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Hidden Costs In Free Computer Deals Maryland

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

Baltimore City
410-396-0685
501 N Athol Ave
Baltimore, MD

Baltimore County Home & Hospital
410-887-2270
9610 Pulaski Park Dr
Baltimore, MD

Dr. Lillie M. Jackson Elementary
410-396-0540
1501 N Ashburton St
Baltimore, MD

Maryland State Government
410-455-1000
1000 Hilltop Cir
Baltimore, MD

Baltimore Freedom Academy
443-984-2737
1601 E Lombard St
Baltimore, MD

Renaissance Academy
443-984-3164
200 Font Hill Ave
Baltimore, MD

Academy For College And Career Exploration
410-396-7607
2500 E Northern Pkwy
Baltimore, MD

ActionCOACH
301-879-7873
13403 Clifton Road
Silver Spring, MD

Lake Clifton-Eastern High
410-396-6637
2801 Saint Lo Dr
Baltimore, MD

New Era Academy
443-984-2825
2700 Seamon Ave
Baltimore, MD

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

Baltimore City

410-396-0685
501 N Athol Ave
Baltimore, MD

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