Three for Thursday 02.15.2024
Feb 15, 2024 5:00 AM
Welcome to TrustDALE's Three For Thursday with Consumer Investigator Dale Cardwell.
I want to tell you about a warranty that works! A couple of years ago, I bought a $350 electric chainsaw at the Home Depot. In a departure from the norm for me, I also paid $55 for a three-year warranty. Recently the battery failed. Like most consumers, I had forgotten I had purchased the warranty (which I’m sure goes into the insurers’ pay-out calculations), but I found it along with the receipt in a drawer. To my shock, Home Depot’s website linked me to the company that offered the policy, and when I went to their website and provided a unique number found on my policy along with an explanation of the product’s failure, the insurance company immediately pledged to send me a full refund, which I received though the mail in less than three days! So… kudos to Home Depot for aligning with an insurer that pays claims. How refreshing!
Watch this Investigation
Today’s investigation - Apple Gift Card Lawsuit Settlement
Ask Dale
Today’s Ask Dale question comes from Deloris, who got a call from a person claiming to be a law enforcement officer. She asks, “how can I know if the person is who they say they are?’ Click the video for the answer.
Today's Lesson On How To Be A Savvy Consumer!
Today's seven-point lesson is on when and under what circumstances to purchase a warranty.
Fast - Do they want your money NOW? Warranties are offered at the time of purchase. Follow the following six steps. Funds - Is the investment required relevant to the promised payoff? Make certain the warranty’s price does not outweigh its promised pay-off. Found - A person who intends to rip you off will make certain he cannot be found after he gets your money. Purchasing a warranty from a person and not a vetted company can become no warranty. Define - Your deal by comparing Product, Offer and Price. All warranties are not equal. For example, I purchase travel insurance from an independent provider, not the company with which I am traveling. Ensure - Your deal with an Ethical negotiation, an Equitable contract, and an Effective Guarantee. Warranties often include hidden exclusions. If you cannot afford to lose your investment, ask an independent expert or attorney to explain it. Authenticate- Your deal by requesting References, checking reviews, and reviewing watchdog reports. Always check the reviews posted by people who have purchased the warranty you are considering. Legitimize - Your deal by determining if the company has a business license, liability insurance and is Lawsuit and background searched. Meeting these three requirements does not ensure you are getting an effective warranty.
