Consumer News: Best Buy return policy: 12 insider tips that can save you money and frustration

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Consumer Daily Reports

Details: Written by Consumer Affairs News; Category: Consumer Daily Reports; Published: 14 August 2026; Created: 14 August 2026; Last Updated: 14 August 2026

The fine print, hidden fees, and return tricks worth knowing before you buy

By Kyle James of ConsumerAffairs

August 14, 2026

Best Buy gives a short 15-day return window on most items, but My Best Buy Plus and Total members get 60 days on eligible purchases.
If you open the box, that doesn't necessarily kill your return, but missing accessories can reduce your refund, and beware the 15% restocking fees on some items.
A few insider tricks can help you save, including checking for price drops post-purchase, inspecting open-box items before leaving, and asking for certain exceptions.

You bought a $1,200 laptop at Best Buy, opened it, used it for a week, and decided you hate it.

Can you return it? Probably.

Lost the box? Possibly still returnable.

Bought an open-box model? That's returnable too.

Waited 16 days? Now things get considerably more complicated.

Best Buy's return policy looks straightforward until you start looking into the exceptions. After digging through Best Buy's policy and experiences shared by current and former employees and shoppers on Reddit, I found quite a few things worth knowing before you walk up to the customer service counter.

Here's your cheat sheet.

1. The 15-day return window starts when you receive it

Yes, Best Buy only gives you 15 days to make a return on most items.

This is especially important information for online shoppers. Best Buy says the return period begins the day you receive the product (the delivery date), not necessarily the day you placed the order online.

The standard return window for most products is 15 days. But My Best Buy Plus members ($29.99/year) get 60 days to make a return.

There's one big exception: activate-able devices including cell phones, cellular tablets, mobile hotspots, and cellular wearables have a 14-day window for everyone. Verizon activate-able devices get 30 days.

Pro tip: Don't try to guess your deadline. Check your receipt or Best Buy account immediately after buying something expensive and put the return deadline in your phone.

2. The $29.99 membership can buy you 45 extra days

Here's where the math gets interesting.

My Best Buy Plus currently costs $29.99 per year and includes a 60-day return window on most products, compared with 15 days for a standard customer. My Best Buy Total also gets the 60-day window.

If you're buying a $1,500 laptop, TV, or other expensive piece of technology that you're unsure about, that extra 45 days could potentially be more valuable than the membership itself.

But don't assume you can wait until day 16 and then buy Plus to retroactively rescue your purchase. Recent discussions among purported Best Buy employees on Reddit indicate the extended window is supposed to be tied to membership status when the purchase is made. Some employees report managers occasionally making exceptions, but that's discretion, not something shoppers should count on.

Pro tip: If the extended return window matters, join before or when you make the purchase, not when you decide you don't like it.

3. Yes, you can usually open the box

A surprisingly common misconception is that opening electronics automatically makes them nonreturnable. For most Best Buy products, that's not true.

The official policy requires returned merchandise to be in "like-new condition." Items that are damaged, scratched, dented, unsanitary, or missing major contents can be refused.

So opening and trying a laptop, monitor, headphones, or TV doesn't automatically kill your return rights.

There are exceptions, however. Certain consumables and products that interact with bodily fluids become nonreturnable once opened, while opened physical software, movies, music, and video games purchased directly from Best Buy generally can only be exchanged for an identical item.

4. Don't panic if you threw away the box

Keep the box if you can. It makes everything easier.

But losing packaging doesn't necessarily mean you're stuck with the product.

Best Buy's policy asks customers to return the original packaging and accessories, but says that when something is missing it may deny the return or make a nonrefundable deduction from your refund.

In other words, returning something sans box doesn't automatically mean "no return," but you're giving the store another reason to complicate things.

Pro tip: For expensive electronics, put the box in the garage for at least as long as the return period. Don't recycle it the morning after you buy the product.

5. The charger may be more important than the box

If something came in the box, bring it back. That includes chargers, power adapters, remotes, cables, stands, and any other accessories.

Best Buy explicitly warns that missing accessories or packaging can result in the return being denied or your refund being reduced.

In other words, don't return a $1,000 laptop and discover at the counter that its charger is sitting underneath your desk.

Pro tip: When opening an expensive product, put every accessory you're not using back inside the original box. Then you don't have to hunt for it later.

6. Watch out for the restocking-fee categories

This is probably Best Buy's biggest return-policy landmine. Opened, activate-able devices generally carry a $45 restocking fee.

A much longer list including drones, digital cameras, lenses, camcorders, action cameras, projectors, projector screens, and certain premium mobility and wellness products can carry a whopping 15% restocking fee. Special-order products are also included.

What does this look like? If you return a $2,000 camera, that15% restocking fee comes out to $300.

But there's an important loophole, and it's worth noting. Best Buy says there's no restocking fee if the product is unopened. The fee also doesn't apply to purchases made in Alabama, Colorado, Hawaii, Iowa, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma and South Carolina, as well as where prohibited by law.

So if you change your mind before opening an expensive camera or projector, don't break the seal just to look at it.

7. Laptops don't have the dreaded 15% restocking fee

This one comes up repeatedly among Best Buy shoppers. The company's current restocking-fee list does not include laptops.

That matches what purported Best Buy employees repeatedly tell shoppers on Reddit: laptops can generally be opened and returned during the applicable return window without a restocking charge, assuming they're returned in acceptable condition with their components.

That's useful if you're trying to decide between two laptops and won't really know whether the keyboard, screen, or battery life works for you until you've actually used one.

But don't treat Best Buy like a free electronics rental service. The product still needs to meet the company's return-condition requirements.

Pro tip: If Best Buy screwed up your online order, don't pay return shipping. If a return is necessary because of a Best Buy error, Best Buy is responsible for the return shipping. So, always check your refund carefully and make sure a shipping charge hasn't been deducted.

8. Open-box doesn't mean final sale

Here's another misconception worth killing: Open-box products generally get the same return window as new products.

Best Buy specifically says its return periods apply to new, clearance, open-box, refurbished, and pre-owned merchandise. That can make open-box purchases considerably less risky.

But Reddit reveals a different problem: inspect the item carefully.

Shoppers have reported supposedly excellent-condition open-box merchandise arriving with missing accessories, cosmetic damage, or other problems. One 2026 Reddit user reported buying an "excellent" open-box TV that was missing its remote and manual and repeatedly crashed.

Another shopper reported opening an "excellent" laptop box only to find paper inside instead of the computer.

Those are anecdotes, not evidence of a widespread problem, but they lead to a smart precaution.

Insider tip: If you're buying an expensive open-box item in-store, ask to inspect it before leaving the store. For a shipped high-dollar open-box purchase, consider documenting the condition as you open it.

9. Don't automatically return something because the price dropped

Suppose you buy a $900 TV and Best Buy puts it on sale for $799 eight days later. You may not need to return and rebuy it.

Best Buy says that if its own price drops during your applicable return-and-exchange period, it will match the lower price upon request. That's one of my favorite Best Buy tricks because it gives you a reason to keep checking the price after you've bought something.

Its a smart idea to set yourself a reminder to check the price again a week after any expensive Best Buy purchase. A five-second search could potentially put $50 or $100 back in your pocket.

Pro tip: Returning a price-matched purchase? Do it in-store. A Best Buy manager told me that an item that received a competitor price match can indeed be refunded to the original payment method, but only when returned in-store. So, if you've received a price match, always make the return at a store rather than online.

10. A day or two late? Asking nicely may actually matter

Officially, when your return window ends, your return window ends. But here's where employee discretion enters the picture.

Best Buy employees on Reddit have repeatedly described situations in which managers may approve an out-of-policy return or exchange, particularly when the customer is only slightly late.

One employee put it rather plainly in a discussion about late returns: Sometimes a shopper's demeanor can influence whether an associate is willing to ask a supervisor for an exception.

That is not Best Buy policy, and a manager is completely within their rights to say no. But if you're on day 16 of a 15-day return period, it costs nothing to politely explain the situation.

Don't march in demanding an exception you're not entitled to. Politely ask for one.

11. Don't lose your receipt but all may not be lost

Best Buy says returns without proof of purchase may be denied or limited. If accepted, reimbursement may be store credit, and certain taxes and fees may not be reimbursed.

So keep the receipt.

Better yet, attach purchases to your Best Buy account so the transaction is easier to retrieve.

For a faster in-store return, Best Buy recommends bringing your receipt or packing slip and the credit card used for the purchase. That little bit of preparation can save a lot of time standing at the counter.

12. Gifts have a return-policy trap worth knowing

Returning a gift in-store can be the smarter move.

If a Best Buy-purchased gift is returned in a store, Best Buy says the recipient receives store credit for the purchase price.

Mail it back, however, and Best Buy says it will credit the original purchaser and notify that person by email.

So if Aunt Linda bought you headphones and you'd rather quietly exchange them for something else, mailing them back could ruin the stealth operation.

Take the gift to the store.

One more big 2026 change: Watch for Marketplace sellers

Best Buy now has Marketplace products sold by third-party sellers on BestBuy.com.

Most Marketplace products generally follow Best Buy's standard return timeframe, but here's the catch: The 60-day return benefit for My Best Buy Plus and Total members doesn't apply to Marketplace purchases.

That makes checking the seller increasingly important before clicking Buy.

And if something purchased from a Marketplace seller arrives damaged or defective, Best Buy instructs shoppers to contact that seller through their Best Buy account.

Posted: 2026-08-14 20:38:26

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More News From This Category
Consumer News: Consumer product safety recall roundup for August 14, 2026
Fri, 14 Aug 2026 22:07:12 +0000

Furniture, mattresses, and ATVs are part of this week's product recall roundup

By News Desk of ConsumerAffairs

August 14, 2026

Recall roundup: Consumer products, food and drug alerts

This roundup covers recent recalls and safety warnings from the CPSC, FDA and USDAs Food Safety and Inspection Service.

Hampton Bay ceiling fans can shed blades

Youngo Limited is recalling Hampton Bay Halwin 52-inch ceiling fans because the blades can break or separate from the motor assembly.

The fan blades can separate from the fan motor flywheel, creating impact and injury hazards.
About 9,460 fans were sold at The Home Depot stores nationwide and online from January 2023 through October 2025 for about $180.
Consumers should stop using the recalled ceiling fans immediately and contact Youngo for a refund, store credit or a return through Home Depot.

Product

Youngo Limited, of Huizhou, China, is recalling Hampton Bay Halwin 52-inch Indoor/Outdoor Ceiling fans sold in matte black or brushed nickel. The recalled fans, model numbers AK396H-MBK and AK396H-BN, have an adjustable white LED light and include a remote. The problem is serious because the blades can break or come loose while the fan is operating.

The hazard

The CPSC said the fan blades can separate from the fan motor flywheel, posing an impact hazard to anyone nearby. Youngo has received 11 reports of blades breaking or separating from the flywheel. No injuries have been reported, but a detached fan blade can strike people or property.

What to do

Stop using the fan immediately. Consumers can contact Youngo for either a full refund by ACH payment or store credit in the form of a Home Depot gift card. To get either option, consumers should provide proof of purchase or a photo of the serial number inside the mounting plate, along with a photo showing proof of disposal. Consumers can also return the fan to a Home Depot retail store for full store credit on a Home Depot gift card or a refund back to the card used for purchase.

Company contact

Youngo: 877-902-5588, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday; halwin-recall@tal-usa.com; www.tal-usa.com/halwin-recall or www.tal-usa.com under Product Recalls.

Source

Sunnyside kerosene bottles lack fire safeguards

Sunnyside Corporation is recalling 1-K kerosene heater and appliance fuel containers because they do not include required flame mitigation devices.

The fuel containers violate federal portable fuel container standards and pose a flash fire and burn hazard.
About 960 bottles were sold on Amazon.com and at Do-It Best Hardware Stores from May 2026 through July 2026 for about $13.
Consumers should stop using the bottles immediately, keep them away from children and contact Sunnyside for a full refund.

Product

Sunnyside Corporation, of Wheeling, Illinois, is recalling its gallon 1-K Kerosene Heater and Appliance Fluid Portable Fuel Containers with batch number 26082. The bottles are white plastic containers with white caps and a multicolor label that says sunnyside and kerosene. Regulators say the containers do not meet the mandatory safety requirements for portable fuel containers.

The hazard

The bottles lack flame mitigation devices required under the Portable Fuel Container Safety Act. Without that protection, a flash fire can move back into the container and cause serious burn injuries or death. No incidents or injuries have been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled fuel bottles immediately and place them out of reach of children. To receive a full refund, consumers should write RECALLED on the bottle with permanent marker and email a photo to info@sunnysidecorp.com. The fuel must then be disposed of in accordance with local and state rules.

Company contact

Sunnyside Corporation: 800-323-8611, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT Monday through Friday; info@sunnysidecorp.com; https://www.sunnysidecorp.com/accessibility or www.sunnysidecorp.com under Accessibility & Recall Information.

Source

Brookstone tabletop fire pits pose burn danger

Southern Telecom is recalling Brookstone-branded tabletop fire pits after reports of flame jetting and severe burns.

Use of the fire pits can cause uncontrolled pool fires and flame jetting from alcohol fuel containers.
About 48,700 units were sold nationwide and online from February 2023 through December 2024 for $20 to $25.
Consumers should stop using the fire pits immediately and contact Southern Telecom for a full refund.

Product

Southern Telecom Inc., of Brooklyn, New York, is recalling Brookstone-branded indoor/outdoor Tabletop Fire Pits, model numbers BSFIREPIT01, BSFIREPIT02 and BSFIREPIT03. The products are round or hexagonal concrete reservoirs designed to hold burning liquid alcohol. The recall covers units sold by Macys, Marshalls, T.J. Maxx and other retailers.

The hazard

According to the CPSC, these fire pits can cause uncontrolled pool fires, in which flames spread across pooled or spilled alcohol, and can also trigger dangerous flame jetting from fuel containers. Southern Telecom has received two reports of flame jetting and flames escaping from the concrete container. Two people were injured, including cases involving second-degree and third-degree burns.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled fire pits immediately. To get a full refund, consumers should write Recalled, their name and the date on the fire pit in permanent marker, email a photo to support@customersupport123.com, and then dispose of the product. Consumers should not sell or give away these fire pits.

Company contact

Southern Telecom: 877-832-3822, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday; support@customersupport123.com; www.southerntelecom.com under Recall Information.

Source

DUMOS dressers can tip over on children

DUMOS nine-drawer fabric dressers are being recalled because they can tip over if they are not anchored to a wall.

The dressers are unstable and can cause tip-over and entrapment hazards that may seriously injure or kill children.
About 8,981 units were sold on Amazon.com from December 2025 through June 2026 for about $54.
Consumers should stop using the dressers if they are not anchored, keep children away and contact DUMOS for a full refund.

Product

Jiangsu Jiayubo Furniture Co., Ltd., of China, is recalling DUMOS Nine-Drawer Fabric Dressers sold as television stand dressers. The recalled units were sold in white, black, gray and brown and include LED lights, built-in power outlets and ports, and an attached electrical cable. The CPSC said the products violate the federal STURDY Act safety standard for clothing storage units.

The hazard

The dressers can become unstable if they are not anchored to the wall. That creates a serious tip-over and entrapment hazard for children, who can be crushed or trapped. No incidents or injuries had been reported at the time of the recall announcement.

What to do

Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled dressers if they are not anchored to the wall and move them to an area children cannot access. DUMOS is offering a full refund. Consumers will be asked to destroy the dresser by cutting the drawers in half, write RECALLED on it with permanent marker, send a photo to dumosdresserrecall@dumos.com, and then dispose of the product.

Company contact

DUMOS: 877-820-7778, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT Monday through Friday; dumosdresserrecall@dumos.com; https://dumos.ehengjian.com/sys/recall or https://dumos.ehengjian.com/sys/home under Recall.

Source

Qabefy mattresses fail flammability safety test

Qabefy-branded twin mattresses sold on Amazon are being recalled because they do not meet mandatory mattress flammability standards.

The mattresses violate the federal flammability standard, posing a risk of serious injury or death from fire.
About 774 mattresses were sold on Amazon.com from November 2025 through March 2026 for $120 to $140.
Consumers should stop using the mattresses immediately and contact Qabefy for a full refund.

Product

Guangzhoushi Jiatian Trading Co., Ltd., doing business as Qabefy, is recalling 10-inch-thick Qabefy-branded twin mattresses sold in compressed boxes on Amazon. The mattresses have a white top, black sides and orange trim, and Item NO.: CD01101US is printed on the packaging. Federal regulators said the product does not comply with mandatory mattress flammability rules.

The hazard

Mattresses that fail federal flammability standards can ignite or burn more rapidly, increasing the risk of serious injuries or death in a fire. No incidents or injuries were reported with these recalled mattresses.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled mattresses immediately and contact Qabefy for a full refund. The company is asking consumers to write Recalled, their name and the current date on the mattress top surface, email a photo to Sixiang2023@gmail.com, and then dispose of the mattress.

Company contact

Qabefy: Sixiang2023@gmail.com.

Source

Merax Murphy beds can fall during assembly

GigaCloud Technology is recalling Merax Murphy beds because the frame can fall onto consumers during assembly or disassembly.

The wall bed frame can fall during assembly or disassembly, creating impact, crush and laceration hazards.
About 1,250 beds were sold online from May 2024 through February 2026 for about $900 to $1,100.
Consumers should stop using the recalled Murphy beds and contact GigaCloud Technology for a free repair kit and inspection instructions.

Product

GigaCloud Technology (USA) Inc., of El Monte, California, is recalling certain full-size and twin-size Merax Murphy beds sold in white. The wall-mounted beds fold into a cabinet and were sold online under Merax and, in some cases, under other brand names such as Euroco, Harper & Bright Designs, Modern Luxe and Polibi. The recall applies to model numbers GX000392AAK, GX000391AAK and GX000383AAK, along with the listed SKU codes.

The hazard

The CPSC said the bed frame can fall onto consumers during assembly or disassembly. GigaCloud received two reports of the beds falling during assembly when they were not anchored to the wall. Two consumers were injured, including one who suffered bruising to the head, neck and right shoulder, and another who was hit in the head and suffered scrapes and bruises on the arms.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled Murphy beds immediately and contact GigaCloud Technology for a free repair kit. Unassembled beds will receive unloaded piston springs, updated assembly instructions and inspection instructions. Consumers who already assembled the bed will receive inspection instructions, and if the bed is found to be assembled incorrectly, the company said it will provide a professional installer at no cost.

Company contact

GigaCloud Technology: 888-600-6376, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET Monday through Friday; support@merax.com; www.merax.com/recall or www.merax.com under PRODUCT RECALLS.

Source

Deli Jerry fuel cans lack child-resistant caps

Deli OfficeSupplies is recalling Deli-branded fuel containers because the closures are not child-resistant.

The closures violate federal child-resistant packaging rules, creating burn and child poisoning hazards.
About 1,750 containers were sold on Walmart.com from April 2025 through June 2026 for about $36.
Consumers should stop using the containers immediately and contact Deli OfficeSupplies for a full refund.

Product

Ningbo DELI IMP. & EXP. Co., Ltd., doing business as Deli OfficeSupplies, is recalling Deli-branded metal fuel containers sold in 5.3-gallon, 6.6-gallon and 7.9-gallon sizes. The dark green cans have a cap, a plastic tube, and the brands Star logo embossed on the side. The CPSC said the closure does not meet the Childrens Gasoline Burn Prevention Act requirement.

The hazard

A non-child-resistant closure can allow children to open the container and gain access to fuel, creating risks of burns and poisoning. The recall notice said no incidents or injuries had been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled fuel containers immediately and contact Deli OfficeSupplies for a full refund. The company is asking consumers to write RECALLED on the product in permanent marker, send a photo to service@steelitetool.com, and then dispose of the container according to local or state disposal procedures.

Company contact

Deli OfficeSupplies: 909-235-6518, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT Monday through Friday; service@steelitetool.com; www.delibestmate.com/pages/recall-notice or www.delibestmate.com under Recall.

Source

Taleco baby jumpers and swings pose strangulation risks

Taleco Gear is recalling baby jumpers, baby swings and 2-in-1 models after dozens of reports of falls, impacts and strangulation hazards.

The products can become unstable and also have hanging restraint straps and seat openings that pose strangulation hazards.
About 41,100 units were sold in the United States, plus 150 in Canada, from April 2021 through July 2026 for $65 to $120.
Consumers should stop using the products immediately and contact Taleco Gear for a full refund.

Product

Taleco Gear, of La Verne, California, is recalling G Taleco Gear Baby Jumpers, Baby Swings, and 2-in-1 Baby Jumper & Swing products sold in several colors including black, white, gray, pink, blue and green. The recall covers model numbers jumper-01 and swing-1, including two 2-in-1 versions. These products were sold on Amazon.com, Walmart.com and TalecoGear.com.

The hazard

The CPSC said the products can become unstable, causing falls and impacts, and the restraint straps and seat openings can create strangulation hazards. Taleco Gear has received at least 52 reports involving fall, impact and strangulation hazards. At least 32 injuries were reported, including head bumps and a bloody nose.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled products immediately and contact Taleco Gear for a full refund. The company said it will provide instructions for destroying the recalled products, and consumers must submit photos of the destroyed parts to receive the refund.

Company contact

Taleco Gear: TalecoGearRecall@163.com; https://www.talecogear.com/recall or www.talecogear.com under RECALL INFORMATION.

Source

Ritchey carbon bike forks can trigger crashes

Ritchey Design is recalling carbon bicycle forks because an alloy insert can come loose and send an accessory into the front wheel.

The front crown hole insert can loosen, allowing an attached accessory to fall into the front wheel and cause a crash.
About 775 forks or framesets were sold from July 2024 through June 2026 for $660 to $700 for forks and up to $3,500 for framesets.
Consumers should stop using bicycles with the recalled fork and register for a free Fork Crown Hole Closure Kit.

Product

Ritchey Design, of Reno, Nevada, is recalling Ritchey Carbon Fiber Bicycle Forks with a crown hole. The fork was sold individually in black and as part of certain Montebello, Septimer and Outback framesets. The recall applies to all carbon bicycle forks with crown mounting holes included in the listed products.

The hazard

The alloy insert in the front crown hole can come loose, which may cause a rack or accessory to fall off and land on the front wheel. That can lead to a sudden stop, loss of control, a fall and a serious crash. The company has received one report of the insert coming loose, but no injuries were reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using bicycles equipped with the recalled fork immediately. They should inspect the front crown hole for any attached racks or accessories and close the threaded hole above the front wheel right away. Consumers can register online to receive a free Ritchey Fork Crown Hole Closure Kit with instructions.

Company contact

Ritchey Design: 800-748-2439, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday; ritcheydesign@ritcheylogic.com; https://ritcheylogic.com/support/recall or https://ritcheylogic.com/ under Safety Recalls.

Source

Yamazuki youth ATVs fail braking and speed limits

Yamazuki is recalling youth all-terrain vehicles because the brakes, speed limiter and reflectors do not meet federal ATV safety rules.

The parking brakes can fail, the speed limiter is set too high for children, and required rear reflectors are missing, creating a crash hazard.
About 1,050 ATVs were sold on Amazon.com and Walmart.com from September 2025 through April 2026 for $500 to $580.
Consumers should stop using the ATVs immediately and contact Yamazuki for a free repair kit.

Product

Yongkang Dingchang Industry and Trade Co., Ltd., of China, is recalling Yamazuki QEASET or HOVERHEART-branded youth ATVs, model XW-A19. The 40cc gasoline-powered vehicles were sold in several colors and patterns, including blue, pink, red, green camouflage and an American flag motif. The recall follows safety concerns involving braking, speed control and visibility.

The hazard

The CPSC said the recalled youth ATVs violate the mandatory safety standard for ATVs because the parking brakes fail to hold and the speed limiting device is not set to the restricted speed required for children age 6 and older. The vehicles also lack required rear safety reflectors, reducing visibility to other vehicles. No incidents or injuries were reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the recalled youth ATVs immediately and contact Yamazuki for a free repair kit, including shipping. The kit includes replacement parking brake latches, rear safety reflectors, an owners manual storage bag and repair tools.

Company contact

Yamazuki: 800-364-9210, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday; info@yamazukipowerports.com; https://yamazukipowersports.com/pages/recall or https://yamazukipowersports.com/ under Recall.

Source

Slide playsets linked to deadly entrapment hazard

The CPSC is warning consumers to stop using certain indoor and outdoor slide playsets after one death and concerns about head and neck entrapment.

The playsets have openings that can trap a childs head or neck after the torso passes through.
The warning covers Indoor and Outdoor Slide Playsets, model WPX-4, sold in multiple colors and configurations.
Consumers should stop using the playsets immediately, dispose of them and never resell or give them away.

Product

The CPSC issued a warning covering Indoor and Outdoor Slide Playsets, model WPX-4, manufactured by Wenzhou Yidian Amusement Equipment Co., Ltd. The plastic playsets are designed for indoor or outdoor use and include multiple activity components such as a tunnel, slide and basketball hoop. Some also include a vehicle-shaped side component.

The hazard

Regulators said the playsets contain multiple openings where a childs torso can fit through but the head cannot. That creates a head and neck entrapment hazard that can lead to serious injury or death. The CPSC warning says one death has been reported.

What to do

Consumers should stop using these playsets immediately and dispose of them. The CPSC said consumers should not sell or give away the hazardous products. Because this is a warning rather than a company-run recall, the agency did not announce a repair, refund or replacement program.

Company contact

Consumers can report incidents involving injury or product defects to the CPSC at www.SaferProducts.gov.

Source

Hair dryer brushes pose electrocution danger

The CPSC is warning consumers to stop using certain hair dryer brushes sold online because they lack required immersion protection.

The hair dryer brushes lack an integrated immersion protection device, creating electrocution and shock hazards.
The warning covers black hot air dryer paddle brushes with pink designs sold on Walmart.com, Ebay.com and Tiktok.com for $15 to $30.
Consumers should unplug the hair dryer brushes, cut the cords and dispose of them in the garbage.

Product

The CPSC issued a warning about multiple hair dryer brushes sold by Zuoxukeji, Jowenia and TruPart. The dryers are described as black hot air paddle brushes with pink designs and brush bristles, with three heat settings. Federal regulators said the products violate hair dryer safety regulations.

The hazard

These dryer brushes do not include the integrated immersion protection device required by federal regulations. Without that protection, the products can pose a substantial risk of electric shock or electrocution, especially around water. The CPSC said the products present a substantial product hazard.

What to do

Consumers should stop using the hair dryer brushes immediately. The CPSC recommends unplugging the device, cutting the cord and disposing of it in the garbage. Consumers should not resell or give away the hazardous hair dryers.

Company contact

Consumers can report incidents involving injury or product defects to the CPSC at www.SaferProducts.gov.

Source

Marketside tomato bisque soup kit may contain listeria

Kettle Cuisine is recalling Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kit sold only at select Walmart stores because of possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination.

The soup kit may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, which can cause serious or fatal infections.
The recalled product has UPC 194346474004 and a best-by or use-by date of 8/22/26 and was distributed to select Walmart stores in 29 states.
Consumers should not eat the soup kit and should dispose of it or return it to the place of purchase for a refund.

Product

Kettle Cuisine is recalling Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kit sold exclusively at select Walmart stores. The affected product carries UPC 194346474004 and a best-by or use-by date of 8/22/26. The soup kit was distributed from June 30 through July 7 to stores in states including California, Texas, Pennsylvania, Virginia and others.

The hazard

The company said the soup kit has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems. Healthy people may suffer fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, and pregnant women face risks including miscarriage and stillbirth.

What to do

Do not eat, serve, sell or distribute the recalled soup kit. Consumers should either throw the product away or return it to the place of purchase for a refund.

Company contact

Kettle Cuisine Hotline: 617-409-1104.

Source

Frankies vegan cheddar puffs contain undeclared milk

Frankies Organic is recalling one lot of plant-based vegan cheddar puffs because the product may contain undeclared milk.

People with a milk allergy or severe sensitivity could have a serious or life-threatening reaction if they eat the product.
The affected product has UPC 816929000089, lot code 05 16 2027 and a best-if-used-by date of May 16, 2027.
Consumers should discard the product or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Product

Frankies Organic is recalling Frankies Organic Plant-Based Vegan Cheddar Puffs because the label does not declare milk. The recalled product was sold at PCC Markets in Washington state, Earth Fare stores in Florida and South Carolina, and select independent retailers. Consumers who rely on the vegan labeling should pay special attention to this alert.

The hazard

Undeclared milk is a serious allergen risk. People who are allergic to milk or highly sensitive to it could suffer a severe or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume the product.

What to do

Consumers should not eat the affected cheddar puffs. The company said customers should discard the product or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Company contact

Frankies Organic Team: 1-800-363-8209.

Source

Lidl wok spice mix may carry salmonella

Lidl US is recalling Vitasia Asian Style Wok Spice Mix because the seasoning may be contaminated with Salmonella.

The product may be contaminated with Salmonella, which can cause serious illness, especially in vulnerable people.
The recall covers UPC 4335619355491 with lot 155846 and BBD JUN 2028 sold at Lidl stores in 10 states and the District of Columbia.
Consumers should discard the spice mix or return it to any Lidl store for a full refund, even without a receipt.

Product

Lidl US is recalling Vitasia Asian Style Wok Spice Mix distributed between July 24 and Aug. 10 to all Lidl US retail locations in Delaware, the District of Columbia, Georgia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Virginia. The affected product carries UPC 4335619355491, lot number 155846 and a best-before date of June 2028.

The hazard

The seasoning may be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella infections can cause fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, and in some cases can become severe, including bloodstream infections and other complications.

What to do

Consumers should immediately discard the recalled spice mix or return it to the nearest Lidl store for a full refund. The company said a receipt is not required.

Company contact

Lidl US Customer Care Hotline: (844) 747-5435; media: (844) 747-5435 or media@lidl.us.

Source

Whole Foods dips and salsas tied to salmonella

Whole Foods Market is recalling select salsas, guacamole, pico de gallo and prepared foods that contain jalapeo peppers linked to possible Salmonella contamination.

Products containing jalapeo may be contaminated with Salmonella, which can cause serious foodborne illness.
The recall covers products with best-before or best-by dates from 8/7/2026 through 8/16/2026 sold online and in 12 states.
Consumers should not eat the affected products and should discard them or bring a valid receipt to a Whole Foods Market store for a refund.

Product

Whole Foods Market announced a recall of select dips, salsa, guacamole, pico de gallo and prepared foods products containing jalapeo. The products were sold online and in produce and prepared foods departments in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky and Ohio. The affected products carry best-before or best-by dates ranging from Aug. 7 through Aug. 16, 2026.

The hazard

The products may contain Salmonella through an ingredient supply issue involving jalapeo. Salmonella can cause fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, and in rare cases can lead to more severe illness such as arterial infections, endocarditis and arthritis.

What to do

Customers should not consume the recalled products. Whole Foods said shoppers should discard the food or bring a valid receipt to any Whole Foods Market store for a full refund.

Company contact

Consumers: 1-844-936-8255; media: amazon-pr@amazon.com.

Source

Omas Pride dog food may carry salmonella

Omas Pride is recalling one lot of Woof Complete Canine Chicken Recipe because of possible Salmonella contamination.

The pet food may carry Salmonella, which can sicken pets and people who handle the product.
The recall covers 6-pound bags with lot number BB012729 distributed in 11 states through retail, wholesale and direct-to-consumer sales.
Consumers should stop feeding the product immediately, safely dispose of it and contact Omas Pride for a refund.

Product

Omas Pride is voluntarily recalling one lot of Woof Complete Canine Chicken Recipe in 6-pound bags. The recalled frozen pet food, lot number BB012729, was distributed in Arizona, California, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, Nevada, New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia. It was sold through retail and wholesale accounts and directly to consumers online.

The hazard

Salmonella can affect animals that eat the food, and people can also become ill from handling contaminated pet products or surfaces exposed to them. That risk is especially high if hands are not washed thoroughly after handling the product.

What to do

Consumers who purchased the affected lot should stop feeding it immediately, safely dispose of it and contact Omas Pride for a refund. The company also said consumers should not sell or donate the food and should wash and sanitize pet food bowls, measuring cups and storage containers.

Company contact

Omas Pride: 1-800-678-OMAS or hello@omaspride.com.

Source

Tyenne injection vials may contain glass particles

Fresenius Kabi is recalling one lot of Tyenne injection 400 mg/20 mL vials because of the presence of glass particulates.

Glass particles in an injectable drug can cause irritation, vessel blockage, clotting, organ damage or death.
The nationwide recall covers lot 16UI07, NDC 65219-594-20, product code 590120 distributed to wholesalers, distributors and direct customers.
Health care facilities and customers should immediately stop distributing, dispensing or using the affected lot and return all units.

Product

Fresenius Kabi issued a nationwide recall of Tyenne (tocilizumab-aazg) Injection 400 mg/20 mL vials. The recall applies to lot number 16UI07, with NDC number 65219-594-20 and product code 590120. The affected drug was distributed nationwide to wholesalers, distributors and direct customers.

The hazard

Injecting a product that contains glass particles can cause local pain, irritation or swelling at the infusion site, along with vein inflammation. More serious complications can include blood vessel blockage, clotting, pulmonary embolism, permanent organ damage or death.

What to do

Wholesalers, distributors, direct customers and health care facilities should immediately stop distributing, dispensing or using the affected lot and return all units to Fresenius Kabi.

Company contact

Fresenius Kabi USA Quality Assurance: 1-866-716-2459; consumers: (800) 551-7176 or productcomplaint.USA@fresenius-kabi.com.

Source

Schwarzkopf Osis Grip cans could explode

Henkel Corp. is recalling Schwarzkopf Professional Osis Grip because a packaging defect can cause the product to leak under pressure.

A packaging imperfection can allow the product to leak under pressure, creating an explosion risk.
The nationwide recall covers multiple lot numbers distributed through 21 distributors in 12 states.
Consumers and hair professionals should stop using the affected cans and return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Product

Henkel Corp. announced a nationwide voluntary recall of Schwarzkopf Professional Osis Grip 6.76 fl. oz./200 ml. The recall covers a long list of affected lot numbers distributed in the United States through 21 distributors in states including California, Florida, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas and Washington. The company said the problem involves the packaging rather than the formula itself.

The hazard

Henkel said a packaging imperfection can cause the product to leak from the package under pressure. That creates a risk of explosion, which could injure users or bystanders.

What to do

Hair professionals and consumers should stop using the affected product and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Company contact

Henkel Corp.: 1-800-234-4672.

Source

Jalapeo food products face wider salmonella recall

Taylor Fresh Foods is recalling products made with jalapeo peppers because of possible Salmonella contamination.

Products containing jalapeo may be contaminated with Salmonella, a potentially serious foodborne pathogen.
The recall covers finished products with best-if-used-by dates up to and including Aug. 16, 2026, distributed to retail centers in 26 states.
Consumers should not eat any recalled products and should discard them or seek refunds at the place of purchase.

Product

Taylor Fresh Foods is voluntarily recalling finished products such as dips, salsa, guacamole and other items made with jalapeo peppers. The products were distributed to retail distribution centers in states across the South, Midwest, Northeast and Great Plains. The affected products have best-if-used-by dates up to and including Aug. 16, 2026.

The hazard

The recalled foods may be contaminated with Salmonella. Infections can cause fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, and in rare cases may lead to severe complications including arterial infections, endocarditis and arthritis.

What to do

Consumers who have any recalled product should discard it immediately and not consume it. The company said refunds are available at the location of purchase.

Company contact

Consumers: (855) 455-0098; media: press@taylorfarms.com.

Source

Food to Live green powders may contain salmonella

Lexunder Inc. is recalling Food to Live Brand Green Powder Products sold online nationwide because of possible Salmonella contamination.

The green powder products may be contaminated with Salmonella, which can cause serious illness.
The nationwide recall covers lots SO-72558 through SO-79374 and codes including VFD/ORG/MORP/B/25, C25051312 and OSP251001.
Consumers should not consume the products and should dispose of them or return them for a full refund.

Product

Lexunder Inc. is recalling Food to Live Brand Green Powder Products sold nationwide through foodtolive.com, foodinbulk.com and other online marketplaces. The affected lots include SO-72558 through SO-79374, as well as products marked with codes VFD/ORG/MORP/B/25, C25051312 and OSP251001. The products were sold to both consumers and businesses.

The hazard

The products may be contaminated with Salmonella. Infections can cause fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, and in rare cases can progress to severe illness such as bloodstream infections, endocarditis and arthritis.

What to do

Consumers should not eat the recalled green powder products. If affected product is on hand, it should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Company contact

Lexunder Inc.: (718) 717-1029, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, or recall@foodtolive.com.

Source

FSIS flags jalapeo-linked meat and poultry products

USDAs Food Safety and Inspection Service issued a public health alert for meat and poultry products containing jalapeos that were recalled over possible Salmonella contamination.

The affected meat and poultry products may contain FDA-regulated jalapeos tied to possible Salmonella contamination.
The public health alert applies to various products distributed nationwide by Taylor Farms and Greencore USA/BakkavorUSA.
Consumers should not eat the products, and retailers should not sell or serve them.

USDAs Food Safety and Inspection Service issued a public health alert rather than a standard recall because the impacted ingredients were already part of an FDA-regulated jalapeo recall. The alert covers various meat and poultry products containing those jalapeos. FSIS said the affected foods were distributed nationwide.

The hazard

Salmonella can cause salmonellosis, a common bacterial foodborne illness. Symptoms usually include diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fever, typically within six hours to six days after eating contaminated food.

What to do

Consumers who purchased these products are urged not to consume them. Retailers are urged not to serve or sell them. FSIS said the products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

Company contact

Taylor Farms: 855-455-0098 or press@taylorfarms.com; Greencore USA/BakkavorUSA: 855-432-4438 or tristan@michelemarketing.com; USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline: 888-674-6854 or MPHotline@usda.gov.

Source

City Foods deli meats may contain listeria

City Foods is recalling ready-to-eat pastrami and corned beef products because of possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination.

The ready-to-eat deli meats may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, which can cause severe illness in vulnerable people.
The recall covers products with item number MBPS10, case codes 18919 and 19751, and establishment number EST. 1896.
Consumers and institutions should not eat the products and should throw them away or return them to the place of purchase.

City Foods, Inc. is recalling ready-to-eat pastrami and corned beef products shipped to foodservice locations in Illinois, Iowa and Michigan and then distributed nationwide. The affected products include item number MBPS10, case codes 18919 and 19751, and establishment number EST. 1896. Because the meats are ready to eat, there is no cooking step to reduce the risk before consumption.

The hazard

Listeria monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, a serious infection that primarily affects older adults, people with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women and their newborns. Symptoms can be severe, and pregnant people can face pregnancy complications.

What to do

Consumers and institutions that purchased the recalled products should not consume them. FSIS said the products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

Company contact

Brian Sanchez, Office Manager, City Foods, Inc.: 773-523-1566 or brian@beasbest.com.

Source

Imported breaded swai products were not eligible

Shan Distribution Network is recalling frozen breaded swai fish products imported from the United Arab Emirates because the country is not eligible to export that fish to the United States.

The products are subject to a high-risk Class I recall because they were imported in violation of eligibility rules.
The recall covers frozen Siluriformes breaded fish fillet and stick products produced in December 2025 with use-before dates in June 2027.
Consumers should not eat the fish products and should throw them away or return them to the place of purchase.

Shan Distribution Network, Inc. is recalling frozen Siluriformes breaded Swai fish fillet and stick products imported from the United Arab Emirates. FSIS said that country is not eligible to export Siluriformes fish to the United States. The products were shipped to retail locations in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio and Wisconsin.

The hazard

The recall is classified as high risk, Class I, because the products were imported in violation of federal requirements. FSIS said the products do not bear an establishment number or a USDA mark of inspection. There have been no confirmed reports of illness or injury linked to the products.

What to do

Consumers who purchased these fish products should not consume them. FSIS said they should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

Company contact

Shaheen James, Office Manager, Shan Distribution Network, Inc.: 630-480-0616 or shaheen.sdn@gmail.com.

Source

Corte Argentino raw beef skipped reinspection

Corte Argentino USA is recalling raw beef products imported from Argentina without the required import reinspection.

The raw beef products are subject to a high-risk Class I recall because they entered U.S. commerce without required import reinspection.
The products were distributed to distributors and retailers in Florida and Texas and bear Argentinian establishment number EST. N OF. 2025 and shipping mark 26644-AA.
Consumers should not eat the beef and should throw it away or return it to the place of purchase.

Corte Argentino USA LLC is recalling raw beef products imported from Argentina without the benefit of import reinspection into the United States. FSIS said the products were distributed to distributors and retailers in Florida and Texas. The agency is concerned some of the beef may still be in consumers refrigerators or freezers.

The hazard

This is a high-risk Class I recall tied to an import control failure. Products that bypass required reinspection have not undergone the full federal review intended to confirm they are eligible and safe for U.S. commerce.

What to do

Consumers who purchased the recalled beef should not consume it. FSIS said the products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

Company contact

Eial Kaplun, General Manager, Corte Argentino USA LLC: 786-350-5805 or info@corteargentinoinc.com.

Source

Consumer product safety recall roundup for August 14, 2026

Photo By CNET

Consumer News: Struggling to keep plants alive? This AI gardening tool could help
Fri, 14 Aug 2026 19:07:15 +0000

Georgia Tech researchers created a chatbot that offers personalized gardening advice based on your experience, environment, and culture

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

August 14, 2026

A new AI system called CultivAgents is designed to make gardening less intimidating for beginners.
Three specialized AI agents work together to create more personalized gardening plans.
The tool considers factors such as gardening experience, local climate, and cultural background when offering advice.

Starting a garden can sound wonderfully simple: Pick some plants, put them in the ground, water them and wait. In reality, there are plenty of opportunities to wonder, Am I doing this right?

A new project from Georgia Tech aims to make that learning curve a little less steep.

CultivAgents is a conversational AI system designed to help people plan and maintain gardens. Rather than providing the same generic advice to everyone, the system creates guidance based on a person's gardening experience, environment, and cultural background.

The project was created by Diana Wang, a Ph.D. student in Georgia Tech's School of Interactive Computing. The idea came from looking at how AI could provide more personalized help to people who want to grow their own food but may face different environmental or cultural circumstances.

Multi-agent systems provide multi-faceted support, Dr. Wang said in a news release. My interest was in how we could provide more personalized and aligned support to individuals trying to grow food themselves while facing unique environmental or cultural factors.

How CultivAgents works

CultivAgents uses three separate AI agents, each with a different role:

The experience agent focuses on the gardener's skill level and provides detailed instructions.
The environmental agent considers factors such as the local climate and surroundings.
The ethnobotanical agent takes cultural context into account.

The agents then work together rather than operating independently. For example, the environmental agent can build on the experience agent's instructions to explain how someone in a particular community could grow a specific crop, such as bush beans.

To understand what gardeners actually wanted from an AI tool, Dr. Wang surveyed and interviewed both new and experienced gardeners who use Georgia Tech's community garden. According to the university, many participants were interested in step-by-step instructions, recommendations about what to plant, and guidance on how to care for their gardens over time.

What it could mean for home gardeners

The research doesn't suggest that AI can replace hands-on gardening knowledge. Instead, CultivAgents is designed to reduce some of the guesswork involved in getting started.

That could be particularly useful when local conditions matter.

People might want to grow a lot of different vegetables in their garden, but if you go too far south of here, it gets a little too hot to grow things like broccoli and strawberries, Ryan Pemberton, a horticulturist at Georgia Techs community garden said in the release.

A little north of here, it gets a little too cold to grow some species of peppers. Having something tell you what grows well in your region means youre not having to pick and choose or guess.

Pemberton also pointed to two common mistakes among beginners: starting with a garden that's too large and overwatering. His advice is refreshingly simple: Start small and expand as you become more comfortable.

If youve never gardened before, trying to manage a large plot could be overwhelming, Pemberton said.

You can start small. You dont have to have a big garden right away. You can start with one tomato plant and grow from there. See how well you can keep that one plant alive and then expand as you feel comfortable.

Consumer News: AI could help Alzheimer’s patients get treatment sooner
Fri, 14 Aug 2026 19:07:15 +0000

A new Vanderbilt project aims to cut through referral delays and help eligible patients reach new therapies faster

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

August 14, 2026

A new AI tool could help speed up the process of getting eligible Alzheimers patients to treatment.
The system will review medical records, flag missing information, and help prioritize referrals.
Researchers will test whether the technology can shorten the time from diagnosis to a patients first infusion.

For people diagnosed with Alzheimers disease who may qualify for newer treatments, getting from diagnosis to therapy can involve several steps and plenty of waiting. Patients may need a referral, a specialist evaluation, brain imaging, and insurance authorization before receiving their first infusion.

Researchers at Vanderbilt Health are now working on an artificial intelligence tool designed to make part of that process move faster. The project, funded by a grant from Eli Lilly and Company, will create an AI triage agent that works inside Vanderbilt Healths electronic health record system. The 18-month project is focused on the handoff from primary care or geriatrics to neurology.

By the time a patient reaches our clinic, the clock has often been running for weeks, researcher Amalia Peterson, M.D. said in a news release.

This tool will be designed to make sure that when a referral arrives, we already have the information we need to act quickly. It doesnt replace clinical judgment, but it will remove a lot of the friction that keeps patients waiting.

How the AI will work

When a clinician submits a referral because of concerns about a patients cognitive health, the AI tool will review the relevant information in that patients chart. It will summarize the information, identify details that are missing, and recommend whether the referral should be handled as a priority or through the standard process.

Importantly, doctors and other clinicians will remain in control. They can accept, change, or override the AIs recommendations.

Before deploying the tool, researchers will study where delays are happening now. They plan to use AI to reconstruct care timelines for more than 5,300 Vanderbilt Health patients, then work with clinicians and operational staff to identify the reasons for those delays.

The team will use what it learns to develop and test the AI agent in a pilot.

What this could mean for patients

The researchers will judge the project by one key measure: whether it reduces the amount of time between an Alzheimers diagnosis and a patients first infusion.

For eligible patients and their families, shaving time off the referral and evaluation process could make the path to treatment less cumbersome. The project is specifically focused on making sure referrals arrive with the information needed for the next step, rather than replacing doctors judgment.

For many patients and families, the pathway begins in primary care or geriatrics, where cognitive concerns are first recognized, and the next steps can be difficult to navigate, researcher Sean Huang, M.D. said in the release.

Our goal is to help clinicians identify what information is needed earlier, streamline referral communication, and make the handoff to specialty care timelier and complete.

Consumer News: Could financial stress be aging your brain? Here's what you can do about it
Fri, 14 Aug 2026 19:07:15 +0000

If money keeps you up at night, your brain may be paying a price, too

By Kyle James of ConsumerAffairs

August 14, 2026

Chronic financial stress may affect your brain, with research linking it to faster brain aging and cognitive decline.
Small money moves can reduce the pressure, including budgeting, building emergency savings, and checking finances weekly.
Protect your brain with exercise, adequate sleep, fewer financial alerts, and getting help when needed.

Worrying about money may cost more than your peace of mind.

New research suggests that ongoing financial stress is associated with faster brain aging and a greater risk of cognitive decline.

Researchers found people who experienced ongoing financial hardship performed worse on memory and thinking tests and showed signs of accelerated brain aging on brain scans. The study found an association but did not prove that financial stress directly causes cognitive decline.

The findings don't mean occasional money worries will harm your brain. Instead, they point to the potential effects of years of chronic financial strain, particularly when it becomes a constant source of anxiety.

Fortunately, there are some practical steps you can take to reduce both financial stress and its impact on your overall health.

Smart ways to reduce financial stress

Focus on what you can control. You may not be able to lower inflation or interest rates, but you can review your monthly spending, negotiate recurring bills, cancel unused subscriptions, or build a simple budget. Even small improvements can help you feel more in control.
Build a small emergency fund. You don't need thousands of dollars to make a difference. Saving even $500 to $1,000 for unexpected expenses can reduce the stress of surprise car repairs or medical bills.
Don't ignore money problems. Avoiding bills or unopened statements often increases anxiety. Instead, set aside 20 to 30 minutes each week to review your finances and make a plan. Breaking large problems into smaller tasks can make them feel more manageable.
Schedule a weekly "money check-in." Set aside 20 minutes once a week to review your bills, bank account, and upcoming expenses. Research shows that having a plan, even if you can't solve every financial problem immediately, can reduce feelings of stress and helplessness.
Turn off those financial stress triggers. Constant dings and notifications from banking apps, investment accounts, and shopping apps can keep your brain in a state of worry. Consider turning off those nonessential alerts and only check your accounts at a predetermined time instead of randomly throughout the day.
Take care of your brain, too. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and staying socially connected are all linked to better cognitive health and can also help reduce stress. Research suggests lifestyle habits play an important role in protecting brain function as we age.
Ask for help early. If debt or financial anxiety is becoming overwhelming, talk with a nonprofit credit counselor or financial professional before the situation spirals. Also, if you notice your worrying is affecting your sleep, work, or relationships, consider speaking with a mental health professional.

Pro tip:Move your body right after a stressful money conversation. If discussing finances leaves you anxious, take a 10- to 20-minute walk afterward. Physical activity helps lower stress hormones and can improve your mood and mental clarity, making it easier to tackle financial decisions rationally instead of emotionally.

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