Consumer Advisory Bulletin-December 2007

Consumer Tips for Holiday Shoppers

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 www.IowaAttorneyGeneral.org (click on “consumer protection”), or at www.FTC.gov for Federal Trade Commission info on shopping online.

Returns: Make sure you know a store's policy on returns before you make a purchase. Remember, there is no state law that requires stores to give a refund, exchange, or credit for merchandise -- unless the store advertises that it accepts such returns. (Consumers also may seek a refund, exchange or credit if an article is defective or was misrepresented.) Remember, Iowa's three-day-right-to-cancel law only applies to door-to-door sales, or sales made away from a seller's usual place of business. In short, most refund policies are up to individual retailers. [For more information, go to returns.]

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. [For more information, go to gift cards and certificates.]

For online purchases, pay by credit card - it gives you protections you don't have when you pay by cash or check.

To file a complaint or get more information, contact the Consumer Protection Division, Hoover Bldg., Des Moines, IA 50319. Call 515-281-5926, or toll-free at 1-888-777-4590. On the web: www.IowaAttorneyGeneral.org. Have a wonderful holiday season.

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