If you’re a Costco member, you probably know a thing or two about saving a buck. But there are ways to cut costs even further at the ubiquitous warehouse club, with its nearly 700 locations worldwide. Part of the strategy is knowing where and when to find the deepest deals. It also pays to choose only the best products from Consumer Reports’ tests of Costco products large and small, including condiments, detergents, mattresses, and more. Here's the score:

1. Clip those coupons

The coupon book that Costco members receive in the mail each month has some impressive deals. Some are exclusive to either the warehouse or website, while others apply to both. The same offers can also be found on the new Costco app; a handy feature of the app lets you clip desired deals to your shopping list, which you can then easily present to the cashier (they don't always ask for the coupons, but you never know).               

It’s also a good to check the Costco website for discounts on luxury items you might not associate with Costco. “Our job is to provide great products and servings at great savings to members, but we also want to wow you,” says Richard Galanti, Costco’s chief financial officer. The website makes that possible, for example with diamond rings costing several hundred thousand dollars (because millionaires need to save too, right?). For the rest of us, the site has plenty of reasonable offerings you won’t find in the store, like an expanded selection of patio furniture and extra large and small sizes of popular dress shirts.

2. Stock up on detergents

Some Kirkland detergents kept pace in our tests with name-brand detergents that cost two and three times as much. If you use liquid detergent, try the Kirkland Signature Free & Clear, 11 cents per load. It was tough on grass, blood, and ring-around-the-collar in our tests (though not quite as effective overall as the top-rated Tide Plus Ultra Stain Release, 25 cents per load.) The Kirkland Signature Ultra Clean Pacs, 15 cents per load, also vanquished all three stains, and it closely rivaled the Tide Pods.  

For your dishwasher, the Kirkland Signature Dishwasher Pacs, 9 cents per load, were very good at cleaning items with caked-on and baked-on macaroni and cheese. Compare the Kirkland pacs with our top-rated Cascade Complete ActionPacs, which cost 29 cents per load.

3. Bring home the bacon

We’ve been big fans of Costco’s Kirkland Signature Regular Sliced Bacon for a while now, noting its crispiness and balance of fat and meat flavors. We like it even more thanks to its lower price, down from $16 for the 4-pound pack to as little as $10 or $12, depending on the location. That’s about $1.50 less per pound than what you’ll spend on leading name-brand bacons from our tests, none of which tasted as good.         

4. Hit the condiment aisle

In blind taste tests, we found the Kirkland Signature Real Mayonnaise to be just as good as Hellmann’s, for about 60 percent of the cost; the texture did seem slightly less dense, however, so it might take some getting used to. Kirkland Signature maple syrup also delivered good value and flavor, surely enough for your kid’s waffles.

5. Charge up your electronics

If your home has a lot electronic devices, including toys, remote controls, smoke alarms, and flashlights, go for the bulk supply of Kirkland Signature AA Alkaline batteries. They were judged excellent overall in our tests and cost just 27 cents per battery. Costco also carries highly-rated Duracell Coppertop AA Alkaline batteries for just a few pennies more per battery. 

6. Get your prescription filled

Costco’s pharmacy department offers hundreds of prescription medications at deeply discounted prices—so low you may not need your insurance at all. As a bonus: no membership required. Costco stores in nearly every state allow you to use their pharmacy for free. While available medications aren’t listed on Costco.com, a quick call to the pharmacy desk at your local store should be able to provide you with the information.

7. Give paper products a try

Though Kirkland paper products don’t make our recommended list, they have some redeeming qualities—in addition to the great price. Kirkland Signature toilet paper, 12 cents per 100 sheets, is quite soft and disintegrates easily; it lost points for strength and tearing ease in our tests. In our paper towel tests, the Kirkland Signature Premium Big Roll, $1.47, was extremely absorbent, though also a bit short on strength. Both products have been reformulated since our tests, so results may vary.

8. Take a look at eyeglasses

In our latest Ratings of eyeglass stores, based on a survey of nearly 20,000 subscribers, Costco topped our chart, beating out most other chains. And when it comes to the cost of frames and lenses, Costco shoppers spent much less than those who bought from independent retailers, private physicians, or the specialty stores LensCrafters and Pearle Vision. The median price paid at Costco was $186, compared to about $300 at the other options. If multiple people in your family wear glass, the savings can really add up. One caveat: Costco’s frame selection is relatively limited.  

9. Consider the organics

Kirkland Signature organic chicken stock served up impressive flavors, and at $12 for a case of six 32-ounce containers, it was about half the price of other top-scoring products from Knorr and Swanson. While we haven’t tested Kirkland’s organic milk, it’s USDA certified, and at roughly $4 per quart, it’s a buck or more less than what many national brands charge. Kirkland organic eggs are another bargain, costing about $8 for a 2-dozen container.

10. Learn the price tag codes

Some Costco prices are better than others, and the price tag code is the place to spot the biggest bargains. If the price ends in “.97” instead of the more common “.99” that’s a sign that the price has been marked down. Also look for an asterisk in the upper right corner of the tag, especially on favorite items, since that marking means the item is being replaced by different stock.  

11. Don’t rule out big-ticket items

Costco could be the place to nab your next mattress—especially if you sleep on your back. The Spring Air Back Supporter Natalie, $1,200, is one of our highest-rated latex foam models. Unfortunately, you can’t try the mattress out in the store. But while Costco doesn’t have an official return policy for mattresses, as far as we can tell, they won’t charge for shipping and handling if you contact them within a reasonable period of time, say a few months after purchase. You don’t even need to save the box.

Costco is also selling the KitchenAid Professional 6-quart Mixer for just $300 (after the $50 rebate, and while supplies last). According to KitchenAid, this model is equivalent to the KitchenAid Professional 6500 Design Series, which sells elsewhere for about $550 and is one of the highest rated models in our stand mixer Ratings. The one we tested does have a few differences (for example its bowl was made of glass, not stainless steel, and it weighed 31 pounds, versus the Costco version’s 25 pounds) but KitchenAid has always been a very solid brand in our tests.   

Costco also carries our top-rated blender, the Vitamix Professional Series 750. At $600, they’re not exactly giving it away, but that’s about $50 less than what you’ll spend at other retailers.

12. Hit the free samples

It’s a good way try a new product without committing to the 5 or 10-pound bag. The handouts can also help introduce young picky eaters to new foods. And don’t be shy about going back for seconds. “The sample sizes are generally large to start with, so you can go back two or three times,” says Galanti. “We, and the vendor, want you to like it.”

Just be careful about making too many impulse purchases, no matter how tasty the snacks. And try not to treat the free samples like your lunch or dinner. Better to sit down to a proper meal, maybe centered on a nice Costco rotisserie chicken, for the hard-to-beat (and never changing) price of $4.99. “It’s become a signature item,” says Galanti. “I’ve been on shareholder calls where I’ve had to say, ‘earnings would’ve been higher, but we kept the chicken at $4.99.’”      

—Daniel DiClerico (@dandiclerico on Twitter)

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Ford has pulled the wraps off the U.S. version of the smoking-hot Focus RS hatchback, just days ahead of its New York International Auto Show debut. The RS will be even spicier than the highly entertaining Focus ST.

Previously shown at the Geneva Motor Show last fall, the version we’ll see gets a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine pumping out more than 315-hp and driving all four wheels. Based on the turbocharged EcoBoost engine used in the Mustang, the RS gets a larger compressor and intercooler for greater airflow, along with a less restrictive intake design. Matched with a short-throw six-speed manual transmission and upgraded clutch. That sounds like the perfect match for a showdown with the Volkswagen Golf R and Subaru WRX STI.

Ford is making the not-too-subtle claim of providing the ultimate fun-to-drive experience with the RS. A sport suspension features stiffer springs than those used in the Focus ST, along with new anti-roll bars. A torque vectoring system sends up to 100 percent of available power to the outside rear wheel to help steer the car around corners. Adjustable drive modes range from a more civilized street setting to track use, and it includes what Ford is billing as an industry-first drift mode. To help keep things under control, the hot hatch gets 19-inch wheels shod with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires developed specifically for the RS, along with oversized Brembo disc brakes.

The RS gets its own front and rear fascias, with a more aggressive design, bi-xenon headlights, larger openings for cooling, functional brake cooling ducts, and other racy-looking bits.  

Inside, Recaro bucket seats, a thick, leather–wrapped steering wheel rim, additional instrumentation and alloy pedals add a racy feel. The Focus RS will also get Ford’s new Sync3 control interface, with voice controls and an 8-inch capacitive touchscreen. And should anyone forget this is not your ordinary econo-hatch, RS logos abound.

Sales are set to begin in spring 2016.

—Jim Travers

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

The odometer is a great gauge of how much the Consumer Reports auto-testing team enjoys the cars we review. Most vehicles have about 12,000 miles on them at the end of our testing, though some less popular models end up with far fewer miles.

Judging from the more than 20,000 miles we logged in the 2014 BMW X5 over 13 months, we really liked this luxury SUV.  

My last stint in the X5 was a delightful two-week trip around New England with my family. That journey illuminated to me how some cars rub you the wrong way while others ingratiate themselves over time. Here's my list of five X5 features that I appreciate and bet that the next owner will, too.

One-button wipers

Press the Auto button on the wiper stalk and the windshield wipers automatically adjust themselves for rain, snow, and sleet, speeding up or slowing down as conditions dictate. No more fumbling, flicking, or twisting to find the right wiper speed.

No second-guessing seat heaters

Some vehicles decide for you when you’ve had enough seat heat, ramping down or timing out without being told to. Not here. Not only do the BMW seat heaters warm you up almost instantly on frigid mornings, they stay on high until you ramp them down. Same goes for the steering wheel heater. And, if you park the car for a short time, it remembers to bring back those back toasters and hand warmers.  

Always watching out

The Active Blind Spot Detection system illuminates an icon by the side mirrors whenever there is a car in your blind spot, not just when you signal a lane change. There is no alarmist audible chime, just a visual reminder to help your situational awareness. This is not unique to BMW, but it’s a good arrangement. 

Check our complete BMW X5 road test.

Discrete nudge

The Lane Departure Warning vibrates the steering wheel any time you inadvertently cross a lane marking. I far prefer that to the indiscrete chimes in other cars that alert not just the driver but anyone else in earshot.

Heads up

The head-up display, or HUD, projects a small image at the bottom of the windshield, exposing key information. It works very well. Besides showing your speed, it allows you to scroll radio stations or advance songs on your connected iPod, and, when using the nav system, it shows next-turn directions. The HUD minimizes time with eyes off the road, lessening the challenge of adjusting focus between a center-dash display and the road ahead.

Good fuel economy was a bonus. In relaxed, leisurely cruising with the family I found that the Eco-Pro drive mode yielded 27 mpg.

Of course, some other BMW models also benefit from these smart details. And judging by the high miles we collectively logged in this X5, I’m clearly not the only one who came back for more.

—Gabe Shenhar

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

With its recent product announcements and HBO Now exclusive deal, Apple has been in the news of late. Now comes the scuttlebutt that the company is planning a new Apple TV settop box and a streaming music service based on the DNA of Beats Music.

The question for us is, How much of an impact will either have? Apple has typically excelled when paving new ground. But for streaming music services, iTunes Radio is playing catch-up to more established offerings.

Apple TV

As for Apple TV, we've felt for a while that despite its obvious benefits, the settop box is starting to feel a bit long in the tooth, especially compared with Amazon Fire TV, the revamped Roku players, and other newer media players. The price of the current Apple TV has dropped to $69 from $99.

According to a report by Buzzfeed, Apple will unveil a revamped settop box and perhaps a new app/game store at its developers conference in June. The report speculates that the new box will be more powerful. Buzzfeed also expects that Apple TV will feature Siri voice control and have more storage than the current model's 8GB.

Not mentioned in the article is Apple's recent exclusive deal with the HBO Now streaming service, which will be available only on Apple TV for three months before it becomes available on other streaming players. A new settop box would dovetail nicely with reports that Apple is also readying a streaming video service for launch in the fall.

Find the right streaming media player with our buying guide and Ratings.

Streaming music service

According to The New York Times, Apple is looking to integrate Beats into a new streaming music service that would compete with Spotify and other streaming-music services, though it probably won't be cheaper. The article says that Apple was rebuffed when it asked the major music labels for cheaper pricing so it could offer a service for $8 a month rather than the $10 charged by most others. It also speculates that the company might be revamping iTunes Radio with programming that would have more regional appeal. It said that Apple is looking to get exclusives on blockbuster new albums that would be available on iTunes before other services.  

What's not yet clear is how an Apple/Beats Music streaming service will differentiate itself from its more established competition. It's assumed that Apple's purchase of Beats was largely predicated on the ability to leverage Beats Music's underlying technology and key features, such as curated playlists. It is also expected that like Beats Music, the new Apple service will require a paid subscription.

—James K. Willcox

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Consumers Union delivers 130,000 petition signatures to FCC as telemarketers, financial companies seek loopholes to allow intrusive robocalls to cellphones

WASHINGTON, D.C. ─ Consumers Union, the advocacy arm of Consumer Reports, today delivered nearly 130,000 petition signatures from consumers to the Federal Communications Commission with a simple message: Don’t allow robocalls to my cellphone without my consent.

This is the latest in a series of petitions submitted to the FCC in support of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and the FCC rules implementing that law, which prohibit all non-emergency robocalls to cell phones unless the consumer has explicitly given their consent.  Some telemarketing and financial service companies are lobbying the FCC to allow so-called “wrong party” robocalls to cellphones.  This would subject consumers to intrusive calls if the company obtains a number previously owned by someone else, or if a debt collector associates a number with the wrong person.

A coalition of national and state consumer groups led by National Consumer Law Center and the National Association of Consumer Advocates submitted 60,000 signatures to the FCC last month.  CU’s submission today of 129,366 petition signatures brings the total to nearly 190,000.

Delara Derakhshani, policy counsel for Consumers Union, said, “Companies shouldn't be allowed to make robocalls to your cellphone without your consent.  But some companies are pushing for loopholes that would open your cellphone to telemarketing pitches, and would limit the companies’ liability for making these harassing calls. Instead of weakening the protections in place, companies should be working harder to ensure that calls are made only when the consumer has explicitly agreed to receive these calls. That’s why so many consumer groups across the country are calling on the FCC to reject this effort by industry, and preserve our right to say ‘no’ to robocalls to cellphones.”

Consumers Union is also working to pressure the top phone companies to offer free, effective call blocking tools to stop unwanted and illegal robocalls.  To learn more about Consumers Union’s campaigns to help people fend off unwanted robocalls, visit EndRobocalls.org

Note to reporters: Consumers Union can connect you with consumers who have personal stories about the frustrations and harassment of robocalls.

Media Contact:
David Butler, Consumers Union, 202.462.6262 or dbutler@consumer.org

Letters to federal agencies cite new Consumer Reports story on pesticides in produce, recent WHO decision to reclassify glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans”

WASHINGTON, D.C. ─  Consumers Union, the public policy and advocacy division of Consumer Reports, today wrote three federal government agencies to raise concerns about the impact of pesticides on health and the environment, citing a new Consumer Reports story on pesticides in produce and the recent decision by the World Health Organization to classify the herbicide glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans.”

In letters to the Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and Food and Drug Administration, Consumers Union described how the CR article "Pesticides in Produce" examines the relative level of risk posed by pesticides, the evidence of their harm to human, worker, and environmental health, and the particular absolute risk to children.

CU wrote, “We make clear that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables has numerous health benefits, and that eating enough produce should be consumers’ primary goal.  However, the article also gives consumers new guidelines on how to make the healthiest and most environmentally sound choices – including in what circumstances we recommend always buying organic produce, and when, alternatively, there is a low-risk conventional option.”

The CR article also specifically addresses U.S. farms’ widespread use of the herbicide glyphosate, often known as Roundup, which is not consistently monitored by the federal government.

A World Health Organization-affiliated research agency announced on March 20 that it had classified glyphosate as “probably carcinogenic to humans,” following an evaluation by 17 oncology experts from 11 different countries.

“Even before this news, consumers nationwide were concerned … now, there is an even starker need to better understand pesticides’ impact,” CU wrote.

Based on its findings, CU made several recommendations to the agencies:   

CU urged the EPA to ban or take immediate action on the riskiest pesticides.  The agency should complete the delisting of arsenical pesticides, improve the science behind tolerance limits, and take immediate action on neonicotinoids. CU also asked the EPA to rein in emergency exemptions and conditional registrations for pesticides, and require public access to information about all ingredients in pesticides and easy access to current registration status.

CU said USDA should expand pesticide residue testing in its Pesticide Data Program (PDP), particularly in light of the recent WHO conclusion that glyphosate is probably carcinogenic in humans.  USDA should also protect and promote organic standards and meaningful integrated pest management, CU said. 

CU urged FDA to expand and improve pesticide residue testing and enforcement, including of glyphosate, and increase its sampling of both domestic and imported produce. 

Media Contact:
David Butler, Consumers Union, 202.462.6262 or dbutler@consumer.org

WASHINGTON, D.C. ─ The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) today announced it is considering proposals for strong rules aimed at payday loans, vehicle title loans and other financial products.  The CFPB said it wants to eliminate debt traps that have harmed millions of consumers. 

The bureau is publishing an outline of proposals under consideration, including requirements for lenders to take steps to ensure consumers can pay back their loans.  The CFPB is also weighing restrictions on lenders to keep them from attempting to collect payment from consumers’ bank accounts in ways that tend to rack up excessive fees.

These types of consumer protections would apply to several short-term and longer-term credit products that are often marketed aggressively to financially vulnerable consumers, such as payday loans, vehicle title loans, deposit advance products, and certain high-cost installment loans and open-end loans.

Pamela Banks, senior policy counsel for Consumers Union, said, “These proposals would help stop some of the worst predatory practices associated with short-term and long-term lending.”

Banks said, “Lenders would have to use sound underwriting standards to make certain a consumer has the ability to repay the loan, taking into account the consumer's income, living expenses, major financial obligations and borrowing history.  The lender would have to take steps to confirm the consumers could afford the loan when due, including interest rates, principles and any fees associated with the loan.  This standard should be applied to all of these loans, regardless of the option the lender selects. These reforms would protect consumers against repeat rollovers or refinancing of loans, because that can lead to more fees and costs, trapping consumers in debt and draining their limited resources."

Suzanne Martindale, staff attorney for Consumers Union, said, “While we applaud this proposal, we note that it is just the first step and that the devil is in the details.  There is an important role for the states to play as well, to help ensure that their residents are protected across the board from abusive lending practices.”

Consumers Union said it looked forward to continuing to work with the CFPB on these issues to help people avoid payday debt traps.

The CFPB is holding a field hearing about the proposals under consideration this afternoon in Richmond, Va.   More information about the CFPB's outline of proposals under consideration is available here and here.

Media Contact:
David Butler, Consumers Union, 202.462.6262 or dbutler@consumer.org

With just a few weeks left of tax-season 2015, here are a few actions worth taking to save you money on 2014 taxes, jumpstart savings for you or a relative, or possibly get a tax break on health coverage for 2015.

• Contribute to an IRA. You have until April 15 to contribute to a 2014 traditional IRA, potentially reducing your taxable income. The maximum deductible contribution is $5,500 for those under age 50 and $6,500 for those age 50 and older. Your deduction will be limited based on income and whether you or your spouse has a retirement plan at work. Do you own a small business? Then you might be eligible for higher income and contributions limits through a simplified employee pension (SEP) IRA. Go to irs.gov and search for IRS Publication 590, “Individual Retirement Arrangements,” for details on contributions and income limits.

• Contribute to the IRA of a young relative or someone else starting out. Lower-income workers of all ages will benefit in three ways: more savings, less taxable income, and, if they’re not medically insured through your plan or one at work, a larger insurance premium tax credit.

• Apply for health-insurance coverage. Taxpayers in states with state-run health-insurance Marketplaces who didn't realize they would owe a penalty for lack of coverage in 2014 can take advantage of extended sign-up periods for 2015 coverage, through April 17 or even later. They may find themselves eligible for income-based tax credits to use toward premiums.

—Tobie Stanger (@TobieStanger on Twitter)

Visit Consumer Reports' Tax Guide for wisdom on preparing, paying, and saving money on your taxes

This article also appeared in Consumer Reports magazine.  

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Mazda’s midsized family sedan is refreshed for 2016, building upon its attractive styling, agile handling, and impressive fuel economy. But it is a car that goes up against tough, balanced competitors with few tricks up its sleeves.

The 2016 is distinguished by a light exterior freshening, with a revised grille, headlamps, decklid spoiler, and wheels. The real changes are inside, where the Mazda6 gets a redesigned center stack and an entirely new control setup. Available on all versions, save for the manual-equipped sport trim, the controls include a dial-joystick down by the shifter that interfaces with a high-mounted screen to access all audio, phone, and navigation functions.

When in park, the digital screen has full touch capabilities, but when in drive, all but the most basic functions are blocked out. Underway, you must rely on the controller knob and the convenient toggles on the steering wheel. There is definitely a learning curve here, but once mastered, it turns out to be logical.

Unlike many typical midsized sedans, such as the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, the Mazda6 is more agile in the corners, making it a compelling choice for an enthusiast with a growing family. That said, it’s not quite as rewarding to drive as a Ford Fusion.

Coming from a sports car, one might forgive the firm ride, but we think most consumers will regard the 6 to be stiff and uncomfortable. Pair that with an excessive amount of noise emanating from the road and wind and you have the makings of a relatively harsh commute experience compared with most of its competitors, particularly the Subaru Legacy and Toyota Camry.

The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is carried over from last year. It still makes 184 horsepower and requires a deliberate prod to get the car to move smartly. If you opt for the Grand Touring version with the technology package, you get i-ELOOP that regenerates energy from coasting and braking to recharge the alternator thus assisting fuel economy.

When we last tested the Mazda6, it got an impressive 32 mpg overall—best in class if you don’t count hybrid and diesel-powered models.

Taller drivers might take issue with the low-slung driving position of the Mazda6. You’re likely to put up with such an inconvenience if slithering behind the wheel of a Porsche 911, but such a limitation is rare in this mainstream class.

If you don’t feel like following the pack with a family sedan—with options like the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, or Nissan Altima just too boring for your liking—the Mazda6 is a young, individualistic choice that blends style, sportiness, and advanced features.  

—George Kennedy

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

When it comes to energy-saving lightbulbs, LEDs and CFLs spring to mind. But what about halogen bulbs? They don’t get much attention, partly because they’ve been around for a long time and they use a lot more energy than LEDs and CFLs. But halogens are cheap and you don’t have to put a lot of thought into buying one, or that’s what we thought. And then Consumer Reports’ lightbulb experts found something you really should pay attention to.

We put three halogen bulbs from GE, Philips, and Utilitech through initial tests and found they were as bright as claimed—the GE Reveal was even brighter—but they were much dimmer than the 60-watt incandescents they replace. What gives? The answer was on the back of the box of the GE and Philips bulbs. These halogen bulbs have a color filter that improves the light’s color, but it also reduces light output.

Not all halogen bulbs have this filter. Our bulb boxes mentioned “modified spectrum” or “glass filters.” Manufacturers developed modified spectrum bulbs in the 1980s and 90s and consumers liked the color because it made skin tones look better, says Terry McGowan, director of engineering for the American Lighting Association, a trade group. He says the filter subtracts light in the yellow part of the spectrum.

So if halogens are for you, focus on lumens when shopping. The more lumens, the brighter the bulbs, and you’ll see lumens noted on the box. A19 halogens are general-purpose bulbs that are used in lamps and other fixtures. Look for close to 800 lumens when you want a bulb as bright as a 60-watt incandescent. And if you like light that's warm, similar to an incandescent, then you want a halogen that has a color temperature around 2700K (the K is for Kelvin). You'll see this in the Lighting Facts label on the box. For white light pick a bulb that's 3000K or so.

Keep in mind that halogens use about 25 to 30 percent less energy than standard incandescents, while CFLs and LEDs use 75 to 85 percent less. And some halogens last only 1,000 hours yet cost about as much as CFLs, which are meant to last around 10,000 hours. See our lightbulb buying guide for the pros and cons of halogens, LEDs, and CFLs. Then use our lightbulb Ratings to find out how the LEDs and CFLs did after 3,000 hours of testing. Questions? E-mail me at kjaneway@consumer.org.

—Kimberly Janeway 

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Starting difficulties are a chief gripe with gasoline-powered lawn mowers, and the need to maintain the machines also a common complaint. One engine company, Briggs & Stratton, is addressing both gripes with two engines you’ll see in this year’s mowers, some of which Consumer Reports completed testing at our Fort Myers, Florida, testing site.

Better electric start. All mowers with electric start use a battery that must be kept charged in order to help in starting. Innovations we’ve seen with this feature, including how the running engine charges the battery of the $500 Honda HRR2169VLA, still use the usual lead-acid battery. One drawback: It charges best in warm weather and gradually loses its charge whether or not it’s used. So if you start trying to recharge the typical electric start battery in the chills of early spring, it might not be ready when you are.

But one mower we tested, the self-propelled Cub Cadet SC500EZ 12ATC6A, $500, uses a Briggs & Stratton Professional Series 875is, an overhead-valve engine with a particular feature we first covered last fall. InStart is a lithium-ion-based charger you can detach from the mower and charge indoors. The device powers up to 75 starts on a full charge, which takes an hour. And if you’re in too much of a hurry for that, you can charge it for 10 minutes and get 20 starts. Best of all, the rear-drive Cub Cadet performed well, with impressive cutting in mulching and side-discharge modes and easy handling thanks to its swiveling caster wheels.

Goodbye, oil changes. We don’t know how many owners of walk-behind mowers change the oil regularly as they should. But here’s an engine that will make everyone happy. The oil in the Briggs & Stratton EXi still occasionally needs topping off, claims the manufacturer, but it should never need changing. The engine is found in seven machines so far, sold at Home Depot, Lowe’s, Sears, and Walmart. Those we’ve tested include the Toro 20353, $400, Snapper SP80 12AVB2A2707, $300 (both self-propelled, multiple-speed mowers), and the Snapper SP70 12A-A2A1707, $280, a self-propelled, single-speed model. We judged their mowing impressive or better in mulching and side-discharge modes; the Snappers fell short in bagging, which was so-so. The Snapper SP70, like other single-speed, self-propelled mowers, lost points in handling due to its slow ground speed.

In the coming weeks and months, we’ll tell you more interesting findings from our lawn mower tests. In the meantime, check out our buying guide for lawn mowers and riders (including our new video, top of this page) before viewing our lawn mower Ratings of more than 160 walk-behind mowers, lawn tractors, zero-turn-radius riders, and rear-engine riders. Also check our survey-based brand-reliability scores.

—Ed Perratore (@EdPerratore on Twitter)

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Consumer Reports' engineers are already pouring over T-Mobile versions of the Samsung Galaxy S6 smartphone, the company's brand new flagship phone, and edgier sibling, the curve-screened Samsung Galaxy S6 edge. Our experts are checking their uber-sharp displays (577 pixels per inch), quick-charge battery technology, and other important features. They’re also considering how well they stack up against earlier Samsung Galaxy S models, which have occupied the top slots in Consumer Reports Ratings for several generations. While we’re waiting for those results, here are our some initial impressions of these intriguing devices. (For any copy editors out there: Samsung told us today that the phones are officially called the S6 and the S6 edge—no space between the S and the 6 and no capital "e.")

Look and feel

Looking at them head on, these phones—whose fronts and backs are made of ultra-tough Corning Gorilla Glass 4 held together by a polished-aluminum edge—look very much like the Galaxy S 5 they succeed. The power button on the Galaxy S6 models is roughly a half inch lower than it is on the S 5, and that makes it a little more difficult to reach. The sharper-looking Galaxy S6 edge also felt sharper. When reaching for app icons along the edge of the screen, I could feel the phone’s much narrower edges pressing into my palm.

Learn how to save money on your phone plan and get the best cell phone plan for your family. And find out why small carriers outrank the big ones.

Interface

These models have some of the multitasking advantages of the Samsung Galaxy Note 4, including the ability to reduce the window size of open apps, such as e-mail and the Web browser, so they can be utilized simultaneously. You can access this feature by by sliding your finger down diagonally from the upper left corner of the screen. The feature works with most apps, though not with the camera.

The S6 edge, as you might expect, adds a few convenient tricks that exploit its curved screen. For instance, sliding your finger from the upper side of the display (left or right) pulls out a vertical stack of circles containing five of your favorite contacts. The circles of this feature, called People Edge, have different-colored borders, and the phone’s LED will flash the appropriate color when that a person calls you. Another feature road warriors will appreciate is Night Clock, which shows the time along the edge of the screen when the phone is flat on its back.

Camera

While the 16-megapixel main camera has the same resolution as the one on the Galaxy S 5, the camera on the S6 models adds an optical image stabilizer and a whole slew of new hardware and software enhancements that, Samsung says, will make it easier to take a good photo under low-light conditions. We’ll leave it to our image engineers to confirm that claim. But one of the first things most people will notice is how easy and quick it is to launch the camera: All it takes is a quick double press of the home button. Samsung says the camera is always on standby to snap pictures faster. We shall see.

Availability and price

Pre-orders for both phones, which ship with Android Lollipop (5.0),  start March 27 at AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, U.S. Cellular, and Verizon. The phones will be available on April 10. However, some T-Mobile customers might get them in their hands as soon as March 28. Boost Mobile, Cricket Wireless, and MetroPCS will carry the Galaxy S6 only.

Full retail prices start at about $600 for the 32GB Galaxy S6, and $700 to $730 for the S6 edge with the same capacity. Expect to pay several hundred dollars more for the 64GB and 128GB models. Colors include what Samsung calls Black Sapphire, White Pearl, and Gold Platinum.  

—Mike Gikas

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Big things can come in small packages, as proven by today’s feature-rich subcompact and compact cars. This sector of the automotive landscape—once reserved for budget models targeting first-time car buyers and rental fleets—has blossomed, with many models now offering comfort, convenience, and refinement that was unheard of a decade ago.

Today, numerous excellent small hatchbacks and sedans are well worth considering. Of course, some models should not make it onto your wish list. To accelerate your shopping process, we’ve picked the 10 best small cars based on Consumer Reports’ testing.

Each car here ranks among the best in class for road test performance, has average or better predicted reliability, and performs adequately if included in government or insurance-industry crash tests. Or simply put, these are the best new small cars on the market today and ones we strongly recommend. (Missing are some great cars we have no reliability data for yet, such as the redesigned Volkswagen Golf.)

Click through to read the complete road tests, and scan the reliability, owner cost, owner satisfaction, pricing, and other data. Or use our search tools to compile your own list based on the factors that matter most to you.

—Jeff Bartlett

In addition to providing research and reviews, Consumer Reports offers subscribers access to the Build & Buy Car Buying Service at no additional cost. Through this service, a nationwide network of more than 9,000 participating dealers provides upfront pricing information and a certificate for guaranteed savings off MSRP (in most states). The pricing information and guaranteed savings include eligible incentives. Consumer Reports subscribers have saved an average of $2,919 off MSRP with the Build & Buy Car Buying Service.

Hyundai Elantra

Base MSRP price range: $18,800 - $22,600

The Elantra combines nimble and secure handling with a fairly comfortable ride. The 1.8-liter four-cylinder and six-speed automatic delivers solid performance and a very good 29 mpg overall. Some versions get a more powerful 2.0-liter four-cylinder. The car is well-equipped for the price, the controls and features are logically laid out, and rear-seat room is decent for the class. Our major gripe is the pronounced road and engine noise. The GT hatchback has more adventurous styling but suffers from a louder cabin, a stiff ride, and only 27 mpg. Currently, both the sedan and hatchback have potential savings of 20 percent off MSRP.

Read our complete Hyundai Elantra road test.

Kia Forte

Base MSRP price range: $15,890 - $21,890

There's a lot to like in the Forte if you're in the market for a compact sedan. Unassuming in nature yet considerably more refined than previous Kia compact sedans, the Forte feels mature and solid, thanks to a quiet cabin and one of the most comfortable rides in its class. You also get generous interior room and a wide assortment of amenities. Our tested base LX sedan got 28-mpg overall with the smooth 1.8-liter four-cylinder and six-speed automatic. Handling is very secure but not particularly agile. All EX versions get a stronger 2.0-liter four-cylinder, and the SX coupe and hatch use a 1.6-liter turbo. The spacious interior is quiet for a compact car, and the controls are logically arranged. Part of the appeal for the Forte is that it offers features not usually found in the class, such as front/rear heated and ventilated seats. Predicted reliability is average, and owner satisfaction is better than average.

Read our complete Kia Forte road test.

Kia Rio

Base MSRP price range: $13,990 - $18,290

This corporate cousin of the Hyundai Accent is available as a sedan or hatchback. Power comes from a 138-hp, 1.6-liter four-cylinder mated to a six-speed automatic. Fuel economy of 29-mpg overall with our automatic-equipped hatchback and 30 for the sedan is pretty unimpressive for a subcompact. The Rio feels solid compared with some other subcompacts. Its stiff ride and noisy cabin are typical of the genre and can get annoying during long trips, but they aren't unbearable. Handling is a strong suit, with the car feeling responsive in corners. Higher-trim models offer such amenities as heated seats and a rear-view camera, but they can push up the price steeply. Reliability has been above average, but owner satisfaction ranks among lowest in the category.

Read our complete Kia Rio road test.

Kia Soul

Base MSRP price range: $15,190 - $35,700

The Soul brings more to the table than quirky styling. There's abundant interior space, with the chairlike seats and big windows providing an excellent view to the outside. Though fundamentally a budget hatchback, the Soul can be an SUV alternative, functionality-wise. The driving experience isn't special: The ride is stiff, and handling is sound but unexceptional. Power delivery from the 2.0-liter four-cylinder feels just adequate, and its 26-mpg overall is not outstanding. An extensive list of options includes heated seats, touch-screen navigation, and a backup camera. An electric version is available in California. First-year reliability of the redesign has been above average.

Read our complete Kia Soul road test.

Mazda3

Base MSRP price range: $16,945 - $26,595

Whether as a sedan or hatchback, the Mazda3 is really fun to drive and gets great fuel economy. It also offers a host of luxury features rarely matched by any other small car. At 33-mpg, the Mazda3 is the most fuel-efficient compact that isn't a hybrid or a diesel. High-tech features include a multimedia system with a large screen, but it can take a while to master. Also available are active safety features, such as a blind-spot monitoring system. On the downside, the car can be loud on the highway, and ride comfort is not stellar even for the class. In particular, the rear seat is fairly tight. The steering is linear and precise, and the three corners with enthusiasm, showing quick turn-in response and moderate body lean. First-year reliability of the redesign has been average or better.

Read our complete Mazda3 road test.

Nissan Versa Note

Base MSRP price range: $14,180 - $17,960

The Versa Note offers amazing space and versatility for a little subcompact. It's also quieter and more relaxed to drive than most competitors. Its tall stance and wide doors make it easy to maneuver, park, and hop into and out of. The rear seat is really roomy, and the ride feels comfortable and relaxed. Handling is more responsive than the Versa sedan. Our main gripes are its awkward driving position, squishy front seats, and lack of interior storage. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) can magnify coarse engine noise when accelerating, but its 31-mpg overall is respectable. Changes for 2015 include standard Bluetooth, available heated seats, and new interior refinements. First-year reliability has been average.

Read our complete Nissan Versa Note road test.

Subaru Impreza

Base MSRP price range: $18,195 - $23,295

The Impreza’s interior packaging is outstanding, especially when you put friends (whom you want to remain your friends) in the back seat. Recent ­improvements have made it quieter inside. The ride is more comfortable than in some pricier cars. It drinks more fuel than its peers, but you’re getting all-wheel drive as a benefit. We don’t like the slackness and drone of most continuously variable transmissions, but with recent ­improvements Subaru has managed to mask those quirks. Subaru also has finally embraced the need for a contemporary infotainment system. The Impreza is among the pricier compact sedans, but it’s a strong value.  

Read our complete Subaru Impreza road test.

Toyota Corolla

Base MSRP price range: $16,950 - $22,955

The Toyota Corolla combines the practicality and frugal fuel economy that compact-sedan buyers want with more interior room, upgraded amenities, and a sorely needed shot of style. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) replaced the old four-speed automatic on all but base models. Fuel economy remains excellent at 32-mpg overall with the CVT and gets a significant boost to 43-mpg on the highway. And it's one of the best-riding compact sedans we've tested, absorbing bumps with only muted impacts. Inside, padded and stitched surfaces contrast with a number of drab, hard-plastic bits. Cabin amenities include standard Bluetooth connectivity, automatic climate control, and a touch-screen radio with simple controls. Handling is very secure but doesn’t challenge the best in the class. A sportier S version has a tauter suspension and is more responsive than our tested LE.

Read our complete Toyota Corolla road test.

Toyota Prius

Base MSRP price range: $24,200 - $34,905

At 44 mpg overall in our tests, no car gets better fuel economy than the Toyota Prius; only electric cars are more efficient. Despite the apparent complication of the hybrid system, all of the Prius' technology is well-proven. It ranks among the most reliable cars you can buy, and has one of the lowest costs of ownership. Not only is the hatchback body aerodynamic, aiding efficiency, it's also spacious for both people and cargo. Rear-seat space is on par with many midsized sedans, with plenty of luggage space to boot. Folding down the rear seats makes even more room. Ride comfort is merely OK and road noise is pronounced. There's nothing luxurious about the cheap-looking interior, either, and seat comfort is only average. Some controls, especially the shifter, take some getting used to, and the unique split back window reduces rear visibility. But those who enjoy maximizing fuel economy will find much joy behind the wheel.

Read our complete Toyota Prius road test.

Volkswagen Jetta TDI

Base MSRP price range: $16,215 - $31,670

A little bigger than most compact sedans, the Jetta is roomy, comfortable, and practical, with many available configurations. The new 1.8-liter turbo four-cylinder is smooth and flexible, and it returns an excellent 30-mpg. Skip the anemic base 2.0-liter engine. The GLI gets a strong turbo 2.0-liter, a more sophisticated suspension, better brakes, and a richer-feeling interior. The diesel's 34-mpg overall is very good, but it's upstaged by the 37-mpg we got from the smooth hybrid version. Its 1.4-liter turbo engine, electric motor, and seven-speed automated manual work seamlessly. Revisions to the steering and suspension have given the Jetta improved agility and a steady ride. Diesel versions are recommended, with average reliability and the highest overall test scores for the Jetta line; the 1.8T has well-below-average reliability.

Read our complete Volkswagen Jetta road test.

Visit the 2015 Autos Spotlight special section for our 2015 Top Picks, Car Brand Report Cards, best and worst new cars, best and worst used cars, used-car reliability, new-car Ratings and road tests, and much more.

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Showers and tubs for two, chandeliers, bidets, and televisions are just a few of the upscale renovations that some homeowners are adding to their master bathrooms, according to a recent survey from Houzz, an online home remodeling hub. Powder rooms and guest bathrooms are also getting the luxury treatment with wallpaper, hardwood floors, and sinks that make a statement. But not all bathroom upgrades are budget busters, says Houzz. A number of projects cost well under $2,500 and involve cosmetic work that homeowners can do themselves.

The survey included 3,200 Houzz users who are planning, in the middle of, or have recently finished a bathroom remodel. While the majority of those who participated said they are keeping the footprint of their bathroom, more than two-thirds said they are increasing the size of the shower in the master bathroom. Heated flooring and towel racks, and multiple sinks are other popular choices.

While five percent of those surveyed budgeted $50,000 or more to renovate their master bathroom, half of those asked planned to spend in the $10,000 range. Budgets for other bathrooms in the house were typically lower. Respondents across all age groups said the reason they were undertaking an upgrade was that they finally had the money to do so. New homeowners were the most likely to upgrade their bathrooms.

Baby boomers are more likely to install grab bars and curbless showers in their bathrooms although such other accessibility features as hand-held showerheads, seats in the shower, and non-slide floors were favored by Gen Xers and Millennials as well. Comfort-height toilets, which are up to two inches taller than conventional toilets, are another convenience.

Best toilets from our tests

In Consumer Reports toilet tests, almost all of the top toilet picks are comfort height. The scores are based on our tests of solid waste removal, bowl cleaning, and noise. Here are the top five:

• St. Thomas Creations Richmond ECO, $350
• American Standard Champion 4 Max, $240
• Delta Riosa C43906, $270
• Gerber Avalanche 21-818, $330
• Glacier Bay N2428E (Home Depot), $100

For more choices, see our full toilet Ratings and recommendations. And if you're planning a bathroom remodel, read our Bathroom remodeling guide.

–Mary H.J. Farrell (@mhjfarrell on Twitter)

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Small SUVs make up the fastest-growing vehicle segment on the market. It's no wonder: These right-sized crossovers promise an affordable combination of commanding ride height, spend-thrift fuel economy, interior versatility, all-weather capabilities, and parking-lot-friendly footprint.

Because of the popularity of small SUVs, every major automaker now offers one, giving shoppers many choices. But, as our tests routinely show, they are not all worthy of your short list.

To aid your research, we have collected the seven best small SUVs. Each one meets the stringent criteria to be Consumer Reports recommended, meaning they did well in our road tests, have average or better predicted reliability, and performed adequately, if included, in government or insurance-industry crash tests.

The Subaru Forester has a commanding lead over these competitors. Based on overall road test score alone, the Ford Escape ranks second in this class. However, a low predicted reliability score prevents it from being recommended. The other models featured here score within a point of one another, and they are all listed in alphabetical order.

Looking to save money? Check out the best deals on SUVs.

—George Kennedy

Honda CR-V

Read the complete Honda CR-V road test.

Mazda CX-5

Base MSRP price range: $21,545 - $29,220

For enthusiast drivers looking for the versatility of a small SUV with  sporty handling, the CX-5 may be just what they're seeking. The CX-5 is taut and agile with well-weighted steering. Opt for the  the larger 2.5-liter engine; it’s punchier and gets the same fuel economy as the 2.0-liter. There is even the option of a stick shift, but for that you have to go for the base model with only front-wheel drive and the smaller 2.0-liter engine.

We say stick with the Touring trim level. You get power seats, backup camera, push-button start, and blind-spot monitoring system. Our only knocks on the CX-5 are the constant wind noise, so-so ride comfort, and the need to choose a costly, high trim to get conveniences like heated seats and dual-zone climate control. The new infotainment system takes some learning to master.

Read the complete Mazda CX-5 road test.

Nissan Rogue

Base MSRP price range: $24,490 - $29,630

The Rogue sets itself apart by being one of the only small SUVs available with a third row. This foldaway rear seat is snug, but in a pinch, it means the Rogue can accomodate up to seven. The Rogue is relatively spacious, with roomy second-row seating and easy access. Power comes from a 170-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers adequate performance, but it can get somewhat vocal under hard acceleration. Expect 24 mpg overall. Handling is sound, aided by prompt steering response and restrained body lean in corners. The Rogue is also one of the more comfortable riding of this bunch.A backup camera is standard; a clever surround-view camera is available, giving a 360-degree perspective—a real aid to parking in close quarters. Available safety gear includes rear cross-traffic alert and forward-collision, lane-departure, and blind-spot warnings.

Read the complete Nissan Rogue road test.

Subaru Crosstrek XV

Base MSRP price range: $21,595 - $29,295

Essentially a lifted Impreza, the Crosstrek XV benefits from the many positive virtues of the Forester, our Top Picks winner. Fuel economy is stellar at 26 mpg overall, even with standard all-wheel drive. Some may find the cabin and controls to be very basic, but that simplicity makes it easy to operate and keeps the cost down. And despite the interior simplicity, the Crosstrek XV features rugged styling and fun color options that makes a bold visual statement. The model to get is the mid-pack Premium trim. It comes well equipped without the need to tack on major options. The new, modern infotainment system is a welcome improvement.

Read the complete Subaru Crosstrek XV road test.

Subaru Forester

Base MSRP price range: $22,195 - $33,095

The Forester is our highest-scoring small SUV and a 2015 Top Pick. It represents everything that an SUV should have, focusing on practicality, fuel efficiency, easy access, excellent visibility, use of space, and safety. The Forester has standard all-wheel drive, and yet it still manages a class-leading 26 mpg overall. The trim to get is the 2.5i Premium, which comes standard with such features as a power driver’s seat and a massive power sunroof. We would also recommend getting the optional EyeSight safety system. This suite of safety features includes lane-departure and forward-collision warning. There is even an alert that sounds if the car in front of you has pulled away and you haven’t responded—a helpful feature at stoplights. Overall, if you're looking for a small SUV that's very functional and efficient, the Forester is hard to beat.

Read the complete Subaru Forester road test.

Toyota RAV4

Base MSRP price range: $23,680 - $29,850

Toyota pioneered the small SUV market with the RAV4 nearly 20 years ago, but it faces tough competition today. The 2015 RAV4 is a very practical vehicle, with impressive rear seat and cargo room. The 175-horsepower 2.5-liter engine provides adequate acceleration and returns a respectable 24 mpg overall.

Ever since a 2013 redesign, the RAV4 has regained much of the fun handling that has been missing since earlier generations. But ride comfort and noise isolation aren’t all that impressive. A backup camera is standard across the lineup, with blind-spot warning and cross-traffic alert available. We recommend opting for the XLE trim, which includes automatic climate control and a power sunroof.

Read the complete Toyota RAV4 road test.

Volkswagen Tiguan

Base MSRP price range: $26,255 - $39,625

This Volkswagen comes with a bit of a sticker shock for a non-luxury nameplate, but it outscores several fancy-branded models that are more expensive. You can feel where the money went in the overall sophistication and refinement. Notably, we appreciated the quality cabin material and amenities; our SEL trim had a cooled glove box, heated seats, and a standard backup camera. It also has a significantly quieter cabin than its less expensive peers. Among this collection of Consumer Reports recommended models, the Tiguan is the only vehicle that delivers as much as 200-horsepower, developed from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It also tackles corners with enthusiasm, and it is one of the few SUVs out there that feels capable and secure as you push the speeds around the track. You may be paying more for the Tiguan, but you get a truly upscale and fun-to-drive SUV.

Read the complete Volkswagen Tiguan road test.

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Amid the stress of switching jobs, people often forget to shift the money in their old 401(k) to their new employer. While you won’t lose your savings but you could pay a hefty penalty for your neglect.

The tax code specifies that when a participant has less than $5,000 in a 401(k) and changes jobs without indicating what should be done with the money, the plan can transfer the savings into an individual retirement account (IRA). These forced rollovers—also known as forced transfers—are almost always a financial disaster for the account holder, according to a report from the Government Accountability Office.

To learn more about 401(k)s, visit our Retirement Planning Guide.

Under Department of Labor regulations, the transfers must be invested conservatively, such as in money market funds or certificates of deposit. The problem is that low risk equals low returns – and after fees are deducted, those returns frequently turn negative. In fact, the GAO found that that fees outpaced returns in most of the IRAs analyzed.  For example, the GAO calculates, $1,000 left in a forced-transfer IRA, after a $50 set-up fee, a $50 annual fee and a $65 annual search fee, assuming a 0.11% rate of return, would erode to zero in nine years.

Furthermore, the GAO also found that a provision in the law allows a plan to disregard previous rollovers when determining if a balance is small enough to force out. For example, a plan can force out a participant with a balance of $20,000 if less than $5,000 is attributable to contributions from savings, rather than contributions from previous rollovers.

It’s understandable that some 401(k) participants find it difficult to keep track of their savings when they change jobs. You may have accrued multiple accounts over the course of your career and not been able to consolidate your accounts by rolling over savings from one employer’s plan to the next. Second, maintaining communication with a former employer’s plan can be challenging if companies are restructured and plans are terminated or merged and renamed. And when key information on these orphaned accounts are held by different plans, service providers or government agencies, participants may not know where to go for assistance. The GAO report states, “Although the Social Security Administration provides information on benefits from former employers’ plans, the information is not provided in a consolidated or timely manner that would be useful to recipients.”

The lesson: Don’t leave small balances behind. And if you have experienced a forced transfer, quickly initiate another rollover into an IRA of your choice.

—Catherine Fredman

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

As Americans ramp up their planning for summer travel season, so is the risk of hackers infiltrating hotel Wi-Fi networks to steal guests’ passwords and other sensitive information. When you log into the hotel’s network, the Federal Trade Commission warns, you might get a pop-up for a software update. In fact, the pop-up is a scam: If you click to accept the download, you unknowingly load software designed to damage your computer or steal your information.

For more information about where you're at risk, read "Your Secrets Aren't Safe."

If you decide to use a public Wi-Fi network, protect yourself by taking these precautions:

• Login or send personal information only to websites you know are fully encrypted. Look for “https” in the URL—the “s” stands for “secure.” If you are switched to an unencrypted page, log out right away.
• Don’t stay permanently signed in to your account. When you’ve finished using an account, log out immediately.
• Use encrypted networks.  If you have a choice, WPA2 is the strongest.
• Use a VPN. If you regularly need to access online accounts through public Wi-Fi networks, you may want to use a virtual private network (VPN). VPNs encrypt traffic between your computer and the internet, even on unsecured networks. You can get a personal VPN account from a VPN service provider or, sometimes, your employer; VPNs can also encrypt information sent over mobile apps. Or you may wish to bring your own mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, which encrypts traffic between your device and the Internet and uses the cellular network instead of public Wi-Fi. Another benefit of traveling with your own hotspot: You can avoid hefty hotel Wi-Fi access fees that can run from $10 to as much as $30 per day.
• Install browser add-ons or plug-ins.  For example, Force-TLS and HTTPS-Everywhere are free Firefox add-ons that force the browser to use encryption on popular websites that don’t normally encrypt.

It’s hard to break the habit of going online.  But you might just have a more relaxed vacation if you key an eye on your Internet use. Certainly, you’ll have a safer one.

—Catherine Fredman

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

It’s seemingly never the off-season for the National Football League. About two weeks after Super Bowl XLIX, the league held its scouting combine—essentially highly scrutinized workouts for college players hoping to be picked in the league’s annual draft, itself another multiday televised bonanza that this year kicks off on April 30.

But it’s an off-the-field decision by the league that matters to us. For decades, local TV broadcasts of NFL games have been blacked out unless the stadium sold at least 85 percent of its seats 72 hours before kickoff. But the NFL, which generates nearly $10 billion in annual revenue, recently decided to call a time-out on the fan-unfriendly TV blackout. The league will suspend this controversial policy for the 2015 season; it plans to review the impact of the change so it can decide whether to make the shift permanent.

At Consumers Union, the policy and advocacy arm of Consumer Reports, we have long advocated for getting rid of this practice because it’s anti-consumer and anti-fan.

The NFL started blacking out games in the 1970s. Back then, the league argued, teams got most of their revenue from ticket sales, believing that not enough fans would buy tickets for games that aired on TV. But the sports business has changed dramatically over the last 40 years, and TV rights are now the biggest revenue stream for the NFL, far beyond ticket sales. The old arguments just don’t cut it anymore.

Last year, the pressure on the NFL intensified when the Federal Communications Commission voted unanimously to scrap its own blackout rule, which prohibited cable and satellite providers from televising football games blacked out on local stations. The commissioners noted that this vote wouldn’t stop the NFL from blacking out games on its own, but they didn’t want the league to be able to hide behind the FCC rule any longer.

Meanwhile, Senator John McCain (R-Ariz.) and Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) cosponsored a bill in Congress to end blackouts. They made the case that the NFL had received “substantial benefits from the public” through antitrust exemptions, a special tax status, and direct taxpayer dollars that subsidized football arenas and stadiums. Their bill conditioned the antitrust exemption the league enjoys on ending sports blackouts. “If the NFL fails to show leadership to finally end blackouts once and for all, Congress will be forced to act,” the senators wrote in a letter to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell the day after the FCC dropped its rule.

While other major league sports—Major League Baseball, the National Basketball Association, and the National Hockey League—have different kinds of blackout policies in certain situations, usually tied to TV exclusivity rights, it’s the NFL that has been out front as the most public defender of TV blackouts, stubbornly resisting calls to change, at least until now, at least temporarily.

It’s encouraging that the NFL has hit the pause button on TV blackouts, but it ought to go further by cutting the policy permanently.

This feature is part of a regular series by Consumers Union, the policy and advocacy arm of Consumer Reports. The nonprofit organization advocates for product safety, financial reform, safer food, health reform, and other consumer issues in Washington, D.C., the states, and in the marketplace.

Read other installments of our Policy & Action feature.

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Tax-related identity theft can turn your life upside down and take years to resolve. I know, because it happened to me several years ago, after someone submitted an electronic tax return—days before I filed—containing personal information about me and my family, and a bogus return address. The mess took piles of paperwork, a tax advocate, and more than two years to resolve. To this day I still have nightmares that it could happen again.

Fortunately, consumers are more aware of the problem, and the IRS has made strides to educate the public, help victims, and prevent a recurrence. Here's some advice to flag potential problems:

Protecting sensitive information in the first place and following up quickly to minimize the damage are paramount. Healthy skepticism can go a long way. For instance:

• Ignore e-mails and social media purportedly from the IRS. The IRS doesn't contact taxpayers by e-mail, text message, Facebook, Twitter, or other social media. Nor does it send e-mails stating that you're being audited or getting a refund. That's a "phishing" scam, which you should report at phishing@irs.gov.
• Confirm the authenticity of letters from the IRS. Check the agency's official contact page.
• Check the URL of "IRS" tax information pages. The agency's website begins with www.irs.gov. Others are fakes.

See Consumer Reports' Tax Guide for more advice and tips on preparing, filing and saving on your income tax return.

Hundreds of thousands of people have been victimized by identity thieves. To help those taxpayers, the IRS is: 

• Assigning victims a unique personal identification number. It must be included on their tax returns. This has given me the biggest peace of mind since my tax nightmare. It means faster processing and a speedier refund.
• Speeding up victim case resolution. Because resolving I.D. theft cases can take up to six months, the IRS has assigned more employees to sort through the details and streamline the process.
• Lending an ear. The IRS now has a dedicated section on its website devoted to the problem. In addition, it has implemented a special phone number for victims. The IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit is available at 1-800-908-4490.
  
  Also, see our report on the 10 ways to fight identity theft.

— Tod Marks (@Todmarks01 on Twitter)

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2015 Consumers Union of U.S.

Who hasn’t wished to strengthen the charging cord of a cellphone, tablet, or laptop that’s begun to fray? Sugru is a moldable putty made of silicone rubber, and repairing electronics is but one of the myriad uses suggested on its website. The product adheres to many surfaces, fills in gaps better than most glues, and sets in 30 minutes giving you time to make adjustments. Consumer Reports tested its claims and found it's as good as claimed—with just a few limitations.

From the Gaelic word súgradh, which means “play,” Sugru can bind to ceramics, glass, metal, wood, and most plastics and fabrics, according to its maker, FormFormForm Limited. (That wasn’t a typo.) It comes in 10 colors, but in the half hour you have before the putty gets too hard to mold, you can mix different-colored Sugru batches together to match, for example, the color of a chipped porcelain vase. Not that you can play to your heart’s content: It costs $12 for 3 packs, $22 for 8, and each pack holds 5 grams, an amount slightly less than a level teaspoon.

Sugru feels like Play-Doh while you’re working it. But once it cures, in about 24 hours, it behaves like what you might expect of silicone. It’s waterproof, will bend a bit, and can handle temperatures from sub-zero to about 350 degrees F. And though you might not be able to get it off a porous material, you can easily remove it from non-porous surfaces by cutting it or even simply rubbing it off.

How we tested

In our tests, we tried it out every way we could come up with. Our favorites included:

• Adding protective feet to items whose bottoms weren’t flat enough for adhesive-foam and similar store-bought pads;
• Making bumpers for the corners of a cellphone, adding protection and, due to the contrasting color, better visibility;
• Fixing items that needed a little extra support, such as a snapped microphone boom on gaming headsets;
• Filling in gaps caused by either missing pieces (a chipped ceramic container) or surfaces of different composition, which most adhesives won’t join.
  

What we found. As we expected, a pack doesn’t go very far. Sugru sticks adequately to non-porous surfaces but not as well as a true adhesive. It isn’t as soft as some other silicones once cured, and it’s not especially strong. And while you can compress it without problems, it didn’t handle stretching well.

Bottom line. We wouldn’t use Sugru where failure of the bond could create a safety or health issue. But in cases where filling a gap is essential, a structure requires some reinforcement, or surfaces don’t align well, we found it fun and useful—there are many situations where the usual adhesives wouldn’t apply. Still, we recommend it for non-critical repair tasks.

Need a traditional glue?

Our glue Ratings of nearly two dozen glues includes multipurpose adhesives, quick-set superglues, wood glues, and two-step epoxies. Be sure to read our glue buying guide before hitting the store.

—Ed Perratore (@EdPerratore on Twitter)

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