Problems with a product or service?

One of the first questions an attorney or consumer advocate will ask you is, "What have you done to fix the problem?"

Sometimes a consumer complaint can be resolved with a phone call or a letter.

Below is a sample complaint letter. It may help you fix the problem without the hassle and expense of going to court. Credit for the letter goes to Consumer Action, a nonprofit consumer watchdog.

Sample complaint letter

Your name
Address
Phone number

Date

Company official
Company name
Company address

Dear Mr./Ms.:
I wish to complain about ____ (name of product or service, with serial number or account number) that I purchased on ____ (date and location of transaction). I am complaining because ____ (the reason you are dissatisfied). To resolve this problem I would like you to ____ (what you want the business to do).

When I first learned of this problem, I contacted ____ (name of the person, date of the call) at your company, and was told that nothing could be done about my problem. I believe that this response is unfair because ____ (the reason you feel the company has an obligation to you). I would like a written statement explaining your company's position and what you will do about my complaint.

I look forward to hearing from you as soon as possible to resolve this problem. If I do not hear from you within 10 days I will file complaints with the appropriate consumer agencies and consider my legal alternatives. I am enclosing copies of my receipt and cancelled check. I may be contacted at the above address and phone number.

Sincerely,
(your signature)
(also print or type your name)

CC: (local consumer group) (appropriate government agencies)