Owed a lot in taxes? Here's what to do and how to look ahead for next year

Did you owe a lot of taxes this year? Or get a refund much larger than expected? Here’s some tips to avoid surprises (good or bad) next year.

Here’s how to get money from Google’s $135M Android settlement

Millions of Android users could get paid in a $135M Google settlement. Here’s who qualifies and how much you might receive.

FIFA adds even more expensive World Cup ticket groups. What we know

Ahead of the start of the 2026 World Cup, FIFA has introduced even more expensive ticket categories, pushing prices for prime seats for matches to prominent levels.

 ‘Doomjobbing’ rises as U.S. job hiring slows | ChicagoNOW
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New federal data shows hiring has dropped to its lowest level since the early pandemic, as job seekers face pressure from layoffs and the rise of AI in entry-level roles.  

Inflation 2026: Gas prices drove March numbers up to levels not seen in years

The largest monthly jump in gas prices in six decades caused a sharp spike in inflation in March, shifting the trajectory further away from the Fed’s target.

New push aims to spark economic revival in Harvey and the Southland
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Community leaders highlight a coalition-driven effort to attract businesses and investment to Harvey, Illinois, anchored by a free Franchise Expo at Governors State University designed to connect entrepreneurs, job seekers and national brands.

April 15 tax deadline: Last-minute questions, what to know about extensions

The 2026 tax deadline is upon us. Taxpayers can request an extension three ways, but any taxes owed must still be paid by Wednesday, April 15, to avoid penalties.

Fuel and fertilizer prices could stay high for ‘a prolonged period,’ IEA head warns

The head of the International Energy Agency issued an ominous warning Monday for anyone looking forward to some relief from high energy prices and their downstream effects.

Dollar General $8.5M settlement: Last day to file a claim

U.S. consumers have until April 13 to file a claim in a class action settlement with Dollar General over allegations that the retailer charged higher prices at checkout than what was advertised on store shelves.

Illinois data center boom tied to rising utility bills, experts say

A surge in data centers across Illinois is being linked to rising water and electric bills for residents. Here's what you should know.

Could taxing millionaires lower property taxes in Illinois? What to know
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Tom Demmer of the Illinois Policy Institute explains a new study on a proposed millionaire tax, the constitutional hurdles, and the potential risks and rewards for Illinois residents.

Ways to save money on gas amid Iran war price hikes

Loyalty programs, tracking apps and paying with cash can help save money on gas as prices remain high this spring and summer. Here are some specific tips.

New tax breaks on tips, overtime - What to know

The Trump administration passed a new law that will allow millions of Americans to claim federal income tax breaks for tips and overtime for the first time. However, it is up to each state to decide to match the federal tax changes. Many states have already decided not to do so. 

Trump admits gas prices could remain high through November elections

President Donald Trump acknowledged in a Sunday interview that gas prices may rise after peace talks between the U.S. and Iran to end the ongoing war stalled.

2026 streaming price hikes: Netflix, Spotify, YouTube & more [See the List]

For millions of people who stream their favorite shows, the price of doing so just keeps getting higher and higher. On Friday, YouTube became the latest major streamer to hike its prices. But the company is by no means the only one that has done so recently.

Consumer sentiment plummets as inflation fears surge

The Iran war weighed heavily on the minds of consumers last month when they were asked about their expectations for the economy, a new University of Michigan study found.