

The report suggests accredited members of the BBB are at a significant advantage, even if their businesses aren't trusted by their customer base. In fact, many of them were being investigated by the government for fraudulent or other illegal behavior at the time of the reporting. However, the system isn't as straightforward as it seems.Ī 2015 investigative report from CNNMoney found more than 100 businesses that were not as credible as their BBB ratings of A- or higher made them seem. On the surface, this process seems simple enough: the unhappy consumer files a formal complaint with the BBB, and they receive a response (and hopefully a solution to) the problem after about a month. According to the BBB online complaint system, complaints are usually mediated and closed within 30 business days. If a response isn't received, the BBB will make a second request. The business then has 14 days to respond to your complaint. SEE ALSO: What to Do When Your Food Is RecalledĪfter you file your complaint with the BBB, "everything you submit will be forwarded to the business within two business days," according to the nonprofit. Postal Service, or matters that have been brought to court. The organization handles "disputes that relate to marketplace issues experienced with the services or products a business provides." These complaints do not include disputes or disagreements between employers and employees, discrimination issues, complaints against government agencies such as the U.S. If you feel you've been maligned by a particular business, you can submit a complaint to the BBB. Small businesses with up to 100 employees generally have to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,500 per year larger companies could pay upwards of $10,000 annually. literally.īusinesses wanting to display that blue torch on their websites and marketing materials must pay an annual fee.

However, being an accredited business with the BBB comes at a cost. Being a BBB-accredited business can cost companies more than $10,000 a year.Īfter a business submits an application to become accredited, the BBB investigates to ensure the company meets their standards and grades each one that applies.
