2013 Consumer Action Handbook

This everyday guide to being a smart shopper is full of helpful tips about preventing identity theft, understanding credit, filing a consumer complaint, and more. The information and resources you'll need are arranged as follows: PART I-BE A SAVVY CONSUMER Read this section for advice before you make a purchase. To quickly locate specific topics and information, look in the Table of Contents (p. 1) and Index (p. 147). PART II-FILING A COMPLAINT Turn to this section for suggestions on resolving consumer problems. The sample complaint letter on page 57 will help you present your case. PART III-KEY INFORMATION RESOURCES Look here for a list of public resources and contact information. PART IV-CONSUMER ASSISTANCE DIRECTORY Here you'll find contact information for corporate offices, consumer organizations, trade groups, government agencies, and more.