In your letter, clearly identify the problem and the resolution that you would like. For example, you might say, “I am writing because the Acme Widget that I bought does not glow in the dark, as the advertising claims. I would like to return it for a full refund. ” Summarize your prior efforts to resolve the problem. You should provide the dates and locations of any contacts you made with anyone from the company. For example, you might say, “On October 1, 2016, I returned to the Acme store in Anytown, USA, and I spoke with the manager, Mr. Smith. I asked to return the widget, but he told me he would not refund my money. ”
Employee/employer disputes Discrimination claims Matters that are/have been litigated/arbitrated Complaints against individuals not engaged in business Issues challenging the validity of local, state, or federal law Complaints against government agencies, including the postal service Matters not related to marketplace issues
Vehicle Cell phone or wireless carrier Business product or service Business advertising Business privacy policy or practices Charity
You are required to identify the specific location for the store. If you cannot provide this information, you will have to find it or you will not be able to proceed with the online complaint form. After you identify the business and its location, you may be redirected to another screen. Your complaint will then be handled by the local or regional branch of the BBB where the business is located. You will need to proceed by answering the questions that are presented.
An exact copy of what you write will be sent to the business. The text of your complaint will be posted on the BBB websites. Therefore, you should not include any personally identifying information in the text that you write. Do not include names, telephone numbers, or account numbers. Remain professional. If you use insulting, derogatory or profane language, your complaint will not be processed. You’re also unlikely to get results that way. Focus on the details of the problem. Keep it brief. Provide only the relevant details. You do not need to repeat every step of your transaction or any subsequent conversations. Focus on the relevant details of your dispute.
If you wish to revise any part of your complaint, you may do so by selecting “Previous” at the bottom of the screen. When you are satisfied that the complaint is accurate and complete, then submit it by clicking on “Submit Complaint” at the bottom of the screen. If you have changed your mind and wish not to submit your complaint at all, you can select “Cancel. ”
Even if the company continues to deny your complaint, you may wish to use its response in any future action that you choose to take.
If the amount is within a particular dollar amount, you may be able to file a complaint in small claims court. This is a division of your local trial court that has simplified procedures and generally easier paperwork. For information, you should contact the trial court in your county.
