Home > Consumer Focus Archive > Accessing Local Services and Information Using the Internet
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Consumer Focus: Accessing Local Services and Information Using the Internet |
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Accessing
Local Services and Information Using the Internet
 You know the excuses, "…the line's
too long…," "…I'm busy…," etc. Many of us procrastinate--only
to regret it when paying late fees or while waiting in line
at the end of the month. If you're prone to putting things off,
then the growing prevalence of the Internet is good news for
you. Many states and localities offer speedy and convenient
access to services and information online, saving you time and
money.
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Points to Remember
The availability
of information and services that you can get over the Internet
varies from state
by state and by locality. So after reading this
article, don't assume you can just go online to your state DMV
web site and renew your car registration at the last minute!
Also, for many transactions, you'll need a password, and, for
privacy reasons, some states mail the password to your home,
which can take a few days. For transactions with a fee involved,
you'll likely need to pay by credit card. Now, a few of the
things you can do online…
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Department
of Motor Vehicle Transactions
 Your last visit to the DMV
may have begun with a wait in line just ask what form you needed
to register your car or change your address. Now, you can visit
your state's DMV web site to get answers to many basic questions
and download the forms you need. Many states offer even greater
convenience by allowing driver's license renewal and change
of address, payment of fees, and more online-without having
to leave your home or wait in line. Many DMV online transactions
will require that you register for a password in advance, so
get yours today!
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While We're on
the Subject of Address Changes
 The Postal Service offers many
services
online. If you're going on vacation, you can arrange
to have deliveries held. Are you moving, but not sure of the
zip code? You can look up the zip code, change your address,
and more on the Postal Service web site. Need stamps? Order
stamps online and sign up for periodic redeliveries so you'll
never run out. If you'd prefer, you can print the postage directly
from your computer. Looking for a unique gift? The Postal Service
online store has framed art celebrating some of America's favorite
stamps, collectibles, and more.
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And
What Else?
If
you need to replace a vital record, such as marriage, birth,
death certificate, and more, you can find out where to write
for vital records. Are you looking for quality
childcare near your home? There a handy online guide to help
you find quality
childcare in your area. Are you planning a road
trip to a national park? Make your national
park reservations and check up on what freeway
construction delays you might encounter along
the way. You can even use the Internet to find a variety of
statistics
and information about counties and communities
where you might open a business or plan to retire.
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Other
Resources
This is just a brief overview.
For more information, check out these resources:
Read
these publications online:
Websites*:
* Names of resources and organizations
included in this online article are provided as examples only,
and their inclusion does not mean that they are endorsed by
the Savvy Consumer Information Center or any Government
agency. Also, if a particular resource or organization is not
mentioned, this does not mean or imply that it is unsatisfactory.
*If you click
on these links, you are leaving our website. Please bookmark
us before you leave so you can return easily. We are not responsible
for the content of these websites.
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For
more information on other popular consumer issues check out
our Consumer
Focus Archive.
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