by Domi

Created on: July 09, 2008   Last Updated: January 18, 2012

Within the last few years, it seems writing checks has become a thing of the past. Why purchase something by writing a check, mailing it, waiting for it to clear, and so on, when you could pay with the click of a button?

Well, convenient as paying for bills, eBay, and software online is, it can be tricky and sneaky, adding fees essentially whenever and wherever they want to. This article isn't about why you should be afraid to shop and pay online, it's about HOW you should shop and pay online.

Tips!

1.) LOOK AT THE TERMS OF USE.

Many times, the terms of use conceals VERY important information on extra fees or billing. For example, when registering a domain name, many registrars offer a privacy service to keep any old person from accessing your WHOIS information. However, many of these registrars also hide the fact that they will bill you with extra fees if they need to send you mail deep within the terms of use agreement. So, these companies can send you junk mail at 5 bucks a pop if they'd like. No fun. Make sure you thoroughly read the terms of use before scrolling down and instantly slamming a click on any 'I agree' Buttons.

2.) PayPal isn't always your pal.

Sometimes PayPal charges extra fees just for its service regardless of what type of paypal account you have. Sometimes its better to make sure a web site is 100% reliable and then simply use a credit or debit card to pay, after reading the fine print to be sure there are no hidden fees.

3.) When in doubt, get out.

Never release any info, even regarding paypal, if you think the site you wish to purchase something from is even slightly distrustful or sketchy. You'd rather be safe than sorry, no matter how cheap those Nikes are.

4.) When using ebay, look up the selling user's feedback.

Sometimes we see UserABC(200 Feedback, 100% Positive) and we instantly trust them. Well, let's look closer. What if all 200 remarks are from this user BUYING things, not selling them? This puts you in a whole other boat, doesn't it? You CAN trust the majority of people on ebay, but just be wary. And if you aren't checking feedback at all? Shame on you.

5.) Go easy on the purchases.

Sometimes that check card of yours needs a break. It's very hard to keep track of online purchases in your checkbook, especially since many transactions occurring online wont show up on your online banking page for days. Sometimes additional fees wont show up until much later. Settle down with purchases, and don't forget that it's good to not only buy online but to support your local economy as well, and maybe check out the mall instead of Amazon or eBay.

Well, these are just a few simple steps to becoming a better online buyer. I hope these suggestions help! Happy shopping!

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