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Free filing: The IRS is testing a free tax filing tool called Direct File in 12 states. Finally! Of course, there’s a catch: It’s only for folks in certain areas with specific incomes. Want in? Check here to see if you’re eligible.

Tags: free, states, tax, tax filing, tool


Airlines collect a lot more data than you realize

The future of flight is here and it’s not jetpacks — it’s in-air surveillance. If you thought the most invasive thing that could happen on a plane was the person in front of you reclining, I have some bad news, friend.

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I helped a listener find $25,000: And I didn’t even get a cut. Maybe you can discover money, too. Find the link for your state’s treasury website with the National Association of Unclaimed Property online. If you have a frequently misspelled name or variations, search for those, too. And don’t forget former names or nicknames!

Do the math: On Amazon, go to a favorite product and you’ll see how many times you’ve bought it — and when you click, you’ll see how much you paid before. This is worth doing now and then to see if your favorite hair conditioner has doubled in price — like mine did!

We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

Gold star: You take a picture, thinking, “Wow, this is a winner,” and never see it again. Star it! In your photo app, look for the heart or star icon. This adds it to your favorites.

Where’s the door again? Now in testing, a new Google Maps feature tells you exactly where the entrances to buildings are. No more circling the block — at least, that’s the theory.

Today’s the day: To restart your devices. A restart clears your cache, deletes files you don’t need and closes down all your programs. While you have a minute, switch off your phone, computer, tablet and anything else. Btw, it’s best to restart your computer at least once a week.

Text neck hurts: You’ve been looking down at your phone too long again. Try a big, exaggerated nod up and down to relax things. Here are more solid stretches.

Stock your car: Emergencies happen and you’ll be glad you were prepared. Consider an emergency kit and a jump box. Excellent gifts for new drivers, too!

We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

Going on a trip? While here in Japan, it’s a huge reminder that hotel, airport and public Wi-Fi put all your data out there for anyone to grab. I use ExpressVPN both at home and away. You should, too. Get three months free using this link. Btw, I get no kickbacks or residuals if you buy.

Excel helper: Hit Ctrl + [ to view where the contents of a cell came from, like a formula or reference. Sweet. A ton more Excel shortcuts here.