Often people are provided with goods or services they never requested. Those who are providing the services are hoping that you will pay for the services provided without caring that they were never requested.  Under the Business Practice and Consumer Protection Act, a consumer has no legal obligation in respect to unsolicited goods or services.

The following tips will help you avoid situations that find you paying for something you never requested:

• Be suspicious of free gifts.
• Read the offer carefully.
• Deal only with companies or charities whose reputation is well known.
• Never give out your credit card number or personal, financial information.
• Never send money for any “free” merchandise or services.
• Keep a record of the order, notes of the conversation and copies of the advertisement, cancelled cheque, receipt, letters and envelopes.

If you live in British Columbia and pay for an item or service that you don’t actually want, you can ask for a refund as long as you didn’t let the supplier know in writing that you were keeping it.  Consumers have two years from the day they receive the goods or services to demand a refund, in writing, from the supplier.

For more information about unsolicited goods or services please contact Consumer Protection BC toll free at 1-888-564-9963, via email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

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