Don't give up if you are not satisfied with the seller's response to your complaint.
Once you have given the seller a reasonable amount of time to respond, consider
filing a complaint with one or more of these outside organizations.
- State or local consumer protection offices. These
government agencies
mediate complaints, conduct investigations, and prosecute offenders of consumer
laws.
- State regulatory agencies that have jurisdiction over the
business. For example, banking,
securities,
insurance, and
utilities are regulated
at the state level.
- State and local licensing agencies. Doctors, lawyers, home
improvement contractors, auto repair shops, debt collectors, and childcare
providers are required to register or be licensed. The board or agency that
oversees this process may handle complaints and have the authority to take
disciplinary action. Your state or local consumer protection office can help
you identify the appropriate agency.
- Better Business Bureaus. The BBB network of nonprofit organizations supported by local businesses tries to resolve buyer complaints against sellers.
Records are kept on unresolved complaints as a source of information for the
seller's future customers. The umbrella organization for the BBBs assists with
complaints concerning the truthfulness of national advertising and helps settle
disputes with automobile manufacturers through the BBB AUTO LINE program.
- Trade associations. Companies selling similar products or
services often belong to trade associations that can help resolve problems
between companies and consumers.
- National consumer organizations. Some consumer organizations assist consumers with complaints. Others may be unable to help individuals but
are interested in hearing about problems that could influence their education
and advocacy efforts.
- Media programs. Local newspapers, radio stations, and television
stations often have Action Lines or Hotline services that try to resolve
consumer complaints they receive. To find these services, check with your
local newspapers or broadcast stations. See the Call for Action page.
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