• Get the best deal. Comparison shop and research merchants' pricing policies, as some will match, or even beat, a competitor's price. Where applicable, check shipping and handling fees and factor those into the cost of the item.
• Can you get your money back? Check out a merchant's refund and return policy before you buy.
• Check delivery dates. When shopping by phone, from a catalog or online, find out how long it takes for the item to be delivered.
• Protect your privacy and know who you are dealing with. Provide personal information, such as a credit-card number, home address or telephone number only when necessary and make sure that you know the merchant you are dealing. You can check out a company with the Better Business Bureau or with the Division of Consumer Services, 800-HELPFLA.
• Track your purchases. When shopping online, keep printouts of the pages with details about the transaction, including any warranties, or return and refund policies. When shopping by phone or from a catalog, keep records of your order, including the company's name, address, telephone number, order date and item number.
• Keep receipts. You might need them to return an item or reconcile a credit-card statement. When purchasing a gift, ask for a separate gift receipt.
