#AskDCA

The newest tagline on the television news is “[fill in the blank] is going to look different this year…” Well, guess what: Everything looks different this year, thanks to the pandemic. In the fall issue of DCA’s Consumer Connection magazine, the writers take a look at what’s become different in…

Question: ‘My elderly neighbor doesn’t have family nearby and I’m concerned for his well-being. How can I make sure he is looked after?’ Answer: A professional fiduciary, licensed by the Professional Fiduciaries Bureau (PFB), can be hired by independent, productive people who anticipate a future need in making sound financial,…

Article authored by Matt Woodcheke, Consumer Connection staff Question: I want to make my funeral arrangements in advance, but I’m not sure if I should pay in advance. Can you help? Answer: Prepaying spares your survivors the burden of arranging payment while planning your funeral. It also keeps you in…

Article authored by Matt Woodcheke, Consumer Connection staff Question: My car needs expensive repairs to pass Smog Check and I don’t know if I should put money into it or cut my losses. What do you recommend? Answer: The Bureau of Automotive Repair’s (BAR) Consumer Assistance Program (CAP) offers a…

Article authored by Matt Woodcheke, Consumer Connection staff Question: I’m having my kitchen redone at home, but I’m not sure what kind of contractor I should hire. Answer: If your job is valued at $500 or more in both materials and labor, you’ll want to make sure the person you hire…

The latest issue of Consumer Connection, the Department of Consumer Affairs’ quarterly magazine, is now available! In the cover story of the spring issue, we look at the state’s battle against wildfires and how homeowners can be a part of the solution. Also, we cover the growing problem of preschoolers…