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CONSUMER
ADVISORY By Attorney General Tom Miller
Consumer
Tips for
The holiday
shopping season is by far the busiest time of year for most shoppers and retail stores --
and the season also generates more than its share of consumer problems. Why? Most
likely, it’s because of the sheer volume of purchases, because many consumers are in
a rush, and because people will make more gift returns and exchanges than during other
seasons. It’s a very important time to be
a smart shopper. How to avoid
consumer problems:
Buying
Online: Be
sure to shop with reputable companies. Make
sure the seller lists an address or toll-free number, just in case you have a problem. Be sure purchases are refundable in case you are
not satisfied. Get all details on shipping and
handling fees, refund and return policies, and complaint procedures. Print out and keep records of your purchase. Use only “secure” web sites. Pay by credit card (not by check or debit card) so
you can dispute the bill if necessary. Find
more tips on “Web” shopping at (click on
“consumer protection”), or at
Returns and
“layaways”: Be sure to
know a store's policy on returns and layaways before you make a purchase,
especially in these times of tighter credit. Remember,
there is no state law that requires stores to give a refund, exchange, or credit
for merchandise returned or taken off layaway -- unless
the store advertises that it accepts such returns and refunds. (Consumers also may seek a refund, exchange or
credit if an article is defective or was misrepresented.)
Remember,
Receipts: Always
keep receipts. Most stores will not make refunds without them.
Mail orders: If you
order gifts by mail or telephone or over the Internet, you have certain protections. Federal law requires the seller to ship your
purchase within thirty days, unless the offer or advertisement specifies a later date. If there is a delay, the seller must notify you,
give you a chance to cancel your order, and send a full refund if you choose to cancel. Don’t send cash.
The safest way to pay for mail order purchases is by credit card.
Gift cards
and certificates: If you're thinking of buying a gift card, check the
store's policy. Find out if the store will
give a credit or cash return if the purchase price is less than the value of the gift card
or certificate, and check any other terms on the card.
To file a complaint or get more information, contact
the Consumer Protection Division, Hoover Bldg., Consumer Protection Division !
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