For Immediate Release:

January 5, 2015

 

County Office recoups $2M for consumers

Consumer Affairs investigates and resolves

complaints against businesses

 

Figures in the Division’s year-end report shows that while the number of cases handled by the Division dropped by nearly 8 percent in 2014, from 615 in 2013 to 564 in 2014, staff was able to recoup nearly the same amount of money directly to local consumers.

Consumer Affairs Director Annmarie Howley attributed the drop to consumers being more savvy about the money they spend on goods and services.

“People are being more conscious of where their money goes and making sure they get the item or service that they paid for and expected,” Howley said.

The money breaks down this way: $246,136 was in cash refunds; $1,656,098 represents the value of services and items that the Division was able to recover for consumers who were unable to get them on their own; $178,061 was in voided contracts, and $1,550 was in exchanges, which means the seller substituted an item of equal value.

“In tight financial times people are watching every dollar they spend and it’s comforting to know there is a place to turn to for help,” said Freeholder Lillian G. Burry. “The Consumer Affairs staff works not only for Monmouth County residents, but for any resident who is having difficulty dealing with a business located in Monmouth County.”

Consumer Affairs will help consumers resolve all types of consumer-related issues. Information about rescission, fraud and other consumer affairs programs can be found on the County website at www.visitmonmouth.com, by calling 732-431-7900 or email consumeraffairs@co.monmouth.nj.us. The office is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

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