How to save money and make safer online purchases during COVID-19

Maximizing your auto insurance refund, saving on energy bills, and more

U.S. PIRG Education Fund

PHILADELPHIA — In the midst of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, American consumers are experiencing numerous public health and financial challenges, including virus-related scams, fake products promising cures and price gouging. To help address concerns as they arise, U.S. PIRG Education Fund is publishing new tip guides each week to help consumers navigate this crisis.

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This week’s consumer tip guides:

How to save on auto insurance during COVID-19: With most of the country under stay-at-home orders, schools closed, and workplaces shut down, less of us are driving and there is now a lower risk of car accidents. In response, the companies responsible for over 82 percent of American auto insurance will provide $6.5 billion in refunds or credit to drivers over the next two months. While more relief is warranted, this guide will help you maximize your refund or credit for auto insurance during the pandemic, and provide a running list of company policies.

Top 11 ways to save energy at home: For many people across the country, COVID-19 means a lot more time spent at home, which means a shift in how we consume energy. We’re keeping the lights on longer in our homes, doing the dishes and turning the microwave on more often, and are isolating our energy use as we isolate ourselves. As a result, many are seeing an uptick in electric bills at a time of financial uncertainty. This guide offers some tips to reduce your energy use and save money.

How to shop safely online during COVID-19: In order to stay healthy and do their part to stop the spread of COVID-19, Americans are shopping online for essentials more than ever. But whether it’s privacy issues, scams or price gouging, online marketplaces have a unique set of concerns consumers should be aware of. This guide will help you make safer online purchases.

5 factors that determine your credit score: Whether you’re working to build good credit or facing an uncertain financial situation and weighing which loans or bills to pay fully, it can help to know which factors have the greatest impact on your credit score. The information in this guide can clear any credit confusion and help you make the best choice for your personal finances.

To see all of the U.S. PIRG Education Fund’s COVID-19-related tip guides, click here.