Consumers across Utah will be busy making their lists for the holidays this week. As you prepare, remember that there are those who are looking to take your money and not give you what you have wished or paid for. The Better Business Bureau of Utah has offered the following tips for safe and secure shopping over the Thanksgiving weekend—from Black Friday through Cyber Monday—and charitable giving on Giving Tuesday.
Better Business Bureau tips for Black Friday
Black Friday (Nov. 27) offers numerous savings from which consumers can choose. Last year, nearly 140 million shoppers hit the stores, spending $50.9 billion. According to a National Retail Federation (NRF) survey, this year’s holiday shoppers plan to spend an average of $463 on family members, up from $458 last year.
Better Business Bureau tips:
- Make a plan and a budget prior to venturing out for holiday shopping.
- Comparison shop, even when deals appear to have huge savings. Some retailers frequently offer discounts, so the discounts may not be as deep as they appear.
- Read the fine print. Note dates and times of sale prices, whether quantities are limited, etc..
- Ask for gift receipts (noting refund policy) and warranties.
Better Business Bureau tips for Small Business Saturday
Small Business Saturday (Nov. 28) is a day to celebrate local small businesses. Sponsored by American Express, a Better Business Bureau Accredited Business, shopsmall.org allows consumers to find out what businesses participate.
Better Business Bureau tips:
- Check small business websites, social media (#shopsmall) or advertisements prior to shopping.
- Use BBB.org prior to shopping to check out BBB Business Reviews on local businesses.
- Ask about refund policies and procedures and ask for gift receipts.
Better Business Bureau tips for Cyber Monday
Cyber Monday (Nov. 30) has begun the creep into Sunday, so look for online deals from many online retailers. Free shipping is one of the “deals” that many online retailers offer.
Better Business Bureau tips:
- Sign up now to receive emails from businesses you are considering buying from in order to have time to assess the offers.
- Check out all businesses at BBB.org so you can feel confident buying from the company.
- Make sure the website is secure (https:// in URL).
- Confirm delivery date prior to submitting order so you know your purchase will arrive in time.
- Read return policy prior to ordering.
- Use a credit card for some protection. You can dispute the charge if the product isn’t delivered or the company doesn’t live up to its promises. Don’t use a debit card or wire money to the business.
Better Business Bureau tips for Giving Tuesday
Giving Tuesday (Dec. 1) is a time to pause and think about those you can help with your charitable donation. In 2014, more than $358 billion was given on Giving Tuesday (according to givingtuesday.org) through online and offline fundraising.
Better Business Bureau tips:
- Research a charity prior to donating. It only takes a few minutes to check out a business through BBB.org, making sure that your hard-earned money is given to a charity who will use the money wisely.
- Ask for a receipt if you want to deduct the donation on your taxes (if eligible).More information can be found at: http://www.bbb.org/council/holiday-helper/
