1. Build trust
what these standards are
These standards are based on BBB's determination of the attributes of a better business.
They incorporate not only lawful business practices but also BBB's experience with ethical advertising, selling and customer experiences. For a business to qualify for BBB Accreditation, it must continually meet these standards. Not all businesses will qualify for BBB Accreditation. Fill out this form to learn more.
BBB charges a fee for BBB Accreditation. This fee supports BBB's efforts to fulfill its mission of advancing marketplace trust. BBB accreditation fees are based on several factors, including the size of business.
the 8 standards for trust
To be Accredited by BBB, a business or organization affirms that it meets and abides by:
2. Advertise honestly
3. Tell the truth
4. Be transparent
5. Honor promises
6. Be responsive
7. Safeguard privacy
8. Embody integrity
full detail
The standards in detail
Follow established legal and ethical advertising and selling practices, including, but not limited to, the BBB Code of Advertising.
A. Work with BBB and agree to modify, substantiate or discontinue advertising and selling practices when recommended.
B. Use the BBB trademark and BBB affiliation statements under license and as outlined in usage policies then in effect.
Honestly represent products and services, including clear and prominent disclosures of all material terms. Be clear in all written and verbal representations and include all relevant facts in all transactions.
Openly identify the business's nature, location, and ownership, and clearly and prominently disclose all material facts on a customer's buying decision.
A. Upon request, promptly provide BBB with all information requested to ensure adherence to BBB standards.
B. Clearly and prominently provide to customers:
direct and effective means to contact the business
the business' return/refund policy
any recurring commitment into which the customer may be entering, including automatic renewals, payments, or other financial commitments
the total cost of the transaction, including tax, shipping and handling, and other related charges before completion of the transaction
any known delays or shortages of stock
a receipt summarizing the transaction after the purchase.
Fulfill all contracts, commitments, and representations.
Address disputes forwarded by BBB quickly and in good faith.
A. Provide a response to each complaint that:
is professional
addresses all significant issues raised by the complainant
includes appropriate evidence and documents supporting the business' position, and
explains why any relief sought by the complainant cannot or should not be granted.
B. Participate in mediation, arbitration, or other dispute resolution services as requested by BBB
C. Honor any settlements, agreements, or decisions reached as an outcome of a dispute resolution process.
D. Cooperate with BBB to eliminate the underlying cause of patterns of customer complaints that BBB identifies.
Protect any data collected against unauthorized disclosure and fraud, collect personal information only as needed, and respect the preferences of customers regarding the use of their information.
A. Disclose handling practices for personal information, including but not limited to:
what information is collected
how it is used
with whom it is shared
how it can be corrected
how is it secured
how policy changes will be communicated, and
how to address concerns over misuse of personal data.
B. Ensure sensitive data (credit card, bank account numbers, Social Security/Social Insurance number, salary, or other personal financial or health information) is collected and transmitted securely. Businesses will comply with applicable legal requirements and industry standards to protect and properly dispose of all sensitive data, both online and offline.
C. Respect customer preferences regarding contact by telephone and e-mail, and remedy the underlying cause of any failure to do so.
Approach all business dealings, marketplace transactions, and commitments with integrity, good faith, and intent to do what is reasonably expected.
Avoid involvement, by the business or its principals, in activities that reflect unfavorably on or otherwise adversely affect the public image of BBB or its accredited businesses.
for businesses
Meet the standards. Earn the Seal.
Not all businesses qualify. See whether yours meets BBB's standards and start your application.
more about accreditation
Keep exploring
FOR BUSINESSES
The value of BBB Accreditation
FOR CONSUMERS
Why choose an Accredited Business
FOR BUSINESSES
Accreditation renewal
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