Try to resolve your dispute with the seller first. Make sure you act quickly. Some companies may not accept responsibility if you fail to complain within a certain period of time.

Send a letter of complaint. A letter is important because it puts your complaint on record and lets the company know you are serious about pursuing the dispute. Be sure you keep a copy for your records.

If you can’t get satisfaction, consider contacting the following organizations for further information and assistance:
• State and local consumer protection offices.
• Your local Better Business Bureau (BBB).
• Action line and consumer reporters. Check with your local newspaper, TV, and radio stations for a contact.
• Postal Inspectors. Call your local U.S. Post Office and ask for the Inspector-in-Charge.
• The Federal Trade Commission. To file a complaint, visit www.ftc.gov, or call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357);TTY: 1-866-653-4261. Although the FTC does not intervene in individual disputes, the information you provide may indicate a pattern of possible law violations requiring action by the commission.
• Mail/telephone orders only. Write: Direct Marketing Association (DMA), 1111 19th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20036.
• Door-to-door sales only. The Direct Selling Association (DSA) can help you with your complaint if the door-to-door seller is a member. Write: Direct Selling Association, 1275 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20004.

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