Homepage Bbb Complaint Template
Article Map

When consumers encounter issues with businesses, they often seek a resolution that is fair and satisfactory. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) Complaint Form serves as a vital tool for individuals looking to voice their concerns and initiate the complaint process. This user-friendly form allows consumers to detail their experiences, providing essential information such as the nature of the complaint, the business involved, and any attempts made to resolve the issue directly. By filling out this form, consumers not only document their grievances but also contribute to a larger effort to promote ethical business practices. The BBB uses the information collected to mediate disputes and help businesses improve their services. Understanding how to effectively utilize the BBB Complaint Form can empower consumers, ensuring their voices are heard and fostering accountability within the marketplace.

Key takeaways

Filing a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) can be an effective way to address issues with a business. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind when filling out the BBB complaint form:

  • Be Clear and Concise: Clearly state your issue. Use straightforward language to describe what happened.
  • Provide Relevant Details: Include specific information such as dates, times, and the names of individuals involved. This helps the BBB understand your situation better.
  • Attach Supporting Documents: If you have receipts, contracts, or correspondence, attach copies. These documents can strengthen your complaint.
  • Stay Professional: Maintain a respectful tone throughout your complaint. Avoid using aggressive language, as it can detract from your message.
  • Check for Accuracy: Before submitting, review your complaint for any errors or missing information. Accurate details are crucial for a proper resolution.
  • Follow Up: After filing your complaint, keep track of any communication from the BBB. They may reach out for more information or updates.
  • Be Patient: Understand that resolving complaints can take time. The BBB will investigate and may take a few weeks to respond.
  • Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with consumer rights and protections. This knowledge can empower you throughout the complaint process.

By following these guidelines, you can enhance your chances of a successful resolution to your complaint. Remember, the BBB is there to help consumers and businesses work towards a fair outcome.

Documents used along the form

When filing a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), there are several other forms and documents that may be useful in supporting your case. These documents can help provide a clearer picture of the situation and strengthen your complaint. Below are four common forms and documents often used alongside the BBB Complaint form.

  • Evidence of Transaction: This includes receipts, invoices, or contracts that detail the transaction between you and the business. These documents serve as proof of the agreement and can clarify any misunderstandings.
  • Correspondence Records: Keeping copies of emails, letters, or messages exchanged with the business can be crucial. These records demonstrate your attempts to resolve the issue directly and show the timeline of your interactions.
  • Consumer Protection Agency Reports: If you have filed a complaint with other consumer protection agencies, including those reports can add weight to your BBB complaint. They show that you are serious about addressing the issue and that it may be part of a larger pattern of behavior.
  • Witness Statements: If others witnessed the transaction or your interactions with the business, written statements from them can be valuable. These statements can corroborate your claims and provide additional perspectives on the situation.

By gathering these documents, you can enhance your BBB complaint and increase the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution. Providing clear and organized information helps the BBB understand your situation better and can lead to a more effective response from the business involved.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the BBB Complaint form, it's important to approach the process thoughtfully. Here are some essential dos and don'ts to keep in mind.

  • Do provide clear and concise information about your complaint.
  • Do include all relevant details, such as dates, names, and specific incidents.
  • Do keep a copy of your complaint for your records.
  • Do be honest and factual in your description of events.
  • Don't use offensive language or make personal attacks.
  • Don't submit multiple complaints about the same issue.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your complaint is taken seriously and addressed appropriately.

Common mistakes

When individuals decide to file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), it is crucial to approach the process with care. One common mistake is providing insufficient details about the issue. A vague description may lead to confusion and hinder the BBB's ability to investigate the complaint effectively. It is essential to include specific facts, dates, and any relevant correspondence.

Another frequent error is failing to include all necessary documentation. Supporting evidence can significantly strengthen a complaint. Without it, the BBB may not have enough information to substantiate the claims. Individuals should gather receipts, contracts, emails, and any other pertinent documents before submitting the form.

Additionally, some individuals neglect to clearly state their desired resolution. The BBB aims to mediate disputes, but without knowing what the complainant seeks, it becomes challenging to facilitate a satisfactory outcome. Clearly articulating the desired resolution can streamline the process and improve the chances of a favorable response.

People also sometimes submit complaints that fall outside the BBB's jurisdiction. The BBB primarily handles disputes related to marketplace ethics and business practices. Complaints regarding personal grievances or legal matters may not be appropriate for this platform. It is important to verify that the issue aligns with the BBB's mission before proceeding.

Finally, a lack of follow-up can be detrimental. After submitting a complaint, individuals should monitor the status and respond promptly to any requests for additional information from the BBB. Staying engaged demonstrates commitment and can facilitate a quicker resolution to the issue at hand.

File Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Purpose The BBB Complaint Form is used to file complaints against businesses for unsatisfactory services or products.
Accessibility The form is available online and can be completed from any device with internet access.
Information Required Complainants must provide personal information, details about the business, and a description of the complaint.
State-Specific Forms Some states have their own versions of the form, tailored to local regulations.
Governing Laws Complaints may be governed by state consumer protection laws, which vary by state.
Follow-Up After submission, the BBB may contact the complainant for additional information or updates.
Resolution Process The BBB facilitates communication between the complainant and the business to seek a resolution.
Confidentiality Personal information is kept confidential, but details of the complaint may be shared with the business.
Outcome Reporting The BBB provides a report on the outcome of the complaint, which can affect the business's rating.

Form Sample

 

 

 

 

COMPLAINT FORM

 

 

 

 

 

Better Business Bureau serving Alaska, Oregon & Western Washington

 

 

 

 

Your privacy is important to us. Our privacy policy can be found at www.bbb.org or by contacting us.

 

 

With Trust

Your Better Business Bureau recommends filing your complaint online at www.bbb.org.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IMPORTANT: COMPLETE ALL FOUR SECTIONS

 

 

 

COMPANY NAME

 

CONSUMER NAME

 

 

1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMPANY ADDRESS, CITY, STATE, ZIP

CONSUMER ADDRESS, CITY, STATE, ZIP

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMPANY EMAIL

 

CONSUMER EMAIL

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMPANY PHONE #

 

CONSUMER HOME PHONE #

 

CONSUMER WORK PHONE #

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2

DATE PROBLEM OCCURRED

 

DATE(S) YOU COMPLAINED TO

 

TO WHOM:

 

 

 

 

CO.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PRODUCT/SERVICE

 

BRAND NAME

 

MODEL NAME OR NO.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ORDER, CONTRACT, ACCOUNT # (if applicable)

IF ADVERTISING INVOLVED, WHERE/WHEN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AMOUNT INVOLVED

 

NAME OF SALESPERSON

 

 

$:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3

WHAT IS YOUR COMPLAINT? If you have any relevant documents such as contracts, receipts, or cancelled checks, please include a copy.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4

WHAT IS THE EXACT ADJUSTMENT YOU ARE REQUESTING FROM THE COMPANY?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TO THE CUSTOMER: MAIL THIS

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMPLETED AND SIGNED FORM

CUSTOMER SIGNATURE

 

 

 

BACK TO YOUR BBB. YOUR

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURE GIVES BBB

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PERMISSION TO RELEASE THIS

DATE

 

 

 

 

 

INFORMATION TO REGULATORY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AUTHORITIES AS NECESSARY.

 

 

 

 

 

P.O.Box 1000 DuPont, WA 98327

Alaska: (907)562-0704 Oregon: (503)212-3022 Washington: (206)431-2222 or (253)830-2924 Fax: (206)431-2200

The text of your complaint will be publicly posted on the BBB Website (BBB reserves the right to not post in accordance with BBB policy). Please do not include any personally identifiable information in describing the nature of your complaint. By submitting your complaint, you are representing that it is a truthful account of your experience with the business. BBB may edit your complaint to protect privacy rights and to remove inappropriate language.