Ultimate Consumer Guide: RESCUE SQUADS
U.S. News & World Report
8/18/2003 Special Report
The articles in the double-issue repeatedly show how hard it is for consumers to effectively complain and the shortcomings of government and business-supported complaint handlers. Finally, the ConsumerXchange solution.
Some irate consumers are so tired of "free" help, they're willing to pony up cash to a handful of Web sites that pester companies for you. Your money buys a little more follow-up than you might get from a government or non-profit group....
The $43 fee Shoolman charges pays for his loyalty: "It's the only way consumers can be sure that we are fully representing them." And he's a bargain.
The article details a CX success story, gives Carl Shoolman's analysis of customer service reps and labels CX both reputable and a pit bull.
Corrections
1) It is not true that: "Lawyer Carl Shoolman promises to pursue a case with letters and phone calls until you get an offer you deem acceptable." Nobody should expect endless service.
Actually, ConsumerXchange promises are reasonably limited. Also, note that no legal services are provided though ConsumerXchange.
2) "Limited track record, but anyone who can get AOL to correct a billing error deserves consideration." Actually, the bill for telephone service to AOL was cancelled by MCI. Also, CX advised the consumer to also write her attorney general, who gets major credit for the result. (The most impressive feature of the result wasn't mentioned: the bill was a record $4,000.)
As time passed since CX went online in 2002, the track record has become substantial.
Updated price
The basic processing fee remains $43.
The price has been increased for those who save $500 or more by using CX. The Success Fee ranges from $50 to a maximum of $1,000, to be paid when the consumer gets the money or benefit.
Your total cost will be $43, unless CX saves you $500 or more.
Still a bargain.