2010 Consumer Action Handbook

I  received my 2010 Consumer Action Handbook in the mail last week. Every few years I order a new copy for my files. I like this resource because (1) It is Free! (2) It has some good consumer tips (3) It has a good consumer assistance directory.

You can order this handbook  from the General Services Administration at www.consumeraction.gov. It has four parts to it:

1. Being a Savy Consumer. This section has 20 categories covering such items as banking, cars, credit, housing, insurance, privacy protection, wills and funerals, etc. The information is pretty basic, but it’s a good start.
2. Filing a Complaint. Gives you steps in how to resolve a complaint. Pretty good.
3. Key Information Resources. This gives information that would be helpful for teachers and military personnel.
4. Consumer Assistance Directory. This is the goldmine section. You get addresses, phone numbers, internet resources for all kinds of consumer needs. Listings for State Insurance Regulators, State, County, and City Consumer Protection Offices, Federal Agencies (that I didn’t even know existed!), Corporate Contacts, etc. It’s a handy reference guide.

When you order the Consumer Action Handbook you will also get a Consumer Information Catalog that lists other free and low-cost publications.

Overall, this is not a bad resource to have if you live in the U.S. It can come in handy from time to time.