A.K.A.: Sites that help you, and don't hype you.

Have you ever bought a lemon vehicle, had your ID stolen, or found it difficult to pay your bills? And then did you get in deeper trouble when you tried to fix any of these problems?

Sites that help you, and don't hype you.

We've been there, and we understand that it can be difficult to tell who you can really rely on when stuff goes upside down—especially in a world when anybody can run an ad saying "I can save you"!

That said, there are a lot of reliable sources out there that can help. Good consumer groups like the ones we've listed below exist primarily to help people, not take advantage of their problems.

Here's a quick overview of a few of the key groups that Make Cents works with and/or believes in.

• Consumers Checkbook
  Make Cents has great articles and guides for purchasing a home, car, etc., and Consumer Checkbook does the same on many different levels.

  They compare products and services for you such as doctors, stores, and even the pros and cons of pet ownership. They also provide tips and tricks for comparing these things and more in the future. If you're thinking about buying anything or going anywhere, read up on checkbook.org first.

• Center for Auto Safety
  The Center for Auto Safety (CAS) covers a lot more than safety. It is the "gold standard" on highlighting auto issues. CAS is dedicated to advocating for auto safety, quality, and fuel economy on behalf of all drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. They are an unbiased source, so you can feel comfortable believing them over a car-salesman or manufacturer.

• Public Citizen
  Public Citizen is an organization that champions the public interest—your interests—in the halls of power. They defend democracy, resist corporate power, and work to ensure that the government works for the people—not for big corporations. Just check out some of the amazing things they've accomplished for you on the site.

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
  The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is a government agency that aims to make sure banks, lenders, and other financial companies treat you fairly. If you have a dispute with, or looking for a fair treatment from your bank, credit card company, or financial institution, CFPB is a good place to turn for help.

• Consumer Federation of America
  The Consumer Federation of America (CFA) is a combination of all consumer groups in America. They're a resource for many things, such as researching consumer issues, providing consumer education, and going to bat for consumers in court.

  Additionally, they are the driving force behind developing America Saves and they continue to facilitate and run that signature program. CFA powers some of America's most important consumer initiatives.

• Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood
  This resource focuses on children, and advertising aimed towards them. If you're worried about your kids and their screen time or how branded characters impact your child's (future) shopping habits, then this is a great resource for you. The CCFC educates the public about commercialism's impact on kids' well-being and advocates for the end of child-targeted marketing. You'll be surprised what the CCFC (and their resources) can do to help you and your kids.

• The National Association of Consumer Advocates
  NACA is a nationwide organization of more than 1,500 attorneys who represent hundreds of thousands of consumers victimized by fraudulent, abusive and predatory business practices. If you've been a victim of a scam or fraud, NACA can help, or can point you towards other resources that can.

• Make Cents's Spotlight
  I'll finish up with highlighting our own "Spotlight". Every month, we'll highlight a few great consumer groups that advocate for you, the consumer. From social media safety, to the latest scams and rip-offs. Spotlight will highlight the latest and greatest.

Sign up for our e-newsletter to receive these money-saving tips and tricks automatically every month. Or just check this website for the new "spotlight" every now and then.

That's it for me... Good luck keeping your money safe, and your well-being on track!

Cheers, Will