Calling Cards: A Rip-Off?

Prepaid calling cards can be convenient, but a growing number of users are the victims of scams. The biggest complaints: The cards don't work, or the user is charged a higher rate than advertised. Buying Time: The Facts about Prepaid Phone Cards offers free advice on how to select a card. Write to BBS Publications, 257 Park Ave. South, New York, NY 10010. Include a self-addressed, stamped, envelope.

Added Security

You don't have to be far away from home to have an accident. In fact, accidents can happen right in your own backyard. You can't always prevent an accident, but you can provide coverage for yourself and your family--at home and away--for just $19 a year. The NEA Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance Plan covers you, your spouse, and your children anywhere in the world, seven days a week, 24 hours a day. For more information on the NEA AD&D Insurance Plan, call NEA Member Benefits at 800/637-4636, Monday--Friday, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. (or Saturday, 9 a.mÐ1 p.m.) ET.

Buy vs. Lease

Thinking about your next car? Expert Lease from Chart Software ($69.95) is a computer program that lets you do a lease vs. buy analysis. A deluxe version includes dealer's costs, residual values, and rebate incentives. For more information, call 800/418-8450.

Hotels on the Cheap

Save up to 50 percent on city hotel rooms by making reservations through a hotel broker who books unused rooms. Brokers often specialize in particular cities, and some require payment up front. Two of the largest brokers are Hotel Reservations Network (800/964-6835) and Quikbook (800/789-9887).

Personal Planner

Financenter, on the Web at www.financenter.com, features financial calculators on everything from your home (Should I refinance?) to retirement (What will my living expenses be during retirement?) The site also includes advice on budgeting and purchasing stocks, bonds, and mutual funds.