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Misconceptions

Many individuals have misconceptions about the BBB Complaint form, which can lead to misunderstandings about its purpose and effectiveness. Here are six common misconceptions:

  • Filing a complaint guarantees a resolution. Many people believe that submitting a complaint will automatically lead to a resolution. In reality, the BBB acts as a mediator and cannot force a business to resolve the issue.
  • The BBB only accepts complaints against large companies. Some think that only big corporations are subject to BBB complaints. However, the BBB accepts complaints against businesses of all sizes, including local small businesses.
  • Complaints are public records and can harm my privacy. While BBB complaints are made public, personal information is kept confidential. The BBB aims to protect your identity during the complaint process.
  • I can only file a complaint online. Many assume that the BBB Complaint form is available only through their website. Complaints can also be submitted via mail or phone, providing options for those who prefer not to use the internet.
  • The BBB resolves all complaints quickly. Some expect a swift resolution after filing a complaint. The process can take time, as the BBB needs to communicate with both parties and gather all necessary information.
  • My complaint will be ignored if the business responds. It is a common belief that a response from the business means the complaint will be dismissed. In fact, the BBB considers both sides before making any assessments or recommendations.

Understanding these misconceptions can help individuals navigate the complaint process more effectively and set realistic expectations.

Detailed Steps for Filling Out Bbb Complaint

Filling out the BBB Complaint form is a straightforward process. This form allows you to formally express your concerns about a business's practices. Follow these steps carefully to ensure that your complaint is submitted correctly.

  1. Visit the BBB website and navigate to the complaint section.
  2. Click on the "File a Complaint" button to access the complaint form.
  3. Provide your contact information, including your name, address, phone number, and email address.
  4. Enter the name of the business you are complaining about, including any relevant details such as location or website.
  5. Describe your complaint clearly and concisely. Include specific details about the issue you encountered.
  6. Indicate the resolution you seek. Be specific about what you would like the business to do to resolve the issue.
  7. Review your complaint for accuracy. Ensure all information is correct and complete.
  8. Submit the form by clicking the "Submit" button at the end of the page.
  9. Keep a copy of your complaint for your records. You may need it for future reference.

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COMPLAINT FORM

 

 

 

 

 

Better Business Bureau serving Alaska, Oregon & Western Washington

 

 

 

 

Your privacy is important to us. Our privacy policy can be found at www.bbb.org or by contacting us.

 

 

With Trust

Your Better Business Bureau recommends filing your complaint online at www.bbb.org.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IMPORTANT: COMPLETE ALL FOUR SECTIONS

 

 

 

COMPANY NAME

 

CONSUMER NAME

 

 

1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMPANY ADDRESS, CITY, STATE, ZIP

CONSUMER ADDRESS, CITY, STATE, ZIP

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMPANY EMAIL

 

CONSUMER EMAIL

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMPANY PHONE #

 

CONSUMER HOME PHONE #

 

CONSUMER WORK PHONE #

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2

DATE PROBLEM OCCURRED

 

DATE(S) YOU COMPLAINED TO

 

TO WHOM:

 

 

 

 

CO.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PRODUCT/SERVICE

 

BRAND NAME

 

MODEL NAME OR NO.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ORDER, CONTRACT, ACCOUNT # (if applicable)

IF ADVERTISING INVOLVED, WHERE/WHEN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AMOUNT INVOLVED

 

NAME OF SALESPERSON

 

 

$:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3

WHAT IS YOUR COMPLAINT? If you have any relevant documents such as contracts, receipts, or cancelled checks, please include a copy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4

WHAT IS THE EXACT ADJUSTMENT YOU ARE REQUESTING FROM THE COMPANY?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TO THE CUSTOMER: MAIL THIS

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMPLETED AND SIGNED FORM

CUSTOMER SIGNATURE

 

 

 

BACK TO YOUR BBB. YOUR

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURE GIVES BBB

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PERMISSION TO RELEASE THIS

DATE

 

 

 

 

 

INFORMATION TO REGULATORY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AUTHORITIES AS NECESSARY.

 

 

 

 

 

P.O.Box 1000 DuPont, WA 98327

Alaska: (907)562-0704 Oregon: (503)212-3022 Washington: (206)431-2222 or (253)830-2924 Fax: (206)431-2200

The text of your complaint will be publicly posted on the BBB Website (BBB reserves the right to not post in accordance with BBB policy). Please do not include any personally identifiable information in describing the nature of your complaint. By submitting your complaint, you are representing that it is a truthful account of your experience with the business. BBB may edit your complaint to protect privacy rights and to remove inappropriate language.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the BBB Complaint form, it's important to approach the process thoughtfully. Here are some helpful tips to guide you:

  • Do provide clear and concise information about your issue.
  • Do include all relevant details, such as dates and names.
  • Do remain professional and courteous in your language.
  • Do check your contact information for accuracy.
  • Do keep a copy of your complaint for your records.
  • Don't use emotional or inflammatory language.
  • Don't submit incomplete forms; every section matters.
  • Don't exaggerate or misrepresent the facts.
  • Don't forget to follow up if you don’t hear back.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your complaint is taken seriously and addressed promptly. Good luck!

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the BBB Complaint form, several key points should be kept in mind to ensure an effective process.

  • Provide Accurate Information: Ensure that all details entered are correct. This includes your contact information and the business’s name.
  • Be Clear and Concise: Clearly outline your complaint. A straightforward description helps the BBB understand the issue better.
  • Include Relevant Documentation: Attach any supporting documents that relate to your complaint. This may include receipts, emails, or photographs.
  • State Desired Resolution: Indicate what you hope to achieve through the complaint. This gives the BBB a clear goal to work towards.
  • Follow Up: After submitting your complaint, check back for updates. The BBB may reach out for additional information.
  • Understand the Process: Familiarize yourself with how the BBB handles complaints. Knowing the timeline and procedures can help manage expectations.

Similar forms

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) Complaint form shares similarities with the Consumer Complaint form used by various state and federal agencies. Both forms aim to collect detailed information about consumer grievances. They typically require the complainant to provide personal details, a description of the issue, and any attempts made to resolve the matter. This structured approach helps agencies track patterns of complaints and facilitates mediation between consumers and businesses.

Another document that resembles the BBB Complaint form is the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Complaint form. The FTC form also focuses on consumer protection, allowing individuals to report fraudulent or deceptive practices. Like the BBB form, it gathers essential information about the consumer and the business involved. Both forms serve as tools for regulatory bodies to monitor compliance and take necessary actions against unethical practices.

The State Attorney General Complaint form is another document akin to the BBB Complaint form. Many states provide this form for residents to report unfair business practices. It requires similar information, such as the nature of the complaint and any relevant details about the business. Both forms are vital for state-level consumer protection efforts and often lead to investigations into the reported issues.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Complaint form is also comparable. It specifically addresses financial products and services, allowing consumers to report issues with banks, lenders, and other financial institutions. The CFPB form, like the BBB form, collects data that can help identify trends in consumer complaints and inform regulatory actions to protect consumers in the financial sector.

The Product Safety Complaint form, often used by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), shares a similar purpose with the BBB Complaint form. It allows consumers to report unsafe products or injuries caused by them. Both forms require detailed descriptions of the issue and the product involved, enabling regulatory agencies to assess safety risks and take action to prevent harm.

Local consumer protection agency complaint forms also mirror the BBB Complaint form. These forms allow consumers to report issues specific to their locality, such as scams or unfair business practices. They typically gather similar information and serve as a first step in addressing consumer grievances at the community level.

The Online Complaint form provided by various e-commerce platforms resembles the BBB Complaint form in its structure and purpose. These forms allow consumers to report issues with online purchases, such as fraud or non-delivery of goods. Both forms aim to resolve disputes between consumers and businesses, fostering a safer online shopping environment.

The Better Business Bureau’s online dispute resolution form is another document similar to the BBB Complaint form. This form is specifically designed for businesses and consumers to resolve complaints through mediation. It maintains the same focus on gathering relevant details, ensuring that both parties can work toward a satisfactory resolution.

Lastly, the Mediation Request form used in various dispute resolution programs is comparable to the BBB Complaint form. This form allows individuals to request mediation services to resolve conflicts. Like the BBB form, it collects information about the parties involved and the nature of the dispute, facilitating a structured approach to conflict resolution.

Documents used along the form

When filing a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), several other forms and documents may be necessary to support your case. These documents help clarify your situation and provide additional information. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that can accompany the BBB Complaint form.

  • Consumer Complaint Form: This form provides a detailed account of your complaint, including specific issues and desired resolutions.
  • Proof of Purchase: Receipts, invoices, or contracts that verify your transaction with the business in question.
  • Correspondence Records: Copies of any emails, letters, or messages exchanged with the business regarding your complaint.
  • Supporting Documentation: Any relevant documents, such as warranties, guarantees, or promotional materials that may strengthen your case.
  • Witness Statements: Written accounts from individuals who can support your claims or provide additional context to the situation.
  • Dispute Resolution Agreement: If applicable, this document outlines any agreements made regarding mediation or arbitration before filing the complaint.
  • Previous Complaints: Records of any prior complaints filed against the same business, which may establish a pattern of behavior.
  • Follow-Up Correspondence: Any follow-up communication with the business after your initial complaint, detailing their responses or lack thereof.

Gathering these documents can enhance the effectiveness of your BBB Complaint. Each piece of information contributes to a clearer understanding of the issue and may lead to a more favorable resolution.