The BBB is your most formidable ally
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) website has a list of companies that are affiliated with them. These companies are, in turn, ranked according to their credibility and reliability. Thousands of consumers every month send in complaints and feedback to the BBB about fraudulent companies and lenders. The BBB takes the time to conduct investigations on those matters. They also give tips and advice to those who take the time to browse their website.
How do you use this to your advantage? When looking for a computer financing loan provider, it’s good to start with the BBB directory. Chances are you’ll run into a company that not only offers good rates but also dependable and trustworthy service. If you have your eyes set on a lending company or bank, do a quick background check on them and see if they’re affiliated with the BBB. If not, consider looking for financial assistance elsewhere.
Look for verified contact information
Having a website is not enough. Any bad credit computer financing company or firm should have authentic contact information. They need to have a dedicated customer service department that you can contact anytime. Make sure they have an existing phone number and address. When in doubt, call your local authorities. You could also use a handy-dandy phone directory or do a reverse look-up on their phone number to verify their location.
Check for negative reviews and feedback
Go through forums and consumer protection websites to see if there have been any major complaints about a computer financing poor credit company within the past couple of years. If there’s any sign of aggressive collection schemes, impossibly high interest rates or consumer threats, report them to the BBB and start looking for another company.
Know basic computer 101
There are many companies that offer computers on a rent-to-own basis or on installment payment schemes. Make sure you know how the computer is actually worth before signing up for anything. Get the exact specs of the computer (including the brand name for each part). Do your homework and find out how each of these components is actually worth then weight it against what they are charging you. It’s okay for companies to charge extra for interest but if the overall amount seems to overkill for the specs, report the company to the BBB and look for another computer financing poor credit provider.