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Once again, jobless benefits are running out. And the extension that would have continued covering millions on unemployment and COBRA has lapsed. This means 1.2 million people will lose the income they depend on to pay for bills, food, and everything in between. So, what can you do?

If you’re running out of coverage, there are a few things you can do to get through tough times:

Get some help with your job search

• Make some money with a sidehustle
• Get advice, resources and more from the Career Coach

Apply for financial assistance

• Family support services
• Food stamp program (SNAP)
• Low Income Energy Assistance Program (HEAP or LIHEAP)
• Housing Choice vouchers
• Health care assistance

These extensions may or may not get passed, either way make sure you’re prepared and you get the help you need.

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When you’re trying to save money, the last thing you want is to get nickel-and-dimed. But even your free savings account could be costing you money. What kind of hidden fees are you paying?

It can be a double edged sword. New regulations mean protection for consumers, but fees are becoming a tool for making up lost profits.

For example, since banks can no longer charge overdraft fees, they may charge a maintenance fee instead. So, what used to be a “free” savings account now costs $5 or more a month if you don’t maintain a minimum balance. That adds up fast.

Whether it’s a hotel or your phone bill, you need to be aware of extra fees and what you can do to avoid them:

• CBS looks at the fees you may incur at the ATM, while traveling, and even for calling customer service.
• Money Crashers offers advice on how to avoid service and cancellation fees and other charges from your cable company.
• If you’re getting dinged for your bank account, knowing your options can help you save and get the services you need.

While it never hurts to ask for a refund, it’s best to inquire about fees up front. This way you’ll know what you’re paying for before you get the bill.

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While it’s important to pay your credit card on time, one late payment can quickly get out of hand. That’s why the Federal Reserve is offering you a little added protection against late fees.

The Fed’s new rules, which take effect August 22, will limit fees to $25 for a late payment. A helpful break in those unavoidable instances. Card issuers will also be prohibited from charging fees higher than your violation. In other words, if you go over your limit by $5 you can’t be charged more than $5.

Of course, added protection or not, avoiding late fees on your credit card is ideal. If you’re having trouble keeping up, learn the steps you can take to get on the right track.

Along with several rules that took effect in February, other changes to look forward to in August include:

• Bans on inactivity fees, or fees charged to cardholders who don’t use their card to make new purchases
• Card issuers can’t charge multiple fees based on a single late payment

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There are a lot of reasons why people use direct deposit. It cuts costs, helps the environment and prevents check fraud. But with 30 million people lacking bank access, those receiving social security, unemployment, veterans benefits, etc. should be prepared for payment changes coming soon.

The Treasury Department will announce today that all government benefits will be paid electronically by 2013. Once benefits go electronic you’ll receive your check via direct deposit into your bank account. If you don’t have an account you can sign up for the Treasury’s Direct Express program. Either way, you’ll save a trip to the bank and get your benefits faster and more securely.

If you enroll in benefits after March 2011, you’ll be required to sign up for direct deposit. So, if you don’t have a bank account, make sure you know all of your options:

• Open a bank or credit union account
• The difference between credit, debit, EBT or prepaid cards
• Learn more about the Direct Express debit MasterCard

This may seem like a major pain – especially if you don’t have an account. But along with more secure payments, this shift is expected to save taxpayers an estimated $303 million over the first five years. This may take some getting used to, but it should be beneficial in the long run.

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In China, questionable labor practices and an undervalued currency seem to be leading toward economic reform. But increased standards, higher salaries, and currency changes could also mean higher prices worldwide. If you haven’t been, now may be the time to get back to budgeting.

Price increases will likely be minimal, but everything from clothing to electronics may be affected. A rise in production costs mean businesses will have to make up the difference.

Spending wisely today can save you money and stress in the long run:

• Use the Budget Builder tool to track your expenses and find out where you could be saving
• Learn how to better manage your  money with Money Made Easy
• Prepare for the “what-if’s” and find out how you can save more
• Let the Financial Coach help you get on the right track

Even if prices only raise by a few cents, pinching every penny can make a big difference. Make sure you’re not missing out on opportunities to save.

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Planning a family vacation or a summer getaway? Make sure you consider all of your options – and the costs – before you put a hole in your wallet that can’t be repaired.

Between travel, room, food and fun, the costs add up quickly too. According to one survey, a summer vacation could cost some folks around $4,000! Which means it’s time to get creative about how you’ll have fun this summer.

A few things to think about before you book your trip:

• If you’re traveling by car, take advantage of cheap gas in your area
• Make sure you compare flights and look for deals
• Consider alternatives to spendy hotels (hostels, vacation rental with family or friends, cheap inns, etc.)

If it’s simply not in the budget, consider the cheaper way to play, and have a “staycation”.

Whether that means opting for a day at the beach or turning your backyard into a cozy camp out, you’re sure to save without sacrificing the fun. You can also find free events, shows, etc in your area with online travel guides or your local paper.

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Since the recession began, more folks age 55 and up have made their way back into the job market. Of course, with dwindling retirement accounts and longer lifespans, many have little choice but to find a new niche – even after retiring.

Whether it’s for financial reasons or just for something to do, it seems the 55+ crowd isn’t throwing in the towel any time soon.

In February 2010, 40 percent of the labor force was 55 years and older. Compare that to just 29 percent in 1993 (U.S. Department Of Labor). That’s a big jump. And a trend that hasn’t changed much since May 2010.

Now, whatever your age may be, you probably took a hit during the recession. Meaning more of us will be working well into our retirement years. So, what do semi-retired workers do to earn some extra dough?

The 8 most popular jobs for retirees:

1. Consultant
2. Caterer
3. Greeter
4. Floral assistant
5. Temp
6. Tour guide
7. Retail
8. Keeping the old job with fewer hours

If none of these sound like your cup of tea, there are lots of other ways to make some extra cash while doing what you love. Before you take the job, make sure you know how much you need to live on.