CPA QUICK REFERENCE
Information for Consumers

CODE OF STANDARDS & ETHICS

The Code of Standards and Ethics of the Consumer Protection Association of America provides an agreement between the business and the consumer on which to base their joint expectations regarding any transaction in which they may engage. This Code is based on the belief that every transaction between a business and its customer establishes a relationship based on mutual trust and the extension of goodwill by each party to the other.

For their part, Business Members of CPA recognize their responsibility:

To be truthful in all of their representations regarding the products and services they offer and to comply with all federal, state or local regulations which apply to their business operations; 

To be prepared to fulfill any and all representations made whether in writing through their advertising or other written materials or made verbally to the consumer by their sales representatives or other employees; 

And, to work within the guidelines and under the auspices of CPA to provide a means by which consumer complaints are resolved in a timely manner. 

For their part, Consumer Members of CPA recognize their responsibility:

To be fully informed regarding the product or service they are purchasing, including any special requirements or limitations inherent therein; 

To engage in a purchase of a product or service only when they are satisfied that the product or service meets their requirements and they are prepared to fulfill all terms and conditions of the agreement;

And, to work within the guidelines and under the auspices of CPA in approaching the business with any concerns or questions regarding the fulfillment of the sales transaction or product warranty.

Both, Business Members of CPA and Consumer Members of CPA agree:

That their relationship is based on mutual trust and full disclosure by all parties;

To work together diligently to resolve any differences of understanding arising in their business relationship;

And, in the event that an impasse is reached, to work within the guidelines and under the sole auspices of CPA to resolve those differences and/or to accept the findings of the CPA appointed arbitrator as final and binding to all parties 

CONSUMER PROTECTION ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA

CPA is a member organization that invites businesses and their customers to join together to change how business will be done into the 21st century. CPA gives members and others effective tools for communication and complaint resolution no matter where or when the transaction takes place. Whether you're a business or a consumer, when someone promises to provide you with a product or service, you deserve to get what you expect!

When you receive more than you expect...let the business know with CPA's Thank You! card. And, when you don't, use CPA's You Blew It! card. As a member, you receive copies of both to hand out in person...or, send them via e-mail using the links provided.

If you need to, file a complaint following CPA's guidelines and sample complaint letter. And, if the business still doesn't do the "right thing", you can file a formal complaint with CPA. We can even provide formal arbitration services if needed.

Other Summary Sheets you might find of interest:

• How To Complain Effectively - 4 Steps to Results
• How To Keep Your Information Private