Safeguard credit card information to prevent identity theft

Dear Readers: Identify theft is a huge national problem, and it’s important that you protect your identity and your credit cards. When you get a new card, experts say to sign it in ink and record all of the information and keep it in a safe place in your house. Here are more hints:

K Do not lend credit cards to anyone. Never leave your card or receipts behind where people might find them.

K Tear up copies of receipts or incorrect receipts, but do save key receipts for your tax files.

K Do not give out your credit-card number over the phone, unless you have initiated the call. Scammers call asserting that they are checking your record and numbers. Do not give out your personal information.

K Open statements as soon as you get them and check the charges. Call the credit card company to correct errors right away.

— Heloise

Dear Readers: We use herbs and spices in our kitchen daily to give flavor to what we are cooking.

But what is the difference between them? Here it is: Herbs come from the leafy part of annual or perennial plants. Spices are derived from the roots, barks, seeds, buds or the fruit of plants and trees.

— Heloise

Dear Readers: Moving is costly, and it’s key that you do your homework to help lower those costs. First, get at least three bids in writing and be sure that the American Trucking Association’s

Moving & Storage Conference certifies the companies. Then take these steps:

Make certain that you understand the bid. You want a binding estimate rather than a “guestimate,” where the price could be higher than the quote. Read the fine print so you are aware of exactly what’s included.

Think about purchasing extra insurance if that is an option. It gives you lots of coverage for possible damages.

— Heloise