The sudden closing of Automatic Driving School in the Dallas area has parents concerned about how their teens can finish driver training that's been paid in advance. In this story on NBC5-TV, Ch. 5, Better Business Bureau's Jeannette Kopko offers tips.
To read the story or see the video, click
here.
BBB offers the following advice on how to verify if a business has closed:
- Use all methods of contact. Try calling, e-mailing, faxing, and sending certified mail to reach someone at the business.
- Visit the location. Look for signs or instructions. Ask neighboring shops if they know how you could contact the owner. If the business has any affiliated locations, try reaching them. The landlord of the building, retail strip or mall may also have contact information.
- Check with the Post Office. See if the company has a forwarding address.
- Verify licensing. Check their status with the appropriate licensing or registration agency, if applicable.
- Contact the BBB. The BBB may have information on the business. Start at www.bbb.org.
If a business is closed and owes you merchandise, service, or a refund, BBB offers the following suggestions:
- If you reach someone at the business: Talk with the store's owner to find out if they will be able to provide the merchandise or service as promised to those who paid deposits or placed orders. Decide on an arrival date and get it in writing. If not, request a refund. If you made a payment by credit card, you may be able to protect your deposit. Contact your bank or credit card issuer to dispute the transaction and initiate a "chargeback," if the business fails to deliver the merchandise.
- If the business is not acknowledging the issue: File a complaint with Better Business Bureau at www.bbb.org and the state Attorney General's office where the business is located.
- If the store has filed for bankruptcy: Consider filing a claim with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court where the business filed for bankruptcy. If the business is able to repay its creditors, you may be able to retain some of your money back.
- If the store has not filed for bankruptcy: You can pursue your claim through the courts or through an attorney; however, collecting a judgment can be very expensive, challenging, and time-consuming.