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2026 Gold Buying Guide and Safety Checklist

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2026 Gold Buying Guide and Safety Checklist

From first-time buyers to retirement savers, many Americans are turning to gold as a hedge against uncertainty. Investors have recently flocked to traditional safe-haven assets like gold and silver, pushing prices to historic highs. Demand for these precious metals is increasing as international tensions rise again, making investors nervous.

If you’re looking to buy gold in 2026, read our primer on what’s causing the price spike, what types of gold to buy, and how to do so safely.

Why gold prices are soaring and why people are still buying gold

Gold prices rose nearly 3% in a day after the US detained Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Spot gold rose to a one-week high of $4,455.42 an ounce, coming within about $100 of a record high set in late 2025. U.S. gold futures rose further, reaching about $4,480 an ounce in New York trading.

This kind of movement follows a well-known market pattern. When geopolitical events threaten global stability or energy supplies, many investors turn to safe-haven assets such as gold and silver to protect their funds.

Interest in buying gold remains strong, even though prices are already near record levels. Many people buy it not as a way to make a quick profit, but as a way to protect themselves from uncertainty, inflation, and market fluctuations. Some buyers value gold’s long history as a hedge in times of conflict, while others use it to diversify portfolios when stocks, bonds and currencies become volatile.

Coins, bars or gold IRA? Understand your key options

If you’re thinking of buying gold in 2026, one of the first decisions you’ll face is what type of gold to buy. There are a wide range of investment options, from physical gold bullion like coins and bars to retirement accounts that store your gold for you. Naturally, choosing the right one may seem difficult, especially for beginners.

Understanding the differences between coins, bars, and gold IRAs can help you decide which option best fits your budget, financial goals, and plans for incorporating gold into your portfolio. Each option serves a different purpose and comes with its own tradeoffs.

Gold bullion coins: flexible and beginner-friendly

Gold coins are often the starting point for first-time buyers and collectors. Popular options like government-issued American Gold Eagle and Canadian Maple Leaf are widely recognized, easy to resell, and available in smaller sizes, but they typically cost more per ounce than bars and require secure storage.

As a hint: Many buyers work with established dealers such as American Hartford Gold, Thor Metals, and Priority Gold to compare coin options and prices.

Gold bars: lower premiums for larger purchases

Gold bars are often chosen by buyers making large long-term investments who want to maximize the amount of gold they get for their money. Bars typically have a lower cost per ounce and offer simple weight-based pricing. However, it is difficult to resell and requires safe storage and insurance.

As a hint: Dealers like Thor Metals and Priority Gold offer a variety of bar sizes, so buyers can choose an option that fits their budget and storage plan.

Gold IRA: Tax-advantaged retirement diversification

A gold IRA allows you to hold physical gold in a retirement account, such as an IRA or 401(k) rollover, and store the metal in an IRS-approved facility rather than at home. These accounts are designed for long-term retirement savings and offer potential tax benefits and professional custody, but they also have opening and custody fees and must comply with IRS regulations.

As a hint: Companies like Goldco and American Hartford Gold specialize in gold IRAs and help guide investors through the rollover and setup process.

Gold Buying Checklist: How to Buy Safely at Current Prices

Whether you’re buying physical gold bullion or investing through a gold IRA, this checklist will help you approach gold purchases with clarity and confidence, even in high price environments, and avoid common mistakes in 2026.

Please consider the following before purchasing:

  1. Know spot prices and dealer premiums: The spot price reflects the current market value of gold, and the dealer premium covers costs such as minting, distribution, and servicing. Premiums vary widely depending on the product and seller, so it’s worth comparing prices.
  2. Decide how you want to own your gold. Choose between physical gold bullion (coins or bars that you own directly) and a Gold IRA, which stores your gold in a retirement account in a specialized vault. Your choice should reflect your goals, time period, and storage comfort.
  3. Choose a dealer you can trust. Look for clear pricing, transparent policies, and responsive customer support. Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics and claims that encourage you to buy now because of short-term price movements.
  4. Understand your storage and insurance options: Physical gold requires a secure storage location, whether it’s a home safe or an insured third-party safe. Gold IRAs require an IRS-approved storage facility.
  5. Please check all fees before purchasing. Also factor in shipping, storage, insurance costs, and setup and storage fees for your Gold IRA. These costs can affect your total investment over time.
  6. Think long term: Gold is often used as a hedge or diversification vehicle rather than a short-term investment. Don’t just focus on current prices, consider how gold fits into your broader financial plan.

Trusted Gold Dealers to Consider in 2026

Choosing a reliable gold purchaser is important for purchasing gold safely. The companies below offer a wide range of options, from physical gold coins and bullion to gold IRAs, as well as customer support to help buyers understand pricing, storage, and rollover requirements. Each dealer serves a slightly different type of investor, but all are established providers that can help you add gold to your 2026 financial plan.

american hartford gold

American Hartford Gold is a renowned precious metals dealer specializing in physical gold and silver, as well as gold IRAs. The company’s focus on education makes it a popular choice for first-time buyers looking for clear explanations about pricing, products, and the purchasing process.

American Hartford Gold also supports rollovers of customers’ retirement accounts and works with IRS-approved custodians for safe custody. Our focus on customer service, transparency, and guided support allows investors to feel more confident when adding gold to their portfolio.

gold co

GoldCo is best known for its focus on gold and silver IRAs, which help investors use precious metals to diversify their retirement savings. The company specializes in rollovers from existing IRAs and 401(k)s and provides hands-on support throughout the setup process.

Goldco’s value proposition focuses on compliance, safe storage, long-term diversification, and retirement planning rather than short-term purchases. This makes it a strong option for investors whose primary interest is to use gold as a hedge within a tax-advantaged retirement account.

priority gold

Priority Gold is a long-established precious metals dealer that offers both physical gold coins and bullion and precious metals IRAs to help investors diversify their portfolios and plan for retirement. The company combines personalized service and educational support to guide buyers through product selection and setting up a premium, rollover or IRA.

Priority Gold also offers a buyback program, which is attractive for investors looking to increase liquidity in the future. The combination of product diversity, customer guidance, and resale options makes it a solid choice for investors focused on owning physical gold.

tall metals

Thor Metals offers both physical bullion and precious metals IRA options, providing flexibility for investors who desire direct ownership or tax-advantaged retirement exposure. The company carries a variety of gold coins, bars, and IRA-eligible products, suitable for both small purchases and large allocations.

Thor Metals features competitive pricing and a straightforward buying experience that helps buyers compare options and understand premiums. A combined retail and IRA offering is attractive to investors who want a single partner for multiple gold investment paths.

Which gold investment options make sense for you?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to buying gold. The right choice depends on your goals, budget, and how long you plan to hold the investment.

In general, gold coins tend to be best for first-time buyers and small investments, while gold bars may make more sense for larger, long-term purchases. For investors focused on saving for retirement, a Gold IRA offers a tax-advantaged way to hold physical gold in an account.

To explore your options, use the interactive map below to compare trusted gold dealers, see available services, and find a provider who can help you buy gold or open a gold IRA based on your needs.

Frequently asked questions about buying gold in 2026

Is gold a good investment at the moment?

If your goal is long-term diversification rather than short-term profits, buying gold at all-time highs isn’t necessarily a mistake. Many investors use gold as a hedge against inflation, currency risk, and market fluctuations, especially during times of economic or geopolitical uncertainty.

Is it better to buy gold coins or bars?

Gold coins are popular with first-time buyers because they are easy to resell and are often available in smaller sizes. Gold bars typically have a lower cost per ounce, so they can be suitable for large-scale long-term investments.

What is a Gold IRA and how does it work?

A Gold IRA is a retirement account that allows you to hold physical gold in place of traditional assets like stocks and bonds. The money is held in an IRS-approved facility and the account is subject to the same tax rules as any other IRA.

How much gold should you own?

Although there is no universal rule, many financial experts suggest limiting gold to just one part of a broader portfolio. The right amount depends on your risk tolerance, investment goals, and overall financial situation.

Is it safe to buy physical gold?

Purchasing physical gold is safe as long as you work with a reputable dealer, understand the prices, and keep your gold safe. It is important to consider storage, insurance, and liquidity before purchasing.

California gubernatorial candidate Chad Bianco tours Skid Row and talks about homelessness

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California gubernatorial candidate Chad Bianco tours Skid Row and talks about homelessness

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  • Chad Bianco, who is running for governor of California, spent the morning touring Los Angeles’ Skid Row and talking to some residents.
  • Based on February 2025 data, thousands of people are homeless on Skid Row.
  • His solution to a persistent problem is to get involved with law enforcement.

Riverside County Sheriff and gubernatorial candidate Chad Bianco said law enforcement is part of the solution to California’s persistent challenges in combating homelessness while spending the morning on Tuesday, Jan. 6, on Skid Row in Los Angeles.

He was joined by Kate Monroe, CEO of VetComm, a company that helps veterans with disability claims, and a self-proclaimed veterans’ advocate.

The two walked around the area of ​​Skid Row, near the Los Angeles Police Department on Sixth Avenue, and spoke to several people nearby about their experiences in the area, which has long been home to unsheltered people. But discussions with the two people Tuesday highlighted the complex nature of tackling homelessness in the state. People do not necessarily choose shelter.

One woman said she preferred staying in a tent instead of a shelter where there was too much “drama” and “fighting”.

Bianco is a Republican who is running for governor of California among a crowded field of candidates. He has been a vocal critic of Gov. Gavin Newsom, even during a walk with Monroe along Skid Row, and has endorsed President Donald Trump in 2024, the USA TODAY Network’s Desert Sun reported.

But at least two polls conducted in October and December of last year showed the Riverside County sheriff leading among identified candidates in the June primary, despite a large share of undecided voters in each case.

“We keep calling it homelessness,” Bianco said. “We have nothing to do with homelessness here. We’ve walked around building house after house, and people are still living in tents. This is not about houses. This is about drug addiction, alcoholism, mental health care, and a complete failure to treat humans with compassion to get them the help they need.”

In an interview with KTLA last September, Bianco said law enforcement knows how to solve the homeless problem. He also attacked California’s governor and legislators, saying Newsom and the state Legislature do not want to solve the homelessness problem because it is a “money grab” and “a money laundering scheme for NGOs and nonprofits.”

Even now, his stance seems to have not changed.

How to fix skid row? That could be fixed within “four years,” he said, explaining one of the approaches he and Monroe share in dealing with homelessness on the USA TODAY Network. it is if The Riverside County Sheriff said he understands Monroe’s background in law enforcement, combined with his military background and desire to help the community.

Bianco talks about law enforcement and ‘base camp’ proposal during a walk on Skid Row

When asked to further explain the role law enforcement plays in addressing homelessness, Bianco said we should stop calling this a homelessness crisis and that there are plenty of places for people to live.

Bianco said people who use drugs, live on the streets and are unable to take care of themselves need to be policed ​​by law enforcement. He said being homeless is not a crime, but stealing, being under the influence of drugs and engaging in prostitution are.

The Riverside County Sheriff also blamed politics for hindering law enforcement efforts.

However, California passed Proposition 36 in 2024, which sets charges and sentencing for theft and drug crimes. The California District Attorneys Association describes the goal as changing laws that would “drastically increase homelessness.” But the nonprofit National Alliance to End Homelessness opposed Prop. 36 in 2024, saying it does nothing to alleviate homelessness and could actually make it worse.

The proposal shared by Mr. Bianco and Mr. Monroe is what the CEO called “base camp.” Present people with the option of going to base camp. She said a base camp is a temporary place where people can receive the services they need, from rehabilitation to job training, and then, once they find work, live in a group home-like setting.

According to the governor’s office, the Newsom administration has “provided more than $27 billion to local communities to address homelessness.”

However, a report released in 2024 by the California State Comptroller concluded that California “needs to do more to assess the cost-effectiveness of homelessness prevention programs,” noting that three out of five homelessness-related state-funded programs examined could not be assessed for cost-effectiveness due to insufficient data.

Last May, Newsom released a model ordinance that communities across the state can use as a starting point to create their own encampment clearance policies, outlining what is prohibited when it comes to encampments and how to enforce them.

Insights from Skid Row

According to the County of Los Angeles, Skid Row spans four square miles of Los Angeles, bordering the Arts District to the east and Little Tokyo to the north. The area has long been plagued by homelessness, and efforts have been underway to address it for years. Skid Row’s history is also intertwined with the late General Jeff’s (“Mayor of Skid Row,” according to the NAACP Los Angeles) advocacy for programs like the Skid Row Arts Alliance.

This is where about 3,400 people became homeless on one night last February, according to the 2025 Los Angeles Metropolitan Area Homeless Count. Just over half were unprotected.

Monroe frequently took the initiative to approach people on the sidewalk and walk around the area asking about their experiences. In one instance, she offered a man cigarettes and cash after he told him about his experience.

Melvin Farmer, 68, said he is a community advocate. He offered to speak with Monroe and Bianco and was joined by three other men to discuss Skid Row and homelessness, one of whom chose not to be affiliated with the USA TODAY Network. They addressed the violence facing the community and the general need for recovery centers, and questioned why Skid Row had not yet been “cleansed.”

Antonio Fuller, 43, said: “I’m not used to this area, but now that I’m here I see what it’s like and it breaks my heart.”

Paris Barraza is a reporter covering Los Angeles and Southern California for the USA TODAY Network. please contact her pbarraza@usatodayco.com.

Man injured in brawl in line for Indiana Jones attraction at Disneyland

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Man injured in brawl in line for Indiana Jones attraction at Disneyland

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A family trip to Disneyland at the end of the year went awry after a man was punched while waiting in line for a ride.

Anaheim police are investigating a December 30 assault between two patrons in line for Indiana Jones Adventure at Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif., Anaheim police spokesman Matt Sutter told USA TODAY. A fight broke out when one group tried to overtake the group ahead of them in line. A verbal altercation escalated into a physical altercation.

Sutter and the Disneyland Resort confirmed that a man injured in the altercation received first aid at the amusement park. He remained at the park with his family that day.

Sutter said the person who cut in line fled Disneyland and is currently missing. Detectives believe the suspect is a California resident and are following leads.

Anyone with information, including sightings or videos, is asked to contact the Anaheim Police Department at 714-765-1900.

amusement park: If you like theme parks, you’ll appreciate Disneyland

Two Indiana Jones-related incidents occur in one day

Also on Dec. 30, an employee was injured chasing a stray prop during the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular. The show will be held at Disney World in Orlando, Florida.

Video of the incident shows a large prop inflatable ball rolling off the course during the show. As the ball bounced toward the seated audience, cast members ran in front of it. Orlando TV station WFTV reported that the ball was deflected, but the performer was also knocked down by a 400-pound pole. After receiving cheers and words of gratitude from the guests, the man stood up, blood pouring down his head.

A Disney statement previously obtained by USA TODAY said, “We are focused on supporting our cast members during their recovery.” “Safety is at the heart of what we do, and that element of the show will change as our safety team reviews what happened.”

The show resumed with changed operations on December 31st.

Contributor: Eve Chen, USA TODAY

Greta Cross is USA TODAY’s national trends reporter. Story ideas? Email her at gcross@usatoday.com.

Best Appliance Home Warranty Company of 2026

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Best Appliance Home Warranty Company of 2026

What should you do if your refrigerator breaks down in the middle of summer? Or does your washing machine start leaking water when you need it most? Call your home warranty provider.

The best appliance warranty companies will offer coverage for all your kitchen and laundry appliances and will have high coverage limits to ensure you don’t end up paying a dime if repairs are needed. Based on the USA TODAY team’s internal ranking system, these top seven companies rank higher than the rest.

Why trust USA TODAY?

The team at USA TODAY personally reviews the home warranty companies we consider for our top appliance warranties list. We collect actual quotes, read service contracts, and contact customer service representatives to fully understand what each company has to offer. Our combined experience spans more than 25 years of rigorous journalistic practice.

more: How USA TODAY ranks home warranty providers

Best Appliance Warranty Company of 2026

  • 2-10 Home Buyer Guarantee: Ideal for covers for home appliances
  • Super Home Warranty: Ideal when appliance coverage limits are high
  • Home safe: Ideal for comprehensive protection
  • Liberty home security guard: Ideal for additional coverage
  • Cinch home service: Ideal for long-term finish guarantees
  • First Premier Home Warranty: Perfect for budget-friendly coverage
  • American Home Shield: Perfect for high coverage caps

2-10 Home Buyer Warranty: Ideal for covering kitchen appliances

  • Fee: $32-42 per month
  • Service fee: $65 – $100
  • Upper limit of coverage: Up to $2,000 per system or appliance

The Simply Kitchen Plan’s 2-10 Home Buyer Warranty is perfect for homeowners who want focused protection for their kitchen appliances. Kitchen appliances only plans are ideal for those who prioritize coverage for essential cooking and food storage appliances. This plan is especially great for homeowners with older kitchen appliances or who don’t want to pay a premium for whole-home coverage.

The company also offers secondary appliance coverage as a bonus for households with additional units. Coverage limits are lower than some competitors and laundry appliances require a separate add-on, but affordable monthly fees and professional kitchen protection make this plan a strong candidate for appliance coverage.

Strong Points:

  • Guaranteed workmanship over a long-term planning period
  • Kitchen appliances only plans start at $32/month
  • Secondary appliance coverage

Cons:

  • Lower coverage limits than some competitors
  • various customer reviews
  • Laundry appliances will be added separately.

Super Home Warranty: Ideal if your appliance coverage is maxed out.

  • Fee: $52 to $116 per month
  • Service fee: $75
  • Upper limit of coverage: Unlimited system. $10,000 appliances

The Super Home Warranty includes the industry’s highest appliance coverage limits of up to $10,000 on appliances. This makes it a great option for expensive home appliances, as you likely won’t have to pay anything other than the $75 service fee.

Customers appreciate its wide range of add-on options (23 in total) and generally positive reviews. While basic plans are expensive and have limited availability in certain areas, generous limits and comprehensive coverage make Super Home Warranty a top home warranty provider.

Strong Points:

  • Cap with high coverage to cover repairs and replacements
  • positive customer reviews
  • 23 add-ons available

Cons:

  • expensive basic plan
  • limited quantity
  • The quality of engineers varies by region

HomeSafe: Perfect for comprehensive protection

  • Fee: $69 – $79 per month
  • Service fee: $65
  • Upper limit of coverage: Up to $5,000 for systems. Up to $2,000 for appliances

HomeSafe is perfect for homeowners looking for robust, comprehensive coverage. With limits of up to $5,000 for systems and $2,000 per appliance, repairs and replacements are well covered. HomeSafe’s short waiting period of 20 days means you can file your claim up to 10 days faster than other providers.

One of the main benefits of HomeSafe is its low service fee of $65, which is a much lower cost than the industry average. Despite a higher monthly cost and fewer add-on options than some competitors, HomeSafe’s combination of high coverage limits and reliable service makes it a standout for comprehensive protection.

Strong Points:

  • Service call rates as low as $65
  • 20 day waiting period
  • Extensive coverage caps for home appliances

Cons:

  • Monthly fee is high
  • Fewer add-on options than some competitors

read more: HomeSafe Review: Costs, Planning, and Coverage in 2026

Liberty Home Guard: Great for extra coverage.

  • Fee: $55-65 per month
  • Service fee: $70
  • Upper limit of coverage: $2,000 per system or appliance

Liberty Home Guard is well known for its customization options. There are three basic plans to choose from, but you can further customize your home warranty plan by adding one of over 40 add-ons. Liberty Home Guard also includes options for luxury appliances that most other home warranty providers exclude.

With a competitive limit of $2,000 per appliance and positive reviews from customers, Liberty Home Guard is a worthy provider. However, reporting bill denials on older appliances or systems with lower limits is a drawback to consider.

Strong Points:

  • Competitive coverage limits per appliance
  • Choose from over 40 add-ons
  • Coverage for high-end home appliances is also available.

Cons:

  • Lower system coverage cap
  • Claims may be denied due to outdated systems or appliances

read more: Liberty Home Guard Review: Cost, Coverage, and Plans for 2026

Cinch Home Services: Ideal for long-term workmanship guarantees

  • Fee: $22 to $59 per month
  • Service fee: $150
  • Upper limit of coverage: System total $10,000. $2,000 per appliance

Cinch Home Services guarantees reliable home appliances with limits up to $2,000 per unit and offers the longest workmanship guarantee in the home warranty industry at 180 days. This guarantees repairs for almost six months, underscoring the company’s quality of service. Cinch also covers unknown and pre-existing conditions that many competitors exclude. This inclusion means that even if the problem started before you were eligible for coverage, you can still file a claim against your appliance and your claim may still be approved.

Our $150 service fee is double the industry average, but we offer affordable monthly fees. So, if you plan on making a lot of claims with your Cinch Home warranty, be prepared to pay more out-of-pocket than with other providers.

Strong Points:

  • 180 days long term quality guarantee
  • Covers unknown existing diseases
  • affordable monthly fee

Cons:

  • High service charge of $150
  • various customer reviews

First Premier Home Warranty: Best for budget-friendly coverage

  • Fee: $45 to $52 per month
  • Service fee: $75
  • Upper limit of coverage: Up to $1,500 per system. Up to $3,000 per appliance

First Premier combines affordability with strong appliance protection, offering coverage limits of up to $3,000 per appliance (higher limits than most other products on this list). Competitive monthly costs and an affordable $75 service fee are attractive to budget-conscious homeowners who need solid coverage.

Although system caps are low and plan flexibility is limited, a wide range of add-ons and generous appliance limits make First Premier a good choice for homeowners looking for value without sacrificing protection for major appliances.

Strong Points:

  • High coverage limits for appliances
  • Competitive monthly costs and service fees
  • Rich add-on options

Cons:

  • System low coverage cap
  • Limited plan flexibility

American Home Shield: Best for high coverage caps

  • Fee: $50 to $100 per month
  • Service fee: $100 or $125
  • Upper limit of coverage: Up to $5,000 per system. Up to $4,000 per appliance

Although we don’t offer appliance-only plans and have few add-on options, American Home Shield leads the industry with appliance coverage caps of $4,000 per unit and annual limits of $50,000. Therefore, it is ideal for homes that use expensive home appliances.

American Home Shield also includes extras like HVAC tune-ups and roof repair coverage, which add great value to your plan. Although service fees and comprehensive plan costs are higher than average, its extensive coverage and pre-existing condition inclusion make it a top choice for homeowners looking for maximum protection for their appliances and many additional benefits.

Strong Points:

  • Annual coverage limit of $50,000
  • Covers unknown existing diseases
  • Includes $1,000 in additional fees such as HVAC adjustments and roof repairs

Cons:

  • high service charge
  • The most comprehensive plans come at a high cost

read more: American Home Shield Review: 2026 Plans, Coverage, and Prices

Honorable mention

The best home warranties for appliances offer affordable coverage plans with few exclusions and high coverage limits. These home warranty providers were not included in our list for one of the following reasons, but are still great options for home warranty coverage.

  • Select home warranty: Select Home Warranty offers an appliance-only plan that includes eight kitchen appliances and laundry appliances, but its coverage limits are lower than the industry average.
  • Home serve: With HomeServe, you can build a home warranty plan that fits your needs, but adding multiple appliance plans can be expensive.
  • American Preferred Home Warranty: America’s Preferred Home Warranty has several plans that include all of your most important home appliances, but the coverage limits are much lower than our competitors.

What does the appliance warranty cover?

Appliance warranties cover the cost of repairing and replacing your most important appliances, usually kitchen appliances and laundry appliances. Some providers also include water softeners, ceiling and exhaust fans, wine coolers, and standalone freezers, but these appliances are usually included in your plan.

  • refrigerator
  • dishwasher
  • built-in microwave
  • oven/stove/stove
  • oven range
  • clothes washing machine
  • clothes dryer
  • Garbage disposal

Home appliance warranties and home appliance insurance

There are significant differences in warranties for different types of appliances. Both provide financial protection, but they work differently.

  • Home Warranty: A home warranty is a service contract that covers the repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances due to normal wear and tear. Usually, they are purchased every year, so you don’t have to worry about unexpected breakdowns.
  • Warranty for home appliances: This is a type of home warranty that specifically focuses on home appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, and washing machines. If these items break down through everyday use, we guarantee they will be repaired or replaced.
  • Manufacturer warranty: This warranty is included with most new appliances and covers defects in materials or workmanship for a limited time (usually 1 to 3 years). Wear and accidental damage is not covered.
  • Extended warranty: Extended warranties extend the manufacturer’s warranty and are often purchased at the time of sale. They can add years of protection, but typically only apply to specific appliances.

more: What is the difference between home warranty and home insurance?

How to rank home warranty companies

To create our list of the top seven appliance warranty companies, the USA TODAY team researched 21 home warranty providers, 20 of which met our criteria for consideration on our best list. We use an in-house methodology to rank each company. The ranking consists of five overarching categories and 22 individual factors.

Frequently asked questions about home warranty companies

Which company has the best warranty on appliances?

2-10 Home Warranty offers the best home appliance warranties according to the USA TODAY team’s ranking system. They have great plans for kitchen appliances only and are perfect for homeowners who don’t want to pay extra for systems they don’t need covered.

What is the best month to buy a home warranty?

The best month to purchase a home warranty is the month you purchase your new home. Most home warranty companies run promotions for new customers throughout the year, so you’re more likely to get a deal no matter when you sign up.

How much does an extended warranty typically cost?

Home warranties cost an average of $43 to $60 per month, but this is often the most basic coverage. For more comprehensive plans, expect to pay between $55 and $100 per month.

President Trump says Venezuela will give US 50 million barrels of oil sales

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President Trump says Venezuela will give US 50 million barrels of oil sales

“This oil will be sold at market price, and the money will be controlled by me, the President of the United States,” Trump said.

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President Donald Trump said Venezuela would give the United States between 30 million and 50 million barrels of oil, as the Venezuelan regime seized him and began to pressure the new leadership.

“This oil will be sold at market price and managed by me, the President of the United States, to ensure that the funds are used for the benefit of the people of Venezuela and the United States,” Trump said in a Jan. 6 social media post.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright is coordinating the effort, Trump added.

Early on January 3, the United States captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in a military operation and took him to New York City on drug trafficking charges. Maduro pleaded not guilty in federal court on January 5. Delcy Rodriguez, who served as Maduro’s vice president, became interim president.

President Trump has focused on Venezuela’s oil resources following the U.S. military operation. He told NBC on January 5 that the United States may repay investments to American oil companies and that it could take less than 18 months for Venezuela’s oil production to recover.

“We’re going to have to spend a lot of money, and the oil companies are going to spend it, and then it’s going to be reimbursed by us and through revenue,” Trump said.

Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban’s divorce is complete with childcare plans

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Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban’s divorce is complete with childcare plans

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Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban plan to end their almost 20-year marriage after agreeing on how to amicably raise their teenage daughters.

Their divorce was finalized on Tuesday, Jan. 6, according to a Davidson County, Tennessee Circuit Court filing obtained by USA TODAY. The couple, both 58 years old, have agreed to a parenting plan and waived their rights to spousal support.

According to the final divorce decree signed by Circuit Court Judge Stephanie J. Williams, the couple’s daughters Sunday Rose, 17, and Faith Margaret, 15, will primarily live with the “Baby Girl” actress, spending 306 days a year with their mother and every other weekend with their father.

Urban and Kidman will be jointly responsible for making important decisions regarding their daughter while she is a minor. Sunday Rose will turn 18 on July 7th.

USA TODAY has reached out to a representative for the couple for comment.

Keith Urban and Nicole Kidman were separated before their divorce

Kidman filed for divorce from Urban on September 30, the day after reports of the couple’s separation became public.

Kidman’s complaint, signed on Sept. 29 and obtained by the Nashville Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network, confirms that the two live in separate homes in Nashville. The reason for the divorce was “irreconcilable differences,” Kidman wrote.

Kidman and Urban, 58, first met in Los Angeles 20 years ago and married just over a year later near Sydney, Australia. We celebrated our 19th anniversary on June 25, 2025.

Kidman was married to Tom Cruise from 1991 to 2001, and they adopted two children, Isabella “Bella” Cruise and Connor Cruise.

Years after their relationship ended, Kidman believed that the difference in maturity between her and Cruise was a factor in their divorce, telling Vanity Fair in 2013: “I was really a kid when I got married. And I needed to grow up.”

After Cruise’s breakup, Kidman reportedly met Urban while attending the G’Day USA Arts Gala in 2005.

“It was my[38th]birthday, and he was standing on my stoop in New York outside holding a gardenia at 5 a.m.,” Kidman told People magazine in 2019 about Urban’s courtship. “That’s when I thought, ‘This is the person I want to marry,'” she continued. “At that point, I believed he was the love of my life.”

Will you buy a home in 2026? Why January is the best month to save

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Will you buy a home in 2026? Why January is the best month to save

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The weather outside may be terrible, but if you’re thinking about buying a home, put on your boots and coat and head outside because January is bargain season, says LendingTree.

According to a financial product comparison site that analyzed the housing market from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2024, January is the month with the highest savings. Buyers save an average of $23,400 compared to buying a 1,500-square-foot home in May, the most expensive month of the year.

Experts say the potential to save $23,400 is huge and could be especially welcome news for first-time homebuyers who don’t have to sell their home first. The National Association of Realtors said in a report released in November that the percentage of first-time homebuyers hit a record low of 21% last year, as home prices continue to hover near record highs. This is only about half the long-term average share of 38% recorded since 1981.

Buying in January can “save tens of thousands of dollars off the price of your home, allowing you to afford a home you otherwise wouldn’t have been able to afford,” said Matt Schultz, chief consumer finance analyst at LendingTree.

More savings

Shultz said lower home prices also allow for other hidden savings.

“It also makes it a little easier to get to 20% for a down payment, which is expensive,” he said. “Once you hit the magic 20% mark, you can avoid paying private mortgage insurance (PMI) and it can make a big difference in your monthly payments.”

If a homebuyer makes a down payment of less than 20% of the home purchase price, lenders typically require PMI to protect themselves in case of default. PMI costs are typically added to your monthly mortgage payment.

What if I can’t buy a house in January?

“If you’re not ready to buy a home in January, don’t worry,” Schultz said. The next cheapest month is February.

According to LendingTree, the price per square foot was $178.60 in January and $183.70 in February. From there, prices rise each month, peaking at $194.20 per square foot in May, then falling again.

Here’s a breakdown of monthly costs per square foot to help you plan your home search.

  • January: $178.60
  • February: $183.70
  • March: $187.90
  • April: $190.50
  • May: $194.20
  • June: $193.40
  • July: $190.30
  • August: $189.70
  • September: $187.40
  • October: $189.40
  • November: $188.10
  • December: $187.40

Does size matter?

Data shows that size doesn’t matter when considering a home in January. Median price per square foot always bottoms out in January, regardless of home size.

What are the disadvantages of buying a house in winter?

There will be fewer buyers competing during the winter, and while there may be more sellers willing to negotiate, there will also be fewer homes to consider. According to LendingTree, the number of listings from July 2016 to June 2025 was the lowest in February at 7.1 million, and the highest in July at nearly 10 million.

Buying a home in January or February “can result in significant savings,” Schultz said. “Be aware that there are risks involved. For example, there may not be as many homes to choose from, and you may not get as much money selling your home.”

Medora Lee is USA TODAY’s money, markets and personal finance reporter. Please contact us at mjlee@usatoday.com. Subscribe to our free Daily Money newsletter for personal finance tips and business news every Monday through Friday morning.

Kliff Kingsbury partes ways with managers as team coaching staff resets

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Kliff Kingsbury partes ways with managers as team coaching staff resets

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Even if Kliff Kingsbury takes the head coaching job this offseason, he won’t be the current offensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders.

According to multiple reports, Kingsbury and the team agreed to part ways on Tuesday, and the manager is pursuing opportunities elsewhere.

The manager also fired defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. and offensive line coach Bobby Johnson on Tuesday, marking a major reset of coach Dan Quinn’s staff, according to multiple reports.

Kingsbury, 46, entered the season as a name expected to be at the front of the 2026 NFL coaching merry-go-round after quarterback Jaden Daniels won the near-unanimous Offensive Rookie of the Year award. The Commanders made a surprising run to the NFC Championship Game, riding on the back of the fifth-ranked offense in scoring.

Kingsbury avoided interest in the top job from the New Orleans Saints and returned to a managerial role.

But Washington’s offense started to derail in 2025 as Daniels played in just seven games due to multiple injuries and the team shut down the second-year signal-caller for the final three games of the season. The Commanders fell to 5-12 and finished 22nd in points and yards per game.

On Monday, Daniels spoke highly of Kingsbury’s relationship with his play-caller.

“I love working with Cliff,” Daniels told reporters. “Me and him have a special relationship. We’ve built that over the last two years. I wish I could have gone out and played for him more this past year.”

Whitt Jr. was stripped of his defensive play-calling duties in November, and Quinn assumed those responsibilities.

What drivers need to know about laws regarding “slowing down and speeding”

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What drivers need to know about laws regarding “slowing down and speeding”

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In 2024, 46 emergency responders died while helping others on the side of the road in the United States, according to the Emergency Responder Safety Association.

These first responders were police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and tow truck drivers.

Slow, move laws were enacted to reduce these fatal crashes, but research by the American Automobile Association Foundation for Traffic Safety (AAAFTS) found that drivers are often confused about the laws and the practice is not widely followed due to poor enforcement.

According to AAAFTS, each state in the U.S. has laws regarding slow driving, but “many drivers do not understand what the laws require.”

In general, “slow and move” laws require drivers to slow down and/or move to an adjacent lane when passing an emergency vehicle or utility vehicle.

What drivers need to know: Will steer-by-wire systems become more popular in 2026?

What is the “Moving Law”?

Each state’s laws vary slightly, but some versions of this law require drivers to change lanes that are not next to emergency vehicles or public service equipment. In Tennessee, for example, the law carries fines of up to $500 and 30 days in jail.

“The ‘Slow, Move’ law exists to protect our roadside heroes, first responders and stranded motorists,” AAFTS President and Executive Director David Yang said in a press release. “However, these statistics show that drivers do not always follow the law and too often cause preventable tragedies.”

According to the AAFTS national survey, two-thirds of drivers said they had heard of slow-moving laws, but “many were unsure whether their state had a law or what it meant.”

After examining real footage of drivers driving during an accident on the road, the study found that 64% of vehicles slowed down or moved to the side. However, 36% did not change their driving behavior.

“Lane changes are far more common than speeding, suggesting that many drivers are missing half of the law’s intent,” the release said.

Furthermore, the proportion of drivers who change their driving patterns varies by vehicle. 58% of drivers slowed down or moved when passing a tow truck driver, compared to 66% of drivers who slowed or moved when passing a police vehicle.

“All roadside responders have the right to return home safely,” said Jake Nelson, AAA’s Director of Traffic Safety Advocacy and Research. “We need consistent and clear laws, visible enforcement, and education that resonates with drivers. When everyone understands what ‘slow down’ really means, we can make our roads safer for the people who protect us every day.”

AAA is urging policymakers and enforcement agencies to create guidelines similar to these laws, “so they are clearer, more consistent, and easier for drivers to follow.”

Trump’s Republican majority shrinks after defections and tragedy

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Trump’s Republican majority shrinks after defections and tragedy

President Trump’s House Republican majority has shrunk with the resignation of Marjorie Taylor Greene and the sudden death of Doug LaMalfa.

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President Donald Trump’s small Republican vote share in the House has shrunk amid unexpected defections and tragedy, further complicating the path to passing a Republican-centered agenda during an election year.

California Republican Congressman Doug LaMalfa passed away suddenly at the age of 65 on January 5th after suffering a medical emergency. His death, which follows the sudden resignation of Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia amid national divisions with President Trump, reduces the House Republican-Democratic split to 218-213 (216 needed for a majority).

Additionally, Rep. Jim Baird (R-Ind.) was hospitalized this week with his wife after a car crash that President Trump called a “terrible accident.” His office said he is expected to make a full recovery. Baird’s temporary absence from the Capitol will complicate Speaker Mike Johnson’s job of keeping Republicans aligned in a midterm election year, when Democrats are trying to stay united as they look to regain the House majority.

more: Is the blue wave heading toward Trump and the Republican Party? Tennessee sends ‘warning signs’

President Trump himself acknowledged the difficult political calculation during a January 6 rally with House Republicans at the Kennedy Center. “It’s not a majority,” the second-term president told lawmakers. “But it’s a unified majority.”

But between a forced vote to release the Jeffrey Epstein files and disagreements over cutting health care costs, Republicans have actually been completely out of step in recent months. Mr. Johnson’s current narrow two-vote margin includes Kentucky Republican Rep. Thomas Massie, who has frequently defied his party and is already posing a problem for Republican leaders who are struggling to maintain control of bills that reach the chambers of Congress they are supposed to oversee.

It remains to be seen whether Republicans will be able to retain control of the House in the 2026 elections. But the trend is not in their favor. Historically, the party in power loses seats. Democrats’ overperformance in last year’s off-year elections and special elections is likely to cause problems.

read more: Important points about the Democratic Party’s landslide victory in the Tennessee special election

Retirements, elections, and deaths affect majority calculations

Johnson’s most high-profile resignation came in November, when Marjorie Taylor Greene said she was tired of Washington politics. Her last day in office was Jan. 5, putting an end to a career in which she often served as one of President Trump’s most outspoken allies.

Back in Washington, the House of Representatives will soon begin filling the vacancy. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has set a special election for March 10 to fill the remainder of Greene’s term. Greene’s retirement was part of a record number of withdrawal announcements by members of Congress from both parties.

read more: Threats, dysfunction, and flight: Why smoking cessation is becoming a big deal in Washington, D.C.

In Texas, Republican Governor Greg Abbott has set up a special election to replace Democratic Representative Sylvester Turner, who died in March 2025, with a runoff election scheduled for January 31st.

In New Jersey, Democrats will have to wait until April to fill the seat of former Rep. Mikie Sherrill, who is set to become governor on Jan. 20.

Success of redistricting remains uncertain

The exact strategy for how the two parties will redraw the parliamentary map in order to maintain or secure a majority next November for 2026 is also not yet clear.

Indiana Republican lawmakers ultimately rejected a pressure campaign from the White House for redistricting. The Republican speaker of Kansas’ House of Representatives recently said that his state likely doesn’t have the votes.

Zachary Schermele is a Congressional reporter for USA TODAY. You can email us at zschermele@usatoday.com. Follow him on X at @ZachSchermele and on Bluesky at @zachschermele.bsky.social..

What is un-presidential? President Trump dances to the first lady and defends impersonation

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What is un-presidential? President Trump dances to the first lady and defends impersonation

Trump said people go “crazy” at campaign events where he encourages dancing, but his wife told him she was just being nice.

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WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump confessed that first lady Melania Trump doesn’t necessarily like his campaign.

He urged House Republicans to campaign in this year’s midterm elections around his priorities, including opposition to transgender athletes participating in women’s sports. But Trump said he had to tone down his performance because he imitated a female weightlifter who grimaced to compete with a transgender rival.

President Trump drew laughter by saying, “My wife doesn’t like it when I do this.” “She’s a very classy person. She said, ‘It’s very unpresidential.'” But I said, ‘Yes, it’s presidential.’ ”

Dance is also a point of contention. Mr. Trump frequently flexes his arms and sways to songs such as “YMCA” at the end of campaign events. The act became so widespread that soccer players imitated him after a touchdown and Argentine President Javier Millay blocked an attack at Mar-a-Lago.

But Melania Trump told her husband it wasn’t for her.

“She doesn’t want me to dance,” Trump said. He reported that the first lady said, “Darling, that’s not the president.”

The first lady appealed to President Trump’s understanding of history, citing former President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s failure to dance.

“In fact, she said, ‘Can you imagine FDR dancing?'” Trump added. “I said he probably had a long history that she didn’t know about because he was an elegant guy even though he was a Democrat.”

FDR suffered from polio and used a wheelchair during his presidency.

Trump said his wife told him that people don’t like watching him dance, but that they’re just being nice to him. But Trump insisted that people like to see him dance.

President Trump said, “The scene has gone crazy.” “I want to be more exaggerated,” he added, but “there are people watching.”

Polymarket trader bet more than $400,000 on Maduro’s arrest

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Polymarket trader bet more than $400,000 on Maduro’s arrest

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One Polymarket user managed to turn around $32,000 into more than $400,000 by betting on the ouster of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro by the end of the month.

The account, created in December, placed $32,537 worth of bets. After the United States invaded the country and seized Mr. Maduro, he pocketed a whopping $436,759. Other winning bets made by the account included that US troops would be in Venezuela by January 31st, that the US would invade Venezuela by January 31st, and that “Trump would use military force against Venezuela by January 31st.”

Although it is impossible to know who created the account, public gambling has sparked discussion about possible insider trading.

What did President Trump say about detaining President Maduro before the military strike?

The United States detained Mr. Maduro on Saturday, January 3, and took him and his wife, Cilia Flores, to New York on charges of narco-terrorism and drug trafficking.

President Donald Trump previously said the leader’s days were numbered, but there was no official declaration of when the United States would invade the country. Immediately after the operation, Secretary of State Marco Rubio thanked media outlets that had known about the attack before January 3 for not jeopardizing the mission by publishing stories about the attack.

“Frankly, a lot of media outlets had leaked information that this was going to happen and were withholding reporting for that very reason,” Rubio said on ABC’s “This Week” on Sunday, January 4. “And we thank the media for doing that. Otherwise lives could have been lost. American lives.”

The winning bet was placed on Friday night, January 2, hours before the United States launched its attack on Venezuela. According to blockchain exploration firm PolygonScan, the account has already withdrawn its winnings to cryptocurrency platform Solana.

USA TODAY reached out to Polymarket for comment on January 6, but did not receive a response.

Insider trading allegations involving the Trump administration have occurred in the past.

In October, a Bitcoin whale believed to be connected to President Trump’s family liquidated a short position in Bitcoin worth more than $200 million after the president threatened to impose 100% tariffs on China, according to Yahoo Finance and Investing.com.

In April, before announcing he was suspending tariff hikes, President Trump told his followers on his Truth Social: “Now is the perfect time to buy!!! DJT.”

excerpt: Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife are detained in the US

A month later, ProPublica published a report detailing how numerous Trump administration officials sold their stocks ahead of the president’s “Emancipation Day” announcement.

Prediction markets are growing in popularity. Experts suggest that transaction value on these platforms could reach $1 trillion by 2030.

At Polymarket, users can bet on whether the market will go up or down, who will win Best Picture at the Oscars, and even the number of tornadoes that will hit the country this month.

Polymarket withdrew from the U.S. market after a 2022 Commodity Futures Trading Commission enforcement action identified unregistered event contracting activity and indicated that all event contracts were allegedly not submitted to or approved by the relevant regulatory agencies. The company was also ordered to pay a $1.4 million civil penalty.

However, the commission approved plans submitted by the company in November, allowing it to re-enter the U.S. market.

“People trust Polymarket because we provide clarity where there is confusion and accountability where there is ambiguity,” Polymarket founder and CEO Shayne Coplan said in November. “This approval allows us to operate in a manner that reflects the maturity and transparency required by the U.S. regulatory framework. We appreciate the constructive engagement with the CFTC and look forward to continuing our leadership as a U.S. regulated exchange.”

Michelle Del Rey is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Please contact mdelrey@usatoday.com.

President Trump’s energy chief meets with oil company executives on Wednesday

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President Trump’s energy chief meets with oil company executives on Wednesday

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Energy Secretary Chris Wright is scheduled to meet oil executives at a conference in Miami on January 7, just days after the United States captured the head of Venezuela, home to the world’s largest oil reserves.

President Donald Trump said on January 5 that US companies may invest to improve Venezuela’s low production numbers. Chevron is currently the only major U.S. oil company operating in Venezuela.

“Secretary Wright remains in close contact with U.S. oil companies and is scheduled to meet with several at the Goldman Sachs Energy Conference in Miami on Wednesday,” Energy Department spokesman Ben Diederich told USA TODAY in a statement.

U.S. oil companies have historically had a presence in Venezuela, but many withdrew in 2007 when then-leader Hugo Chávez tried to seize assets as part of a nationalization drive. The country’s crude oil production has been in sharp decline since 2012.

The Energy Department did not say which companies would meet with Wright on Wednesday. Mr. Chevron and Mr. Hess are among the many names that have publicly announced their intention to attend the meeting.

“ConocoPhillips is monitoring developments in Venezuela and their potential impact on global energy supply and stability,” Dennis Nass, a spokesperson for the Houston-based energy producer, told USA TODAY in a statement. “It is too early to speculate about future business activities or investments.”

Chevron spokesman Bill Turenne told USA TODAY the company is not speculating about future investments.

Will gas prices fall in the US?

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Will gas prices fall in the US?

good morning! I’m Betty Lynn Fisher for today’s Daily Money.

As policy experts continue to debate the ethical and legal implications of the weekend attack that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, Americans may be worried about the impact on their own pocketbooks, my colleague Andrea Riquier reports.

If the US took control of Venezuela’s oil, would gas prices fall?

Kelly Ripa never wears a bra on a plane

Things got personal, with jokes flying during the Jan. 5 episode of “Live with Kelly and Mark,” in which longtime host Kelly Ripa revealed that she doesn’t wear a bra when she flies. USA TODAY travel writer Zach Wictor wrote that Ripa was talking with her husband and co-host Mark Consuelos about their personal habits, joking about the growing travel trend.

What is “raw sex” and “naked flight”?

Canceled ICE reservation causes fire

A Minneapolis hotel is under fire from the Department of Homeland Security for canceling ICE reservations. what happened?

📰 Consumer stories you can’t miss 📰

Betty Lin-Fisher is a consumer reporter for USA TODAY. Contact her at blinfisher@USATODAY.com or follow her at @blinfisher on X, Facebook and Instagram and @blinfisher.bsky.social on Bluesky.. Sign up for our free The Daily Money newsletter, breaking down complex consumer and financial news. Subscribe here.

Who did President Trump play golf with in Florida? How often did he hang out?

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Who did President Trump play golf with in Florida? How often did he hang out?

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  • President Donald Trump vacationed at the Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida.
  • President Trump visited a golf course in West Palm Beach on 12 of his 16 days in Florida.

President Donald Trump vacationed at the Winter White House in Florida, hosting his annual New Year’s Eve party at Mar-a-Lago and frequenting a nearby golf course.

It is a well-known fact that the president loves golf. Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach is one of more than a dozen golf clubs owned by presidents around the world. During the warmer months, I often visit one of the Northeast courses in Potomac Falls, Virginia, or Bedminster, New Jersey.

How much time did he spend on the Florida greens? Who did he spend it with? Here’s what we know.

more: Trump administration terminates Washington DC golf course lease

How many days did President Trump play golf during his vacation?

According to Poole’s report, President Trump visited his golf course on 12 of the 16 days he was in Florida from Dec. 20, 2025 to Jan. 4, 2026.

However, the pool reporters who accompanied the president on his outings did not always witness his activities while he was at the golf club.

USA TODAY asked the White House for confirmation of his golf activities, but did not receive a response.

Who did President Trump play golf with?

The White House also did not respond to questions about who joined President Trump on the golf course.

However, on December 21, US Ambassador to Ireland Ed Walsh posted a photo from a golf course with Trump, 2025 European Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald, and others.

Musician Kid Rock, a longtime Trump supporter who performed at the 2024 Republican National Convention, also posted on Instagram about playing golf with the president.

“I recently played golf with your favorite president again and he played me a live version of James Brown and (Luciano Pavarotti) playing ‘This is a (Man’s) World.’ I can’t believe I’ve never heard this before. It’s unbelievable,” the musician posted on Dec. 29, though it wasn’t clear if the two performed during the holidays.

Contributor: Jon Hoefling, USA TODAY

Kinsey Crowley is a Trump Connect reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Please contact KCrowley@usatodayco.com. follow her X (Twitter), blue sky and TikTok.

Valentine’s Day cocktails are back at Applebee’s. Check out our $6 drinks.

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Valentine’s Day cocktails are back at Applebee’s. Check out our drinks.

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Love is already in the air at Applebee’s.

To kick off the new year, Applebee’s is relaunching its $6 Mucho Smoocho Sips, a hearty Valentine’s Day-themed cocktail. This year, the restaurant chain is bringing back the “fan-favorite” Tipsy Cupid and introducing two new drinks made with Red Bull: Prickly Ever After Rita and Prickly Melon Rush Mocktail. Drinks will be on sale from January 5th (Monday).

A celebratory drink has been added to the menu, along with Applebee’s new OM Cheeseburger. It’s an all-beef burger topped with American cheese, applewood-smoked bacon, spicy honey, and mustard, all served over queso and hot skillet-melted cheese.

Here’s what you need to know about Applebee’s Bev and how to get your hands on it.

When is Valentine’s Day? Major holidays and celebrations are held on Fridays and Saturdays.

food: Chick-fil-A celebrates 80th anniversary with free food sweepstakes and new drinks

What is Applebee’s $6 Mucho Smoocho drink?

  • Tipsy Cupid: Smirnoff vodka, orange liqueur, strawberry & lemon sour
  • Rita’s Thorny After: Cuervo’s traditional blanco tequila, orange liqueur, lime and prickly pear
  • Prickly pear rush mocktail: Red Bull Watermelon, Prickly Pear, Lime Juice, Lemon Lime Soda

Tipsy Cupid and prickly Ever After Rita both have gummy lips.

When will Applebee’s Valentine’s Day cocktails be available?

The specialty drink was released on Monday, January 5th.

Find an Applebee’s near you

Want a signature drink? Find an Applebee’s near you by using the Applebee’s Restaurant Locator on the restaurant’s website.

Greta Cross is USA TODAY’s national trends reporter. Story ideas? Email her at gcross@usatoday.com.

President Trump urges House Republicans to campaign for border security and tax cuts

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President Trump urges House Republicans to campaign for border security and tax cuts

President Trump has urged Republicans to campaign on strengthening border security, opposing transgender athletes in women’s sports and supporting tax cuts as priorities.

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WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump encouraged House Republicans to campaign on his priorities this year, including border security, opposition to transgender athletes and tax cuts, as losing control of the House could lead to another impeachment.

“This is the path to victory,” President Trump said. “You have a lot of good stuff. You have to use it.”

Trump’s speech at the facility, which has been renamed the Trump Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, kicked off a midterm election year in which he will not be on the ballot. But he encouraged House Republicans to campaign on their priorities to avoid the tradition of the president’s party losing seats in midterm elections.

President Trump said, “We have to win the midterm elections.” “If we don’t win the midterm elections, they’ll find a reason to impeach me.”

House Democrats impeached Trump twice during his first term, and the Senate acquitted him both times, falling short of the two-thirds majority needed to convict him.

The first impeachment targeted relations with Ukraine. The second accused him of inciting the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. His speech came on the fifth anniversary of the riots.

“They impeached me for no reason,” Trump said.

While he spoke, House Democrats held an informal hearing on the January 6 riot.

“Five years ago today, on January 6th, a violent mob brutally attacked the U.S. Capitol,” House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) said on social media. “Their mission was to overturn a free and fair election. We will never tolerate betrayal by extremists.”

President Trump’s tightening of border security is preventing immigrants from entering the country without legal permission. He opposed transgender athletes participating in women’s sports and ordered the government to recognize only the two genders assigned at birth. And he pushed for legislation approved by Congress in July to eliminate taxes on tips, overtime pay and Social Security benefits.

“We have all the policies,” Trump said. “Just be with me.”

Why REAL ID and passports are not compatible

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Why REAL ID and passports are not compatible

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More than 45 million travelers were screened by the Transportation Security Administration this holiday season, and many may have learned firsthand what a REAL ID is and isn’t.

The REAL ID Act, passed by Congress in 2005 and not enacted until May 7, 2025, required individuals 18 years of age or older to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state-issued identification card to pass through a TSA checkpoint, access certain facilities, and generally undergo identity verification.

“REAL ID establishes security standards for the issuance and production of licenses and prohibits federal agencies from accepting driver’s licenses or identification documents that do not comply with certain official purposes,” the Department of Homeland Security told USA TODAY in a statement. “Secure driver licenses and identification documents are a critical element of the national security framework, as they prevent fraud and terrorism and create more effective safety standards.”

As the REAL ID deadline approaches, Here’s how travelers can avoid the $45 fee

Older ID cards and driver’s licenses without the REAL ID compliance mark (those with a gold or black star (or star mark in states like California) at the top of the card) are no longer accepted by federal agencies. However, certain alternative forms of identification, such as passports and DHS Trusted Traveler cards, are also REAL-ID compliant.

REAL ID-compliant cards have been required for less than a year. Many people may find it difficult to understand how these cards differ from commonly accepted alternatives. Please note that these cards cannot be used interchangeably.

Here’s what you need to know about REAL ID.

How do I get a REAL ID? If you don’t have it, it can quickly cost you $45

Can I travel without a REAL ID and use my passport instead?

Yes, a valid passport issued by a U.S. or foreign government can be used as identification for boarding your flight.

According to the TSA, other types of ID valid at airports are:

  • State-issued enhanced driver’s license or enhanced ID
  • us passport card
  • Homeland Security-trusted traveler cards (such as Global Entry)
  • permanent resident card
  • border crossing card
  • Photo ID issued by a federally recognized tribal nation/Indian tribe
  • U.S. Department of Defense ID (including those issued to dependents)
  • Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
  • US Merchant Mariner Certification
  • U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
  • Transportation Worker Identification Certificate (TWIC)
  • HSPD-12 PIV Card
  • Canadian provincial driver’s license or Indian and Northern Affairs Canada card

If you arrive at the airport without any of these forms of identification, you may be subject to additional screening when boarding your flight and will pay a $45 fee starting February 1st.

Can REAL ID be used to verify legal status?

No, while a REAL ID can verify your identity, it does not establish legal status like a passport. Noncitizens must carry immigration documents as required by the Immigration and Nationality Act. “REAL ID is not an immigration document. It makes it harder to forge an ID and deters criminals and terrorists,” DHS said.

How to file a claim in the Amazon FTC settlement

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How to file a claim in the Amazon FTC settlement

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The window is now open for eligible Amazon customers to file a $2.5 billion settlement with the company and the Federal Trade Commission.

This claims process will be the second wave of payments in the settlement. In the first wave, eligible customers received automatic payments from November 12 to December 24, 2025.

In September 2025, Amazon agreed to settle an antitrust lawsuit filed in 2023 with the FTC. The lawsuit alleges that Amazon forced millions of consumers to sign up for Prime subscriptions and then made it extremely difficult to cancel those contracts.

Amazon denies wrongdoing and says it “always follows the law.”

“We are working extremely hard to make it clear and easy for customers to both sign up for and cancel their Prime membership, and to deliver real value to our millions of loyal Prime members around the world,” the statement added. “We intend to continue to do so and look forward to what we can offer Prime members in the coming years.”

more: Who is eligible to be paid with Amazon FTC payments? How to get a share of the money.

How to bill with Amazon payment

Amazon has two payment stages. The current second phase requires customers to submit a claim to receive payment.

Only eligible Amazon customers who have redeemed their Prime benefits 10 times or fewer during a 12-month enrollment period may file a claim at this stage.

Those eligible to file a claim will receive a notification via email or mail with instructions on how to submit a claim form, the payments website said. You have 180 days to file your claim and will note it in your notice.

Who is eligible to receive money from Amazon payments?

According to the court order in the case, Amazon customers are only eligible to receive the settlement if they meet both of the following criteria:

  • Registration date: Customers must have signed up for Prime between June 23, 2019 and June 23, 2025.
  • I’ll try canceling: Customers are only eligible to receive payments if they unsuccessfully try to cancel their Prime subscription, or if they sign up for Prime through what the documents call an “enrollment claims flow.”

A “dispute” flow means a subscription initiated through a specific page on the Amazon website, such as the “universal Prime decision page, shipping option selection page, Prime Video registration flow, or single-page checkout,” according to the court order.

When will I receive my payment from Amazon?

The automatic payments were issued as part of the first wave of payments and took place between November 12 and December 24, 2025.

The filing deadline for the second wave of claims payments will begin on January 5th and will last for 180 days until July 23rd.

Amazon has 30 days from the time we receive each claim form to review it. According to the payment website, payments will be made as soon as the claim form is approved.

How much money can Amazon customers earn from payments?

Customers can receive up to $51 in settlement funds.

The amount each customer will receive from the settlement will be based on the total amount of Amazon Prime membership fees paid during the subscription period.

The first round of payments using Amazon Payments has already ended.

The first wave of payments was distributed automatically, so customers did not need to submit claims. These automatic payments were sent at the end of 2025.

Automatic payments were possible through Venmo or PayPal. According to the FTC, if a customer does not accept automatic payments through PayPal or Venmo within 15 days, Amazon will mail a check to the shipping address listed on their Prime subscription.

In that wave, only Amazon customers who redeemed their Prime benefits three or fewer times during a 12-month enrollment period received automatic payments.

Melina Khan is USA TODAY’s national trends reporter. Contact her at melina.khan@usatoday.com.

Record number of new car buyers agree to pay $1,000 per month

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Record number of new car buyers agree to pay ,000 per month

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  • In the fourth quarter, nearly 1 in 5 new car buyers agreed to monthly payments of $1,000 or more.
  • Interest rates remained high.
  • However, some relief may be in store in 2026 as more lease-off vehicles are returned to the market.

2025 was marked by an affordability struggle as new and used car prices soared, interest rates remained high and buyers took out the longest loan terms ever to get behind the wheel, according to new data from Edmunds.com.

Experts predict some of the same pressures will continue into 2026, but there may be some relief ahead, at least in the used car market.

Regarding the new car market, Edmunds predicts that new car sales in the United States will reach 16.3 million units in 2025 and 16 million units in 2026, citing factors such as interest rate easing and new car transaction prices flattening out after several years of rapid price increases, which will continue to support sales. Therefore, although new car prices will remain high, they should remain stable until 2026.

Edmunds released its fourth quarter data on January 5, showing that various records were broken, including the highest percentage of new car buyers who committed to monthly payments of $1,000 or more, a new record for average monthly payments, and a new record for average loan amount.

“The auto financing trends in the fourth quarter underscored how challenging 2025 is for car buyers,” Ivan Drury, director of insights at Edmunds, said in a statement. “Faced with persistently high vehicle prices and borrowing costs, many consumers have been forced to adapt by financing larger amounts, extending loan terms and reaching four-digit monthly payments. The record numbers we are seeing reflect the financial strain many buyers face throughout the year.”

The average transaction price for a new car in November was $49,814, up 1.3% from the same month last year and about the same as October’s $49,760, according to Kelley Blue Book. Data for December is not yet available. However, J.D. Power reported late last month that the average new car retail transaction price for all vehicles in December is expected to be $47,104, an increase of $715 compared to December 2024. Excluding electric vehicles, the average price of non-EVs increased by 1.4% compared to December 2024 to $46,807.

“Retail consumers will spend a total of $620 billion on new vehicles in 2025, an increase of 5.8% year over year,” Thomas King, president of OEM Solutions at J.D. Power, said in a media release.

One-fifth of car buyers agree to $1,000 a month

Edmunds’ fourth-quarter U.S. auto sales data shows more car buyers than ever before are agreeing to make monthly payments of $1,000 or more. The percentage of new car buyers who committed to making these monthly payments reached a record high of 20.3% of all new car purchases financed, up from 18.9% in the fourth quarter of 2024.

In the used car sector, 6.3% of buyers committed to monthly payments of $1,000 or more, also a new record, compared with 5.4% in the fourth quarter of 2024, Edmunds said.

This may sound alarming, but this is a story that continues throughout 2025. As the Detroit Free Press reported in the second quarter, the percentage of new car buyers committing to monthly payments of $1,000 or more hit a record high of 19.3%, according to Edmunds data. This was an increase from 17.8% in the second quarter of 2024.

Lease and employee discounts are popular in metro Detroit and lower monthly payments, so monthly loan terms and payments here are much lower than the Edmunds national average, Chevrolet and Ford dealers said.

Drury explained why some of these records are being broken. First, President Donald Trump’s 25% tariffs on imported cars and auto parts are driving up prices, with many automakers passing the increases on to destination fees. As the Detroit Free Press reported last month, most automakers are grappling with raising the non-negotiable rates they set, which cover manufacturers’ costs of transporting vehicles from factories to dealerships.

Within the past year, the Detroit automaker has increased destination fees for its entire lineup of pickups under the GMC, Chevrolet, Ford and Ram brands from $1,995 to $2,595 for the 2026 model year.

But Drury added that there are three factors that are a little more important than tariffs and fees.

“Luxury brand purchases are on the seasonal side, up as usual compared to the third quarter, which always drives up the fourth quarter numbers, but secondly, it’s the method of acquisition. More luxury buyers are choosing to use cash/check rather than dealer financing, external financing or leasing,” Drury said. “With more luxury consumers relying on dealer financing, the overall financing mix will capture a healthy amount of high-value transactions.”

Car buyers are borrowing more than ever

The average monthly payment for a new car has reached an all-time high, according to Edmunds data. The average monthly payment for a new car in the fourth quarter was $772, compared with $754 in the same period last year.

The average loan amount for a new car jumped to an all-time high of $43,759, compared to $42,113 in Q4 2024.

Part of the problem is that buyers of both new and used cars make small down payments to reduce the amount they finance. The average down payment for a new car in the quarter was $6,228, compared with an average down payment of $6,856 in the fourth quarter of 2024, according to Edmunds data. For used cars, the average down payment for the quarter was $3,956, compared to $4,219 in the year-ago period.

Edmunds data also showed that longer loan terms continue to play a big role in how people finance new cars. Almost 21% of new car purchases financed in the quarter were for loans of 84 months or longer. While this number is slightly down from 22% in the third quarter, it is well above the 17.9% in the fourth quarter of 2024 and “confirms that consumers continue to rely on loan term extensions as an affordability tool,” Edmunds said in a statement.

Interest rates fell only slightly. Edmunds analysts said the average annual percentage rate (APR) for new car purchases was 6.7% in the quarter, compared with 6.8% in the fourth quarter of 2024, but remains near historic highs and promotional funds remained limited in the quarter. According to the data, only 3.1% of new car loans have an interest rate of 0%, up slightly from 2.4% in the same period last year.

“Signs of future rebalancing”

Looking to the future, Drury said many affordability issues still exist, including high new car prices and economic uncertainty.

“That said, there are early signs of a rebalancing,” Drury said. “New car prices remain high but are beginning to stabilize, lower interest rates may provide some relief to both new and used car buyers, and increased post-lease revenues are expected to provide more affordable alternatives in the used car market.”

About 400,000 vehicles are expected to be returned when their leases end this year, Edmunds said. Additionally, the average trade-in age is rising, putting owners back in the market for new cars.

Still, most analysts believe the auto industry will continue to face economic uncertainty and declining consumer confidence in 2026, with affordability of new and used cars remaining a key challenge. They point to the impact of President Trump’s auto tariffs and material cost increases, along with the sudden end of federal tax breaks for electric vehicle purchases, all of which will be fully realized in 2026.

When President Trump’s first term is combined with the renegotiation of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, the free trade agreement that replaced NAFTA, the industry will face unknown unknowns in 2026 that could impact the industry.

“If you’re a high-income buyer with good credit, you’ll have options, availability, and reasonable financing. That’s good news,” Cox Automotive executive analyst Erin Keating told the Detroit Free Press last month. “However, if you are an average-income household looking to buy a car, the decision can be a little more difficult as you may not have the confidence needed for a big-ticket item.”

Jamie L. Lareau is senior auto writer for USA Today and covers Ford Motor Company for the Detroit Free Press. Contact Jamie at jlareau@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter @Jalalean. To sign up for our automotive newsletter. become a subscriber.

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