At some point or another, all of us have had a gripe about a company.
So we wanted to know what's the best way to get your complaint heard, and get them to fix the problem as soon as possible.
Forget Calling
Calling or writing to a store, food, or appliance company is so 1990's.
Many companies have cut back on their phone reps, which means much longer waits for a response or help.
So if your travel plans were ruined by an airline, or you are unhappy with an appliance you bought, your best bet is to post a complaint online at sites like"
In addition, don't forget the time-tested agencies that can help, like the Better Business Bureau, your State Attorney General, and the new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau in Washington.
But perhaps the best way to complain in 2015 is to post your complaint on the company's Facebook page, or to Tweet them.
Most big companies now have social media staffers who will jump on negative complaints on their page, and try to resolve them as quickly as possible.
Doesn't That Stink?
But Consumer Reports Magazine warns that a growing number of companies are now suing people posting negative comments. It's because negative comments remain on the web forever, and can harm a company's reputation for years.
So from the "doesn't that stink" file comes the innocent phrases that could get you sued.
"They scammed me."
"They stole my money."
"They are a horrible business."
"The owner is an ------- "
A lawyer could claim phrases like those are libel, so avoid them.
However, the magazine says it's safe to complain if your complaint is legit, deals with just one issue, and can be supported with some proof.
Bottom Line
Consumer Reports says feel free to use your first amendment right to free speech posting a review for a business, hotel, or restaurant. Just keep it factual and leave emotion out of it.
So turn to the BBB and Angie's List,. complaint websites, the CPFB, and especially social media these days to get your complaint heard.
That way you still get to vent and you don't waste your money.
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