School starts next week and that means back to school shopping for many of us! Start the learning early this year by teaching your kids the importance of being a smart consumer! Here are tips we would like to share about retail sales and cell phones that we often receive questions about.
Retail Sales
Whether you’re buying stationery supplies, new clothes, or a new laptop, it’s important to ask about the store’s return and refund policy before you pay for your items. Stores are not required by law to accept refunds, exchanges, or provide store credit. This means that each retailer has the right to create their own policies. Make a habit of always keeping your receipts as many shops which do offer refunds will only do so with proof of purchase.
Cell Phones
There are many enticing back to school cell phone plans offered by cellular phone providers. If you are thinking about getting a cell phone for you or someone in your family, ask about the services and features that will be included in your monthly rate. With texts, internet usage and special features becoming the norm, it is easy to go over your monthly limits. It is important to understand that the majority of cell phone companies do not provide a “grace” period in which you can change your mind. Carefully consider what you will be using the phone for and choose a plan that works for you. And always read the fine print in the contract before signing it!
ADDITIONAL READING:
Our top 5 tips for online shopping
Tips if you’re buying a used cell phone
Dear Consumer Protection BC: returns and refunds
I just recently had my eye check-up and the optometrist suggest that I can try the multifocal which he lower the prescription on my right eye as an option so I can read without reading glasses. I thought it was alright for me upon having me tried the contact lenses -2.50 left, -1.00 right. (My actual prescription -2.50 left, -2.50 right) so tried them for four consecutive days but felt dizziness all the time.
The problem was I already ordered and paid the contact lenses. Went to the store to pick up the contact lenses and told them the reason asked them to exchange the 2 boxes but refused and mentioned that there is no refund/ exchange but the boxes were not open and still in the store.
Another thing I notice on the receipt that they charged me fitting fee on top of eye exam fee which I was not aware. They said on the website $89.95 for eye exam and on the store ads $89.95 no hidden fee.
Is there any chance to make a complaint and punish them
Hi Roger, thank you for posting your question. As this blog post suggests, retail stores are not required by law to accept refunds, exchanges, or provide store credit. This means that each retailer has the right to create their own policies. One place you may want to contact would be Better Business Bureau. Their link is here – http://www.bbb.org/mbc If you are located on Vancouver Island, use this link here – http://www.bbb.org/vancouver-island/
I hope this information helps. If you have any other questions please fee free to contact us again.