Hidden Costs In Free Computer Deals Fond Du Lac WI

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

Correctional Corp of Wis
(920) 922-2820
104 S Main St
Fond Du Lac, WI
City Center Apts
(920) 922-2757
17 Forest Ave
Fond Du Lac, WI
The Tascon Group
(608) 827-6349
7780 Elmwood Ave Ste 100
Middleton, WI
Nelson Management Group Llc
(608) 833-9700
7421 Kenyon Dr
Middleton, WI
Mississippi Valley Labor Management Council
(608) 784-2710
1100 Kane St
La Crosse, WI
Northstar Growth Partners Llc
(608) 756-1710
1 Parker Pl Ste 710
Janesville, WI
Advisors International
(262) 827-8328
New Berlin, WI
Zion Lutheran Preschool & Daycare
(715) 582-2800
221 S Ellis Ave
Peshtigo, WI
Fauerbach Peter Management Consulting
(608) 233-1793
Madison, WI
Money Managers of Eau Claire
(715) 832-8468
3461 London Rd
Eau Claire, WI

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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

Quigley Tax & Accounting Service

414-461-1800
5822 W Fond Du Lac Ave
Milwaukee, WI

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