Hidden Costs In Free Computer Deals Idaho Falls ID

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

Rudd & Company Pllc
(208) 529-9276
725 S Woodruff Ave
Idaho Falls, ID
Performance Results Corp
(208) 528-0500
2225 W Broadway St
Idaho Falls, ID
Idaho Innovation Center
(208) 523-1026
2300 N Yellowstone Hwy
Idaho Falls, ID
Idaho Small Business Development Center
(208) 523-1087
2300 N Yellowstone Hwy
Idaho Falls, ID
Talisman International Llc
(208) 552-1150
1020 Land Bank St
Idaho Falls, ID
Labor Finders
(208) 442-7713
205 Caldwell Blvd
Nampa, ID
Idaho Non Profit Development Center
(208) 424-2229
1509 Tyrell Ln
Boise, ID
Meta
(208) 336-5533
1607 W Jefferson St
Boise, ID
Child Development Center
(208) 634-2191
McCall, ID
Futures Corporation the
(208) 345-5995
1109 W Main St
Boise, ID

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?
Related Local Events
Man of La Mancha
Dates: 11/4/2009 - 11/4/2009
Location: Center for the Arts
Jackson, WY
View Details

Art Fair Jackson Hole
Dates: 8/14/2009 - 8/14/2009
Location: Miller Park
Jackson, WY
View Details

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