With Black Friday quickly approaching, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Northeast Georgia is reminding consumers to shop smart this season.
BBB spokeswoman Dottie Callina said in a recent interview with AccessWDUN shoppers have a tendency to buy first and ask questions later. She said that's not a good idea.
"We're asking consumers to become very educated and when you walk into a store - especially one you've never been to before - look to see if they have a refund or exchange policy posted," Callina said.
Callina pointed out that in the state of Georgia businesses can set their own policies regarding refunds, exchanges and store credits, and in fact, businesses are not required by law to post any information at all about having or not having such policies.
According to the state's Department of Law, Consumer Protection Unit, "Georgia does not have any law that requires a business to provide a refund or accept returns. A business may set its own return policy and may offer consumers cash, in-store credit, exchanges or no adjustment at all. Many stores also set time limits during which they accept returns."
Therefore, said Callina, it is up to consumers to protect themselves.
"Before they even shop, they need to go up to someone at the establishment and say 'what are your policies regarding refunds, exchanges, etc.,'" Callina said. She said to remember to check online store policies, as well/
She said the only exceptions to the Georgia law would be for items that are misrepresented or defective.
Callina also said the BBB has a list of suggestions for consumers as they begin the holiday shopping season.
1. Save the receipt. Even if the store does not have a return policy, this information may be needed for warranty repair or to verify payment.
2. Find out each store’s policy regarding refunds/exchanges/store credits before making a purchase. Do not assume you have the right to return items just because it is not posted or no one has said otherwise.
3. If refunds or exchanges are allowed, find out the following:
1. Save the receipt. Even if the store does not have a return policy, this information may be needed for warranty repair or to verify payment.
2. Find out each store’s policy regarding refunds/exchanges/store credits before making a purchase. Do not assume you have the right to return items just because it is not posted or no one has said otherwise.
3. If refunds or exchanges are allowed, find out the following:
- a. Is there a specific time period in which items may be returned?
- b. Must the item(s) be in the original packaging?
- c. Will there be a restocking fee if you change your mind?
- d. Can you return the item to another location of the store (this is especially important if the gift recipient is out of state).
- e. Will the store give money back or will you be required to make an exchange or receive a store credit?
Callina said it's also a good idea before doing business with any company, to check out their business report at bbb.org.
