Latest News
Searching for the right company to do business with can be a daunting task. No matter the industry or the business category, there are a few simple things that you can do to protect yourself. First and foremost, always research businesses before you buy. A few moments of searching may save you tremendous of heartache. Here are a few tips for researching any business:
- Search BBB.org. You can enter the name of a business or charity, phone number, website address, or email address in the search bar on BBB.org. BBB reports on millions of businesses. If the business has a BBB Business Profile, you can read the content of complaints, view the business’s rating, and view any relevant alerts. When all else fails, you can call your local BBB office and speak with a representative who may be able to give you details.
- Check for a license. If the business that you are researching is in an industry that requires a competency license, you can check with the relevant agency to verify that the license is current and hasn’t been revoked for misconduct.
- Verify insurance policies. The company may also claim to be insured for the service that they render. If so, you can always call to verify with the insurance carrier that the policy is active and comprehensive.
- Read reviews. Search the business’s name and the word “reviews.” If there are customer reviews on a variety of sites they will appear in search. Or, you may visit review sites and social media platforms directly and search the business name.
- Contact your state Attorney General. The Attorney General’s office in your state may have received complaints as well. Although they may not divulge the details, they may tell you if complaints have been received.
- Ask for references. When businesses have been operating long enough to have satisfied customers, they are often willing to allow you to speak with individuals that have had good experiences with the business’s work. Be reluctant if a company cannot provide references.
- Make sure that there is a physical address and robust contact information. Avoid paying a business that does not clearly disclose how to reach them in the event that there are questions or a dispute arises. Something as simple as a verified physical address can make a world of difference.
- Look for a registered entity. Some state, provincial and local governments require businesses to file basic information so that the businesses can be tracked. The Secretary of State, Department of Corporations, and the Appraisal Districts, may be among the agencies that have a record of a business and can verify its existence.
- Check the website for privacy and security protocols. Make sure that the company has a clearly posted privacy policy. Also, if the company takes any payment or personal information online, make sure that it has the appropriate security certificates. Look for https and a padlock icon near the URL.
- Look for trustmarks online. There are lots of recognizable symbols of trust that will help you when vetting a company online. Look on the business’s website for the BBB Accredited Business seal, digital or trade certifications, and similar indications that a third party has done the research for you. These trustmarks are often hyperlinked to authenticate that the company has been vetted.
- Familiarize yourself with any terms and conditions. Always ask for a written contract for services or acquaint yourself with any website terms of use. In particular, look for refund policies or protocols for contacting the company in the event of a dispute.