One swipe can wipe away thousands of dollars. It is much harder to watch money leave from your hand. In this homebound challenge, I invite you make purchases using cash only. Avoid using a debit or credit card.

Review your #creditreport, understand what's on the report and know how to increase the #creditscore

Get a FREE annual credit report from Experian, Equifax AND Transunion at https://www.annualcreditreport.com

PODCAST: Ageless Abodes, SUBSCRIBE: https://www.YouTube.com/@LiveLaughLoveDMV

Gift cards are for gifts. Not to be used as a form of payment.

How to Contact Gift Card Companies Amazon Call 1 (888) 280-4331 and follow Amazon’s instructions. Keep a copy of the Amazon gift card or your store receipt. Visit Amazon’s website to learn about scams. American Express Call 1 (877) 297-4438 and follow American Express’s instructions. Keep a copy of the American Express gift card or your store receipt. Visit American Express’s website to learn about scams. Apple, iTunes Call 1 (800) 275-2273. Say “gift card” to connect with a live representative. Follow Apple’s instructions. Ask if the money is still on the Apple or iTunes gift card. If so, Apple can put a freeze on it. Ask for your money back. Keep a copy of the Apple or iTunes gift card or your store receipt. Visit Apple’s website to learn about scams. Best Buy Call 1 (888) 237-8289 and follow Best Buy’s instructions. Keep a copy of the Best Buy gift card or your store receipt. Visit Best Buy’s website to learn about scams. eBay Chat with eBay customer support, or have a representative call you back. Keep a copy of the eBay gift card or your store receipt. Visit eBay’s website to learn about scams. Google Play Report the gift card scam to Google. Ask for your money back. If the money is still on the card, Google can put a freeze on it. If you don’t have a Google account, fill out this form. Keep a copy of the Google Play gift card or your store receipt. Visit Google’s website to learn about scams. MoneyPak Submit a fraud claim to MoneyPak. Keep a copy of the MoneyPak card or your store receipt. Visit MoneyPak’s website to learn about scams.

• Call 1 (888) 633-9434 and follow ReloadIt’s instructions.
• Keep a copy of the ReloadIt card or your store receipt.
• Visit ⁠ReloadIt’s website⁠ to learn about scams.

Sephora

• Call 1 (877) 737-4672 and follow Sephora’s instructions.
• Keep a copy of the Sephora gift card or your store receipt.
• Visit ⁠Sephora’s website⁠ to learn about scams.

Steam

• Report the gift card scam to Steam through ⁠Steam Support⁠.
• Keep a copy of the Steam gift card or your store receipt.
• Visit ⁠Steam’s website⁠ to learn about scams.

Target

• Call 1 (800) 544-2943 and follow Target’s instructions.
• Keep a copy of the Target gift card or your store receipt.
• Visit ⁠Target’s website⁠ to learn about scams.

Vanilla

• Call 1 (833) 322-6760 and follow Vanilla’s instructions.
• Keep a copy of the Vanilla card or your store receipt.

Visa

• Call 1 (800) 847-2911 and follow Visa’s instructions.
• Keep a copy of the Visa gift card or your store receipt.
• Visit ⁠Visa’s website⁠ to learn about scams.

Walmart

• Call 1 (888) 537-5503 and follow Walmart’s instructions.
• Keep a copy of the Walmart gift card or your store receipt.
• Visit ⁠Walmart’s website⁠ to learn about scams.

Don’t see your card on this list? Look for the company’s contact information on the card itself or research online to find out how to reach the card issuer. If you can’t find the contact information or the card issuer doesn’t want to talk to you, ⁠report it to the FTC⁠.

If you ever receive a message stating that "You Have Won" PAUSE..... because it might be a scam. Do your research and do not click on any links. The best protection against scams is prevention

Evil never sleeps. In the episode, I share a tactic that scammers use to steal your information or money.

The 2023 Leaf Collection Season is underway.  FInd information about the leaf collection process in your city.  

DMV  (DC, MD, VA) Leaf Collection Information

Montgomery County https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-highway/leaf/

Bowie, MD https://www.cityofbowie.org/377/Leaf-Collection

Hyattsville, MD https://www.hyattsville.org/933/Leaf-Collection

Greenbelt, MD https://www.greenbeltmd.gov/government/departments-con-t/public-works/trash-recycling/leaf-collection

District Heights MD, https://www.districtheights.org/public-works/pages/limb-leaf-collection

Laurel, MD https://www.cityoflaurel.org/dpw/refuse/leaf-vacuum-collection

Riverdale Park, MD https://www.riverdaleparkmd.info/our_town/public_works/leaf_collection.php

New Carrollton, MD - https://www.newcarrolltonmd.gov/government/departments/public_works/leaf_pickup

Mt Rainier, MD https://www.mountrainiermd.org/departments/public-works/curbside-leaf-collection

College Park, MD - https://www.collegeparkmd.gov/203/Special-Collections#curbsideleaf

Chevy Chase, MD - https://www.townofchevychase.org/126/Leaf-Collection

Takoma Park, MD - https://takomaparkmd.gov/government/public-works/curbside-collection-services/yard-waste-and-fall-leaf-collection/

Cheverly, MD - https://www.cheverly-md.gov/public-works/news/leaf-collection-schedule

Upper Marlboro, MD –

https://www.uppermarlboromd.gov/administration/public_works/bulk_&_yard_waste.php#:~:text=Every%20Monday%20%26%20Thursday%2C%20our%20Public,weighing%20less%20than%2025%20lbs.

Virginia

https://www.alexandriava.gov/LeafCollection

https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Programs/Recycling-and-Trash/Residential/Organics-Waste/Leaf-Collection/Leaf-Collection-Schedule

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FF535TD651M

https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/publicworks/recycling-trash/leaf-collection-dates

2024 Ban on Gas-Powered Leaf Blowers

DC- https://dcist.com/story/21/11/22/dc-gas-leafblower-ban-final-fall-rebate/

MD- https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/hb0934?ys=2022RS

VA - https://www.ffxnow.com/2022/09/01/with-fall-nearly-here-fairfax-county-has-been-phasing-out-gas-leaf-blowers/

Washington DC, https://dpw.dc.gov/service/leaf-collectionhttps://dpw.dc.gov/release/mayor-bowser-kicks-leaf-collection-program-encourages-residents-compost-holiday-pumpkins-a-0 

Maryland

Prince George’s County - https://www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/departments-offices/environment/waste-recycling/residential-collections/curbside-composting/yard-trim-collection 

There is ALWAYS something to do here in the DMV. So you don't have to be bored or lonely. In this episode, Brenda Douglas, Ageless Abodes Podcast Host and Senior and Aging in Place Agent shares a list of fun things to do in the DC Metropolitan area. Be prepared to jot down the ideas and accept the challenge of exploring Washington DC.

Discover the Best Fall Activities in Washington, DC 2023 with Brenda Douglas, Your Senior & Aging in Place Expert. Join us for an exciting new episode of the Ageless Abodes podcast, where your host, Brenda Douglas, a seasoned Senior & Aging in Place Agent, unveils the ultimate guide to "The Best Things to Do This Fall in Washington, DC 2023." Get ready to explore the vibrant and historic capital city in all its autumn glory.Brenda Douglas, known for her deep expertise in helping seniors find their ideal homes, is also a passionate advocate for active living. In this episode, she takes you on a virtual tour through Washington, DC, offering a carefully curated list of activities, events, and hidden gems to ensure your fall in the nation's capital is nothing short of spectacular.With her insider knowledge, Brenda Douglas shares the top recommendations for fall enthusiasts and travelers, optimizing your visit to DC in 2023. From the stunning fall foliage in Rock Creek Park to the diverse cultural festivals that celebrate the season, you'll discover a wide range of activities for everyone, regardless of age.Tune in to Brenda's insights on how to make the most of your visit to DC during the autumn season, and learn about the various senior-friendly options that ensure you enjoy a comfortable and memorable experience. Whether you're a local resident, a tourist, or a senior looking for aging-in-place options, Brenda's recommendations will add a touch of autumn magic to your life.Don't miss this episode for the best tips, tricks, and activities to make your fall in Washington, DC unforgettable. Plus, Brenda's keen insights into ageless living in the nation's capital are sure to inspire you. Listen now and prepare for a fantastic fall adventure in 2023!

#ThingstodoinDC #WashingtonDC #WashingtonDCLife

Live Laugh Love DMV YouTube Channel, https://www.youtube.com/@livelaughlovedmv

Link to the map of the Washington DC Museums, https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xcUgO9NCbZqtACUL-seJyJf3ZK4tIFPh/view?usp=sharing

Fall Home maintenance Ageless Abodes Podcast: Brenda Douglas Reveals 10 Essential Fall Home Maintenance Tips for Aging in Place Episode Description: In this enlightening episode of the Ageless Abodes podcast, your host Brenda Douglas, a seasoned Senior & Aging in Place Agent, unveils a treasure trove of knowledge on essential fall home maintenance tips. As the autumn leaves begin to fall, Brenda shares her expert insights on how to ensure that your home remains a safe and comfortable haven for seniors looking to age in place.

The FBI issued a Press Release to warn Senior about Cryptocurrency Scams

#FBIDenver is seeing a rise in cryptocurrency scams involving Tether & USD Coin. Know the warning signs to protect your investments. Release: ow.ly/yErA50MIrIP

Conflict with your neighbor(s) can be extremely stressful. Here are some ways to "Kill them with Kindness" by sharing Acts act of kindness to your neighbors

Homeowner Nightmares: Expert Solutions for Buying and Selling Homes

Welcome to Homeowner Nightmares: The Snake House where the Host of Ageless Abodes, Brenda Douglas, Senior & Aging in Place Agent, delves into the unpredictable world of real estate, helping you avoid pitfalls and make informed decisions when buying or selling a home. In this episode, we explore valuable lessons from real-life experiences, providing practical solutions and essential prevention tips. Our experts will guide you through the intricacies of the real estate market, so you can navigate it with confidence. Discover the keys to homeownership success with our latest insights and advice. Don't miss this episode to safeguard your future in the world of real estate. Tune in now!

Are you Curious about what it's like to live in the DMV (DC, MD, NoVA)? SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL at Live Laugh Love DMV, https://www.youtube.com/@livelaughlovedmv

School Rankings: From 2019 through 2021, Maryland was ranked the fourth best public school system in America by Education Week

Visit Great Schools website Visit School Zone website Maryland Neighborhood Crime - Visit Neighborhood Scout ⁠Visit Spot Crime website visit FBI/US Crime website

Helping people to buy a home at 50+, gracefully age-in-place, downsize or right size into the perfect home!

"Real Estate Diva Brenda" Douglas, 50Plus Home Team

Senior & Aging in Place Agent

Exit Community Realty

C: 202-930-Diva (3482) / O: 240-623-Exit (3948)

[email protected]

http://www.50plushometeam.com

Let's GetSocial:

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LiveLaughLoveDMV

Blog: www.agelessabodes.com

Podcast: Ageless Abodes (all platforms)

FB Groups: DMV Senior Resource Network, iLoveHGTV, DMV Flea Markets

Products: https://www.amazon.com/shop/iamadiva

NOW ON CLUBHOUSE: 50Plus Home Club

Horror Music Credit:  Come Play with Me Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)

Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/