FAQs
If you have a complaint about a product you bought online, try to resolve it by contacting the seller or website first. If contacting the seller or website does not work, file a complaint with: Your state's consumer protection office. Your state's attorney general.
What should you do if you have a problem with an online purchase? ›
Report Problems
If you have a problem when you shop online, try to work it out directly with the seller or site owner. If that doesn't work, tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
How can I get my money back from an online order? ›
Call your credit card to start the process. Make sure to put the billing error complaint in writing within 60 days of receiving your credit card statement. Debit cards are a bit trickier because they have different consumer protections. You may not get a refund for non-delivery.
What is the best way to complain about something you bought online? ›
Before contacting the seller, check if they have an official complaints procedure. You can usually find a seller's complaints procedure on their website - make sure you follow it when you complain. It's best to email or write to the seller - you can use a template letter.
What to do if online order is wrong? ›
You should contact the seller to ask for redelivery or a refund. If the item was delivered by a courier: Check your terms and conditions or account details - they might include other places for delivery, like your porch or a neighbour's house.
Can I get my money back from a fake website? ›
If you paid by card or PayPal
If you've paid for something you haven't received, you might be able to get your money back. Your card provider can ask the seller's bank to refund the money. This is known as the 'chargeback scheme'. If you paid by debit card, you can use chargeback however much you paid.
What to do if a company won't refund you? ›
Get Outside Help
- Contact your state attorney general or state consumer protection office. ...
- Contact a national consumer organization. ...
- Contact your local Better Business Bureau The Better Business Bureau is made up of organizations supported by local businesses. ...
- File a report with the FTC.
What to do if I can't get a refund? ›
Try to contact the trader
It's best to email or write to the trader - you can use a template letter. Keep a copy of anything you send, in case you need to check it later. If you can't contact the trader or they won't help, you can then ask your card provider or PayPal.
What happens if a company doesn't refund you? ›
This is called a chargeback. It may sound like a forced refund, but that's not exactly how it works. A chargeback is a serious process, and you should only request one if you have a legitimate dispute with a business and the business refuses to help you resolve it on their own.
What are my consumer rights? ›
Satisfactory quality: The product shouldn't be damaged or faulty when you receive it. Fit for purpose: You should be able to use it for what the seller says it will do (its purpose), whether that's their statement when you buy it, or an answer to your question. For instance, a tin opener should open tins.
You need to contact your credit card provider and tell them you want to make a claim to get your money back.
What to do if a retailer refuses a refund? ›
If you can't get the support you need from the retailer in the form of a refund, repair or replacement, you can file a complaint with the company. If that still doesn't help, you can contact the Consumer Ombudsman.
What to do if you pay for something and don't receive it? ›
Check the delivery address you gave the seller. Then contact them and ask where your order is. If the seller claims they've delivered it or don't know where it is, you can ask for a redelivery. You might be able to get a refund in some circ*mstances.
Who should you first contact with a consumer complaint? ›
File a complaint with government or consumer programs
File a complaint with your local consumer protection office. Notify the Better Business Bureau (BBB) in your area about your problem. The BBB tries to resolve complaints against companies. If you think you may have experienced a scam, report it to the FTC.
What to do if you get scammed online shopping? ›
However, cybercriminals take advantage of the anonymity of online shopping to scam online buyers. If you get scammed while shopping online, you need to contact your credit card issuer, freeze your credit, change any compromised passwords, contact the online marketplace and report the scam to the FTC.
What to do if I get scammed online? ›
You Think You've Been Scammed. Now What?
- STOP CONTACT WITH THE SCAMMER. Hang up the phone. ...
- SECURE YOUR FINANCES.
- CHECK YOUR COMPUTER. ...
- CHANGE YOUR ACCOUNT PASSWORDS. ...
- REPORT THE SCAM.
What to do if you made a bad purchase? ›
If you have regrets about a recent purchase, these strategies might help you manage your buyer's remorse.
- Try to return smaller purchases.
- Make a budget to manage spending.
- Make the most of your situation.