A non-profit organization that aims to promote trust between consumers and businesses in the United States and Canada. The BBB was founded in 1912 and operates as a network of independent organizations. Its primary functions include:
- Collecting and providing free business reviews
- Handling consumer complaints
- Monitoring advertising practices
- Offering dispute resolution services
The organization assigns letter grades (A+ to F) to businesses based on various factors, including:
- Complaint history and resolution
- Time in business
- Transparency of business practices
- Licensing and government actions
While the BBB is well-known and respected by many consumers, it’s important to note that it’s not a government agency. Businesses can become accredited members by paying a fee and meeting specific standards; as a result, some critics argue that this model can potentially lead to bias
Consumers often use BBB ratings and reviews as one factor when deciding whether to engage with a business, but it’s generally recommended to consider multiple sources of information when making decisions.
