Missouri receives settlement for Dell customers

Missouri is among 34 states that have reached a settlement with Dell Inc. regarding complaints about the computer company's promotional and customer service practices.

Under the settlement, Dell agrees to pay $1.5 million in restitution to eligible customers who experienced problems with Dell's financing promotions, rebate offers, technical support and repair policies. Of that money, $75,000 will come to Missouri, according to a news release from Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster's office.

An investigation into Dell's sales practices followed customer complaints about several issues, including misleading promotions that touted better financing terms than were actually available, difficulty obtaining warranty service on computers and rebates that were promised but not delivered.

In addition to making restitution, Dell also agrees to change its business practices to:

• clearly state in advertisements that most customers will not qualify for the best-available interest rates;

• fulfill its warranty obligations more promptly;

• provide consumers with all documentation needed for rebates; and

• mail rebate checks to consumers in a more timely manner.

Dell claim forms can be downloaded from the attorney general's Web site, linked below, or requested by phone at (800) 392-8222. Claims must be postmarked by April 13.[[In-content Ad]]