{August 19, 2010} - VICTORIA/VANCOUVER, BC - It’s that time again!  Students and their parents are preparing for the beginning of a new school year.  With the high volume of sales made during this time of year and an increasing number of youth making their own purchases, Consumer Protection BC and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) remind “back-to-schoolers” that it pays to be a smart consumer.

Consider these tips while doing your shopping:

1. Ask about returns and refunds. Shopping for new clothes, accessories and gadgets is one of the highlights of going back to school.  When you buy your new gear, ask the store about their return policy and always keep your receipts.  Most people don’t know that in BC, stores are not legally required to exchange an item or give you a refund.
2. Read the fine print when getting a credit card. Credit cards can be very useful and we get offers for new cards all the time. Don’t get yourself in a financial jam by signing up right away for a new card. Find out what the new card gives you and definitely make sure you know what the interest rates is, how long any introductory interest rates apply for and when interest begins.
3. Find out the details about your new cell phone plan. You don’t want to sign up for something that you didn’t want.  Ask about the time commitment, billing details, replacement costs and how you can get out of the contract if you need to.  If you are considering data use for things like social networking sites, email, texting or web-browsing on your device, the charges associated with data are often higher than those of calling plans. Get a copy of the contract and make sure you read all the terms and conditions.
4. Do your research before buying a new computer. Before you get that new computer, decide what your needs will be and what the computer is to be used for, such as word processing, video-calling, graphic/web design or gaming. This will determine the type of hardware and software that will be required and how much you will pay in the end. Shop around for a good price and find out what you have to do (and pay!) if your computer breaks down. Consider leasing to reduce the costs of upgrading your system but make sure you know the details of your contract.
5. Know what to expect with gift cards. It’s true that most gift cards can’t have fees or expiry dates anymore.  However if you are buying a mall card for that teen in your life so they can shop on their own, you should know that these cards are allowed to have fees.  Make sure you find out the details so that you can make an informed decision.  (Note that the law doesn’t apply to pre-loaded credit cards.)
6. Ask yourself if you really need that free gift. Carefully consider offers of free gifts that come with a purchase. Do you need the item you are buying? If not, then this free gift may not be worth the investment in the end.
7. Know the true cost of what you are purchasing. You might be moving out for the first time and buying new furniture.  If you are buying an item on credit, make sure you are aware of not only the interest rate being charged, but any additional fees and costs associated with purchasing on credit.  Also read the fine print on your obligations regarding interest payments and any penalties for late payments.

Consumers have rights and responsibilities under BC law, find out what yours are by contacting Consumer Protection BC or your local BBB.  The key to being a smart consumer is to know what questions to ask and reading the fine print before entering into any kind of transaction.  Happy shopping!

Media Contacts:

Tatiana Chabeaux-Smith Manager, Public Relations Consumer Protection BC (604) 296-2856 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Mark Fernandes Communications Specialist BBB Mainland BC (604) 488-8701 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it