It’s not uncommon to make a purchase for goods or services over the phone. A telemarketer may have an "offer you can’t refuse" or you may approach a business over the phone. Either way, there are important provisions to remember.
Quick Tips
Avoid doing business with telemarketers who:
- offer to send a courier service for your money, or ask you to wire it;
- ask permission to automatically withdraw money from your bank account;
- ask for your credit card number, bank account number, social insurance number or any other personal information;
- offer you a free prize, but want to charge handling and shipping fees for you to receive it, or
- demand payment in advance, for any reason.
Visit the Competition Bureau’s website for information on telemarketing
Your Rights
When you buy something over the phone, it’s important to note that the agreement can be cancelled if the company doesn’t disclose required information, including the full amount the company knows will be payable under the agreement. The transaction may also be cancelled if you don’t receive a written copy of the agreement within 30 days of the billing date, or 60 days after you entered into the agreement, whichever comes first.
- Review your credit card statements carefully to confirm you are only billed the amounts disclosed to you and make sure to dispute any incorrect charges immediately.
- Additionally, apply your basic rights when making any kind of purchase (click here for details on contracts).
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