If a business closes abruptly, leaving you owed money or services, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself.
One state's attorney general recommends that first, you need to limit your financial loss. If you paid with a credit card, call the credit card company to dispute the charges, according to Michigan's attorney general. If you arranged for an automatic payment plan, contact your bank to stop any more withdrawals from your account.
Next, you'll want to file a consumer complaint with your state attorney general. Here's how to contact them in our area:
- D.C.: click here
- Maryland: click here
- Virginia: click here
In the future, consider limiting down payments, using only a credit card instead of cash, and search online to see if the business has a history of unresolved consumer complaints. In addition, make sure you always get (and keep!) detailed receipts.
