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Consumer Handbook

Every week, join Raechel Cantoni as she helps you navigate life as a smart consumer. You'll cover everything in avoiding the latest scams, including phishing emails, medical equipment fraud, understanding layaway, hiring a reputable tax preparer, and even digital spring cleaning. 

Add to your toolbox and flip through your Consumer Handbook Thursdays during NPR’s Morning Edition at 6:42 a.m. and 8:42 a.m., only on KRCU.

Latest Episodes
  • Consumer Handbook: Funeral Provider Tips
    Your choice of a funeral home is among the most important choices you’ll make. The BBB recommends consumers keep their rights in mind as they’re working through all the decisions that come with the loss of a loved one.
  • Consumer Handbook: Spring Cleaning Tips
    If you've caught the spring-cleaning bug, the BBB has tips for finding trusted companies to help you declutter and stay safe if you’re selling items online.
  • Consumer Handbook: Multi-Factor Authentication
    Better Business Bureau® (BBB®) has guidelines for using multi-factor authentication wisely to protect your online accounts. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a process that helps keep your important online accounts secure.
  • Consumer Handbook: Home Improvements
    The weather is warming up, and it’s a great time of year for the home improvement projects you’ve been putting off over the winter. No matter the size of your project, hiring the right contractor is one of the most important things you can do to make sure everything goes smoothly.
  • Consumer Handbook: Credit Repair & Debt Relief
    Tax season is approaching, and if you’ve been reviewing your finances, you might be looking for ways to address outstanding debts. Better Business Bureau® (BBB®) has tips for researching credit repair and debt relief services before you hire anyone.
  • What happens when a wedding vendor doesn’t come through on their promises?
    Consumer Handbook: Wedding Vendors
    Couples who got engaged during the holidays can look forward to spending their spring in a whirlwind of wedding planning, bridal shows, expos and consultations.
  • Remember that the IRS' first contact with you will be by mail – never by email, social media or text message.
    Consumer Handbook: Avoiding Tax Scams
    Whether you’ve already started your taxes or don’t plan to think about them until April, make sure you know the signs of a tax scam.
  • You’ll need to be able to trust your tax preparer with your finances and sensitive personal information, so it’s important to choose someone with a good track record.
    Consumer Handbook: Choosing a Tax Preparer
    It may feel hard to believe, but the 2026 tax season is just around the corner!
  • It might seem like there are no downsides to a free package, but it could be a sign that someone is using your personal information for their own gain.
    Consumer Handbook: Brushing Scams
    Have you ever gotten a package you didn’t order? It might seem like a fun surprise, but it might be the setup for a scam known as brushing.
  • If you're not sure about a phone call or message, remember it’s okay to stop and double check, even if the person says it’s urgent.
    Consumer Handbook: AI Grandparent & Emergency Scams
    What happens when you get a scam call that seems like it’s from someone you know?