Consumer News: Average tax refund up $233 in February, IRS says

As demand cools and listings pile up, buyers are offering well below the list price

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

• The typical homebuyer who paid below asking price in 2025 received a 7.9% discountthe largest since 2012

• Nearly two-thirds of buyers paid less than list price, the highest share since before the pandemic

• Condo buyers and shoppers in Florida metros saw the deepest price cuts

Increasingly, the price in the home listing is not the price the home-seller expects to get. New data reveal that buyers were able to secure significant discounts in 2025, simply by making a lower offer.

The typical homebuyer who purchased a home for less than the asking price in 2025 received a 7.9% discount, according to a new analysis from real estate broker Redfin. That marks the biggest discount since 2012 and reflects a sharp shift from the pandemic-era frenzy, when bidding wars routinely pushed homes above list price.

In dollar terms, that discount amounts to about $31,592, based on last years median original list price of $399,900. Even when factoring in all buyersnot just those who negotiated lower pricesthe average discount was $15,196, or 3.8%.

A major shift in the housing market

Discounts are becoming the norm rather than the exception, the analysis found. Roughly 62.2% of all homebuyers in 2025 paid less than the original list price, the highest share since 2019. By contrast, just 22.8% paid more than askingthe lowest share since 2019while 15.6% paid exactly the list price, a figure that has remained relatively stable over time.

The growing prevalence of discounts is tied to a historic imbalance in the market. There are now 47% more home sellers than buyers, giving shoppers more options and far more negotiating power than theyve had in recent years.

High mortgage rates and elevated home prices have sidelined many would-be buyers, while some sellers have been slow to adjust to softer demand.

As a result, price cuts are spreading, and some homeowners are choosing to delist altogether, hoping for a more favorable market down the road.

Buyers can afford more than they think

Homebuyers in 2026 shouldnt write off homes that are slightly above their budget because theres a good chance theyll get some sort of concession from the seller, said Redfin Senior Economist Asad Khan. This marks a reversal from the pandemic homebuying frenzy, when house hunters were advised to search below their budget because properties were selling far above asking price.

Khan noted that pricing homes has become increasingly difficult as market conditions shift quickly and vary widely by location. While demand remains resilient in some areas, it has softened rapidly in many others.

The share of buyers landing especially steep discounts has also surged. About 26.1% of buyers who paid below the asking price in 2025 received a discount of 10% or morethe highest share since 2012. Another 27.8% secured discounts between 5% and 10%, while fewer than half received smaller reductions of under 5%.

On the ground, agents say sellers expectations are often shaped by when and how they bought their homes. In Dallas, Redfin Premier agent Connie Durnal said some sellers remain anchored to prices that no longer match todays market.

A different pricing landscape

I have one seller who overpaid a few years ago and wants to list at $950,000, but recent comps support closer to $825,000, Durnal said. Another seller priced below what they paid, which generated multiple offers and ultimately sold above asking. Pricing realistically makes all the difference.

Mortgage rates are another factor. In Milwaukee, Redfin Premier agent Ben Ambroch said many homeowners locked in ultra-low rates during the pandemic and are reluctant to sell unless they can afford the higher monthly payments that come with todays financing costs.

Condo buyers, meanwhile, are seeing the biggest bargains. The typical condo buyer who paid below list price received an 8.1% discount in 2025, compared with 7.9% for single-family homes and 6.5% for townhouses. Overall, more than two-thirds of condo buyers paid less than asking, as rising HOA fees, insurance costs and special assessments weigh on demand.

Geography also plays a major role. West Palm Beach, Florida, led the nation among large metros, with a typical discount of 10.9% for homes sold below list price. Detroit, Fort Lauderdale, Pittsburgh and Miami followed close behind. Floridas heavy homebuilding activitysecond only to Texashas given buyers ample choice, while rising insurance costs and climate risks have pushed sellers to offer concessions.

Smallest discounts

At the other end of the spectrum, Seattle posted the smallest typical discount at 5.7%, followed by Washington, D.C., Minneapolis, Las Vegas and Virginia Beach.

Only four major metros still saw typical homes sell above asking price: San Francisco, Newark, San Jose and Oakland. In San Francisco, buyers paid a median premium of 3.8%, driven in part by renewed demand tied to the AI boom and return-to-office trends. Even there, however, premiums have narrowed as overall market pressure eases.

Taken together, the data underscore how dramatically the balance of power has shiftedgiving todays buyers leverage that would have been almost unthinkable just a few years ago.

Agreement requires major transparency and pricing reforms

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

• The Federal Trade Commission has reached a landmark settlement with Express Scripts, one of the nations largest pharmacy benefit managers, requiring sweeping changes aimed at lowering insulin costs and increasing transparency.

• The FTC estimates the agreement could reduce patients out-of-pocket drug costs by as much as $7 billion over the next decade while generating millions of dollars annually in new revenue for community pharmacies.

• The settlement resolves allegations that Express Scripts used anticompetitive rebating practices that inflated insulin list prices and shifted costs onto vulnerable patients.

The Federal Trade Commission has announced a major settlement with Express Scripts, Inc., and its affiliated entities that officials say could fundamentally reshape how prescription drugsespecially insulinare priced and paid for in the United States.

The agreement settles an FTC lawsuit accusing Express Scripts of artificially inflating insulin list prices through rebating practices that favored higher-priced drugs and limited access to lower-cost alternatives. According to the complaint, those practices ultimately pushed higher out-of-pocket costs onto patients whose copays and coinsurance are tied to list prices rather than the actual net cost of medications.

Win for consumers

FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson framed the settlement as a win for consumers, community pharmacies, and the administrations broader healthcare agenda.

This agreement will end business practices that have kept drug prices high, provide meaningful financial relief to patients who depend on life-sustaining prescription drugs, and give community pharmacies relief from being squeezed, Ferguson said.

The enforcement action against Express Scripts is part of a broader FTC case also targeting Caremark Rx and OptumRx.

The agency alleges the pharmacy benefit managers created a system in which drug manufacturers competed for preferred placement on formularies based on the size of rebates off inflated list prices, rather than on lower net prices. The FTC contends that PBMs kept a portion of those rebates, while patients bore the burden of higher list prices.

What it means

Under the proposed consent order, Express Scripts agreed to a series of changes designed to dismantle that system. Among other provisions, the company will stop favoring higher wholesale acquisition cost versions of drugs over identical lower-cost versions, offer plan sponsors options that base patient out-of-pocket costs on net prices, and delink manufacturer compensation from drug list prices.

The agreement also expands access to insulin affordability programs, requires greater transparency for plan sponsors through detailed drug-level reporting, and mandates disclosure of payments to brokers. Express Scripts will also transition its standard payment model for community pharmacies to one based on actual drug acquisition costs plus dispensing fees and compensation for non-dispensing services.

In a move the FTC highlighted as significant, Express Scripts also agreed to reshore its group purchasing organization, Ascent, from Switzerland to the United States. The agency said that change will bring more than $750 billion in purchasing activity back to the U.S. over the life of the order.

The Commission voted 1-0 to accept the proposed consent agreement for public comment, with Commissioner Meador recused. The public will have 30 days to submit comments before the FTC decides whether to finalize the settlement. Instructions for submitting comments are available on the docket, and all comments will be posted on Regulations.gov once processed.

The tax agency said the accounts will reduce fraud

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

• The IRS is urging taxpayers to create an Individual Online Account to securely access their tax information and reduce the risk of identity theft and fraud.

• The online account gives taxpayers 24/7 access to refunds, transcripts, payments, notices, and other key tax services, similar to online banking.

• In early 2025, the IRS expanded the service to let users view and download common tax documents such as W-2s and 1099s for recent tax years.

Among all federal agencies, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) was among the first to fully embrace the internet.

Now, the tax agency is encouraging all taxpayers to set up an IRS Individual Online Account, a secure digital portal designed to make managing tax matters easier while strengthening protections against identity theft and fraud.

Available to anyone who can verify their identity, the Individual Online Account allows taxpayers to handle many routine tax tasks without waiting on the phone or mailing paperwork. The IRS is also asking tax professionals to support the effort by encouraging clients to create accounts and by using their own Tax Pro Accounts to carry out authorized actions on clients behalf.

Similar to online banking

With functionality similar to online banking, the IRS Individual Online Account lets taxpayers view important tax return details, including adjusted gross income, check the status of refunds and amended returns, and access account transcripts such as wage and income records.

Users can also request and retrieve an identity protection PIN, approve power of attorney or tax information authorization requests, and manage communication preferences, including language settings and alternative media.

The account also serves as a central hub for IRS communications and payments. Taxpayers can receive and review more than 200 types of IRS digital notices, make or cancel payments, set up or modify payment plans, and monitor their outstanding balances. Tax documents can also be accessed directly through the account, reducing the need to store paper copies.

In early 2025, the IRS expanded the Individual Online Account to include access to certain information return documents filed with the agency. Taxpayers can now view and download forms such as the W-2 (Wage and Tax Statement), 1095-A (Health Insurance Marketplace Statement), and several common 1099 forms, including those for non-employee compensation, interest income, dividends, and miscellaneous income.

These information return documents are submitted to the IRS by employers, financial institutions, government agencies, and other payers, and they provide critical data taxpayers need to accurately file their returns. The documents are currently available for tax years 2023, 2024, and 2025 and can be found under the Records and Status tab within the IRS Individual Online Account.

The IRS says expanding digital access is part of its broader effort to improve customer service, increase transparency, and give taxpayers more control over their tax information in a secure online environment.

Health insurance, tuition help, and paid time off even if youre not clocking 40 hours

• Part-time doesnt have to mean part-benefits some major employers offer health insurance, retirement plans, and tuition help even if youre not working 40 hours a week.

• If you need flexibility but still want real-world perks like paid time off and medical coverage, these companies are worth a serious look.

• From coffee shops to warehouses, these jobs prove you can work fewer hours without giving up the safety net.

Many job seekers think that part-time automatically means no real benefits. Im here to tell you that is just not the case.

I found a bunch of major employers who offer legit benefits to part-time workers, including health insurance, retirement plans, education help, paid time off, and the other stuff that actually makes a job sustainable.

A quick heads-up: benefits can vary by role, state, union status, and whether youre regular vs. seasonal. Always confirm during the interview or on their official benefits portal once youre hired.

Starbucks

Starbucks has one of the clearest part-time can still get benefits plans in retail, and theyre very transparent with how it all works.

The benefits part-timers can get:

• Health coverage options (medical/dental/vision)
• 401(k) savings plan with a 4% company match
• Free Spotify Premium subscription
• Free pound of coffee or box of tea every week
• Free tuition to Arizona State University online.

Whos eligible + when:

For U.S. part-time employees, you become benefits-eligible the first day of the second monthafter you hit 240 total hours over threefull consecutive months.

For example, if you worked full months in February, March, and April and totaled at least 240 hours during that time, you would qualify for benefits. Your benefits would then start on June1,which is the first day of the second month after April.

To qualify for the free tuition to ASU, you cant already have a bachelors degree.

Extra savings: Part-time employees also get a free drink and food item during every shift, and a flat 30% in-store discount when you arent on the clock.

Costco

Benefits vary by position at Costco, and whether youre classified as regular part-time vs. seasonal. However, eligible part-time Costco employees can gain access to a ton of great perks.

The benefits part-timers can get:

• Health insurance:Costco offers medical, dental, and vision coverage to part-time employees once they meet hour and service requirements. This is one of the biggest reasons Costco jobs are so competitive.
• 401(k) retirement plan:Part-time employees can participate in Costcos retirement plan with company contributions once eligibility rules are met.
• Paid time off:Part-time workers accrue vacation and sick/personal time based on hours worked and length of service.
• Employee perks:Discounted prescriptions through Costco pharmacies along with access to employee assistance programs.

Whos eligible + when:

The Costco website doesnt spell out any specific eligibility requirements or time-frames.

So, I visited my local Costco and an assistant manager told me that part time employees need to work for at least 60 days, and average 23-25 hours per week to qualify for medical, dental, and vision benefits.

Target

Target has been expanding access to part-time workers recently, with the major change being how many hours you have to work to become eligible.

The benefits part-timers can get:

• Part-time workers are eligible for medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• You can also get prescription drug discounts and free 24/7 virtual care.
• They also have a matching 401(k) plan for part-time employees with a solid 5% matching.
• Lastly, via their Dream to Be education program, part-time employees are eligible for 100% free tuition for select programs, and up to $5,250/year for other undergrad programs.

Whos eligible + when:

Target says hourly store team members who work a minimum average of 25 hours/week are eligible to enroll in a Target medical plan (down from 30 hours/week).

This is further reduced to only 20 hours/week for HQ and distribution center employees.

They also require you to work at least 90 days to become eligible.

Extra savings: Employees also get a 10% discount onTarget merchandise and an extra 20% off food and wellness products.

Lowe's

Unlike Home Depot, Lowes straight-up advertises health care plans for part-time regular associates, which is not something every retailer is willing to put in writing.

The benefits part-timers can get:

Lowes says it offers affordable health care plans to regular full-time and part-time associates, including medical, dental, and vision insurance.

Thats a big deal if youre trying to avoid the two jobs, no insurance trap.

Whos eligible + when:

Their public page clearly says part-time regular associates are included, but it also notes benefits can depend on eligibility criteria.

This means youll still want to confirm your status (regular vs. seasonal/temporary) and any waiting period during the interview or onboarding process.

With that said, it's my understanding that you become eligible after 30 days of employment.

Extra savings: All Lowes associates get a 10% discount on store merchandise. If you work for Lowes for 25+ years,their employee discount becomes a lifetime discount.

Walmart

At Walmart, part-timers can get benefits that rival those of full-time workers.

But its important to realize that youll need to average 30 hours a week, which can be tricky for some employees who are constantly fighting for more hours.

The benefits part-timers can get:

Walmart offers some solid benefits for part-time employees. They include:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) matching up to 6%
• A stock purchase plan
• Free Walmart+ or Sams Club membership
• 24/7 virtual Doctor on Demand service included with their health package.

Whos eligible + when:

This is where things get a little tricky.

Walmart states that part-time and temporary associates must work an average of at least 30 hours/week, over a 60-day period, to become eligible.

They also list certain jobs that only require you to work 24 hours/week to qualify (example: some pharmacy and supply chain jobs).

So, the cheat code here is consistency. If your schedule regularly lands you at 30+ hours, youre no longer in true part-time territory for benefits purposes.

Extra savings: Walmart offers all employees a 10% discount via their Associate Discount Card that youll get when hired. They claim the discount is good on 95% of the regularly-priced items across the store.

UPS

UPS is one of the rare jobs where part-time can come with this is actually a career-level benefits package especially in union roles.

The benefits part-timers can get:

UPS publicly promotes that part-time union employees can get low-cost health care with no premiums, plus tuition reimbursement and strong pension benefits.

Thats not normal in 2026. Like at all.

Whos eligible + when:

UPS notes that part-time employees are eligible for benefits after a short waiting period,but doesnt spell it out on their site. Some sources say you must work 225 hours for threeconsecutive months, while others say you must work nine months to qualify.

It appears it could vary by region, sobe sure to ask during your interview process.

Also, for many union UPS roles, health care is administered through TeamCare, whichdescribes eligibility starting only after the plan has receivedeight weeks of contributions on your behalf.

IKEA

If you get a part-time job at IKEA in the U.S., youre eligible for some excellent perks and benefits within 15 days of starting the job.

The benefits you can get:

• Health insurance:Eligible part-time workers get access to medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan:IKEA contributes your retirement plan, helping part-timers build long-term savings.
• Paid time off:Part-time employees can earn paid vacation and sick time based on hours worked.
• IKEA co-worker discount:Part-time employees get a 15% discount on IKEA products and meals in the store restaurant.

Whos eligible + when:

Part-time employees are eligible for the full benefits package when they work at least 20 hours per week, and most become eligible after just 15 days of employment.

If you average less than 20 hours/week, you will still get access to most of IKEAs other employee benefits. Everything except Medical/Rx.

Practical tips and expert insight on staying safe in frigid temperatures

• Extreme cold can be dangerous, not just uncomfortable, increasing the risk of hypothermia, frostbite, falls, overexertion, and even carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Simple habits make a big difference, including dressing in layers, staying hydrated, eating nutrient-dense foods, getting enough sleep, and avoiding overexertion outdoors.

• Some people face higher risks in winter, including children, older adults, and those with chronic or respiratory conditions, making extra precautions especially important.

When frost coats our streets, its easy to think of cold weather as just a nuisance something that makes you want another cup of coffee or an extra blanket. But extreme cold isnt just uncomfortable; it can pose serious health risks that affect your whole body.

From frostbite on exposed skin to hypothermia a dangerous drop in core body temperature cold weather can quickly turn from brisk to life-threatening if youre unprepared. And its not just about shivering. Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures has been linked to a range of medical dangers, especially for older adults, young children, and people with chronic health conditions.

ConsumerAffairs spoke with Asefeh Faraz Covelli, Ph.D., APRN, FNP-BC, FAANP, an associate professor in the Family Nurse Practitioner program at The George Washington University School of Nursing, to break down what happens to your body in the cold and more importantly, what you can do to stay safe when winter truly bites.

The biggest health risks

Dr. Faraz Covelli shared the biggest health risks during extreme cold weather:

• Hypothermia

• Frostbite

• Falls due to icy conditions

• Overexertion from shoveling snow

• Carbon monoxide poisoning and fires resulting from improper heating methods

Tips for improving health and wellness in the winter months

With spring still over a month away, the temperatures arent likely to increase much anytime soon. Dr. Faraz Covelli shared her top tips for beating the freezing temperature and how to prioritize your health and wellness.

• Dress in layers: Effective cold-weather layering includes several layers of loose, lightweight clothing (such as wool, fleece, or polypropylene) for insulation, with a waterproof outer layer. Hats, gloves or mittens, scarves, and waterproof boots are also important.

• Eat and drink for health: Stay hydrated. Limit caffeine and alcohol as these beverages are dehydrating, and eat nutrient-dense foods. Boost immunity by prioritizing foods high in vitamin C and D (citrus fruits, fish, and zinc).

• Get quality sleep: At least seven to eight hours each night is recommended.

• Maintain a workout routine indoors:Regular indoor workouts can helpboost immunity.

• Avoid overexertion if you're outdoors: If you're walking outdoors or shoveling snow,take frequent breaks.

When it comes to things to avoid, Dr. Faraz Covelli says that not all trends are backed by science including taking products like Emergen-C or other high-dose vitamin C supplements.

The evidence is mixed on the efficacy of high doses of vitamin C in shortening the duration and severity of colds in some individuals, she said. While it won't hurt, it may not necessarily help.

High-risk groups

In the cold winter months, certain groups are more susceptible to getting sick or dealing with other winter weather-related health concerns.

Children, elderly, immunocompromised populations, and those with chronic diseases such as asthma are more susceptible to health concerns during colder months, Dr. Faraz Covelli said. These groups should take additional precautions by making sure their vaccines are up to date, masking in crowded, indoor environments, and avoiding close contact with others who are ill.

For all consumers, Dr. Faraz Covelli has a simple message: take the necessary precautions to stay healthy this winter.

Stay healthy and avoid illness by frequently washing hands, sanitizing surfaces, and getting the flu vaccine if you have not done so already, she recommended.