The BBB warns Consumers to Understand Store Policies!
1. Exclusions and limitations: Conditions to an offer must be listed in the ad or the coupon. See a manager if you feel a misrepresentation has drawn you to the store.
2. Cancellation and returns: Have these explained for an item or service before purchasing it. For instance, did you know that some stores charge restocking fees on returns? And that you have 3 days to back out of a credit/debt counseling transaction?
3. Credit/debit card use: With credit card charges, consumers are only held liable for $50 in unauthorized charges. Debit cards may not provide such protection.
4. Gift cards: Be careful purchasing gift cards from a retailer that may be closing or that has filed for bankruptcy because you may not be able to redeem the gift card if this occurs.
5. Layaways: Additional fees may be charged. To avoid problems, get the store's lay- away policy in writing including its terms and refund policy.
6. Online shopping: Take time to read through the Web site to find the cost of shipping and handling fees, and whether they provide a free shipping label for returns.
7. Rain checks: If your item is sold out, you have the right to a rain check unless the ad mentions the number of goods available, or if the store is selling seasonal or clearance items. But remember that the next shipment may not arrive until after Christmas.
8. Keep important information: When ordering by phone or computer, record the seller's name, phone number, confirmation number, terms and policies.
9. The point of "No Return": Be clear on how long you have to make an exchange or return. Don't assume you have 30 days and be stuck giving a Christmas gift that can't be returned if it is unsatisfactory.
10. Billing errors: Beware of unauthorized purchases and fees. Notify your financial institution immediately if your credit/debit card or checking account has charges that you didn't make.
*Never, never, never throw away receipts until you have disposed of the purchase. Write the identity of the purchase on the receipt and keep them all in a big envelope for the year, such as "2008." Even years later, if a problem develops, you may need the receipt for an insurance claim or warranty problem. Go through the past year's envelopes once a year and clean out the obsolete receipts.
Ric Herrold - BBB
www.bbb.org