Hidden Costs In Free Computer Deals Danville VA

Learn how free computer deals may carry hidden costs, such as Internet service contracts. Discover how to avoid rip-offs and scams. Read this article to know more about this issue.

Local Companies

Bms Consulting Inc
(434) 822-8003
Danville, VA
United Electronic Services
(434) 791-3600
816 Monument St
Danville, VA
Life Changes
(434) 822-6600
1525 S Boston Rd
Danville, VA
Dan River Business Development Center
(434) 793-9100
300 Ringgold Industrial
Danville, VA
Woods Rogers & Hazlegrove Plc
(540) 983-7630
Roanoke, VA
K J O'connor Associates
(703) 241-8079
4419 33rd St N
Arlington, VA
Accenture
(703) 351-4209
1616 Fort Myer Dr
Arlington, VA
Smart Start Business & Insurance Solutions
(804) 725-3110
20 Church St
Mathews, VA
Sri International
(703) 812-2106
1100 Wilson Blvd Ste 2800
Arlington, VA
Tom Ettinger
(703) 448-0191
Mc Lean, VA

Provided by:

No doubt you've seen the ads for computers for "free" or next to nothing in the Sunday papers. The offers look mighty tempting. But how do you know if the deal is a good one? The Federal Trade Commission, the nation's consumer protection champion, says there are some important facts to keep in mind.

First, find out the total, up-front cost of the computer. Then determine the rebate situation. If rebates are involved, find out how you get them. In most cases, you are required to sign a contract for three years of Internet service. Before you do the rebate deal, do the math: three years of Internet service can cost you more than you'll get back in rebates.

Second, you have to apply for the rebates that make the deal seem like a deal. Some rebates can be redeemed immediately at the checkout counter. But most are the mail-in variety. You pay the full cost of the computer at the time of purchase, then send documentation to the manufacturer or retailer to receive your rebate by mail. In most cases, you must send the paperwork to the manufacturer or retailer within 30 days of the purchase. You generally will receive the rebates up to 12 weeks later.

Before you commit to an offer that depends on your signing up for Internet service or one that promises big rebates, ask your retailer:

  • Do you have to sign up for Internet service and for how long? Is there a penalty for early cancellation?
  • What's the total cost of the Internet service contract?
  • Will you have to pay long distance charges to access the Internet? Will you have to pay an "hourly" fee to use a "toll-free" phone number?
  • Is the monitor sold separately? What does it cost?
  • How long will it be before you receive your rebate checks?

Featured Local Company

United Business Service LLC

336-378-1111
2223 N Church St
Greensboro, NC

Rate Article
     
Articles Insider

Rss   Delicious   Digg   Add To My Yahoo   Add To My Google   Bookmark   Search Plugin

Topics:
Advertising Family Home Services Real Estate Resources
Business Services Fashion Industrial Goods & Services Retail & Consumer Services
Career Financial Services Insurance Software
Cars Food & Beverage Internet Technology
Computer Hardware Franchise Legal Telecommunications
Construction Health Miscellaneous Trade Shows
Education Holidays Nightlife Travel
Entertainment Home Appliances Online Database Weddings
Environmental Home Electronics Pets World History