Mediation is a process in which an impartial third party assists parties in working out a mutually acceptable solution to their disagreement.

Arbitration is a process in which two or more persons agree to let an impartial person or panel make a decision to resolve their dispute.

Yes, all businesses have access to BBB's Mediation and Arbitration services. These services are free for all Accredited Businesses, and around $150 (depending on the size of the amount disputed) for non accredited businesses.

If you’re a BBB Accredited Business, free mediation and arbitration are part of your benefits, with additional services offered at affordable rates.

We asked one of our BBB dispute resolution experts, and she told us that court cases run anywhere from $3,000 to $20,000 depending on how complicated things get. Save time and money with BBB's dispute resolution services.

To learn more about the hidden cost of disputes, read our article here.

After a consumer submits a complaint on BBB.org, your business and the consumer will have 1 month to resolve the issue. If no resolution is reached, you may take the issue to Mediation or Arbitration.

To learn more about the BBB Complaint process, please read our Business Complaint Guide.

If you are interested in using BBB's Mediation or Arbitration services, please email resolutions@thebbb.org or call 888-860-2227 with details of your request.

When adding a clause to your contracts, keep in mind that BBB requires the consumer to initial the ADR clause in order for it to be considered fully enforceable. Arbitration is still possible if the clause isn't initialed, but both parties would need to agree to arbitrate.

It doesn't take a great deal of extra language or space to meet all the requirements of the approved BBB policy, as the following example attests:

An example that meets the approved policy:

AGREEMENT TO ARBITRATE. You and we agree to submit any dispute arising under this agreement, with the exception of disputes alleging criminal or statutory violations, to binding arbitration in accordance with the BBB Rules of Binding Arbitration (Pre-Dispute). A volunteer BBB arbitrator will render a decision that the arbitrator considers to be fair; in doing so, the arbitrator is not required to apply legal principles. The arbitrator's decision will be final and binding on both you and us, and judgment on the decision may be entered in any court having jurisdiction. All administrative fees for the arbitration will be paid by the business. Further information about BBB arbitration may be obtained by contacting BBB Great West + Pacific at bbb.org. This Agreement to Arbitrate affects important legal rights. Neither of us will be able to go to court for disputes that must be arbitrated. NEITHER OF US WILL BE COMMITTED BY THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT TO ARBITRATE UNLESS YOU SIGN BELOW, IN WHICH EVENT WE WILL BOTH BE COMMITTED:

Accepted:__________________________ Date:_________________ (Signature/Initials of Customer)

Sometimes, conflicts need an expert in the room. Some sound, neutral guidance to move forward. In situations like these, many businesses turn to BBB’s Mediation and Arbitration services.

But you might wonder, “What’s the difference?” Is one service better suited for certain disputes? And most importantly, how can either option protect your business?

The short answer: Both services resolve disputes, but they’re designed for different situations and offer unique benefits. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand how each can work for your business.

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