MADISON, WI (WTAQ) —The holiday shopping season also means the season for deals and those long return lines.
Michelle Reinen of the Bureau of Consumer Protection says the best way to score big on holiday deals is by preparation and questions.
“Asking those questions up front so no mistakes are made.”
Reinen says businesses are all required to set policies for items with discounted prices.
“Make sure you know exactly what your ad is promoting and if there is a limited time window or quanity for that promotion.”
Return policies are sometimes the most overlooked. Asking questions will save the headaches.
“You want to ask up front what the return policy is. You want to know what the time frame is, what to do if the package is open, or if there is a restocking fee.
Business are expected to follow their policies.
“Stores are not required to honor all returns, but they are required to honor what their policy is.”
Reinen said there is something that all consumers should keep in mind when it comes to their shopping experience.
“If they do feel that a store has a certain policy that is not being honored, they should contact consumer protection so we can look at the situation.”
You can visit the Consumer Protection Bureau online at datcp.wisconsin.gov. Emails can be sent to datcphotline@wisconsin.gov or call the Consumer Protection Hotline toll-free at 1-800-422-7128.
