reach or maintain a healthy weight. You may also
improve your physical health, mental well-being, and set an example for others.
|
|
|
|
Boning Up on Osteoporosis - You can lose bone mass without warning. Learn the risk factors, diagnosis, and
treatment options for preventing, minimizing, and even building back bone mass.
|
|
Bottled Water Basics - Not all bottled water is the same. Get tips on how to choose it based on the type of
water and the source, taste considerations, and more.
|
|
|
|
Breathing Better - Control your asthma with an action plan to recognize your triggers, track your
symptoms, monitor your breathing and know when to take medication.
|
|
|
|
Cholesterol - Cholesterol is a fat-like material in your blood that can increase your risk of heart
disease. Learn how to find out if you have high cholesterol and what you can do to reduce it. (PDF file)
|
|
|
|
|
|
Diabetes - Many people who have diabetes are unaware they have it. Learn the warning signs,
risk factors, and the importance of early detection and treatment. (PDF file)
|
|
Do I Have
Lupus? - Lupus is a disease in which the immune system attacks the body's
healthy cells and tissues. Learn about the three main types, their symptoms, who is affected and how lupus is
diagnosed and treated. (PDF file)
|
|
|
|
|
|
Filtration Facts - Learn about the different types of home water filters available, including pitchers,
faucet filters, and freestanding units. Provides general information on cost, maintenance, and performance. (PDF
file)
|
|
|
|
|
|
High Blood
Pressure - High blood pressure (also called hypertension) is a serious illness
that affects nearly 65 million adults in the United States. Learn why it's vital that you get tested and, if necessary,
get treated. (PDF
file)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Juvenile Rheumatoid
Arthritis - This disease affects children 16 years old and younger. Find out
about the causes, symptoms, tests, and various treatments.
|
|
Keep Active - How older people can use exercise and sports to help lower the risk of common
diseases, relieve arthritis pain, and recover faster from illness. Includes an activity log to track progress and lists
tips to prevent injury.
|
|
|
|
Pap
Tests - Protect yourself from cervical cancer with a pap test. Learn when to
get them, how to prepare for one, and more. (PDF file)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Questions &
Answers About Bursitis and Tendinitis - If you’ve ever suffered from tennis
elbow or painful inflammation around other joints, you’ll find this booklet useful. It explains the causes of bursitis
and tendinitis, how the conditions are diagnosed and treated, and what you can do to prevent a recurrence. (PDF file)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Sun, UV, and You - Explains what the UV (ultraviolet radiation) index is and how you can use it to avoid
skin cancer, premature aging of the skin, and more. (PDF
file)
|
|
The New OTC Medicine
Label - All over-the-counter medicines now carry usage and warning labels.
Learn what's important--for your health's sake.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Housing
(These booklets are available to view, print or download only. Printed copies are not
available.)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Drinking Water From
Household Wells - Families with their own wells are responsible for
maintaining them and making sure that the water is safe to drink. Here are the facts on sources of pollution and
how to keep your water safe. (PDF
file)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Home Equity
Conversion Mortgage at a Glance - This type of mortgage, also called a
federally insured reverse mortgage, allows people 62 and over to borrow against the equity in their homes
without having to repay the loan as long as they are living in the home. Get the details on eligibility, fees, loan
distribution and repayment, and more. (PDF file)
|
|
Homeowner's Glossary
of Building Terms - Taking on a home improvement project can open a whole
new world of terms you may not know. Here's a quick reference to help you keep up with the language of the
trade.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Keeping Your Home
Safe - Use the crime-stoppers' checklist and other practical tips to protect
your home from fire and theft.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Saving With Energy Star - How to choose products with the Energy Star label to help save energy, help the environment, and reduce the
costs of utility bills.
|
|
|
|
|
|
The New Climate
for Mortgage Borrowers - A timely primer on how to choose the best
mortgage during this period of declining home values and stricter credit standards. Explains what caused this
situation, and what potential and current homeowners, particularly those facing foreclosure, can do to improve
their credit scores, obtain a good loan and hold onto their homes. (PDF file)
|
|
Turning "Fixer-
Uppers" into Dream Homes - Learn how you can get a long-term mortgage
that includes the costs of reconstructing, modernizing, or eliminating health and safety hazards in your home. Find
out what properties are eligible, what improvements are covered, and how to apply. (PDF file)
|
|
|
|
|
|
Your Home - Advice on how to buy, sell, rent, or improve a home, with additional tips on moving,
seasonal interior and exterior maintenance, repairs, and safety. (PDF
file)
|
|
Your Move
Packet - Three helpful booklets to help you choose a reputable mover, select
the right level of liability insurance to protect your possessions, and deal with any problems on an interstate
move. Includes a "before you move" checklist.
|
|
|
Money
(These booklets are available to view, print or download only. Printed copies are not
available.)
|
Bankruptcy
Basics - There are 5 basic types of bankruptcy cases used to obtain relief
from debt. Learn the differences in debts discharged, assets kept, forms needed, where to file, and more. (PDF file)
|
|
Before Disaster Strikes - Suggests ways to be financially prepared to deal with a natural disaster. Information
on buying insurance, preparing a household inventory, filling an evacuation box, and
more.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cold Calling - How can you stop sellers from calling, what are the signs of a scam or fraud, and
who can you contact for help?
|
|
|
|
Credit and
Divorce - Compares the benefits and disadvantages of individual, joint and
"user" accounts. Steps to take if you divorce or separate. (PDF
file)
|
|
Credit
Matters - How to qualify for credit, keep a good credit history, protect your
credit once you have it, and more. (PDF file)
|
|
Doing Your
Taxes - Explains what tax forms to use, how to fill them out, where to send
your return, and how to get free help. Lists the most common errors to watch for.
|
|
Electronic
Banking - Learn more about electronic transactions, such as debit cards and
online account access, including how transactions are processed, their timing, security, and legal protections. (PDF
file)
|
|
Enjoying
Retirement - What you need to plan for and know about retirement, such as
exercise, recreation, diet, finances, and more.
|
|
|
|
Finding a Lost Pension - Here’s how to find out if you have an unclaimed pension, where to search,
documents you’ll need, and what to do when you find your pension fund. (PDF
file)
|
|
|
|
Fraud
Fighting 101: Smart Tips for Older Investors - Even if you have never been
subjected to an investment fraudster's sales pitch, you probably know someone who has. Following the
legendary Willie Sutton principle, fraudsters tend to go "where the money is" -- and that means targeting older
Americans who are nearing or already in retirement. Fraudsters also have in their sites the millions of Baby
Boomers who have been accumulating sizeable retirement nest eggs through company 401(k)s and personal
accounts
|
|
|
|
Hands on
Banking (CD) - Interactive CD-ROM helps you build the money skills you need
for life. Four separate programs from 4th grade through adult, in English and Spanish, cover budgeting, saving,
investing, buying a home, and more.
|
|
|
|
I Bonds
Investor's Guide - Follow this easy-to-read Q&A format to find out if I Bonds
are a good way for you to save and invest money.
|
|
ID Theft: What It's All
About - Thieves can steal your personal information and use it to commit
fraud for long periods without your knowledge. Here’s how to protect yourself, and what to do if you are a victim. (PDF
file)
|
|
ID Theft: What It's
All About? - Thieves can steal your personal information and use it to commit
fraud for long periods without your knowledge. Here's how to protect yourself, and what to do if you are a
victim. (PDF file)
|
|
|
|
Identity Theft and Your
Social Security Number - Someone illegally using your Social Security
number can steal your financial identity and your money. Find out how to prevent identify theft, how to report it if
you suspect it, and if you can get a new Social Security number if you are a victim. (PDF file)
|
|
Insuring Your
Deposits - Is your bank or savings institution insured? Specifies what types
of accounts are covered, and how much of your money is protected.
|
|
|
|
Invest Wisely - Basic tips to help you select a brokerage firm and representative, and make and
monitor an investment Identifies questions to ask and warning signs to look for to avoid
problems.
|
|
|
|
IRS Audit - Explains what an audit is, and factors that may trigger one. Here's advice that includes
how to appeal the results.
|
|
Lump Sum
Distribution - Before you take out the money built up in a pension plan,
consider the tax and investment benefits and risks of your options.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shopping
With Your ATM Card - Describes the new and expanded ways you can use
an ATM card. Also provides safety precautions and a listing of ATM networks and affiliated shopping services by
state.
|
|
Start Smart: Money
Management for Teens - Teens have access to more money than ever
before, thanks to allowances and gifts and, for many, income from chores, summer jobs or part-time jobs. Teens
also are becoming more responsible for handling money and making decisions - for everything from small,
everyday purchases to bigger-ticket items (such as a bike or a camera) to saving for college. If you consistently
make smart decisions about your money, you can have more of it for what you truly
need.
|
|
Taking Control of
Your Finances - A handy guide geared toward young adults—from those
still in school to just starting a career or a family. Learn the right ways to save and manage money, and how to
avoid some common mistakes people make with their money. (PDF file)
|
|
|
|
|
|
Your Credit
Scores - Your credit score is a number based on the information in your
credit file that rates how much of a risk you are. Learn why your credit score matters, what good and bad
scores are, the elements of your FICO credit score, and how you can raise your score. (PDF
file)
|
|
Your
Investments - Consumer facts about investments that are not deposits and
are not insured by the FDIC
|
|
|
|
|
Small Business
(These booklets are available to view, print or download only. Printed copies are not
available.)
|
|
|
Being An
Entrepreneur - For various types of small businesses, explains how to
create a business plan, decide on the best legal structure for your business, and market it. Also provides
information on selling your business. (PDF file)
|
|
|
|
Doing Business with GSA -
The General Services Administration (GSA) buys a wide variety of products and services for federal agencies.
Learn about GSA's contracting opportunities. (PDF
file)
|
|
Employment Law Guide - Covers laws and regulations regarding wages and hours of work, safety and health
standards, pension and benefit plans, federal contracts, and more. (PDF
file)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Small Business Resource Guide - Helpful CD-ROM contains business tax forms, instructions, and publications, plus
guidance on preparing a business plan, financing your business, and more. Note: Our
Winter Catalog mistakenly shows this as a 2008 publication. We apologize for the inconvenience.
|
|
|
|
Virtual Small Business
Tax Workshop - Covers a variety of small business tax issues including
payroll taxes, electronic filing, and the latest tax law changes that may affect the small business
owner.
|
|
|
Travel
(These booklets are available to view, print or download only. Printed copies are not
available.)
|
Applying for Your U.S. Passport the
Easy Way - The Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs has
prepared this publication to assist you in applying for your U.S. passport. This guide provides information on how,
when, and where to apply for your passport.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Something for Everyone--E
Journal USA - Have you traveled to the Caribbean, Bermuda, Panama,
Mexico, or Canada lately? If you're a U.S. citizen, this site advises you of changes in passport rules to save you
time and trouble. Learn how to get or renew your passport online, or what to do if it's lost or stolen. Need a Visa
for study or travel? If you, or someone you know from abroad plans to visit the U.S., this site links to the Fullbright
Scholar program and other American higher education opportunities. Don't know what you want to see? Take a
"musical tour" of the U.S., or check out the photo gallery of American Treasures before finalizing your
plans.
|
|
|
|
Travel Smart, Travel
Safe - Tips on getting health and safety warnings, passport and visa
requirements, and more when traveling to other countries.
|
|
Travel Tips for Older
Americans - This booklet provides advice to help you plan a safe and healthy
trip and to make your trip the exciting, memorable event it should be.
|
|
|
And More…
(These booklets are available to view, print or download only. Printed copies are not
available.)
|
2009 Consumer Action Handbook - Use this updated guide to get help with consumer purchases, problems and
complaints. Find consumer contacts at hundreds of companies and trade associations; local, state, and federal
government agencies; national consumer organizations; and more. (PDF
file)
|
|
|
|
|
|
Conserving America's
Fisheries - Did you know that more than 100 kinds of American fish are
endangered? Find out what is being done to restore our fisheries and what you can do to
help.
|
|
|
|
Gettysburg National Military
Park - It’s the site of one of the most important battles in the American Civil
War. Learn more with maps, photographs, and a day-to-day history of the key battle that took place
there.
|
|
Our Flag - Are you familiar with the U.S. flag's history and customs? Here is everything you want
to know about the flag.
|
|
Swindlers Are
Calling - Eight things you should know about telemarketing fraud, nine tip-offs
that a caller could be a crook, and ten ways to avoid becoming a victim.
|
|
Taking Legal
Action - Discusses when legal action may be appropriate, how to file in small
claims court, and when to consider hiring a lawyer. (PDF
file)
|
|
Taking Legal
Action - Describes what happens when you're sued, when to consider
hiring a lawyer, and options for avoiding litigation. Also explains what an executor is and does in order to settle
an estate.
|
|
|
