Ellen Phillips

Ellen Phillips

Contact Ellen via e-mail

Ellen Phillips is a retired English teacher who has written two consumer-oriented books. Her Consumer Watch column appears on Saturdays in the Business section of the paper. An expanded version is at www.timesfreepress.com under Local Business.

Latest stories by Ellen Phillips

Consumer Watch

Saturday, Oct. 4, 2008

My husband and I receive a lot of “free offer” calls. Sometimes, I’m tempted to sign up but I’m afraid the offers are a scam so I refuse the gifts. Do you think any of these offers might be legitimate for the future? — Victoria Vigilant

Consumer Watch: Mortage holder should not feel panic

Saturday, Sept. 27, 2008

Our mortgage, a fixed-rate, low-interest, long-term loan, is held by a bank now under severe crisis. What could happen if this bank fails? Is our mortgage and all its terms safe? — Adam Alarmed

Consumer Watch: Finding a good garage

Saturday, Sept. 20, 2008

Q: I’m new in town and need some work done on my car. I don’t want to go to a dealer so what should I do to find a good independent mechanic? — Maybelle Moved

Consumer Watch

Sunday, Sept. 14, 2008

We continue this week with the Top Consumer Complaints, as well as some tried-and-true, sensible advice that correspond to all consumer problems to help us protect our hard-earned cash and emotional stability.

Consumer Watch: More top consumer complaints

Saturday, Sept. 13, 2008

We continue this week with the top consumer complaints, as well as some tried-and-true, sensible advice that correspond to all consumer problems to help us protect our hard-earned cash and emotional stability.

Consumer Watch

Saturday, Aug. 30, 2008

I purchased a set of wireless earphones marked $55.95 (plus tax) on both the product and shelf at a box store in Hamilton Mall.

Consumer Watch

Saturday, Aug. 23, 2008

With all the recent natural disasters (especially the tornadoes and Midwest floods), it seems like I’m receiving more and more solicitations for charitable aid. While I want to help when I can, how can I be sure my money goes toward a genuine need? — Charlene Contribute

Consumer Watch: Special treatment for customers

Saturday, Aug. 16, 2008

I’m a business owner but still have a question about my customers.

Consumer Watch: Beware of fuzzy credit card contracts, shifting rates

Saturday, Aug. 9, 2008

I’m trying to figure out the best credit card for my pocketbook and lifestyle. It seems like they all offer different rates that change without notice so I’m not sure which one to get. Any suggestions?

Consumer Watch: Check out insurance salesman's credentials

Saturday, Aug. 2, 2008

I’ve been approached by a new guy in the neighborhood about buying some life insurance. His company isn’t one of the larger insurance companies and I’m not sure it's one I should do business with.