If you believe you’re a victim of misrepresentation or fraud, you need to take immediate action to stop it. If you discover violations of the unfair and deceptive acts and practices (UDAP) laws, you can use this information as part of your defense should the collection agency or creditor file a lawsuit against you.

Another alternative would be to consult with a lawyer about taking legal action against the seller. However, to save money and headaches, you should correspond by mail with the seller and inform them of the problem and demand to be reimbursed. Before you forward any correspondence, be sure to make copies of all original letters and only send copies of any supporting documents such as the original contract, receipts, canceled checks. If you don’t have any luck with the seller or he or she won’t offer you what you would desire, you can submit your letter and any supporting documentation as evidence in your case. Depending on the requirements of your state, disputes for smaller amounts can be filed in small claims court. If the amount is substantial, you’re better off utilizing the help of a lawyer.

If you don’t get results with your initial letter, you can also file a complaint with the appropriate government agency. Check with your local or state prosecutor’s office for a referral to the appropriate agency. Most businesses devote more attention and care to complaints generated from a higher governing authority. The employee assigned to handle your complaint will most likely have the power to negotiate a resolution or refund.

Regardless if you decide to follow through with litigation, it’s always a good idea to report the issue to the appropriate government agency. As more complaints filter in overtime, the government agency will most likely take action against the business. This would save other future consumers from being ripped off.

The best method to get a government agency to take action is by completing the agency’s standard complaint form. If you only submitted a copy of the demand letter you mailed to the merchant, the agency will not take action without allowing the merchant an opportunity to correct the problem. When you submit a formal complaint with an agency, they’ll issue a formal investigation requesting the business respond to the allegations.

If you have supporting documentation such as agreements, contracts, receipts, warranties, service agreements and advertisements, make sure you only send copies to the agency. If you kept a log of your correspondence efforts, you can also submit these. Keep photocopies of all paperwork submitted to the governmental agency. For maximum effect, you should forward the business a copy of your agency complaint.

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