CLEARWATER — This summer, shoppers across Florida are gearing up for a season full of exciting online deals—from Fourth of July sales to Amazon Prime Day to Florida sales tax holidays and early back-to-school promotions. The Better Business Bureau Serving West Florida encourages shoppers to take full advantage of the savings while keeping a few smart practices in mind to make online purchases with confidence.

Online shopping has made finding great deals more convenient than ever. Whether you’re on a laptop at home or browsing from your phone at the beach, BBB is here to help you make informed buying decisions, stay organized, and enjoy a smooth shopping experience.

Top BBB Tips for Positive Online Shopping Experiences:

1. Start with Trust
Before purchasing from a new site or seller, take a moment to check their profile on BBB.org. You’ll find business ratings, customer reviews, and details about how they respond to consumer concerns.

2. Look for Clear Contact Information
A reputable online store should list a physical address, phone number, or other contact methods. This is a good sign that they’re accessible if questions or issues arise.

3. Understand the Return Policy

Before checking out, read the return and refund policies carefully. A clear and fair policy helps you shop worry-free, especially during major sales when items move quickly.

4. Pay with a Credit Card
Credit cards offer strong consumer protections and the ability to dispute charges if something goes wrong. It’s one of the safest ways to pay online. Check out more BBB Tips about payment types here.

5. Watch for Secure Sites
Look for “https://” in the web address, especially at checkout. The “s” stands for secure—an important sign your information is encrypted.

6. Save Your Records
Keep receipts, confirmation emails, and any tracking numbers until your order arrives and you’re fully satisfied with the purchase.

7. Comparison Shop Smartly

Take your time comparing prices, reading product descriptions, and checking customer reviews. The best deal is one that meets both your budget and your expectations.

8. Stay Informed with Alerts and Subscriptions
Sign up for emails from your favorite trusted retailers or follow them on social media to hear about exclusive offers, restocks, and seasonal savings first.

Need Help or Want to Research a Business?
Visit BBB.org to search for businesses you can trust, explore helpful buying tips, or file a customer review. We’re here to help consumers shop with confidence!

Report Scams:
If you’ve encountered a suspicious seller or a fraudulent ad, report it to BBB Scam Tracker to help warn others in your community.