There
are several things that you should do every time you make a purchase.
We know you're reading this because you want a refund, but we
figured we had your attention and we'd tell you some useful stuff
to know -- if you follow each of these simple rules, then you will
not only encounter fewer problems when trying to obtain a refund,
but you may also avoid having to seek a refund in the first place.
- Make
sure the company is reputable
- Check
out the item carefully
- Ask
about the refund or cancellation policy
- Use
a credit card when buying big ticket items
- Get
a receipt
Make
sure the company is reputable
Ask
your friends where they shop and if they've ever had any problems
with the merchant from whom you're considering buying an item.
For large ticket items (washer, car, llama) you will probably also
want to contact the Better Business Bureau to see if the company
is in good standing (you'll probably pay a small fee). In addition,
information about some companies can be found on-line at search.bbb.org/bbb/plsql/bbbweb.searchform.
Check
out the item carefully
Tip
from Ralph Nader: "Don't buy something if it looks like
someone smashed it with a hammer." Also be on the look out
for more subtle signs that the item may be broken. Make sure the
packaging is not damaged and still has the factory seal. Ask the
salesperson if the item comes with a manufacturer's warranty;
if it doesn't, it may have been purchased on the gray market.
Gray market merchandise it not always held to the same standards
as merchandise purchased from authorized dealers: it may be missing
important items, like instructions and rebate coupons.
Ask
about the refund or cancellation policy
Most
states require stores to post their return policies by the cash
register or print it on the receipt. Make sure you know what the
policy is, and stay within the time limit if you decide to return
the item. Service contracts, (e.g., dating services, wireless phone
contracts, etc.) usually give consumers a three day right to cancel.
But make sure you read the fine print, because some companies require
you to send your cancellation request in writing via certified mail.
Use
a credit card when buying big ticket items
Even
if you have the cash, it is a good idea to charge very expensive
items (e.g., gym memberships and electronics equipment). Even if
the seller is unwilling to refund your money, you can dispute the
charges with your credit card company. Your credit card company
will go to bat for you with the seller and sometimes, just to keep
their customers happy, remove the charge from your statement even
if the seller doesn't agree.
Get
a receipt
You'll
need it to prove that you actually paid the company. Don't
buy anything without getting a receipt. If you spend more than $100.00,
you are entitled to an itemized receipt in some states get
one!
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