Why do I need a zip code to file a complaint?

The Better Business Bureau is made up of over 120 local Better Business Bureaus organized by zip code. Because each BBB responds to complaints made in its service area, you must have some location identifying information to file a complaint. After you file a complaint, it will be handled by the BBB of the city or region in which the business is located, and you will be contacted by that BBB. Incorrect zip codes and addresses will delay the processing of your complaint.

How can I complain about an online company when they have no zip code listed on their site?

Zip codes for online companies can be easily found on the Internet. You can find the contact information for an online company by conducting a WHOIS search:

• Visit http://www.internic.com/whois.html



• In the WHOIS search form, enter the website's domain name in the appropriate blanks.



• You will receive one of two types of results:

1. You will be given a list of administrative and technical contacts for the site. Use the Administrative Contact as the address for the business as requested on the BBB Online Complaint Form.

- or -

2. You will be referred to another WHOIS search engine to receive a full listing. Complete the search in the second WHOIS search engine and use the Administrative Contact as the address for the business as requested on the BBB Online Complaint Form.

What other ways can I find a zip code?

If you do not know the company's zip code, but know the city and state or province in which the company is located, the U.S. Postal Service and Canada Post provide an online postal code directories. Use the default postal code for the city as that is enough information to route the complaint to the appropriate BBB.

If you have no way to find the business's location, please contact your local BBB for information on filing a complaint. You can find contact information for your local BBB by entering your zip code in our BBB Locator.