Online and Home Shopping

Late delivery, shipment of wrong or damaged items, and hidden costs are common home shopping complaints. To avoid problems and resolve them more easily, follow the advice in the "Before You Buy" checklist In addition:

• Be wary of post office boxes and sellers in other countries. It may be difficult to find the seller to resolve a problem later.
• Know the total price. Make sure it includes all charges, shipping, handling, insurance and taxes. Coupons and other discounts should be properly deducted.
• Make sure you are clear on what you are buying. Watch for words like "refurbished," "reconditioned," "close-out," or "discontinued."
• The security code on the back of your card offers you extra protections on online purchases.
• Keep a record of your purchase. Save any information the seller gives you such as product description, delivery date, cancellation policy, privacy policy, warranties, and order confirmation numbers.
• Keep track of your order. If it's late, you have the right to cancel and demand a refund.

Online and Group Coupons

In addition to the traditional coupons found in newspapers, coupons can also be found online. Online coupons come in a variety of forms; they can be found on manufacturers’ websites and on dedicated coupon websites. Coupons are also available on social media websites for becoming a fan of a product, or for sharing your email address with the company.
Group coupons are another online saving tool. Here’s how they work: local companies offer reduced prices for things like spa services, gourmet meals, and outdoor adventures through a third party company. If interested, you pay the third party company to take advantage of the deal. Group coupons allow you to try new experiences, by reducing the trial cost. Before you purchase a group coupon, ask yourself “Am I really going to use this?” If the answer is “no”, don’t buy it. Read the terms and conditions of all coupons for expiration dates or use limitations.