Complaint / Review
Circuit City
Ripoff refund policy not clearly displayed in store. 15% restocking charge slapped on buyer

I purchased a digital camera from Glen Burnie, MD Circuit City store #836. I turned the camera on to be sure it was in working order before giving it for a gift. The box was not sealed when I purchased it, and the sales person told me that I could bring it back within 14 days and did not mention any other part of the return policy.

I returned the gift the next morning because someone else had gotten the same gift. I was charged a 15% restocking fee and sales tax charged to the restocking fee. The reason given was that because it was not sealed that they could not sell it as a new item.

I angrily complained to the store manager Vick Weiman and he pointed to a sign that was about 12 to 15 feet from my estimate on a wall above the customer service counter that was so small that I could not read.

I had to take his word that the policy was written there. He also pointed to signs on the registers that were also too small to read unless very close to them. He also said that it was on the reciept and told me that he wouldn't refund it no matter how much I complained or yelled.

It is on the receipt in the middle of about 8 paragraphs that is not noticeable. I don't know who would stand in the store and read all that information before leaving.

This speech by the manager sounded well rehearsed, as though this complaint is heard often. I'm sure it is. There is no way any consumer could leave that store with a clear understanding of the refund policy and that they would be charged 15%. As I understand it all refund policies need to be in plain view (I define that as easily seen and people can read it).

Circuit City has failed to comply with this and though I have complained to National Headquarters, refuses to return my money, because I was not properly informed on their refund policy.

I'm 31, I can't read those signs in the store. I'm sure grandma and grandpa can't either. This is a really unfair consumer practice. I want my money back, and I will not stop complaining until I get it and they change their policy or make it plainly known to consumers.