Deals for people who lose their jobs may be enticing, but beware the fine print
You can finally indulge in that vacation to Paris. And if you lose your job and need the money back, the airline will give you a refund. But such deals usually come with strings. The retailers’ goal is to ease doubts about spending. But each promotion differs, so here’s a rundown of six plans. All require you to submit an application and in most cases proof you were laid off.
CITIGROUP MORTGAGES: Citigroup will lower payments to an average of $500 a month for three months or longer.
The fine print: If your spouse is also listed on the mortgage, you both need to be unemployed and at least one of you needs to have been laid off in the past year. If one of you works, the annual income can’t be more than $10,000. Your mortgage also needs to be 60 days or more past due or in foreclosure. Your new lowered payment must at least cover escrow, which is generally property taxes and insurance.
DISCOVER CDS: Those who open or renew 12-month CDs won’t be charged penalties if they lose their job within one year and need to make an early withdrawal. The offer expires Dec. 31.
The fine print: There aren’t many catches. But you must be employed full time when you open or renew the CD, and for 30 days thereafter. You need a minimum balance of $2,500.
HYUNDAI CARS: You can return your car for up to one year after the purchase. If the value of the loan exceeds the value of the car, you’re not responsible for up to a $7,500 difference. If you want to keep the car, Hyundai covers up to three payments.
The fine print: You’re not eligible if you get a temp job or part-time work. You also need to have already made the first two payments. You must be employed for 90 days before filing your claim.
JETBLUE FLIGHTS: Get a refund for bookings made after Feb. 1. If you booked flights for family under your name, you could get refunds for up to nine seats. The offer ends Dec. 31.
The fine print: Bookings made with gift cards, vouchers, and the awards program are not eligible. If your application isn’t approved, JetBlue cancels the flight and charges a $100 fee. Requests must be faxed at least 14 days before departure, and an original copy of the request must be sent in by certified mail.
VIRGIN MOBILE CELLPHONE: Payments on plans will be covered for up to three months.
The fine print: Virgin covers up to $90 a month, so you pay the difference if your bill is higher. If you have more than one account, you can only submit a claim for one. You must have made two payments to be eligible.
WALGREENS’ CLINICS: Free services at Take Care Clinics for customers who lost their jobs on or after March 31 and have no health insurance. Treatments are limited to common ailments. Dependents are also covered if they don’t have insurance.
The fine print: You must have been a paying customer already. Medications aren’t covered, and neither are preventative visits.
Candice Choi writes for the Associated Press. 
