Resolved to lose weight in 2010? Great. But, don’t fall for “too good to be true” offers
December 29, 2009
Each year, losing weight is one of the most popular, commendable and challenging New Year's resolutions that Americans make. Not surprisingly, the marketplace is full of products that promise people an easier and softer way to shed their excess pounds. And, remarkably, this merchandise could be yours for only a nominal shipping and handling fee.
But, before you take out your credit card to sign up for a miracle product, take a hard, cautious look at the terms and conditions of sales and service - the fine print that spells out how much such a no-cost trial may eventually cost you.
Each day, consumers across the country are lured by these kinds of offers. They wind up with unexpected fees and aggravating attempts to get their money back. To add insult to financial injury, most of these "gotcha" offers are perfectly legal. For instance, you might try a product for free. Meanwhile, you're being automatically shipped and charged for your next month's supply because you failed to cancel the arrangement within 14 days of accepting your free trial. And if you need to return an item for a credit refund, experts suggest you document the transaction by mailing it from the post office with a tracking number.
To protect yourself, keep the old cliché in mind - "if it sounds too good to be true, it is too good to be true."
© 2009 Alliant Credit Union. All Rights Reserved.
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