tips for used-car drivers who will ride it until the wheels fall off on the money [Virginian – Pilot]

MOOD ENHANCER?

The percentage of U.S. adults who have gone shopping or purchased something solely because they were in a bad mood, otherwise known as "retail therapy," according to a CouponCabin.com survey conducted by Harris Interactive.

HEALTH CARE COSTS

The percentage of small business owners who see their health insurance premiums rising within the next 12 months, according to a Newtek Business Services survey.

PROTECTING POSSESSIONS

The percentage of renters who buy renter's insurance, according to an Insurance Information Institute survey.

- Compiled by John MacIntyre, Figuratively Speaking

Michelle Singletary writes on finance issues for The Washington Post. E-mail her at singletarym@washpost.com.

24%

49%

31%