Consumer - Page 15
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Why a Popular Crossover Could Lead to a Series of Expensive Repairs
ITV Expert Names 2009 Audi Q5 the Worst Purchase on the Used Car Market. The 2009 Audi Q5 with a 2.0 TFSI engine may look attractive, but ITV mechanics report that this car often causes owners serious problems with the transmission and electronics. We explain why you should be extra cautious when considering this model.
Why You Can Still Get Fined on the Road Even With a Passed Inspection
€100 Fine for Missing ITV Sticker: How Simple Forgetfulness Turns Into a Problem. In Spain, drivers can be fined not only for an expired ITV but also for lacking the sticker on their windshield. Even if your vehicle has passed inspection, an officer can issue a €100 fine if the sticker is missing or incorrectly placed. We explain how to avoid this common mistake.
Why Automatic Yearly Calculation Fails and What You Need to Know
The 4-Month Rule for Unemployment Benefit Per Year of Work: How SEPE Actually Calculates. The widespread belief that you receive four months of unemployment benefits for each year of employment does not always match reality. SEPE uses a complex calculation system that only considers certain periods and is governed by strict conditions.
What Really Works Against Cold Calling and Phone Scams
How to Stop Annoying Calls with One Phrase: A New Way to Fight Spam. Persistent calls offering products and services have become a common nuisance for mobile phone owners in Spain. However, there is a way to stop these calls without blocking numbers or unnecessary stress — you just need to know the right phrase and use it at the right moment.
Why one in four buses in Spain fails the technical inspection on the first try
Key Reasons for Failures at the ITV and What This Means for Passengers. In Spain, nearly a third of buses and intercity coaches fail their technical inspection on the first attempt. The main reasons are vehicle age, wear and tear, and serious technical defects. This has a direct impact on the safety of millions of passengers.
Passenger paid the fare while en route — system penalizes even a few seconds' delay
Swiss passenger fined €140 for buying train ticket 17 seconds after departure. In Switzerland, a regional train passenger was fined €140 for purchasing a ticket just 17 seconds after the train departed. Instant in-app payment didn't spare him from sanctions—the automatic system makes no distinction between a late purchase and riding without a ticket.
Rules, Risks, and Details: What Drivers Face When Driving Barefoot
Why Driving Barefoot in Spain Can Cost You Up to 200 Euros. There is no explicit ban on driving barefoot in Spain, but a police officer may issue a fine if they believe it affects your control of the vehicle. We explain when the risk of a 200-euro penalty becomes real and how to avoid trouble on the road.
Summer barbecue restrictions tighten — fines reach hundreds of thousands of euros
Barbecue Ban: Where and When Is Grilling on an Open Fire Prohibited in Spain. With the arrival of hot weather, Spain enforces strict restrictions on lighting fires and preparing barbecues. Violating these rules can lead to hefty fines, and in some regions, the ban even applies to private terraces. We explain where and when you cannot grill meat this summer.
How the law works and why disputes between neighbors are unavoidable
Can You Park a Car and Motorcycle in One Parking Space: What Is Actually Allowed. Owners of parking spaces often try to park both a car and a motorcycle on a single spot. However, such practices are not always legal and may lead to conflicts with neighbors. We explain what the law allows and how to avoid losing your parking space.
Several Popular Brands Subjected to Emergency Sanitary Inspection
Spain Launches Massive Recall of Fresh Cheeses Over Listeria Threat. A major public health alert has been issued in Spain: fresh cow's milk cheeses from well-known brands are being urgently pulled from shelves after Listeria monocytogenes was detected. Consumers are advised to carefully check packaging and not to risk their health.
Who is Eligible and How to Apply for the 2026 Municipal Child Benefit
Barcelona Opens Applications for Support up to 1,650 Euros for Families with Children Under 16. Barcelona has begun accepting applications for municipal assistance for families with children under 16. The maximum payment amount is 1,650 euros, but only those who meet certain criteria can receive it. Details on the rules, deadlines, and application specifics are in the article.
From May 29, you can make an appointment for an in-person IRPF tax return filing
Spanish Tax Agency Announces Dates for In-Person Income Tax Filing Appointments. Starting May 29, Spain will open appointments for in-person visits at tax offices to file 2025 income tax returns. In-person submission will begin on June 1 and continue through the end of June 2026. Bank payment will have a separate deadline.
Who is eligible for the new aid and how to obtain it
Spain introduces annual payment of 525 euros for pensioners without owned housing. Pensioners who receive non-contributory old-age or disability benefits and do not own their own home can count on additional support from the government. The new annual payment is designed to partially offset rental expenses.
Why the Difference Between Gross and Net Income Can Affect Eligibility for Assistance
SEPE Demands Gross Salary to Be Considered: Who Risks Losing Benefits. When applying for the insufficient-contribution subsidy, SEPE looks not at the amount received in your account but at income before taxes. This can become an unexpected obstacle for families with children and those counting on support.
Up to 40% of Income Could Go to Taxes: What's Changing for Renters
Owners of Tourist Apartments in Spain Face New Tax Risks. Renting out property to tourists in Spain now demands increased tax vigilance. New regulations and a digital registry require owners to accurately declare their rental income, as penalties for non-compliance can be substantial.
The city joins Madrid and Barcelona with new regulations for residents
Valencia introduces fines of up to 3,000 euros for air conditioners on facades. In Valencia, installing an air conditioner on the building facade can now become an expensive mistake. City authorities require all equipment to be placed only on rooftops or in inner courtyards; otherwise, owners risk removal and fines. The new regulations are already in effect.
What Are Banks Hiding Behind TV and Smartphone Promotions?
Bank gifts: why free gadgets and money may lead to taxes. Banks attract clients with gifts — from cash to electronic devices. But these pleasant bonuses often come with a tax obligation: the gift must be declared, and a portion of its value paid to the state. How to avoid pitfalls and what to check in advance — in our analysis.
Mid-sized and online banks compete for deposits, while major players are slow to change terms
Spanish Banks Raise Deposit Rates: Why This Worries the ECB. Interest in bank deposits is rising again in Spain, with some banks offering up to 3% per annum to attract clients. However, the European Central Bank warns that excessive savings in accounts could create problems for future pensions and the economy.
Why Retro Caramels and Chewing Gum Are Making a Comeback with Adults
Nostalgia on the Palate: Adults Bring Back the Trend for Childhood Sweets in Spain. In Spain, adults are increasingly buying sweets that were once considered a children’s treat. Retro caramel candies, chewing gum, and hematogen are becoming fashionable again thanks to nostalgia and changing consumer habits. Businesses are quickly adapting to this demand.
Spain Introduces Bottle Return System to Boost Recycling Efforts
From November 2026, a deposit will be charged in Spain for each bottle and can. Spain is changing its beverage purchasing rules: starting November 2026, the price of every bottle or can will include a refundable deposit. The new system will affect shops, bars, and restaurants, aiming to increase packaging recycling rates.
A new regulation changes the rules for handling leftover food in restaurants
Now by Law: Restaurants Must Provide Free Packaging for Leftover Food. Starting in 2025, Spain introduces a law requiring restaurants and bars to offer guests free containers for leftover food. There's no need to feel awkward about requesting to take your unfinished meal — it is now your right, not just a courtesy extended by the establishment.
Prices for renting sunbeds and umbrellas on the island's popular beaches vary sharply
44 euros per set: how much does a beach day cost in Mallorca in summer 2026. The beach season in Mallorca has kicked off with record price variations: from 5 to 44 euros for renting a sunbed, umbrella, and additional services. The cost of a beach day can differ greatly depending on the municipality. We look into where and what you’ll have to pay for this summer.
Government bonus will be paid automatically — funds will be credited directly
In Andalusia, thousands of families to receive automatic heating grant of up to 400 euros. In 2026, the Andalusian authorities will launch automatic payments under the Bono Social Térmico program. The amount of assistance depends on the region's climate and the family's vulnerability. Recipients do not need to apply—the money will be transferred to their account after notification by mail.
Fake Lidl Stores Target Shoppers Across Spain
INCIBE warns: Scammers posing as Lidl website steal personal data. A new wave of online fraud is sweeping Spain: fake Lidl websites lure shoppers with low prices and request personal and banking information. INCIBE experts explain how to avoid falling for the scam and what to do if you've been deceived.
The bank launches a major campaign with payouts for salaries, pensions, and utilities
Unicaja offers up to 900 euros to new customers for opening an online account. Unicaja has announced a new promotion: up to 900 euros in the first year for those who open an online account, transfer their salary or pension, and set up utility payments. The offer is valid until the end of June 2026 and is available exclusively to new customers.
What to do if your loan or rental is blocked because of ASNEF
How to Find Out for Free If You Are on the ASNEF List and Quickly Remove Your Data. You can end up on the ASNEF list even because of a small debt, and the consequences can be serious: loan rejection, difficulties with renting, and even issues with service providers. We explain how to check your status in the register for free and what steps to take to remove your information.
Why the N Icon Appears in the Top Bar on Android and Whether You Should Disable It
What Does the 'N' Mean on the Android Screen: An Important Feature Many Overlook. Sometimes the letter 'N' appears on Android smartphone screens — this is not an error or warning. This icon indicates that NFC technology is enabled, allowing you to make payments and verify your identity with your phone. We explain how this feature works and when you should consider turning it off.
From 2026, vending machines and school cafeterias to face strict regulations
Sweet Drinks and Snacks Banned in Spanish Schools: New Nutrition Rules. Starting from April 16, 2026, sodas, industrial pastries, and most snacks will vanish from Spanish schools and lyceums. The new nutrition rules are now mandatory for all educational institutions in the country and will even apply to cafeteria menus.
The law requires installing ramps and elevators for the elderly and people with disabilities
In Spain, Residents Over 70 Can Demand Removal of Steps Without a Vote. In Spain's apartment buildings, it is now prohibited to refuse the installation of a ramp or elevator if a resident over 70 or a person with disabilities lives in the building. The decision is made without a vote, though there is a financial limit for neighbors.
Which tax deductions actually work and where to find them in your tax return
Deductions in Renta-2026: How to Maximize Benefits for Housing, Rent, and Electric Vehicles. In 2026, Spain's tax declaration brings new opportunities for deductions: housing, rent, electric cars, energy efficiency, and donations. We explain who can take advantage of them and how, so you don’t miss out on your money.
What to do if your building smells like fried sardines or has noisy equipment at night
Neighbors vs. Noise and Odors: How the Law Resolves Domestic Conflicts. Spanish homes often become battlegrounds for disputes over noise, odors, and endless renovations. The law provides residents with tools to defend their rights, but requires a balance between personal habits and respect for neighbors.
Why rental prices in the capital have become unaffordable for SMI recipients
Madrid Rental Costs Surpass Minimum Wage by Hundreds of Euros. The average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Madrid exceeds the minimum wage by €340. The issue of housing affordability is once again at the forefront across Europe. The situation in the Spanish capital reflects a broader trend.
Hypixel Studios launches reward program for security testers
Hytale Offers Players Major Rewards for Discovered Vulnerabilities. PC owners of Hytale can now earn over €20,000 for identifying and properly reporting vulnerabilities. Hypixel Studios is launching a program that makes players part of the game’s security system.
The most common mistakes pension recipients make and how to avoid them
Five Key Points for Pensioners When Filling Out the Income Tax Return. Pensioners in Spain are once again in the spotlight during tax season. Even if a pension is the only source of income, there are details that can affect the final calculation. Let’s examine which sections of the tax return require special attention.
Why Custom Furniture Has Become an Expensive Project
Custom wardrobe prices in Spain have more than doubled. Ordering a custom wardrobe in Spain now means facing a significantly higher budget. Prices have risen from the usual €800 to €1,900 and above. The reasons are increased material costs, greater project complexity, and new design requirements.
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