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Here's a "shop smart" tip if you have a printer: "Be wary of off-brands of replacement inks; we have found brand-name cartridges to have better print quality overall, and per page costs are often comparable." I definitely concur with that tip. In trying to be cheap, I've tried all kinds of methods to reduce the cost of ink cartridge replacements. I usually end up with ink on my hands and a trip to the store to get the brand-name cartridge.

Let me say this one thing about the guide and Consumer Reports magazine. I know you can get both at your local public library and I certainly would encourage you to make a visit there if you're strapped for cash. However, if you can truly afford a magazine subscription or the guide, buy them. I feel compelled to say this because Consumer Reports survives on selling its magazine, guide and online information and services.

Consumer Reports buys all the products it tests and does not accept free samples or advertising. It also doesn't allow companies to use its information or ratings to promote products (although I've known many salespeople to carry around a good CR review).

Are the tests and advice perfect? Not always. I sometimes disagree with some of the ratings. Still, this is the best thing out there. Consumer Reports and the editors are on our side and it's important to financially support this unbiased, independent source of consumer product and service information.

If you are interested in discussing this month's book selection, join me online at noon Eastern on May 25 at http://www.washingtonpost.com/ . Lisa Lee Freeman, deputy editor at Consumer Reports, will be my guest and will be available to take your questions.

To become a member of the Color of Money Book Club, all you have to do is read the recommended book and come chat online with the author and me. In addition, every month I randomly select readers to receive copies of the book, donated by the publisher. For a chance to win a copy of the "Consumer Reports Buying Guide 2006," send an e-mail to colorofmoney@washpost.com . Please include your name and an address so we can send you a book if you win.

· On the air: Michelle Singletary discusses personal finance Tuesdays on NPR's "Day to Day" program and online athttp://www.npr.org.

· By mail: Readers can write to her at The Washington Post, 1150 15th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20071.

· By e-mail:singletarym@washpost.com.

Comments and questions are welcome, but because of the volume of mail, personal responses are not always possible. Please note that comments or questions may be used in a future column, with the writer's name, unless a specific request to do otherwise is indicated.