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Hidden Costs In Free Computer Deals Massachusetts

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

New England Business Development
(781)6520326
158 Burlington Street
Lexington, MA

Axcelus
978-749-9546
Andover, MA

Retail Enterprises Inc
(617) 846-3450
3 Cottage Park Rd
Winthrop, MA

Business Advisory Associates Inc
(508) 999-1965
South Dartmouth, MA

Sibley Associates Inc
(978) 363-2466
318 Main St
West Newbury, MA

Management Solutions
(781) 944-8168
25 Pennsylvania Ave
Reading, MA

Keystroke Consulting
(508) 987-7743
Oxford, MA

Exl Group
(978) 470-4975
21 Central St
Andover, MA

Onyx Consulting & International Trade Llc
(978) 535-4500
484 Lowell St
Peabody, MA

Lionhill II Assoc
(617) 523-5126
Boston, MA

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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

New England Business Development

(781)6520326
158 Burlington Street
Lexington, MA

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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