Menu
Better Business Bureau
Better Business Bureau Customer Service Phone, Email, Contacts

Better Business Bureau
reviews & complaints

www.bbb.org
www.bbb.org

Learn how the rating is calculated

4.5 364 Reviews

Better Business Bureau Complaints Summary

16 Resolved
38 Unresolved
Our verdict: Engaging with Better Business Bureau, which has a below-average resolution rate, demands caution. Thoroughly assess their service reviews and explore how they handle unresolved complaints. If you encounter issues, document your experiences meticulously and be persistent in seeking resolutions.
Verified
The authenticity of the customer service contact information for Better Business Bureau has been meticulously verified by representatives from ComplaintsBoard using our proprietary verification system.
Get notifications about new complaints and reviews of Better Business Bureau. We promise not to send you any unrelated messages.
Share
Claim Your Business
Take control of your profile: address complaints and engage with reviews
Write a review File a complaint

Better Business Bureau reviews & complaints 63

Filter reviews by rating
5
301 reviews
4
0 review
3
7 reviews
2
1 review
1
1 review
Sort by:

Newest Better Business Bureau reviews & complaints

ComplaintsBoard
F
5:47 pm EDT

Better Business Bureau Design, permitting and construction

MORA'S CUSTOM DESIGNS & CONSULTING INC. is an Inactive company incorporated on June 28, 2018 with the registered number P18000057722. This Domestic for Profit company is located at 4403 SE 16TH PL, SUITE #2, CAPE CORAL, FL, 33914, US and has been running for four years. It currently has one President.

and Milestone Builders LLC seem to be the same thing. Licenses Held:

PE # 84862, CGC1519724,

CCC1331922, CAC1820364

They took $7300 from me in April 2021 which was for plans and permitting of an expanded bedroom and bath room. I received the plans and am happy with them but they did nothing about getting the permit except to pay an initial $165. After repeated attempt of find out what is going on I finally gave up and hired a new contractor who says I have to have the plans and permits paid all over again.

Desired outcome: Document this company's failure to provide services paid for. No one else should have this problem with them.

Read full review of Better Business Bureau
View 0 more photos
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
P
9:47 pm EDT

Better Business Bureau William newsome from paypal has charged me with an order I did not make.

Your Purchased Item Was Dispatched

Reference No. 36GVXIX74y-3513L-KhzjXs

Did you get your reference no for invoice 36GVXIX74y-3513L-KhzjXs Robert Frost

From: Robert Frost

Desired outcome: I would like to cancel this order which they state I can do in 'two hours'..but I called their phone no..1/808/353/5022 was told there would be a 2 min. wait and I waited 20 min and no response...

Read full review of Better Business Bureau
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
D
11:22 am EDT

Better Business Bureau Paid down payment on concrete repair and service not completed

Paid Extreme Concrete, LLC, 4780 Streeter Rd, Mantua, OH [protected]) a $2000.00 deposit on 5/14/21 to do repair concrete work at my rental home. After numerous phone calls and texts, work has not been done and company is avoiding all calls and texts. At this point, I just want my deposit back

Desired outcome: I would like my $2000.00 deposit returned.

Read full review of Better Business Bureau and 1 comment
Hide full review
1 comment
Add a comment
B
B
Barry Leubitz
, US
Jul 20, 2022 10:25 am EDT

This scumbag now is a defendant in a civil case brought by the Ohio Attorney General's office.

https://cpdocket.cp.cuyahogacounty.us/CV_CaseInformation_Summary.aspx?q=ZslM676jxW-h3rubCuUMSg2.

I gave him 1/2 down to expand my driveway. He never performed the work or provided a refund. Sued him in Small Claims and won judgement against his LLC, but that only insulated him against my ability to collect against him personally.

ComplaintsBoard
P
7:25 pm EST

Better Business Bureau Misleading and not refund my money back

On November 17, 2021 I had consultation only and paid some money to block that deal but same day I decided not to moving forward because I did not satisfied with her deal. Consultant said yes I will give your money back but never did and never responded to me and never picked my calls. I have spoke with multiple reps and they keep delivering my message to her but she never get back to me. I asked every reps for my money back but they said only Manager and consultant can do but no one doing it. Its been more then 3 months now but no luck. My case is open with high priority but still no one taking action.

They are giving hard time to customers and not thinking about their business which is unethical also lying for so many things. I am done with them

Can someone tell me how I can get my money back.

Desired outcome: Request for refund

Read full review of Better Business Bureau and 1 comment
Hide full review
1 comment
Add a comment
K
K
Klaus Tolander
, US
Apr 20, 2022 11:30 am EDT

Better Business Bureau-I had ordered three light bulbs that were cameras. However, they did not work with my system and the company {Bulbcam360} did not mention this up front. Then they had 30-day refund policy. When I contacted them, they tried everything for me not to return them. I finally got them to tell me how to return them. I sent them back and thy received them on March 19. Now they keep telling me that the refund is still pending, and I haven't heard from them since. Is there anything else I can do to get them to respond?

ComplaintsBoard
K
1:23 pm EST

Better Business Bureau Luminess Cosmetics

Placed order on 1/10 for Breeze. Received email stating it was on it's way a few days later. Email had no tracking number so I called today to get a tracking number since my card was charged. I finally after numerous (at least 20) attempts got a live person on the phone. I asked about the tracking number and told there isn't one, so I asked him to call the warehouse where the order may have shipped from to get it and he told me he couldn't do that and that it shipped and would be here. I explained to him that they had taken the money for the order and should be able to give me a tracking number and he hung up on me. Extremely concerned not just about that but also further charges from what I am reading. At this point I want the order cancelled and my money refunded. This is not the type of company I care to do business with at all.

Desired outcome: Cancel all of order(s) and refund the $47.01 I was charged. Also cancel any automatic future orders as I do not want to be a part of this.

Read full review of Better Business Bureau
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
M
11:25 am EST

Better Business Bureau Palm coast builders license number 19676

Palm Coast Builders license number 19676 agreed to renovate my condo at 2C Marsh Harbor, SC 29907 June 29th 2021.
In October we met at our new house to discuss renovating it at 591 Sams Point Rd. in Beaufort SC.
Water damage was done by Hargray cable when they came to install the cable service and stepped on the main water line. Hargray has accepted fault for the water damage and agreed to cover the costs.
We requested a new contract and but never received the contract for the new address or the bid for repair that the Liberty Mutual's appraiser representing Hargray, has been requesting for 4 weeks.
The house isn't livable, so we have had to rent an rv costing $4500 per month as well as any cost to keep the rv runniong.

Desired outcome: get my deposit of $40,000 back as well as the new appliances they have at they're workshop

Read full review of Better Business Bureau
Update by Mara Brunet
Jan 19, 2022 11:28 am EST

We are currently living in a rented rv on our driveway. it is winter and very cold. Can you help?

Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
J
6:01 pm EST

Better Business Bureau Mostly better business with corporate world and mass surveillance

Like any other trust promise site which pretends to be fair and a trusted platform, BBB silences negative reviews with vague reasons like full name required or 'beyond' their scope or location/area.
The automated emails from their server have tracking pixels that are usually used by hackers to collect personal data such as device details, IP address, location and time.
Customer service is non existent. They fail to be a complaint bureau for us, the consumers.

Desired outcome: Be fair and stop mass surveillance

Read full review of Better Business Bureau and 3 comments
Update by JackRu
Jan 13, 2022 12:53 am EST

Finally received an email that claims there was nothing illegal about tracking pixel.
Vs.
"Given the ease with which any user can employ email tracking without any assistance from the I.T. or compliance departments, it’s likely that most corporate compliance departments are unaware that email tracking is causing their employer to collect such protected personal data." ~ gdpreu.org

Update by JackRu
Dec 27, 2021 1:00 pm EST

@"The Beat of buffalo, United States" and ComplaintsBoard.
Anyway the response can be made visible to me or in this public complaint board?

Update by JackRu
Dec 23, 2021 12:21 pm EST

BBB closes complaints just after receiving first responses from the businesses, however irrelevant those responses could be including 'someone will be in touch with you' or 'we are looking into this', even you state that you are not satisfied with those!

Hide full review
3 comments
Add a comment
ComplaintsBoard
M
4:32 am EST

Better Business Bureau They do not handle complaints fairly.

We had a legitimate complaint against Saratoga Potato Chips. The company replied and we were not allowed to respond back to their final response. We feel that BBB took the position of the company instead of being a neutral party. They are supposed to allow the consumer a chance to reply to each response. The Northern Indiana Branch did not do this. They basically allowed the company a chance to cover up their situation and never let us respond with evidence. We had taken a video after receiving a bag of chips with glass chards. The company also has a review stating glass chards had been found by another family. They also have had violations in the past for mislabeled bags of chips which had allergens. They had Kroger chips Mesquite Barbecue which had Cheddar Cheese chips inside instead. This poses and allergy risk for consumers. BBB did not permit us to add our review evidence as needed. We just wanted to inform others.

Read full review of Better Business Bureau and 1 comment
Hide full review
1 comment
Add a comment
TheldrakisCS
TheldrakisCS
, US
Nov 23, 2021 7:38 am EST
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

you are aware that they need time to analize the complaint and assess what the company says? if it states closed then that means the company has complied with the complaint. it maybe a glitch so just keep checking it. if they closed it you can contact BBB and ask why you cant respond to the answer.

ComplaintsBoard
D
1:22 pm EDT

Better Business Bureau magazine ad scam

I was cold called by a rep from Pure Path Marketing to place an ad in their "magazine". They place these so called magazines in high end country clubs. I agreed to a half page ad and paid $400. I was called a couple days later for a better placed ad in 3 more country clubs for $235. It was all very high pressure but seemed like a good deal. I come to find out through a BBB search that they have ripped off other businesses and the country clubs never heard of them. Their rating is a D. I filed a complaint with my bank and my money was returned. BBB tried to contact them but they ignored them. This gave them an F. Then I received a copy of a "magazine" which turned out to be a brochure, not a magazine. They claimed to have made my ad for me but I provided the entire ad, all they did was attach a picture of a Disney castle. I showed them what I had found online and they said that is permanent record once online and sent me a link from scam report site where a former agency I worked for made one against me because I left there. They literally researched this and showed it to me. They then proceeded to leave an additional report, a fraudulent report, on that site. They said their relative booked a vacation through me and was charged too much. None of the complaint made sense because it's not how it works with Disney. You can't get a higher price once you are paid in full but they were looking to smear me and had no idea how it works. The BBB advised me to report them to the Attorney GEneral for the State of Florida. This is a scam in every sense of the word. NO ONE sees these "magazines". The country clubs do not do business with this company. They even promised to book a vacation through me trying to convince me to place the ad. I have told every agency I know about them so no one else gets ripped off like I almost did. Thank goodness my bank saw through them too. If Pure Path Marketing calls you, HANG UP!

Read full review of Better Business Bureau
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
L
7:56 am EDT

Better Business Bureau bbb cover ups and diversion tactics (washington d. c. and chicago)

The Better Business Bureau (BBB in Washington, D.C.) allowed me (the consumer) only half an hour to respond online to a business’s response to my written complaint. BBB gave no warning beforehand of this time limit. BBB neither publicly posted nor acknowledged (in the “negative review” category) either of my submitted letters on the AME company. BBB also subsequently removed most of the public content of another consumer’s “negative review” of the AME business yet still publicly posted AME’s response to that consumer. BBB stated “complaint details [were] unavailable” with that consumer’s complaint as well as with mine. I would be curious to know how BBB justifies its A+ business rating for the AME business.

In handling another related case, the Washington, D.C. office seemed a little rude. The BBB said they couldn't help with my complaint against AAD because no financial transaction took place. The BBB website states, however, that the BBB addresses service complaints that focus on misrepresentation or violation of business policy.

When I sent my same review to a different BBB regarding this same AAD organization in its other business location of Chicago, BBB stated it couldn’t process my AAD complaint for completely different reasons than what the Washington D.C. BBB stated. The Chicago BBB gave such reasons as 1) I'm requesting some sort of "disclosure of practices." [I don't know what BBB even meant by that.] BBB also twice wrongly told me 2) that I was filing a complaint with them against a doctor's office, which they don't handle, so I wrote back each time stating that no, this complaint was against the AAD. The Chicago BBB also said 3) they couldn’t act as my lawyer or cop. I did not expect them to. They said other nonsensical things, such as 4) how I'm writing to them with a personal complaint, which they stated they can't handle. But they also said that I was 5) writing this complaint on behalf of other people, so they couldn’t deal with that, either. They said several other things that also didn’t make sense or didn’t apply.

In response to the Washington D.C. BBB's response to me on google: I did try repeatedly to contact AAD and got no response from the organization (as I already showed BBB), and I did already try filing the complaint with BBB but to no avail. The BBB provided examples of complaint cases they wouldn’t handle, cases that were not similar to mine. I was asking the BBB to direct the AAD to act on its avowed principles to serve patients and honor social responsibility, rigorous inquiry, professionalism, and lifelong learning.

In response to the Chicago BBB message to me on google: I wasn't asking for BBB or AAD to determine if another dermatology office had been careless. I was asking BBB for help in getting the AAD to stand by its promises to consumers.

Read full review of Better Business Bureau and 2 comments
Hide full review
2 comments
Add a comment
TheldrakisCS
TheldrakisCS
, US
Nov 23, 2021 8:56 am EST
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

this review seems Off, is the complaint origin against AAD or AME? BBB mostly deals with corporations [there are some restrictions. like if the company does not have a US HQ.] to me your complaint against BBB seems shaky. you tell us the complaint starts with AME but then end with AAD... which one is the "offender" to you? the data you supplied Chicago and Washington DC may not have been clear enough for BBB in those locations to accurately determine your need from them. they do throw out complaints for various reasons. this seems to be a incomplete complaint which is dismissable by the BBB.

M
M
MB38
, US
Nov 23, 2021 4:35 am EST

The BBB of Northern Indiana did us the same way. They do not care about the consumer. I think companies pay to have things edited.

ComplaintsBoard
M
5:35 pm EDT
Resolved
The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.

Better Business Bureau Fraud / deceptive practice

Better business bureau of new hampshire bbb better business bureau under investigation; accusations of a pay to play scheme have been exposed of this (non-government) "for profit" organization that continuously extorts local business's for money to receive a better grade rating. Watch the shocking new video on you tube now... Youtube.com/watch? V=xx2aramtpj0

Read full review of Better Business Bureau and 1 comment
Resolved

The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.

Hide full review
1 comment
Add a comment
E
E
Ernestine Green
Rockford, US
Apr 22, 2022 4:35 am EDT

Ultimo of chicago illinois lied and defraud me out of $174,00 after i return their merchandise the same day i receive it they lied to the bank of rocford illinos stateng i never ask for my money in time which i ask them for my money consantley i still have all the data in my phone from asking for my money also my shipping recept this company will not return your money

ComplaintsBoard
H
9:20 am EDT

Better Business Bureau This site is useless for judging a company's good standing in trade

This site is useless for judging a company's good standing in trade - any company can go and pay them and they will give them an A- rating. I have had unpleasant surprises from purchasing from companies who supposedly have a "BBB" A rating.

Read full review of Better Business Bureau and 2 comments
Hide full review
2 comments
Add a comment
F
F
frustrated 21
London, CA
Nov 24, 2012 8:38 am EST

I agree that the BBB is useless. Recent articles about the BBB in the London Free Press were followed by very many negative comments and no good ones. It seems the BBB does not do what it says as far as consumers or for businesses. They are interested in their own agenda - which is making money for the people in charge. It is a non profit organization that has no transparency or government affiliaction - it is a private company, like any other business. Just google "BBB useless" and see all the opinions - I will never trust a rating from a BBB again. The staff is uneducated in business and I am embarrassed to be a member. I will never renew again and encourge other business not to renew.

TheldrakisCS
TheldrakisCS
, US
Nov 23, 2021 9:03 am EST
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

actually the BBB has a rule that dictates the BBB rating. if a company completes all complaints with satisfaction of the complainant they bump up the rating. if they fail to then it is a bad mark on the company. if there is no complaints for a while on a company then the BBB bumps up their rating. the money only goes [from what i understand] to the accreditation. so lets say the company has 99% failure in completing the complaints to satisfactory or fail to respond then the rating is below C. if the company is A- that means they have made the effort to complete the complaints with satisfaction of the complainer.

ComplaintsBoard
B
5:15 am EDT
Resolved
The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.
Featured review
This review was chosen algorithmically as the most valued customer feedback.

Better Business Bureau - Scam / fraud

The Better Business Bureau: It's not what you think! Living a dream, I recently filed a "Fictitious Business Name" with Riverside County in California. This is public information, much like getting a mortgage and transfer of property title. In one sense, this simply means that you get a lot of telemarketing calls. This is all fine and dandy – in fact, the...

View 0 more photos
Read full review of Better Business Bureau and 4 comments
ComplaintsBoard
B
4:57 am EDT
Resolved
The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.

Better Business Bureau Fraud

Bbb scam alert. Fraud alert bbb is a scam! Bbb endorses scammers! Bbb is a fraud. Ratings are paid!
WWW.JUSTANSWER.COM has billing fraud scam reports all over the internet. Just answer has over 600 complaints with the bbb and this company has an a-rating! Bbb is telling the general public that even though your getting scammed we do not care because they keep the a-rating to other people who trust this site for advice on what to do. Bbb is a scam! Do your own research and you will see that both bbb and just answer have scam reports all over the internet but yet the bbb keeps an a-rating so everyone can keep getting scammed each and everyday! Look at this 20-20 interview to learn more about the bbb and its scams that its involved with!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yo8kfV9kONw

https://www.google.com/search?q=bbb%20houston&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a&source=hp&channel=np

Read full review of Better Business Bureau and 3 comments
Resolved

The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.

Hide full review
3 comments
Add a comment
G
G
Graduate Doc
OLD HICKORY, US
Aug 05, 2022 3:21 pm EDT

How do I find out whether there have been any complaints filed against Dowdy Movers in MD/

J
J
Jerry Sam
, US
Jul 21, 2022 2:41 pm EDT

I singed 2yr contract with plus power Electric company in online [protected] 5.8 cent per kw, but they keep charging me almost 14 cents per kw I called this company lots they told me they don't have any record

this company completely fraud.

TheldrakisCS
TheldrakisCS
, US
Nov 23, 2021 10:42 am EST
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

false claim, BBB does not have unlimited resources. the 400 complaints against a company...depends if its all at once then yes it will drop the rating. if its over span of months then it may or may not drop it depending if the company resolves the issues or if the company doesnt get anymore complaints for a year or more they bring up the rating. as for the 20-20 interview it maybe just your take on what the questions and answers show. if you pose a question that requires a answer that will be seen as guilt then it will look bad on the company. Though it also could be from a employee who was fired. there are many stories out there were a fired employee who was let go has beef with the company for no reason [some i do understand are actual beef but some or fake ones from people who are disgruntled.]

ComplaintsBoard
I
11:37 pm EST
Resolved
The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.

Better Business Bureau Scam

"In 2010, 20/20, an ABC network news magazine, reported in a segment titled 'The Best Ratings Money Can Buy' about the irregularities in BBB ratings.[14] They reported that a man created two dummy companies which received A+ ratings as soon as he had paid the membership fee. They also reported that business owners were told that the only way to improve their rating was by paying the fee. In one case a C was turned to an A immediately after a payment and in another case a C - became an A+. Chef Wolfgang Puck said that some of his businesses receive Fs because he refuses to pay a fee. Ritz Carlton, which does not belong either, also receives Fs for not responding to its complaints.[13]
In response, the president of the Council of Better Business Bureaus has stated the BBB ratings system will cease awarding points to businesses for being BBB members.[15] The national BBB's executive committee took several steps to address the public’s perception of the ratings system. The BBB ratings system no longer gives additional points to businesses who pay accreditation fees. They also implemented a system to handle complaints about BBB sales practices and planned a review of their accreditation process.[16]
In Canada, the CBC News reported in 2010, that Canadian BBBs were downgrading the ratings scores of businesses who stopped paying their dues. For example, a moving business who had an A rating and had been a BBB member for 20 years, dropped to a D-minus rating when they allegedly no longer wanted to pay dues."

Read full review of Better Business Bureau and 2 comments
Resolved

The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.

Hide full review
2 comments
Add a comment
D
D
Dirtycargirl
, CA
Jul 02, 2019 4:46 pm EDT

I had an issue with SHELL 4198 King St. E Kitchener, ON...I went to the carwash at Shell on Saturday June 29, 2019 paid for my carwash and proceeded to the carwash bay. I pulled in the bay and stopped my car as directed, the soap started on my car then the whole carwash died. I went to get the clerk on duty to let him know that the carwash had stopped working, he was not very sympathetic and in fact a bit put out that he had to come and fix the carwash.

He got the carwash restarted and well let's just say my car was not at all clean. He kept letting people go through the carwash and same thing kept happening...machine broke every time! I spoke to the clerk and asked if he could refund my money as the carwash was obviously not working properly and he said "we no do that" and that I could go through the carwash again. Really...that's fantastic customer service sending me through a broken machine!

First of all...why would I want to go through a carwash that's clearly not working right and secondly if you know that its not working correctly why would you proceed to take money from other people? That is shady in my opinion and I would suggest not using that location if this is how they treat their customers.

R
R
Ron Lyddiatt
, US
Mar 22, 2019 7:09 pm EDT

I had a issue with with Direct Cell on Centennial Pkwy North Hamilton On I'm happy to say they have resolve my issue that I had thanks to Selena the owner I give her business a 5 star rating if you go there talk to her she knows what she is talking about.

ComplaintsBoard
S
1:35 pm EST
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

Better Business Bureau Horrible Service - BBB

The BBB of Central Virginia does not even look at complaints. Process of where their 'automated' system is a complete scam It lists my complaint as "resolved with the help of the BBB." My complaint was not even addressed by the company, let alone resolved. I was totally ignored. How did the BBB help me again? They did absolutely nothing, and in the end gave the company an A+, classified my complaint as "resolved with the help of the BBB," and didn't even bother to notify me when the company responded. What a complete joke. I had contacted them and their phone support was horrible, and got nothing but the runaround.

Read full review of Better Business Bureau
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
S
6:35 am EDT
Resolved
The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.

Better Business Bureau Fraudulent Practices

Same as pretty much everyone else that's filed complaints against this company, except mine has a new twist in it. Like everyone else who was contacted by this company I was called by the fast-talking telemarketer, who knew my name and said they worked with my bank/card company. I was told that I was entered in the sweepstakes, I was told I would get a free diamond watch, I was told that I would get 60 months of magazine subscriptions at cheap prices, four magazines for $4.49 a month. Like many other people I continually told the woman no, and like everyone else whose had to deal with theses people I found out that words like "no" and "cancellation" were not in their vocabulary. And like everyone else I gave away my card information. Now this call didn't set off any warning bells with me as I had gotten similar calls to this one with people claiming to be with my card since I first opened a bank account several years ago, the only thing saving me from ever getting tangled up in this before was their first survey question, the one where they ask you what age group your in, what saved me before was that I was not the lowest age that they offered, 18. Now with the call that landed me in this mess I was no longer under 18.
Now after going through the whole phone dance and being told that I was going to be charged $68.28 for the first 13 months to make payments easier. I was told I had three days to cancel if I changed my mind and was given two numbers to call: [protected] and [protected] and I was told I could call either one to cancel my account, she then thanked me for working with United Benefit Advantage. After the phone call my brain went "Hold up. If they work with my bank and card company shouldn't they already have all that information?" So I went to my bank account and sure enough $68.28 was pending out of my account, but not from United Benefit Advantage the money was pending to Magazine INC Virginia in Virginia Beach instead. I immediately called my bank to cancel my active card. I then called the first number I was given and was told that I had to wait one to two days before I would show up in their systems, the company claimed itself as United Benefit Advantage every time I called them that day and the subsequent other times I had to call them. I called the second number as the telemarketer said I could call either number to cancel my account with them. All I got from that number was an answering machine that said I needed to enter my account number, one which I was not given or was related to me too fast to comprehend by the telemarketer.
The next day I called the first number again and this time I showed up in UBA's system, I cancelled with them. But i would have to call back a few more times. The money that was pending went back in my account as available funds the next day, but was completely removed by Magazine INC four days later. I called UBA again and they said the account was still canceled and that they did not charge the high amount that I said was missing from my account. When I asked them for physical conformation of this they said that they could not give me any but that they could give me my cancellation number. Oh, also when I asked them they said that they did not work with any company called Magazine INC.
Well I got busy with other things, but I called another number I found linked to them listed as a customer service number, needless to say that didn't work either. It was another answering machine telling me that all of the representatives were busy and what their hours were and to leave a message. I left them a message explaining everything up to that point and told them that if they didn't put back my money or contact me that I would take legal action. They never did call me or give me my money back. So one week after my money was completely removed form my account by Magazine INC. I went to go and dispute the charge with my bank . When I went to the bank my representative had me call the phone number that was associated with the transaction. I wasn't even aware of the phone number as it just looked like the rest of the code on the transaction. This was neither of the phone numbers they gave me to cancel or the one listed as their contact number on several different websites including the BBB's. Basically both women I talked to said I never cancelled my account with them, when I answered that I did they just tried to haggle with first by lowering my monthly payments to $40 then to $30. When ever I told them no I wanted the account cancelled, it already was cancelled I don't want their services, they said I would have to pay in full which was $1, 028. I told them no, the account was cancelled give me back my money, and if you can't do that then cancel my account with you and stay away from the rest of my money. Well they tried lowering the prices with me again, first to a full payment of $500, then $300. At this time my bank representative told me to hang up the phone with them since they were just talking me in circles for about 15-20 minutes. I filed the dispute form with my bank and then went home.
I am now filing complaints with the attorney generals office in my state of residence and with the one in Virginia. I'm also filing with the BBB and probably a few other Gov't organizations about this fraud. Here's a quick review of how it's fraud for anyone that wants to defend this company:
1. I was contacted on a private number (my cellphone) with a local number that I could not call back(It leads to another answering machine that tells me all of the lines are in use)
2. I was told I was getting services from one company (United Benefit Advantage) but was being charged by a company they claimed they didn't work with (Magazine INC)
3. I was given two numbers to cancel with and was told I could call either one within three days and I wouldn't be charged
4. I called within the three day window and the account was cancelled
5. My money was taken anyway after I had cancelled the account
6. 1-5 are all accounts of them giving me false and misleading information

Anyone else that has been ripped off by these people and the statue of limitation for your ability to sue them hasn't passed yet feel free to contact me on this site. If enough people go after them and can bring the attention of the mass media into it then these guys may want to think twice before giving people false information and badgering them into buying products they say they don't want.

Read full review of Better Business Bureau and 4 comments
Resolved

The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.

Hide full review
4 comments
Add a comment
A
A
angrytucsonian
Tucson, US
Nov 01, 2012 5:51 pm EDT
Verified customer This comment was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

I was fooled by them today as well. They talked too fast for me to even comprehend, and said they knew all of my information. After I stupidly gave them my card number not even realizing till after what was going on. After I hung up with them, I got home from my errands and realize something was up. I immediately checked my bank account and to no avail, it was out of my account for 68.28. I looked them up and realized they were a scam. They too even called themselves UBA and my account is now saying out of the magazine company. I immediately called my bank and placed a stop payment on the amount. They canceled my bank card and are issuing me a new one. They told me that is will take some time for it to post and if it doesn't, I'll be okay, and if it does, they will post a credit to my account within 10 business days. Then they will push it into the claims system to fight for that money to come back. They even put my debit card as listed as stolen. I keep feeling like I am forgetting something. But my bank told me that because they cancelled my card, I should be okay. I will definitely say something to the BBB because I am tired of this always happening. Now I know for the future to watch out for these low lives.

K
K
kimgen74
Columbus, US
Sep 08, 2012 9:47 pm EDT

2012 they are still scaming people misrepresentin as PCH. and everithing under the sun to get people money. I cant belive BBB have them A rating andMaster card and visa accepthem as company. And give them the benefit of the doubt. What happen with the authorities can shoot them down

C
C
Cwynn086
Downers Grove, US
Mar 24, 2012 6:51 pm EDT

I was contacted by a company claiming the exact same thing for an unpaid magazine subs balance of over $1000 from 2002. Being a worrisome person that I am about debt I allowed a charge of $50 as a first installment to clear this debt and I am to be charged another $200 at the end of April. I viewed my bank statement after everything just seemed too fishy to me; they called me on a number that I have no affiliation with since the phone they called me on belongs to my mother, and they had a bit too much information on me. I questioned them on how they could possibly know this stuff about me they assured me that it was not random and that they have investigators to get current phone numbers for people in bad debt. ? Anyhow, my bank statement has the $50 pending charge, as I expected, but what I didn't expect is that the company charging me is Magazines Inc and not the "debt collector". Luckily I have already spoken with my claims department at my bank, I have been assured that as soon as the charge has completely cleared that they will reimburse me the $50 and launch an investigation of their own. This sort of thing happens way too often and I can't believe I allowed myself to become a victim. I urge everyone to pay attention to red flags, any red flag! Never admit to any bad debt and tell whomever is trying to collect from you to send you something in the mail, then take that mail to your bank because personal bankers are trained to spot abnormalities in these sort of things. Now keep in mind that sometimes these phone calls can be legit. For instance about 2 years ago I received a call from a debt collector for overdue medical bills. I did ask the right questions and the woman I was speaking to had the correct answers. Never deal with someone that cannot give you answers that make sense or sound like they are reading from a script: RED FLAG! I had at that time received the correct documentation such as email confirmation as well as confirmation and information in the mail. That woman however worked in the hospital as a claims adjuster who's responsibility is to collect, and the money I owed wasn't from too long before she called me. This one this time I should have paid much more attention to...I mean who, after a decade, starts trying to collect on a bad debt account...especially one that I had canceled years ago because that was originally a scam. I became scared because they used words like "further action will be taken" and "If you don't settle this now then you will be responsible for the full amount". Please be smarter than I was. Luckily I don't have to pay for it and everything will be handled by Tuesday this coming up week, but I should not have let it happen in the first place.

L
L
Lala13
Austin, US
Feb 23, 2012 12:01 pm EST

They called me trying to tell me I had a debt of $89 to a magazine company that I didn't finish paying all the way back from 2008. Anyone else have them call u and pretend to claim a debt?

ComplaintsBoard
J
8:34 pm EDT
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

Better Business Bureau BBB is a scam

BBB is funded by businesses; most likely large businesses.

They waste your time.

Was emailed from Nita Virghes, Assistant Manager Direct Retail Services, BBB in Chicago, and I really wonder if she and her BBB colleagues are on Sears' payroll.

Also I did a google search for "chicago better business bureau", clicked on the google maps link and found:

"Vicki ‎ - Jun 10, 2011
In my situation they closed my unresolved complaint, & seemed to be on the side of the business. I finally sued the business & won, but the BBB interaction was an additional waste of my time... they also are NOT on the side of the consumer as their salaries are all paid by the business that are their members, which is a conflict of interest, as found on an investigation by 20/20"

http://maps.google.com/maps/place?rlz=1C1_____enUS440US440&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=chicago+better+business+bureau&fb=1&gl=us&hq=better+business+bureau&hnear=0x880e2c3cd0f4cbed:0xafe0a6ad09c0c000, Chicago, +IL&cid=[protected]&ei=4oleTrnJKabgsQLR462lAg&sa=X&oi=local_result&ct=placepage-link&resnum=1&ved=0CFYQ4gkwAA

http://maps.google.com/maps/user?uid=215554781450103334636&hl=en&gl=US&ved=0CE4QhQo&sa=X&ei=-4leTs-wOJqyyAXM2dC8AQ

Also Chicago BBB they put you on hold for ten minutes and then they drop the call and they do not answer their phones. A total scam paid by the large businesses that fund the BBB.

Read full review of Better Business Bureau and 1 comment
Update by johnjustice
Sep 01, 2011 12:34 pm EDT

Thank you BigRod for sharing this valuable information and for helping America become a better place for consumers and businesses alike. The legal "mafia-like" group BBB seems to abuse the trust of America.

Update by johnjustice
Aug 31, 2011 8:53 pm EDT

November 2010: Connecticut attorney general Richard Blumenthal sent an official demand letter to the national headquarters of the Better Business Bureau. Blumenthal called on the BBB to stop using its grading system, which he said was "potentially harmful and misleading" to consumers.

Update by johnjustice
Aug 31, 2011 8:51 pm EDT

http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/business-bureau-best-ratings-money-buy/story?id=12123843

Hide full review
1 comment
Add a comment
I
I
itssogood
, US
Sep 10, 2011 4:35 pm EDT

Complain about the BBB with the FTC
https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/Consumer_Home.htm

and your State Attorney General or State Consumer Protection Agency

ComplaintsBoard
R
4:07 pm EDT

Better Business Bureau Scam

The Better Business Bureau or BBB.org is a Scam. They are a non-profit organization where their income comes from having businesses pay a “membership” fee. This means that businesses are the BBB’s source of income (even though they don’t report income). If a business pays a membership fee, then their rating is an A or A+ rating. Business that refuse to “join” their club have a B to F rating. Especially if the business disagrees with the BBB information. In researching the BBB, businesses that pay for a membership receive an A or A+ rating no matter the number of complaints. The BBB is just like the mafia. They strong arm, they extort, and they make you pay to play.

Read full review of Better Business Bureau
Hide full review
ComplaintsBoard
G
3:48 pm EDT
Verified customer This complaint was posted by a verified customer. Learn more

Better Business Bureau Play both sides

I recently made a complaint with the BBB about Verizon. Each time the rep from the BBB would respond she would state please read attachment and supply details. I would email immediately back there is no attachment. I followed up again through a general email box and hers again stating she did not attach anything to the email. She emailed me back and said case closed for not responding to the attachment. Completely ignoring my email even though that was in the thread. I also work for a business where the BBB is constantly sales calling them to purchase their endorsement...I didn't know the BBB did this until I worked exclusively for the owner of a company. When I found this out I do not take if a business has the BBB logo to mean anything at all. That just means they paid their membership dues. I thought it had meant customers had endorsed that exact business.

Read full review of Better Business Bureau and 1 comment
Hide full review
1 comment
Add a comment
G
G
giuseppesim
, US
Jun 25, 2011 3:57 pm EDT

The BBB is run like the mafia. Pay them and they will protect your business. It's not about protecting customers from bad business practices. It's all about the BBB getting their $$$.

Better Business Bureau Customer Reviews Overview

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is an organization that aims to foster trust between consumers and businesses. It provides a platform where customers can access reviews and complaints about various companies. The BBB also offers dispute resolution services and monitors compliance with ethical business practices. Businesses can become accredited by the BBB, which involves a review of their practices and a commitment to resolve customer issues. The BBB's website serves as a resource for consumers to research businesses and make informed decisions.

Better Business Bureau In-depth Review

Business Overview: The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is an organization that aims to promote trust and integrity in the marketplace. With a rich background and history, the BBB has a clear mission and purpose to foster ethical business practices.

Services Offered: The BBB provides a range of services to both businesses and consumers. Their accreditation process ensures that businesses meet certain standards of trustworthiness and reliability. Additionally, the BBB rating system offers valuable insights into a company's reputation and performance.

Website Design and User Experience: The BBB website boasts a user-friendly layout and design. With easy navigation and intuitive search functions, users can quickly find the information they need. The availability of filters further enhances the user experience.

Trustworthiness and Credibility: The BBB has established a strong reputation for trustworthiness and credibility. With a long history and a track record of promoting ethical business practices, the organization has gained the trust of both businesses and consumers. While there may be occasional controversies or criticisms, the BBB's overall credibility remains intact.

Customer Support and Communication: The BBB offers excellent customer support through various channels, including phone, email, and chat. Their representatives are responsive and helpful, ensuring that consumers receive the assistance they need. The availability of resources and educational materials further enhances the customer support experience.

Complaint Resolution Process: The BBB handles consumer complaints effectively and efficiently. Their complaint resolution process is transparent and fair, ensuring that disputes are resolved in a timely manner. This commitment to resolving complaints demonstrates the BBB's dedication to consumer satisfaction.

BBB Accreditation: BBB accreditation offers several benefits, including increased credibility and visibility for businesses. However, there may be some drawbacks to consider, such as the cost of accreditation. The BBB's role in promoting ethical business practices is commendable and contributes to a more trustworthy marketplace.

BBB Ratings and Reviews: The BBB rating system provides valuable insights into a company's performance and reputation. While the ratings are generally reliable and accurate, it's important to consider user reviews and testimonials for a more comprehensive understanding of a business's practices.

Industry Influence and Partnerships: The BBB holds significant influence within the industry and plays a vital role in consumer protection and advocacy. Their partnerships and collaborations with other organizations further strengthen their impact. The BBB's commitment to promoting ethical business practices is commendable.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the Better Business Bureau is a valuable resource for both businesses and consumers. With a range of services, a user-friendly website, and a commitment to trust and integrity, the BBB provides essential support in fostering a trustworthy marketplace. Consumers considering using the BBB's services can trust in their credibility and rely on their effective complaint resolution process. Overall, the BBB offers great value and usefulness in promoting ethical business practices.

How to file a complaint about Better Business Bureau?

Here is a guide on how to file a complaint or review about a company on ComplaintsBoard.com, specifically focusing on the Better Business Bureau:

1. Log in or create an account:
- Start by logging into your ComplaintsBoard.com account. If you don't have an account, create one.

2. Navigating to the complaint form:
- Locate and click on the 'File a Complaint' button on the ComplaintsBoard.com website. You can find this button at the top right corner of the website.

3. Writing the title:
- Summarize the main issue with the Better Business Bureau in the 'Complaint Title' section.

4. Detailing the experience:
- Provide detailed information about your experience with the company.
- Mention key areas such as transactions, nature of the issue, steps taken to resolve it, personal impact, etc.

5. Attaching supporting documents:
- Remember to attach any relevant supporting documents but avoid including sensitive personal data.

6. Filing optional fields:
- Use the 'Claimed Loss' field to state any financial losses.
- Use the 'Desired Outcome' field to specify the resolution you are seeking.

7. Review before submission:
- Review your complaint for clarity, accuracy, and completeness before submitting it.

8. Submission process:
- Submit your complaint by clicking the 'Submit' button.

9. Post-Submission Actions:
- Regularly check for responses or updates related to your complaint on ComplaintsBoard.com.

Ensure you follow these steps to effectively file a complaint or review about the Better Business Bureau on ComplaintsBoard.com.

Trust badge
Collect Your Trust Badge
Be recognized for outstanding customer service

Contact Better Business Bureau customer service

Website

www.bbb.org

Most discussed Better Business Bureau complaints

Why you shouldn't trust the BBB
9
(opinions to this review)

Your Voice Matters: Our Commitment to Genuine Reviews

Empowering Real Experiences

At ComplaintsBoard, we believe in the power of true customer stories. Our platform is a space for authentic voices, where experiences, both good and bad, are shared openly and honestly.

Dedicated to Authenticity

ComplaintsBoard is vigilant in our fight against false reviews. Our team employs robust verification methods to ensure every review reflects a real customer experience, upholding the integrity of our platform.

Encouraging Detailed Feedback

ComplaintsBoard values reviews that come with real evidence. Whether it's a photo, a detailed account, or additional documentation, such substantiation adds credibility to your story, helping others make better-informed decisions.

Balanced and Constructive Conversations

We're more than just a complaints board; we're a community for balanced dialogue. ComplaintsBoard encourages reviews that not only highlight issues but also acknowledge positive aspects, fostering a fair and comprehensive understanding.

Free and Fair Platform

ComplaintsBoard's commitment to maintaining a free and unbiased platform is unwavering. Every review is treated equally, ensuring that your voice is heard and respected, regardless of the nature of your experience.

Is ComplaintsBoard.com associated with Better Business Bureau?

ComplaintsBoard.com is not affiliated, associated, authorized, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with Better Business Bureau Customer Service. Initial Better Business Bureau complaints should be directed to their team directly. You can find contact details for Better Business Bureau above.

ComplaintsBoard.com is an independent complaint resolution platform that has been successfully voicing consumer concerns since 2004. We are doing work that matters - connecting customers with businesses around the world and help them resolve issues and be heard.

Use this comments board to leave complaints and reviews about Better Business Bureau. Discuss the issues you have had with Better Business Bureau and work with their customer service team to find a resolution.