Today’s column centers upon Part 2 of Henrietta Hysterical’s question concerning insurance company appeals.

Recently I went through surgery. I couldn’t believe it when the hospital billed me for way too large a sum

While I’ve recently had a problem paying the minimum due on a couple of accounts, up until this point my payment history has been excellent. Still, the two companies have turned me over to a collection agency that’s making my life miserable. Is there anything I can do to stop this persecution? — Gloomy George

The U.S. Census Bureau estimated that 36 million children trick or treated last Halloween.

I ordered some Microsoft software off the Internet but when it arrived and I tried to load it onto my computer, I kept getting an error message.

Q: I received a gift card for my birthday last year, but when I went to buy a shirt a couple of weeks ago, the store told me the card was expired. Do I have any recourse since I never used any of the credit? — Ricky Resentful

My husband and I receive a lot of “free offer” calls. Sometimes, I’m tempted to sign up but I’m afraid the offers are a scam so I refuse the gifts. Do you think any of these offers might be legitimate for the future? — Victoria Vigilant

Our mortgage, a fixed-rate, low-interest, long-term loan, is held by a bank now under severe crisis. What could happen if this bank fails? Is our mortgage and all its terms safe? — Adam Alarmed

Q: I’m new in town and need some work done on my car. I don’t want to go to a dealer so what should I do to find a good independent mechanic? — Maybelle Moved

We continue this week with the Top Consumer Complaints, as well as some tried-and-true, sensible advice that correspond to all consumer problems to help us protect our hard-earned cash and emotional stability.

We continue this week with the top consumer complaints, as well as some tried-and-true, sensible advice that correspond to all consumer problems to help us protect our hard-earned cash and emotional stability.

Q: I purchased a set of wireless earphones marked $55.95 plus tax on both the product and shelf at a big box store in Hamilton Place mall.

I purchased a set of wireless earphones marked $55.95 (plus tax) on both the product and shelf at a box store in Hamilton Mall.

Q: With all the recent natural disasters (especially the tornadoes and Midwest floods), it seems like I’m receiving more and more solicitations for charitable aid. While I want to help when I can, how can I be sure my money goes toward a genuine need?

With all the recent natural disasters (especially the tornadoes and Midwest floods), it seems like I’m receiving more and more solicitations for charitable aid. While I want to help when I can, how can I be sure my money goes toward a genuine need? — Charlene Contribute