For Immediate Release:
January 16, 2014
County Office recoups
more than $2M for consumers
Consumer Affairs investigates and resolves
complaints against businesses
FREEHOLD, NJ – The Monmouth County Division of Consumer Affairs recouped $2,473,546 on behalf of consumers in 2013.
“Consumer Affairs was able to more than double the amount of money, goods or services it got back for consumers in the past year,” said Freeholder Director Lillian G. Burry. “Unfortunately, many of our residents dealt with fraud in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy, but Consumer Affairs was able to help recover almost $2.5 million dollars for people, some of whom were displaced by Superstorm Sandy.”
The Division’s year-end report shows a $1,445,276 increase over the amount recouped in 2012. The report also shows that the number of cases handled by the Division rose by just over 11 percent in 2013, from 542 in 2012 to 615 in 2013.
Consumer Affairs Director Annmarie Howley attributed the increase 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: $173,589 was in cash refunds; $1,950,729 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; $345,833 was in voided contracts, and $3,393 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 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 or by calling 732-431-7900. The office is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
# # #