In the new law, Congress requires that a taxpayer submitting an offer make a nonrefundable 20% deposit of what he proposes to pay.

FORBES: When Congress hunts for revenue, anything goes.

As Mr. Hartwig suggests, trip-cancellation coverage is best for travelers who are spending a lot of money for a nonrefundable itinerary, such as a cruise or a journey involving multiple flights or modes of transportation.

WSJ: Is Travel Insurance Worth the Cost?

Similarly, if the amount showing as tax due on your federal form 1040 at line 46 (or form 1040A, line 28) is less than the credit, the credit must be reduced since this is a nonrefundable credit.

FORBES: Ask the taxgirl: Child Tax Credit

Ticket buyers would have the right to a refund within 48 hours of purchasing a ticket, even "nonrefundable" ones.

FORBES: Fact and Comment

When licensing images for books, posters or trading cards, she insists on large, nonrefundable advances against royalties--a demand few illustrators can get away with, says Russell Cochran of Gemstone Publishing, who has dealt with the artist for 30 years.

FORBES: Collecting