Sunday, October 16, 2011

IDENTITY THEFT ACTION STEPS

I hope this never happens to you, but if you're the victim of identity theft, act quickly and follow these steps:

1. Contact the fraud divisions of the three major credit reporting agencies (Equifax 888-766-0008, Experian 888-397-3742, TransUnion 800-680-7289). Ask them to put a fraud alert on each credit report.

2. Contact the creditors of all accounts that may have been jeopardized and request new account and PIN numbers. Ask for written verification that the old account number was "closed" and that it will be removed from your credit file.

3. File a police report. It may be required by some creditors.

4. Report fraudulent activity to the Federal Trade Commission's identity theft hotline 877-438-4338.

5. Contact any financial institutions where your accounts may be compromised.

6. Keep a log of all conversations with police, creditors, and credit agencies, including contact names, dates, times, and phone numbers.

7. Retain copies of everything that's related to your case.

8. Send correspondence to creditors and credit agencies by certified mail, return receipt requested.

9. Keep track of all expenses, such as stamps and certified mail. If your case comes to trial, you may be eligible for restitution.
Source: Thrivent

Saturday, October 1, 2011

SLEEP ON IT!

Many people are having sleeping problems these days -- are you one of them?

The vicious cycle of stress and sleeplessness is very hard on our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. When we don't get enough sleep, we are more likely to be forgetful, less productive, accident prone, short-tempered, and susceptible to illness. We all need to take special care of ourselves during periods of uncertainty. Here are some things that can encourage sound sleep, no matter what may be going on around us, so we can wake up with the energy to cope with whatever comes our way.

1. Although it may feel relaxing, drinking alcohol in the evening actually disrupts sleep cycles throughout the night. And, of course, caffeinated drinks are not sleep-inducing.

2. Vigorous exercise in the evening can boost energy levels, interfering with sleep. Try doing a session earlier in the day. Gentle stretching or yoga may help with relaxation with before bed.

3. It is best to refrain from TV watching and computer use before bedtime, as the hormones released in response to the bright lights can keep you awake for hours afterwards.

4. Restful sleep requires a dark, quiet, and comfortable environment. Do what you can to make your bedroom feel like a safe and serene oasis.

5. Discuss with your doctor ongoing sleep concerns as well as any medications (including non-prescription) that you are taking. Sleep difficulties may be a symptom or cause of serious health problems. Some drugs and supplements interfere with sleep, and long-term use of over the counter sleep medications can produce significant side effects and medical issues.

6. Winding down for at least one half hour before bed with lowered activity in dim light can help. Also, brief periods of relaxation during your busy day will promote better rest at night.



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