How To Safely Dispose of Your Leftover Prescription Medications

Better Report

Most prescription medications come with clear instructions for how to take them safely. Guidance on what to do with the medicine you didn’t take, however, is often harder to track down.

If you were prescribed more pills than you needed, you may be tempted to toss out the excess with your regular trash or flush them down the toilet. But doing so without taking the right precautions poses a few risks — both to the environment and to any people who might come across them.

Luckily, getting rid of your leftover prescription medication is a straightforward process once you have the right intel. Ahead of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on April 25, here are some tips to follow for safe, responsible disposal.

Where To Take Your Unwanted Prescription Meds

The safest thing to do with medications you no longer need is to drop them off at a drug take-back location. Many pharmacies, including Walgreens and CVS, have permanent medication disposal kiosks where you can leave prescription and over-the-counter medicine. This isn’t just for customer convenience; unused medications are more likely to be abused, and anonymous drop-off locations are a simple way to mitigate the problem. The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) has an online tool that allows you to look up the closest kiosk to you by entering your ZIP code.

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If you don’t see any spots in your neighborhood, you may be in luck closer to the next National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. Twice a year, the DEA sponsors drug collection events in communities nationwide. You can see if a collection site is popping up near you using the DEA’s locator tool — and if you miss April’s event, the next one will be held in October.

If dropping off your unused drugs in person isn’t the most convenient option for you, you can opt to mail them instead. Some pharmacies distribute prepaid drug mail-back envelopes for free, and you can also purchase them online. Once you have yours, all you have to do is slip the bottle of medication into the packet, seal it up, and mail it off to be destroyed.

How To Safely Dispose of Leftover Drugs at Home

Depending on the type of medication you’re dealing with, you may be able to safely dispose of some drugs at home.

Check the label on the bottle or the leaflet your medication came with to see if the contents are good to flush. You can also check for its name on the FDA’s flush list. According to the administration, the chemicals in these drugs present a negligible threat to the environment when flushed down the drain (and that threat is outweighed by the risk they pose to people who might otherwise get ahold of them). If you don’t see your medicine on the list, however, it may pose a greater environmental risk and should be kept away from the water supply.

Drugs that aren’t safe to flush can be thrown away, but doing so requires some extra work. First, remove them from their original container and add them to something you can seal, like a plastic storage bag. Mix them up with dirt, coffee grounds, or some other material that will conceal them and make them undesirable to any animals or children going through the trash. Finally, seal up the bag or container before tossing it in with your regular garbage, and redact your information on the pill bottle before putting it in your recycling. Once that’s done, cleaning out the rest of your medicine cabinet will seem easier in comparison.

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Michele Debczak

Writer

Michele Debczak is a writer and editor based in Brooklyn, New York. She appears in seasons four through six of History Channel's “The Food That Built America,” and her work has been featured in Mental Floss, Smithsonian Magazine, Eater, and Vice.

This article is for general informational purposes only.
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Updated: April 3, 2026

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Health

Why Is Everyone Talking About Fiber?

Better Report

Fiber has become a nutrition buzzword lately, popping up everywhere from morning talk shows to grocery store labels. You’ve likely heard that fiber is good for you — but what exactly is it, and why does it matter?

Dietary fiber, found in plant-based foods, plays a key role in digestive health. Beyond that, it supports overall wellness and may help reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases. Despite its importance, however, the American Society for Nutrition estimates that only 7% of adults meet daily fiber recommendations, leaving plenty of room for improvement. Here’s what you need to know about this essential nutrient and how to incorporate more of it into your diet.

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Why Is Fiber Important?

Dietary fiber is a type of carbohydrate found in the indigestible parts of plants. Unlike other nutrients, such as fats and proteins, fiber cannot be broken down or absorbed by the human body. Instead, it moves through the digestive tract, supporting several key functions along the way.

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“[Fiber] aids in satiety because it adds bulk to your food without adding calories, can help reduce cholesterol, slows the spike of blood sugar from eating, and promotes gut health by providing food for your healthy gut bacteria,” Devon Kroesche, a registered dietitian nutritionist who specializes in women’s health, explains. Getting more fiber is also linked to overall longevity, including a decreased risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes, according to the Mayo Clinic.

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What Are Some High-Fiber Foods?

There are two main types of dietary fiber: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber dissolves in water, forming a gel-like material that slows digestion. This can lower cholesterol and stabilize blood sugar levels. Kroesche recommends oats, bananas, and sweet potatoes as good sources of soluble fiber; peas, beans, apples, citrus fruits, and carrots are also excellent options.

Insoluble fiber, as its name suggests, does not dissolve in water. It helps move nutrients through the digestive system and adds bulk to stool, which can ease constipation. To increase your intake, focus on whole grains, nuts, seeds, and whole vegetables with skins.

It’s worth noting that many high-fiber plant foods contain both types of fiber, so variety is key to meeting your daily needs.

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What Are Some Easy Ways To Increase Fiber Intake?

Adding more fiber to your diet doesn’t have to be complicated. Amanda Callenberg, a London-based registered nutritional therapist specializing in gut health and IBS, offers several simple strategies: “Add an extra serving of vegetables to meals, include beans or lentils, swap to whole grains, and add nuts or seeds where you can.”

Why prioritize whole grains? Refined or processed foods are lower in fiber because the bran (the outer portion) is removed from the grain. This strips away nutrients, including fiber. Choosing whole-grain pastas, cereals, and breads allows you to retain those benefits without sacrificing taste. Similarly, removing skin or pulp from fruits and vegetables reduces fiber levels, so opt for whole foods whenever possible.

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How Much Daily Fiber Do We Really Need?

A recent social media trend known as “fibermaxxing” encourages a very high daily fiber intake — but is there a limit?

“There can be a misconception that more is always better when it comes to fiber,” Kroesche says. “In reality, we want just the right amount of fiber — not more or less.” Consuming too much fiber, she warns, can cause digestive discomfort or more serious issues, such as digestive tract blockages.

While there isn’t a strict upper limit to how much fiber you can consume, the Mayo Clinic recommends a daily goal of 25 grams of dietary fiber for women and 38 grams for men. As with all aspects of nutrition, these goals should be tailored to your health, including any current digestive issues, your age, and your activity level. Kroesche also recommends gradually increasing your daily intake by about 5 grams per week. “Your gut is a muscle and may need some time to adapt to a higher-fiber diet to prevent gas and bloating,” she says.

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Do Older Adults Need To Think About Fiber Differently?

Fiber is important at all stages of life, and according to Callenberg, “meeting those needs can become more challenging with age, as appetite and activity levels often decrease.” Other challenges older adults face include reduced stomach acid and slowed digestion, which may affect how well fiber is tolerated.

To reduce fiber-related digestive issues, focus on a consistent intake spread throughout the day and drink plenty of water to prevent blockages. Hydration and fiber efficacy go hand in hand.

Fiber needs also decrease slightly with age. The Mayo Clinic recommends a daily intake of 21 grams for women over 50 and 30 grams for men over 50. Meeting these targets — without overdoing it — can help you maintain digestive system balance.

Are Fiber Supplements as Effective as Whole Foods?

Fiber supplements can be helpful if you’re struggling to meet your needs through diet alone. However, whole foods are generally preferred. If you decide to start a fiber supplement, consult your doctor.

“Many other nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, [are] contained in high-fiber foods,” Kroesche says. “Incorporating more of these foods often displaces less nutrient-dense foods,” such as processed foods. A whole-food-first approach not only supports digestion but also contributes to a more nourishing diet with long-lasting health benefits.

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Lauren Dana Ellman

This article is for general informational purposes only.
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Wealth

You Could Soon Be Paying a Lot More To Send a Letter

Better Report

Though virtual communication is easier than ever, many Americans still rely on the U.S. Postal Service to stay in touch with their loved ones or send packages across the country. The organization remains highly popular for both its reliability and its affordability, but it has become less affordable over time.

Intermittent price increases can be a hard pill for everyday Americans to swallow, but it’s not as if the Postal Service is intentionally trying to price gouge customers. These hikes are meant to help keep the organization afloat and offset the financial losses that have plagued USPS for years. Unfortunately, it looks as if another price increase may be on the near horizon, so here’s what you should know.

A 20% Increase?

The USPS suffered a $9 billion loss in 2025, and Postmaster General David Steiner says the organization might run out of money in less than 12 months. In a March 2026 appearance before Congress, Steiner proposed raising the cost of a first-class stamp from its current rate of 78 cents to as high as 95 cents, claiming it “would largely solve our controllable loss.”

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The U.S. Postal Service began operations in 1971, replacing an earlier postal agency that had existed since 1792. When USPS was founded, the cost of mailing a letter was just 8 cents, which equates to 65 cents when adjusted for inflation. It hit 10 cents in 1974, a quarter in 1988, and 50 cents in 2018. Over the next seven years, the price kept creeping up until it hit the current rate of 78 cents, which has been in effect since July 13, 2025 — a 56% increase over the 2018 cost. But a hike up to 95 cents per stamp would denote the largest single increase in USPS history.

It’s yet to be determined if and when this proposed hike will take effect, but it may be as soon as later this year — so keep your eyes peeled and wallets open.

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How Does This Price Compare Globally?

While an increase from 78 cents to 95 cents per stamp may seem like a large jump, it’s worth noting that it’s quite affordable compared to other countries’ postal services. Steiner cited additional data saying that the cost of a first-class stamp in France is almost $3, while the same type of stamp in England costs around $2.50.

Previously, a 2023 report from the Office of Inspector General noted that first-class stamps in the U.S. were more affordable than their equivalents in 26 other nations as of June of that year. The findings ranked Italy at the top, listing the cost of a first-class stamp there as equal to $2.96 USD; Finland and Estonia were runners-up at $2.43.

All this is to say that while nobody is a fan of rumored USPS price hikes, the organization still offers stamps at a more affordable rate than many other industrialized countries.

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Another Impending Price Hike

USPS will impose a separate 8% price hike on April 26 that is set to last until at least January 17, 2027. The price increase — which affects Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage, and Parcel Select — is meant to help offset rising fuel and transportation costs.

However, it’s worth noting that first-class stamps are exempt from this price increase, and the fate of any rumored price hikes on that front are still TBD.

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Bennett Kleinman

Staff Writer

Bennett Kleinman is a New York City-based staff writer for Inbox Studio. He is also a freelance comedy writer, devoted New York Yankees and New Jersey Devils fan, and thinks plain seltzer is the best drink ever invented.

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Updated: July 20, 2023

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Home

9 Unusual Uses for Paper Towels

Better Report

If you encounter a mess of any kind — whether it’s a spilled cup of coffee or crumbs on the counter — chances are you’ll be reaching for a paper towel to deal with it. We tend to think of these wipes as our go-to tool to handle mess, but there are plenty of other smart ways to use them that go way beyond spills. Here are nine ways to get more out of every roll.

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Freshen Your Shoes

Shoes can take on a funky odor due to bacteria that thrive in the damp, dark environment they provide. Give them a quick refresh by putting a few drops of your favorite essential oil on a paper towel, crumpling it up, and placing it in your footwear. They’ll smell much better the next day.

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Keep Cutting Boards in Place

It’s frustrating — not to mention dangerous — when your cutting board slides all over your counter during food prep. Chefs swear by a hack to keep it in place that requires nothing more than a paper towel.

Simply rip a piece off the roll, run it under water, wring it out, and place it on your counter with your cutting board on top. The dampness creates friction that keeps the cutting board in one spot, allowing you to chop food safely. And when you’re finished, you can use the paper towel to wipe down your counter.

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Germinate Seeds

Speed up the gardening process by germinating fruit, vegetable, and herb seeds in paper towels. Line a food storage container with three or four damp sheets and place the seeds on them. Loosely cover the container with the lid so that air can circulate and place the container in a warm spot. Check daily and remoisten the paper towels as necessary. Once the seeds have sprouted, transfer them to soil.

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Keep Produce and Cheese Fresh

There’s nothing worse than shelling out a ton of money for fresh fruit and veggies only to have them go bad in your fridge. But paper towels come in handy here: Slipping one into your produce containers will soak up excess moisture that would otherwise cause the food to rot. You can even go a step further and line your fridge shelves and drawers with paper towels — this cuts down on the need to clean the shelves themselves and soaks up food-destroying moisture. According to The Kitchn, these paper towels will last three to four weeks before you need to re-line shelves and drawers.

You can also use a paper towel to extend the life of your hard cheeses: Dunk a paper towel sheet in white vinegar, wring it out, and wrap it around your cheese. If the towel dries, wet it in vinegar again. According to All Recipes, white vinegar has antifungal properties because it’s high in acetic acid. This trick will help your hard cheeses last up to three times longer than they would normally, and your cheese won’t taste like vinegar, either.

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Get Wax Out of Carpets

Wax on a carpet or fabric is no big deal when you have a paper towel nearby. Lay two paper towels over the wax and hold a hot iron to the paper towels for a couple of minutes — the wax will melt and transfer to the paper towels.

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Keep Cabinet Tops Grease-Free

The tops of your kitchen cabinets are out of sight, out of mind … until you need to clean them and discover they’re coated with a sticky layer of dust and grease that’s incredibly difficult to remove. Cleaning it is a task you won’t want to repeat, so once it’s done, grab a roll of paper towels and completely cover the top of the cabinets with them. Now all you have to do is pull them down when they get grimy and replace them with fresh ones — no elbow grease necessary.

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Stop Thawing Bread From Becoming Soggy

No one ever wants to waste bread — particularly if it’s homemade sourdough you spent days on and froze to enjoy later. Thaw it the right way by placing a paper towel in the bag. It will absorb the excess moisture as the bread thaws out.

If you’re in a rush, wrap slices in damp paper towels and microwave them for 30 seconds. You’ll need to eat them right away, though; microwaved slices will quickly get tough as the moisture in the bread evaporates.

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Soak Up Oil

Oil and grease are two things you never want to put down your drain or in your dishwasher — it’s bad for your pipes, sewer systems, and the environment. Use a Martha Stewart-approved trick to get rid of oil instead: Take a handful of paper towels and place them in a pan filled with oil. Move the towels around to get all the oil, throw them away, and clean the pan as usual.

You can also use paper towels to get rid of oil that’s accumulated on soups or stock: Just lay a sheet gently on the surface, pull it off, and repeat with fresh paper towels as necessary until the oil is gone.

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Clean Can Openers and Stained Plastic Food Storage

If you haven’t given any thought to cleaning your manual can opener, you probably should: Its blades are just as capable of picking up food and gunk as every other tool you use regularly. To clean it, feed a paper towel through the blades and crank the can opener; the paper towel will clean the blades as it makes its way through.

Paper towels can also be the key to cleaning stubborn stains from food like pasta sauce in plastic storage containers. Put a sheet in the container, add a few drops of soap and some water, put on the lid, and shake. The stain might not be completely gone when you’re done, particularly if the container has been sitting for a while, but it’s likely to be better than when you started.

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Erin McCarthy

Editor, Better Report

Erin is a writer, editor, and content strategist living in the New York City area. Previously, she was the VP/Editor-in-Chief of MentalFloss.com and an editor at Popular Mechanics magazine. When she’s not working, Erin is hanging out with her cats, reading books from her never-ending TBR, traveling, karaoking, and making sourdough with her starter Stephen Sondheim.

This article is for general informational purposes only.
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Updated: March 23, 2026

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Wealth

This Is the Most Expensive Supermarket in the U.S.

Better Report

Thanks to the rising cost of fresh vegetables, coffee, beef, and other essentials, buying groceries feels like more of an onerous expense with each passing day. This is especially true at certain chains that charge higher average prices than their competitors.

If you’re one of the many Americans who yearn for a lower grocery bill, it’s best to avoid costlier supermarkets. And thanks to the experts at the trusted brand Consumer Reports, we know the stores where you’re likely to pay more. They analyzed the cost of commonly purchased items sold by mainstream grocery chains in six regional U.S. locations, and put together a list of the most (and least) expensive supermarkets.

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About the Rankings

Before we discuss the most expensive supermarket, it’s worth noting a few things about the methodology used by Consumer Reports. All the prices they compiled reflect sales and discounts available with free loyalty cards, and exclude any discounts that could be attained through coupons or smartphone apps. Prices were gathered in person in late summer 2025. The publication used Walmart — the largest grocery retailer in the county — as a baseline average, determining a percentage difference in the total cost between Walmart groceries compared to food bought at other chains.

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The Most Expensive

At the very top of the national list is Whole Foods, coming in at 39.7% more expensive than Walmart. After the analysis was published in February 2026, Whole Foods contacted Consumer Reports to say that the company’s prices reflect factors important to its customers, such as ingredient sourcing, and that it has reduced prices on 25% of its items in the last 18 months. Nevertheless, Whole Foods remains atop the list.

Rounding out the top five most expensive supermarkets are the New England-based chain Shaw’s (+31.9%), the Texas-based El Rancho (+30.1%), and two stores primarily located in Illinois: Jewel-Osco (+29.7%) and Mariano’s (+27.6%). And in what might be a surprising twist for fans of Trader Joe’s, that chain was the ninthmost expensive in the U.S., costing 24.6% more than Walmart. Target, meanwhile, was a mere 5.9% more expensive than the baseline.

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The Least Expensive

Across the nation, six grocery chains rank as more affordable than Walmart. The most affordable of the bunch is Costco Wholesale, where customers might expect to pay 21.4% less on groceries than the national average.

BJ’s Wholesale Club is next at 21.0% cheaper than Walmart. Other inexpensive supermarkets include the East Coast chain Lidl (-8.5%), the nationally known brand Aldi (-8.3%), the Western/Midwestern-based WinCo (-3.3%), and the Texas-based H-E-B (-0.2.%).

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Regional Differences

Consumer Reports looked at six regions as part of the study: Boston, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Denver, Los Angeles/Southern California, and Virginia Beach. While Walmart was the baseline for all, there were a few regional differences when it came to the most expensive supermarket.

Whole Foods was the most expensive grocery store in four of the six regions. Prices were highest in Virginia Beach, where Whole Foods cost 57.7% more than the baseline. But Whole Foods was the second-most expensive supermarket in both Chicago, where Jewel-Osco topped the list (+29.7%), and Denver, where the most expensive grocery store was Trader Joe’s (+30.0%).

When it came to the most affordable chain, there was no straying from the national norm: Costco came out on top in each region — especially in Boston, where Costco’s grocery prices were 37.0% lower than the baseline average.

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Key Takeaways

If you’re looking for a more affordable grocery experience, shopping at wholesale chains such as Costco or BJ’s might be the way to go. Walmart is also an ideal option, especially considering its convenience and the fact that around 90% of Americans live within 10 miles of a Walmart or Sam’s Club subsidiary.

To see the complete breakdown of national and regional rankings, head to Consumer Reports.

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Lauren Dana Ellman

This article is for general informational purposes only.
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Wealth

7 Things Getting More Expensive in 2026

Better Report

Many Americans are searching for ways to cut costs this year. The good news is that some costs are leveling off: Egg prices, which surged following the bird flu outbreaks in 2022, are expected to fall by more than 25% this year, and used-vehicle prices have also eased from their pandemic-era highs. But other categories still deliver sticker shock due to a complex web of global economic factors, domestic inflation, supply shortages, and tariffs. From dining out to streaming movies, here’s where Americans’ budgets are being stretched thin in 2026 — and why.

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Restaurant Meals

Dining out is quietly becoming a luxury again. According to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), restaurant costs were up 3.9% in February 2026 compared to February 2025. In a recent press release, the National Restaurant Association forecast that both revenue and jobs will continue to grow in the restaurant industry this year, but higher operating costs are squeezing profits.

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Those costs — labor, rent, ingredients, and shipping — are typically passed on to restaurant-goers, forcing them to foot the bill. Another major consideration in the industry is uneven traffic. With consumer budgets becoming increasingly stretched, many Americans are cutting back on dining out.

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Groceries: Beef and Sweets

While overall grocery inflation has slowed to around 2.4% in 2026, some categories are still rising sharply. Beef and veal prices are climbing significantly, with an expected 10.1% increase in 2026. This is due to high consumer demand and limited livestock supply, with the U.S. cattle herd at its lowest level since the 1950s. Droughts, cattle disease, and tariffs for imported beef also contribute to costs.

Sweets are another standout. The USDA estimates that prices for sugary treats will rise by 9.8% this year. This increase is a spillover from 2025, due to a worldwide cocoa shortage, inflation, and tariffs. Other grocery categories expected to increase in 2026 include nonalcoholic beverages (6.5%), fresh vegetables (4.8%), and pork (1.3%).

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Electronics: Computers, Smartphones, and Gaming Consoles

Consumers can expect to pay more while upgrading tech this year. One major factor is a global shortage of integrated circuit chips, the tiny devices on which RAM is stored. Manufacturers are shifting their business models, prioritizing high-performance memory to support AI data centers, which limits the supply of consumer-grade products for personal electronics. According to Counterpoint Research, memory prices increased by as much as 90% between Q4 of 2025 and Q1 of 2026.

As a result, prices for PCs, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and wearable tech such as smartwatches are expected to rise. Research firm Gartner expects PC prices to increase by 17% and smartphone prices by 13% by the end of 2026, compared to 2025 prices.

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Utility Bills: Electricity and Gas

If you’ve noticed your monthly utility bills going up, you aren’t alone. Across the country, residents are experiencing price hikes for energy services, which, according to the CPI, rose about 6.3% nationally between February 2025 and February 2026. Specifically, electricity costs are up an estimated 4.8%.

The World Resources Institute notes that there’s no single cause for these rising costs. While data centers and AI are impacting some parts of the country, the increase is driven by a mix of factors: the effects of extreme weather on infrastructure, power grid upgrades, and fluctuations in the fossil fuel market.

Piped gas service costs have risen even more — an estimated 10.9% in 2026, reflecting the largest leap in the CPI index for the year. Most of a household’s gas bill covers supply, distribution, and maintenance, which are affected by rising transportation costs and geopolitical events. In some parts of the country with aging infrastructure, new pipeline construction is further increasing consumer bills.

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Streaming Services: Netflix and Prime Video

Streaming services may no longer be a cheaper alternative to cable: Many at-home streaming services are raising their prices in 2026. Some of these price hikes are part of annual profit goals, while others reflect production costs, account sharing with friends and family, and ad-free upgrades. The trend has been dubbed “streamflation.”

Case in point: For the second time in one year, Netflix has raised its subscription prices for all tiers. As of March 2026, costs have increased by $1 to $2 per month, ranging from $8.99 with ads to $26.99 for premium. Other video platforms raising their prices in 2026 include Prime Video, Paramount Plus, and Sling TV, as well as the audio streaming services Amazon Music and Spotify.

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Prescription Drugs: Vaccines and Cancer Treatments

Medication costs continue to rise, even as policy changes try to limit out-of-pocket costs. According to a recent price analysis, 872 brand-name medications saw price increases during the first two weeks of 2026, with a median increase of 4%. Some of these drugs included vaccines, cancer treatments, Type 2 diabetes medications, and cardiovascular disease treatments.

In a recent statement, drug manufacturer Pfizer noted that these price increases are necessary for research and development and to keep up with inflation and rising manufacturing and distribution costs. Other manufacturers have cited similar reasons. The changes drive up insurance premiums, and patients are facing higher out-of-pocket costs at the pharmacy as a result.

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Health Insurance Premiums

Most Americans will experience some increase in their health insurance costs in 2026, as the employer-sponsored insurance market is expected to see premium increases of 6% to 7%. An estimated 60% of Americans under 65 — roughly 165 million people — have employment-sponsored health insurance.

Meanwhile, the 23 million Americans receiving health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) could see major premium increases — some by more than 20% in 2026 — largely because the ACA’s premium tax credits have expired.

The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health notes that other increases contribute to rising health insurance costs, including prescription drugs, physician services, hospital care, and advanced diagnostics and therapies. While health care and other consumer price hikes can add up, staying aware of these trends can help households budget and adjust their spending for the year ahead.

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Rachel Gresh

Writer

Rachel Gresh is a Washington, D.C.-based freelance writer. When she's not writing, you can find her wandering a museum, exploring an unfamiliar city, or baking something new in the kitchen.

This article is for general informational purposes only.
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Updated: December 15, 2023

Posted In: Wealth

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Wealth

What the Tooth Fairy’s Paying in 2026

Better Report

Certain statistics are good indicators of how the overall economy is performing, such as inflation and the unemployment rate. But there’s an unexpected metric that provides an equally good indication of the current state of the economy: the Tooth Fairy.

It’s long been a tradition in the U.S. and other countries around the world for the Tooth Fairy (wink wink) to leave cash when a child loses a baby tooth. But according to Delta Dental, which comprises the largest group of dental insurance companies in the U.S., the average amount of money has risen sharply over time. The company has released an annual Tooth Fairy Index (TFI) since 1998, and it shows parallel growth to the S&P 500 stock index. Here’s a look at what the Tooth Fairy is paying in 2026.

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A Continued Rise

Before diving into the numbers, a quick look at the methodology: Delta Dental surveyed 1,000 parents nationwide with children ages 6 through 12, conducting the poll between January 5 and 16 of 2026. The results have a margin of error of +/- 3%.

Now let’s get to the numbers: When the first Tooth Fairy Index was conducted in 1998, the average amount paid per tooth was $1.30, which equates to more than $2.50 when adjusted for inflation. But the current average sits at $5.84, denoting a 17% increase from last year’s average of $5.01. This marks the first time since 2023 that the TFI has gone up, as 2024 and 2025 each saw a slight decline. The current $5.84 average also marks a 349% spike since the TFI began.

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The 17% increase in the TFI from 2025 to 2026 is almost perfectly in line with the S&P 500, which increased 16% over that same time period. The S&P 500 has also jumped 480.93% since 1998 — the year the TFI began. While the percentage may be higher than the TFI’s 349%, it indicates parallel growth during that same time period. (But that’s not to say it’s all growth all the time: The S&P 500 has been trending downward in recent weeks.)

Delta Dental provided some additional insights, including the fact that parents — ahem, sorry, the Tooth Fairy — reported leaving more money when a child loses their first tooth. The stats show that a first tooth is worth 23% more than average, or around $7.17. Some 38% of parents who were surveyed said they left extra cash to celebrate that milestone before dropping the amount for any teeth lost going forward. And the Tooth Fairy doesn’t leave cash for everyone: 32% of kids got gifts instead.

Dollar bill on a bed — Credit: © yanadjan/stock.adobe.com

The Tooth Fairy’s Rates by Region

The average amount left for a tooth also varies depending on where the Tooth Fairy visits.

The Northeast has the highest total of any region at $6.45, which is a 41% jump from 2025. In the West, lost teeth earn a $5.99 reward — a 5% increase year-over-year.

Next up is the South, which held the top spot in 2025. Despite a 3% increase from 2025 to 2026, it now holds the third ranking at $5.89. Last on the list is the Midwest, where kids earn $5.27 per tooth, 52% more than in 2025.

But the Tooth Fairy isn’t merely an American phenomenon — other countries reward kids for lost teeth as well. In Canada, the average is $8.00 CAD ($5.78 USD); in England it’s 4.34 pounds ($5.78 USD); Spain and Ireland leave 4.96 euros ($5.72 USD) per tooth; and in Japan, each tooth is worth 904 yen ($5.66 USD).

Lauren Dana Ellman

This article is for general informational purposes only.
Affiliate Disclaimer Medical Disclaimer Financial Disclaimer

Updated:

Posted In: Wealth

Hero Image Credit: Better Report

Wealth

7 Smart Ways To Save at the Pump

Better Report

These days, filling up your gas tank is a painful experience: All you can do is watch as the cost surges ever higher. Indeed, according to AAA, the average price of a gallon of gas in the U.S. jumped a dollar between February and March, and it doesn’t seem like it’s going to come down anytime soon. Fortunately, there are some smart and simple ways you can conserve fuel and save at the pump.

A Shell gas station — Credit: © Alexandr Blinov/stock.adobe.com

Buy gas on certain days of the week.

A recent analysis by GasBuddy, an app that helps drivers find cheap gas stations, showed that across most of the U.S., Sundays are the best day to hit the pump for maximum savings. Drivers can expect to pay more from Wednesday through Friday. GasBuddy also broke down the data state-by-state; you can find out the best and worst days to buy gas where you live here.

Woman filling up her gas tank — Credit: © Maksym Belchenko/iStock

A number of gas stations — including BP, Shell, and Exxon Mobil — offer loyalty programs that cut the price of a gallon of gas. Some grocery stores also offer fuel reward programs: Earning 100 points in Stop & Shop’s GO Rewards, for example, will knock 10 cents off a gallon of gas at participating stations, and you can stack those deals for up to $1.50 off per gallon (capped at 20 gallons). Being a member of a big-box store can help you save, too; Costco members can take advantage of cheaper prices at their gas stations. Walmart+ members can get 10 cents off per gallon not just at their stations but at Exxon Mobil and Murphy USA stations as well. Walmart+ members can also take advantage of the member prices at Sam’s Club.

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Additionally, if you have a credit card that earns points or cash back for purchases, you may want to use that at the pump; in some cases, you can even use your credit card rewards to buy gas station gift cards. That said, a card might not always be the best way to pay, particularly if a gas station offers a lower price for using cash over credit.

A gas pump with three types of gas: regular, plus, and premium — Credit: © CHUYN/iStock

Switch the type of gas you’re buying (if you can).

Unless premium fuel is specifically recommended or required by your vehicle’s manufacturer, you can probably opt for less-expensive regular gas at the pump. According to Kelley Blue Book, “Most cars, trucks, and SUVs are fine running on a diet of regular gasoline.” If premium is recommended, though, stick with it: You’ll not only have better vehicle performance and fuel economy, but you’ll save yourself the headache of issues like engine knocking, which could necessitate expensive repairs.

Pouring oil into an engine — Credit: © AlexGo/stock.adobe.com

Stay on top of vehicle maintenance.

Routine maintenance on your vehicle will ensure it’s in the best possible shape, which in turn will help improve its fuel economy. Regular oil changes are a must, as is tire rotation. Making sure your tires are properly inflated is important, too — it could save you 11 cents a gallon and make your tires last longer as well.

Change how and when you drive.

Before you get in your car, plan ahead — try to travel outside of high-traffic periods and aim to tackle multiple errands in one trip using the most efficient route possible.

And if you have a lead foot, now’s the time to ease up: You can conserve gas by going the speed limit, particularly on the highway, where, as AAA notes, “aerodynamic drag causes fuel economy to drop off significantly as speeds increase above 50 mph.” (Cruise control can help; just make sure not to use it when roads are slippery.)

Stomping on the gas and slamming on the brakes waste fuel, too. According to the Department of Energy (DOE), driving aggressively can lower your gas mileage up to 30% on the highway and as much as 40% in traffic. Instead, aim to accelerate smoothly, and take your foot off the gas to allow your car to slow down on its own before you hit the brakes.

You should also avoid idling whenever possible. In the winter months, don’t let your car warm up for too long, and if your car is parked and you’re going to be there for more than a minute, turn it off. In the summer, avoid using the air conditioning when you can. According to AAA, “Even at highway speeds, open windows have less effect on fuel economy than the engine power required to operate the air conditioning compressor.”

Remove items that add weight and create drag.

A heavy car is a car that wastes gas, so take stock of your trunk and backseat and remove anything unnecessary. The same goes for roof racks and boxes, which can increase drag and decrease fuel economy even when they’re empty. In the latter case, you might see fuel economy reduced by around 2% to 8% when driving in the city and between 10% to 25% when going 65 mph to 75 mph on the highway, according to the DOE.

Gas gauge with the indicator on empty — Credit: © kckate16/iStock

Don’t let your gas tank hit “E.”

It might be tempting to put off filling up for as long as possible, but according to experts, your tank should be at least a quarter full at all times, for a number of reasons. One, when the tank is nearly empty, the gas pump could overheat. Not only that, but sediment that has accumulated at the bottom of the tank could end up clogging your fuel line. An empty tank also leaves room for humidity that could condense into water, which can rust your tank and cause issues in your fuel system.

Having some gas in the tank is helpful in cold-weather emergencies, too, and making sure you’re nowhere near empty will help you avoid having to buy in high-price locations, such as near a highway or in a wealthy neighborhood. So if you’re approaching that quarter-tank mark, get thee to a gas station — apps like GasBuddy and GasGuru can help you find the best prices near you.

Erin McCarthy

Editor, Better Report

This article is for general informational purposes only.
Affiliate Disclaimer Medical Disclaimer Financial Disclaimer

Updated: March 23, 2026

Posted In: Wealth

Hero Image Credit: Better Report

Health

Why Do I Get Hangry?

Better Report

When you feel that rumble deep in your stomach, it’s probably time to grab a bite to eat. But if you can’t find some food to sate those urges right away, you may find yourself acting a little bit snippy, which can be off-putting to those around you. This irritated sensation is called being “hangry” — a portmanteau combining the words “hungry” and “angry.”

Some people equate being hangry to throwing a temper tantrum, like a baby crying for its pacifier. But telling a person who’s hangry to grow up and stop whining is easier said than done, as there’s a physiological reason why people end up that way. Let’s take a closer look at the science behind this food-based phenomenon.

Hands with knife and fork and empty plate — Credit: © seb_ra/iStock

Low Sugar, High Tensions

Hanger occurs due to a number of factors. If you fail to eat anything for a lengthy period of time, the glucose (or sugar) levels in your bloodstream decrease, triggering hormone production to bring your levels back to normal. One hormone that’s produced is cortisol, a stress hormone that prompts the release of glucose from the liver. But cortisol also causes anxiety and aggression.

Low sugar levels similarly trigger the release of adrenaline, which in turn activates the body’s “fight or flight” response. This puts people on high alert and can exacerbate any stress the person may already be feeling.

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Studies also show that low glucose levels inhibit a person’s self-control, which can limit their ability to keep their aggression at bay. This can cause sudden and volatile outbursts, as your body lacks the energy that’s necessary to process any stress and react appropriately.

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Other Side Effects

While irritability is among the most common side effects of low blood sugar levels, they can also lead to a slew of other unwanted physical responses, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. If it’s not dealt with, low blood sugar can eventually lead to blurry vision, slurred speech, or even a loss of coordination.

Imagine you’re so busy at work that you don’t have a chance to eat anything, to the point that you start to doze off from low blood sugar while driving home. Or it’s your wedding day and you don’t eat for hours, only to faint on the dance floor. These are a few extreme examples of how hunger may send the body into a state of undue stress, but even milder cases of hanger need to be addressed.

Person holding protein bar — Credit: © FreshSplash/iStock

Preventing Hanger

The surest way to avoid being hangry and keep blood sugar levels in proper balance is to stay hydrated, exercise often, get plenty of sleep, and of course, eat throughout the day. If you know you’re going to be busy and may miss a meal, a light snack can help hold you over, preventing anger, nausea, or any other negative side effects.

If you’re prone to hanger, try to keep protein bars, granola bars, or other nutrient-rich snacks nearby so that they’re handy in those times of need, and be sure to listen to your body and eat something when you feel hungry. This is good not only for you but also for your friends, family, and co-workers who may otherwise have to deal with your hanger.

Lauren Dana Ellman

This article is for general informational purposes only.
Affiliate Disclaimer Medical Disclaimer Financial Disclaimer

Updated:

Posted In: Health

Hero Image Credit: Better Report

Wealth

The States With the Highest — and Lowest — Tax Rates in 2026

Person in front of computer with paper and pencil

Better Report

While the exact percentage people pay in federal tax varies depending on their personal income-based tax bracket, those rates are consistent nationwide. State and local taxes, on the other hand, can vary somewhat dramatically: According to a new analysis, there’s a nearly 10% gap between states with the highest and lowest tax rates, which could make certain locations more appealing to those seeking a lower tax burden.

The total amount you pay in state taxes comprises many different kinds of taxes, including income, sales and excise, real estate, and vehicle property taxes, just to name a few. The good news is that you don’t have to track down these numbers individually; the personal finance company WalletHub has already analyzed and ranked the states (and Washington, D.C.) with the highest and lowest tax rates. The company looked at the four types of taxes mentioned above and “calculated relative income-tax obligations by applying the effective income-tax rates in each state and locality to the average American’s income.” Let’s take a look at some of their findings.

Highway signs for towns in Illinois — Credit: © Caroline Munsterman/iStock

The Five Highest

Illinois – 16.87%
New York – 14.95%
Connecticut – 14.58%
Pennsylvania – 14.09%
New Jersey – 14.06%

In 2026, the national average for state and local tax rates is 11.02%. Compare that with 16.87% in the Land of Lincoln, which levies the highest such rates in the nation. In terms of actual cash, this equals $13,699 per person based on median household income nationwide, or $12,538 based on the median household income in Illinois, specifically.

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Part of what accounts for these high tax rates is the state’s 3.43% income tax rate, which ranks as the fifth-highest in the nation. Illinois also imposes an 8.24% effective real estate tax, ranking second after New Jersey’s 8.65%. There’s a steep drop-off after Illinois, as the runner-up (New York) has an overall tax rate of almost two percentage points lower. Three other Northeast states round out the top five: Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.

Road with a yellow sign warning of moose — Credit: © ferrantraite/iStock

The Five Lowest

Alaska – 6.94%
Delaware – 7.19%
Wyoming – 7.58%
Idaho – 7.65%
Montana – 7.88%

The average Alaskan is responsible for paying just 6.94% in state and local taxes, which is the lowest percentage of any state. This equals just $5,634 based on national median income, and $6,153 based on statewide median income in Alaska.

Taxes in Alaska aren’t universally low across the board, though — the state levies an effective real-estate tax of 4.53%, which ranks as the 16th-highest in the country. But all other state and local taxes keep the overall number low, including 0% in vehicle property taxes, 0% in income taxes, and 2.41% in sales tax (the fifth-lowest nationwide). Delaware’s average tax rate of 7.19% puts it in the No. 2 spot, followed by Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. Together, these states comprise the only five states in WalletHub’s analysis with an effective tax rate that falls below 8%.

Rolled up money in front of a green background — Credit: © jansucko/iStock

Takeaways

State and local tax rates provide us with indisputable numbers, which many take into account when considering a move to another state. But it’s important not to be too narrow-minded when analyzing these numbers, and to view them in a broader context. After all, these percentages aren’t necessarily indicative of quality of life.

For instance, some states impose high taxes to pay for public services such as schools and roads, which may be important to those who have young children or drive often. But not all state-provided services are that desirable, and some people may prefer more money in their pocket now. All this is to say that taxes offer us only a small piece of the puzzle, and there are external factors worth taking into account when deciding where to live.

To see where your state ranks, head over to WalletHub.

Bennett Kleinman

Staff Writer

This article is for general informational purposes only.
Affiliate Disclaimer Medical Disclaimer Financial Disclaimer

Updated: July 20, 2023

Posted In: Wealth

Hero Image Credit: Better Report

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