I recently paid $2000 to join a dating service. The salesperson assured me I could get all my money back any time before the first date. After receiving a call from someone requesting a date, I changed my mind about the dating service. I immediately sought a refund, but was refused. Apparently the contract that I signed said I was only eligible for a partial refund after I received my first referral, not a date. Is there anything I can do?
Dear Kansas consumer,
My office receives numerous complaints from consumers regarding contracts. Whether you are signing a lease, buying a car or entering a dating service, consumers can save time and money by reading the fine
print before entering into any financial agreement.
A contract is a binding legal agreement between two parties that should benefit both sides. The small print and complex language may lead consumers to blindly sign the agreement. Doing this can create a world
of trouble. Before signing, consumers should read and understand every term without relying on the salesperson's summary.
Use these tips to protect yourself when dealing with contracts:
- Comparison shop to make sure you get the best price. Ask friends and family for recommendations on products, services and businesses.
- Check the company's rating with the Better Business Bureau. If you're purchasing a service, call references.
- Think about the purchase for at least 24 hours. Never fall for the salesperson's pressure to decide right away.
- Ask for a copy of the proposed contract to take home and read. Carefully check all the terms.
- Make sure everything you and the seller agreed upon is written into the contract. Don't accept spoken promises; get everything in writing.
- Ask questions. And continue asking until you are clear on all of the contract's terms. Never sign anything you don't understand. If you're still unsure, seek independent advice.
- Don't assume you can change your mind and never sign a contract unless you're sure about the deal.
- Once you have a signed contract, get a copy and keep it in case any questions arise later about the terms. No matter what reason the seller gives for sending it to you later, insist on your signed copy before leaving.
your questions or concerns.