Complaints

The complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:10/10/2022

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I live in a building with many elderly people and help them out by going to the store for them. On occasion a wrong item is purchased and has to be returned. On this occasion I needed to return an item at *** drug store and a third party company (The Retail Equation (TRE) ) decided to decline my return due to previous shopping activity. Upon calling TRE, I was treated ok but when I asked to speak to a supervisor I was told there was no one other than the person I was talking to to speak with. Not only is this bad busniess practice they are withholding money from a senior citizen whose only income is Social Security and penalizing me for helping out others. They also told me I was banned from returning any items for 180 days which will exceed the stores alloted time to return the item. I do not feel that a third party company has the right to intefere with my personal shopping habits and should not be allowed to do so to anyone. I would like to be removed from the return denial list so I may continue to be of assistance to my neighbors, because if I am on the list I will not be able to go to *** for them due to not being able to return any item they choose by mistake. Thank You

  Business Response

  Date: 11/23/2022

  Dear Consumer, 
  
  The Retail Equation, Inc. (“TRE”) is a service provider to retailers and assists them in reviewing their own data to detect and prevent fraudulent consumer return transactions or transactions that violate the retailer’s return policies.  TRE may make a recommendation to the retailer to accept or deny a return based on the consumer’s return history with that retailer; however, the ultimate decision to accept or deny a return sits with the retailer.  Further, all data provided to TRE from the retailer is owned by that retailer.  As such, the retailer has exclusive authority to determine whether to delete or modify a consumer’s data upon request.  
  
  After thorough review of your Retail Activity Report (RAR), *** Pharmacy has found that return **************** was not in error. If you believe your RAR still contains an error, you may submit into your Return Activity File a consumer statement up to 100 words in length to explain items in your file. 
  
  To submit a consumer statement into your Return Activity File for disclosure, please reference the transaction number for the return(s) you wish to dispute.  Please mail your consumer statement via the U.S. Postal Service to The Retail Equation using the information listed below:
  
  Address:  RAR (Return Activity Report)
  
  The Retail Equation
  P.O. Box 51373
  Irvine, CA 92619-1373
  
  Regards,
  
  The Retail Equation
  Customer Service
  
   

  Customer Answer

  Date: 11/23/2022

  You
  really make me not want to shop at the stores that you are affiliated with. I
  have read various reviews about your organization and have compiled quite a
  list of complaints from consumers you have banned from returning items. This
  includes the retail establishments that you represent. The power of social
  media has yet to be seen. Happy Thanksgiving 
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:10/09/2022

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I purchased tile from Floor and Decor in January. I kept the receipts and never used the tile. It is important to note that Floor and Decor has not discontinued the tile. They still stock it and sell it. I have been to two Floor and Decor locations to return the tile. In both instances the managers said that the tile is still for sale and should be returnable. I was directed to *** twice- even with my receipts in hand. I have called the *** number twice. The first time the person that barely spoke English didn't enter the correct email address so I didn't receive anything from them. The second time they did but there is no clear way to dispute any of this. I have sent an email to both the "noreply" address and the "Info" address for ***. *** is a trap. It is an intentional trap where you can not speak with a manager or anyone that can help on the phone. The email address that they provide is a dead end. My receipts clearly say "Returns over 90 days from purchase or without an original sales receipt will be processed to merchandise credit." Merchandise credit or store credit is all I was trying to exchange this for. However, *** has created a roadblock to this by not responding to my email and making this seemingly impossible. Again, I have my receipts which have been scanned and emailed to ***. They were also presented to the cashier at Floor And Decor. I have already wasted two trips to two Floor and Decor locations just to be turned away. ***'s operation should be illegal.

  Business Response

  Date: 10/12/2022

  Dear *************************************************** (TRE) is a service provider to retailers and assists them in reviewing their own data to detect and prevent fraudulent consumer return transactions or transactions that violate the retailers return policies.  TRE may make a recommendation to the retailer to accept or deny a return based on the consumers return history with that retailer; however, the ultimate decision to accept or deny a return sits with the retailer.  Further, all data provided to TRE from the retailer is owned by that retailer.  As such, the retailer has exclusive authority to determine whether to delete or modify a consumers data upon request.  
  
  After thorough review of your Retail Activity Report (RAR), Floor and Dcor has found that return 9761995-360-FAD was not in error. If you believe your RAR still contains an error, you may submit into your Return Activity File a consumer statement up to *************************************** your file. 
  
  To submit a consumer statement into your Return Activity File for disclosure,please reference the transaction number for the return(s) you wish to dispute.  Please mail your consumer statement via the U.S. ************** to The Retail Equation using the information listed below:
  
              Address:          RAR (Return Activity Report)
  The Retail Equation
  P.O.Box 51373
  ******,** 92619-1373
  
  Regards,
  The Retail Equation
  Customer Service

• Initial Complaint

  Date:10/01/2022

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  On September 8, 2022 I purchased 6 pairs of shoes online at DSW (because the store didnt have it in stock). I ordered a 9T for my daughter. When they arrived it seemed the shoes were actually a little snug so I attempted to exchange the shoes on 10/1/2022 for a 10T but got a denial receipt from TRE with no explanation and of course it was a Saturday so their office was not open. The manager at DSW claimed they have no information and couldnt approve my return until I called the number. The shoes were all unworn, new in boxes and in original condition along with my original receipt and well within the 90 day return policy. I have a toddler and shoe sizes vary with every single brand! How can I be banded to make returns with all correct paperwork (receipts, original methods of payment and merchandise in new condition). I never know how an item will fit especially for a child and when the store does not have the item in stock I am forced to order online to see if I like it. I am now having to wait until Monday and be out $180 for making legitimate returns?? This is beyond ridiculous.

  Business Response

  Date: 10/19/2022

  Dear ********************************************** **** (TRE) is a service provider to retailers and assists them in reviewing their own data to detect and prevent fraudulent consumer return transactions or transactions that violate the retailers return policies.  TRE may make a recommendation to the retailer to accept or deny a return based on the consumers return history with that retailer; however, the ultimate decision to accept or deny a return sits with the retailer.  Further, all data provided to TRE from the retailer is owned by that retailer.  As such, the retailer has exclusive authority to determine whether to delete or modify a consumers data upon request. 
  
  After thorough review of your Retail Activity Report (RAR), Designer Brands **** confirmed that this consumer has already been refunded in full for the purchase. The first refund was for $19.42 on 9/20 and the second refund of $155.41 on 10/12. The original charge was for $174.83. The refund was posted to a **** account. No further accommodations will be provided.
  
  
  Regards,
  
  The Retail Equation
  Customer Service

• Initial Complaint

  Date:09/27/2022

  Type:Delivery Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  Date of transaction: 9/18/22 Date of attempted return: 9/27/22 Amount of return: $233 roughly. Action: denied due to too many returns I would like for them to let me return the parts I need to return so I can have my money back. Transaction ******************** I have never had an issue returning anything to Advance Auto Parts till this company was involved with them.

  Business Response

  Date: 09/28/2022

  Dear ********************************************** **** (TRE) is a service provider to retailers and assists them in reviewing their own data to detect and prevent fraudulent consumer return transactions or transactions that violate the retailers return policies.  TRE may make a recommendation to the retailer to accept or deny a return based on the consumers return history with that retailer; however,the ultimate decision to accept or deny a return sits with the retailer. Further, all data provided to TRE from the retailer is owned by that retailer.  As such, the retailer has exclusive authority to determine whether to delete or modify a consumers data upon request.  
  
  After thorough review of your Retail Activity Report (RAR), Advance Auto Parts has voided all Advance Auto Parts return transactions from the **** If you believe your RAR still contains an error, you may submit into your Return Activity File a consumer statement up to *************************************** your file. 
  
  To submit a consumer statement into your Return Activity File for disclosure,please reference the transaction number for the return(s) you wish to dispute.  Please mail your consumer statement via the U.S. ************** to The Retail Equation using the information listed below:
  
              Address:          RAR (Return Activity Report)
  The Retail Equation
  P.O.Box 51373
  ******,** 92619-1373
  
  
  Regards,
  The Retail Equation
  Customer Service

  Customer Answer

  Date: 09/28/2022

  I looked over my RAR and I work over 80 hours a week. So as for your RAR Im not sure where you collect your informoation, but it is wrong. I provided my transaction number and I need it to be accepted so I can return the items I do not need. ************* needs to have a better source and better collection of information based solely on a specific individual. A phone number (which is how, Im sure, you get your information), considering someone else has had the previous number and they still continue to use the number, Im being penalized for someone elses actions. I havent returned 200+items within a month to advance Autopart a nor anywhere for that matter. I havent even returned 200+ items in my lifetime.

   

  what I am asking is for your company to place accept the return for the provided transaction ID number. 

• Initial Complaint

  Date:09/21/2022

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  ResolvedMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I did a purchase from ******** and gap and mind you I am a gap member and shop often from them. I tried to make a return recently and was denied the return by retail equation with no real reason stated. My return was out of expiry ( past the 30 days period). I showed my doc letters to the store and told them I was sick and then my family got covid , thats why we couldnt come and and do the return. I asked the store manager to give me a store credit and the agreed but then retail equation denied it for no reason whatsoever! I used the transaction ID to get a ********************** activity report and even called them! The *** did not have any reason for denial and when I called them also, they said I didnt have proof of purchase. Which is nonesense! I am a new mom with 2 kids and life has been handful! Arent there retailers supposed to make us happy?? I am not asking for a refund, I am asking for a store credit!! So the store still gets the same money, I just get other clothes for my kids that will fit as they grow for the next season! Is that too much to ask! This has been utterly infuriating! The call Center agent said we dont know know anything, we are 3rd party vendors! What is retail equation even doing?? Just collecting customer data and using it harass customers!!

  Business Response

  Date: 09/29/2022

  Dear ********************************************** **** (TRE) is a service provider to retailers and assists them in reviewing their own data to detect and prevent fraudulent consumer return transactions or transactions that violate the retailers return policies.  TRE may make a recommendation to the retailer to accept or deny a return based on the consumers return history with that retailer; however,the ultimate decision to accept or deny a return sits with the retailer. Further, all data provided to TRE from the retailer is owned by that retailer.  As such, the retailer has exclusive authority to determine whether to delete or modify a consumers data upon request.  
  
  After thorough review of your RAR, GAP **** has removed return transactions 74820712-510-GAP and 74823502-393-GAP from your file. GAP **** has temporarily re-established your ability to conduct this return from September 29th October 13th. We ask that you please return to the store during this timeframe to process your return or exchange. 
  
  It is very important for Gap **** to ensure that our customers are satisfied with their merchandise. We understand that on occasion customers may not be able to locate/lookup a receipt or that items may be given to them without an original receipt or gift receipt. Because of that, Gap **** will make an exception and allow for the non-receipted items to be returned for a store credit. You are,of course, always welcome to make returns (within the brands return period/policy)with proof of purchase which would include an original receipt, online invoice,or card lookup of their original transaction. 
  
  
  Regards, 
  The Retail Equation 
  Customer Service 

  Customer Answer

  Date: 10/13/2022

  
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution would be satisfactory to me.  I will wait for the business to perform this action and, if it does, will consider this complaint resolved.
  
  Regards,
  
  ***********************
  
   
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:09/14/2022

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  On 07/04/2022 I purchased a pair of shoes at *** for my son who has autism. When I tried to return them on 07/19/2022, with my receipt, my returned was denied due to a report given to them by The Retail Equation. The *** employee could not provide me with further information and said I needed to call the 800 # on the receipt. I called *** and gave them my transaction ID ***************. The customer service rep told me I was issued a warning regarding my returns, however I do not recall this. I received an emailed report from *** on 07/20/2022 which did not give me any other information. On 07/21/2022 I called *** at 866-***-SHOES, the number listed on my receipt for "Questions". I spoke with ****, a customer service supervisor. She said if I had purchased the shoes online, they could have been returned without an issue. Since the receipt said the *** information would be retained for 60 days, I should try to return the shoes again at that time and she would waive the return time limit. I went to the store again on 09/09/2022 and the return was once again denied. Due to his autism, my son has a very difficult time shopping. He has many issues with his feet and doesn't react well to the whole process. The shoes had never been worn and were returned within the policy return limits with a receipt in the amount of $80.99. The store was unwilling to make any concessions such as a return for another size, a different pair, or a store credit, despite my Gold tier rating. I have never violated any return policies. Any returns made have always been with a receipt, within their time frame and in unworn new condition. I would like my money back.

  Business Response

  Date: 09/16/2022

  Dear ********************************************** **** (TRE) is a service provider to retailers and assists them in reviewing their own data to detect and prevent fraudulent consumer return transactions or transactions that violate the retailers return policies.  TRE may make a recommendation to the retailer to accept or deny a return based on the consumers return history with that retailer; however, the ultimate decision to accept or deny a return sits with the retailer.  Further, all data provided to TRE from the retailer is owned by that retailer.  As such, the retailer has exclusive authority to determine whether to delete or modify a consumers data upon request.  
  
  After thorough review of your RAR, ************** has found that return 4741275-930-DBI was not in error.However, ************** has allowed a one-time approval for the transaction mentioned above, youll have between September 16th October 16th to complete this return. Please keep in mind that there are a few ways to prevent future denials for non-receipted returns with original tender of store credit.
  
  -      Keep your receipts and take advantage of **************s Receipt Lookup, which is available at the Returns area in all stores.
  
  -         Avoid receiving store credit when possible. Be sure to have merchandise returns refunded to your original form of payment.
  
  -         Sign up for a PRO Xtra account to help track your purchases and returns.
  
  -         Return the merchandise within the allotted returns period.
  
  
  Regards,
  The Retail Equation
  Customer Service

• Initial Complaint

  Date:09/12/2022

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  Order date: 5/21/2022 Total original purchase: $8,555.24 Attempted to return: About $800 worth Transaction is older than 90 days, but return policy states that store credit will be given for transactions older than 90 days with receipt. I did provide receipt. Floor and Decor was ready to provide store credit but was blocked by The Retail Equation, even though return is valid. Transaction ID for *******************************************: ***********-FAD Web order number for Floor and Decor: *****************

  Business Response

  Date: 09/16/2022

  Dear *************************************************** (TRE) is a service provider to retailers and assists them in reviewing their own data to detect and prevent fraudulent consumer return transactions or transactions that violate the retailers return policies.  TRE may make a recommendation to the retailer to accept or deny a return based on the consumers return history with that retailer; however, the ultimate decision to accept or deny a return sits with the retailer.  Further, all data provided to TRE from the retailer is owned by that retailer.  As such, the retailer has exclusive authority to determine whether to delete or modify a consumers data upon request.
  
  After thorough review of your Retail Activity Report (RAR), Floor and Dcor has found that return ***********-FAD was not in error. However, Floor and Dcor will provide a 1-time accommodation.Please visit the store where the original denial took place and have the store manager re-process the return.  If you believe your RAR still contains an error, you may submit into your Return Activity File a consumer statement up to *************************************** your file. 
  
  To submit a consumer statement into your Return Activity File for disclosure,please reference the transaction number for the return(s) you wish to dispute.  Please mail your consumer statement via the U.S. ************** to The Retail Equation using the information listed below:
  
              Address:          RAR (Return Activity Report)
  The Retail Equation
  P.O.Box 51373
  ******,** 92619-1373
  
  
  Regards,
  The Retail Equation
  Customer Service

• Initial Complaint

  Date:09/05/2022

  Type:Service or Repair Issues
  Status:

  UnansweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I purchased flooring from ************** a business Ive spent $10,000+ over the past 4 years. I tried to return flooring (11 boxes) after finishing our project in our home. I simply bought too much out of fear they would discontinue my flooring. They have not and still sell this **************. It was actually in stock at the store I tried to make my return at in ********, **. I am outside the 90 day window, so the manager informed me I can only get store credit. Although disappointed, better than nothing. I proceed To show her the receipt with my web invoice number, customer number, order number, everything. They then decline the entire transaction and send me home (30 min away) and provide me with a TRE receipt. I would like my $878 store credit, preferably a refund, and I do not understand why this occurred.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:09/02/2022

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  I was appalled to find out about a company called 'The Retail Equasion' after being denied a return without a receipt at a TJX store. We have kids, we buy plenty of things for them and sometimes they are not great at keeping receipts. I never thought it mattered as TJX just gives me a merchandise credit and they can choose whatever they want whenever they want if the item we purchased does not work out. However, on 09/02/2022 I was denied a return. I was accused of committing 'fraud'!!!! As I did some research, I have come to find out every time I was asked for my Drivers License, they scanned it and kept all my personal information on file! I am appalled at finding this out and I do not have any desire to shop at places that do that as my personal information is now out there fo anyone to see.....I am asking that my file as well as my wife's file be deleted immediately.

  Business Response

  Date: 09/13/2022

  Dear ******************************************************** **** (TRE) is a service provider to retailers and assists them in reviewing their own data to detect and prevent fraudulent consumer return transactions or transactions that violate the retailers return policies.  TRE may make a recommendation to the retailer to accept or deny a return based on the consumers return history with that retailer; however, the ultimate decision to accept or deny a return sits with the retailer.  Further, all data provided to TRE from the retailer is owned by that retailer.  As such, the retailer has exclusive authority to determine whether to delete or modify a consumers data upon request. 

  Regards,

  The Retail Equation

  Customer Answer

  Date: 09/13/2022

  My wife and I would like the retailers who send our personal info to a third party ie The Retail Equasion to delete our files.  We had suffered an identity theft awhile back and are still recovering.

  I can assure the retailers we are both in our 70's and only return what our adult children/grandchildren do not want to keep.  We don't even ask for a refund if we have a receipt, but a Merchandise credit so they can choose their own items when we take them shopping.

  There is absolutely no fraud being committed here.  I am a former police officer, and a Veteran. We are both upstanding citizens in our community.  We are being very careful these days regarding identity theft as it is very costly and destructive. 

  My wife spoke with someone in customer service at corp TJX and she shifted that only Retail Equasion can delete our files, not any particular retailer.  But we would like to begin with T J Maxx Retailers...so it seems according to their response they are shifting the blame to the store, and the Rep in TJX shifts the blame to The Retail Equasion.

  We request our personal information be deleted from The Retail Equasion.  We don't think that is out of line.  There is very little privacy these days and stores using a third party who has all of our personal info is very dangerous as far as ID theft is concerned.

  Thank you

  ***************************** (*************************) spouse

• Initial Complaint

  Date:09/02/2022

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  ResolvedMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  On August 3, 2022, I made a good-faith purchase of around $350.00 at Discount Shoe Warehouse (***), knowing that their return window was 90 days. On August 19, I returned some of the shoes and received a warning that future returns might be denied based on information from The Retail Equation (RTE Transaction ID ***********-DBI).On September 2, 2022, I called The Retail Equation, and a barely intelligible operator, clearly speaking from a script, informed me that I could not make any returns for 180 days. I pointed out that *** wouldnt accept the return after 90 days, but the operator simply repeated that I couldnt make any returns for 180 days.After that call, I went back to the *** store: I had the receipt, I was within the return window, and the merchandise was in new condition. The staff at *** acknowledged that the shoes were in new condition and the return was perfectly valid, but they couldn't put it through or refund my money because The Retail Equation's algorithm had put me on a blacklist (Transaction ID ***********-DBI). I spoke with the *** manager, but all he could say was that he couldn't do anything about "the system" or "the algorithm," and my only recourse was to call The Retail Equation again.Completely without my knowledge or consent, a third-party algorithm has retroactively changed the rules of the transaction, and now I'm on a blacklist I never knew existed. The really sad thing is that I cant shop at *** anymore: if I cant make returns, I cant safely buy from them.Im also wondering whether other merchants who use The Retail Equation will deny my returns. I would be interested to know whether Im on a blacklist for all of them, or only ***. Id welcome any information BBB can give me on this, but in the meantime, Ill avoid making purchases at any of them if at all possible.

  Business Response

  Date: 09/16/2022

  Dear ********************************************** **** (TRE) is a service provider to retailers and assists them in reviewing their own data to detect and prevent fraudulent consumer return transactions or transactions that violate the retailers return policies.  TRE may make a recommendation to the retailer to accept or deny a return based on the consumers return history with that retailer; however, the ultimate decision to accept or deny a return sits with the retailer.  Further, all data provided to TRE from the retailer is owned by that retailer.  As such, the retailer has exclusive authority to determine whether to delete or modify a consumers data upon request.  
  
  After thorough review of your RAR, ************** has found that return ***********-DBI was not in error.However, ************** has allowed a one-time approval for the transaction mentioned above, youll have between September 16th October 16th to complete this return. Please keep in mind that there are a few ways to prevent future denials for non-receipted returns with original tender of store credit.
  
  -      Keep your receipts and take advantage of **************s Receipt Lookup, which is available at the Returns area in all stores.
  
  -         Avoid receiving store credit when possible. Be sure to have merchandise returns refunded to your original form of payment.
  
  -         Sign up for a PRO Xtra account to help track your purchases and returns.
  
  -         Return the merchandise within the allotted returns period.
  
  
  Regards,
  The Retail Equation
  Customer Service

  Customer Answer

  Date: 09/18/2022

  The Retail Equation's response allows me to return to *************** I made the purchase at **Discount Shoe Warehouse (DSW)**, as my complaint clearly states, so I can't return to Home Depot.

  I would be very willing to accept this resolution if TRE will allow me to return to the business where I made the original transaction. This kind of error does not inspire confidence in the accuracy of their algorithm. Many thanks to the BBB for handling this!

  Business Response

  Date: 09/20/2022

  Dear ********************************************** **** (TRE) is a service provider to retailers and assists them in reviewing their own data to detect and prevent fraudulent consumer return transactions or transactions that violate the retailers return policies.  TRE may make a recommendation to the retailer to accept or deny a return based on the consumers return history with that retailer; however, the ultimate decision to accept or deny a return sits with the retailer.  Further, all data provided to TRE from the retailer is owned by that retailer.  As such, the retailer has exclusive authority to determine whether to delete or modify a consumers data upon request.  

  After thorough review of your RAR, Designer Brands **** has found that return ***********-DBI was not in error. However, Designer brands **** has allowed a one-time approval for the transaction mentioned above, youll have between September 16th October 16th to complete this return. Please keep in mind that there are a few ways to prevent future denials for non-receipted returns with original tender of store credit.
  
  
  
  Regards,
  The Retail Equation
  Customer Service

  Customer Answer

  Date: 09/21/2022

  
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution would be satisfactory to me.  I will attempt the return and, if it is successful, I will consider this complaint resolved.

  To TRE: I appreciate knowing that there are ways to avoid return denials in future. The simplest is never to shop at DSW (or any other retailer that does business with TRE if at all possible), and that is exactly what I will do.

  
  Thanks and regards,
  
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