| Buying Clubs
Buying clubs attract consumers by advertising that members can buy goods at wholesale prices or reduced rates for a membership fee.
| Direct Marketing
Wisconsin's direct marketing law protects consumers in sales made anywhere away from the seller's place of business.
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Fair and Trade Show Exhibitors
Most consumers assume that all businesses at trade shows, fairs, or seminars are reputable. This can be a very expensive assumption.
| Gift Cards
Some gift cards are single-use, but others can be reloaded and used multiple times. Gift cards are federally regulated.
| In-Home Sales Parties
In-home sales parties can be a great opportunity, but there are several things you should know if you plan on attending or hosting.
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Thousands of consumers buy magazine subscriptions every year. Unfortunately, problems like unfair sales and billing errors can occur.
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Do you love to shop? If so, you may be tempted by emails or ads that claim you can earn a living as a secret or mystery shopper.
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A negative option is a marketing plan that places the responsibility on the consumer, not the seller, to cancel a contract or order.
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To make sure a product you are buying through a website is legitimate and priced appropriately, do some research first.
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For the price gouging law to be enforced, the Governor must certify there is an emergency disrupting normal business transactions.
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Rebates are offered for everyday purchases like toothpaste and shampoo as well as large ticket items like furnaces or a new car. | Rent to Own
Are you thinking of buying a new TV, refrigerator, couch or other “big-ticket” item? You may be considering the rent-to-own option. |
Misunderstandings about refund policies are common. Many problems can be prevented by understanding a business’s policies.
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Safe Online Shopping Tips
The internet has fake ads, fraudulent websites, and scammers. But consumers can still have a safe online shopping experience.
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Sales, refunds/returns, credit cards, loan offers, layaway, e-commerce and more — DATCP has one fact sheet to address all things shopping.
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Surplus Goods and Government Sales
Most items in a surplus auction do not sell for unbelievably low prices. Government auction services usually sell goods at or below cost. |
Warranties There can be big differences between the warranties of two similar products manufactured by different firms.
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