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:05/19/2025

  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.

  I was so excited to be selected to be in the Marquis, whos who directory after an hour long interview with one of their employees. At the end of the conversation, I was Hard sold on some kind of membership and then found out later being featured in the directory was supposed to be free andthat theres a chance that I wont even be featured in the actual book unless I pay another fee on top of the $1900 I already paid and then if I do pay additional money, it will secure my place in the 2026 book. Also found out that this is an online paid only directory that the public doesnt get to see. Absolute waste of my money and I feel like I was pressured into Paying a lot of money for nothing. Request a refund ASAP. Thank you.

  Business Response

  Date: 05/19/2025

  *** *** ****
  
  
  ****** ******** ****** ******* *********************
  ***********************
  ******************
  
  ***  **** *********
  
  Dear Complaint Analyst,
  
  In response to the above referenced matter, please note the following:
  Since 1898, Marquis Whos Who has remained the standard for reliable and comprehensive biographical data. Each year, we strive to continue the tradition established by our founder, ****** ****** Marquis, over 127 years ago with the first publication of Whos Who in ******** 
  For clarity,there has never been a cost associated with inclusion in Marquis Whos Who.Biographies are included in our registry strictly on merit no one can buy or purchase a position, listing, or award from Marquis Whos Who. Naturally, there are fees associated with editorial and commemorative items, such as narrative content, books, plaques, specialized websites, and distribution services. There is never an obligation to purchase these types of items nor is it contingent upon inclusion.
  *** ******* was notified that he was under consideration to have his biography published with us to which he responded with interest. We communicated with him after reviewing his data and conducted a phone interview where his inclusion was determined. He was then educated on the available products and services along with their corresponding benefits. At that time, he opted to purchase available products and services that were simply an option for him. Again, nothing is obligatory, and the services are completely optional.
  For our listees who are inducted, it is possible to be chosen to appear in a qualifying edition without purchasing a copy, and if that is the case, the listee would be notified prior to going to print. However, purchasing a copy does secure placement, but again- that is not the only way one gets published in a physical book.
  Nevertheless,in the interest of addressing any complaint expeditiously and as communicated to *** ******* already, his credit card account has already been refunded in full and the services cancelled. Please see attached refund receipt attached. In addition, *** ******* has been placed on a Do Not Contact status. Should you require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
  
  Thank you,
  **** ********
  **************** *** ********** ********
  ******* **** ***
  
  
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 05/21/2025

  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me and the matter has been resolved. Although let it be known that marquis whos who Although being in business for 127 years high-pressure sales people and makes you feel like you have to pay a lot of money just to be in the directory after interviewing you for an hour and a half.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  **** *******
  
  
  
   
  
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:05/16/2025

  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 paid this company over $1,500 for promises made but not kept. For example, they promised that the book with my Biography would come out initially in 2024 shortly after the Press Release. Then, they changed the date for the book to be published to 2025. I started to become suspicious and brought this to the attention of my wife when they kept delaying the book, yet kept contacting me to have me spend even more money on additional products. My wife called and they told her different lies. She finally spoke to someone named **** who sent a follow up email saying now the book is delayed until 2026. Why would you have someone pay you in May of 2024 for a book that will not be out until 2026. I have come to realize these people have taken my money and are not delivering what was promised. I paid $431.62 for this book. I also previously paid them $1,230.62 for a Branding Liaison I have heard nothing else about, a professional narrative, and it is all very disgusting for a senior citizen like myself to be taken advantage of. These things they charged over $1200.00 for are not worth that amount of money and they are a scam. I would like to be refunded fully for the book I have not received and an agreed upon amount out of this $1230.62 as I am no longer interested in dealing with these people. This is due to their misleading practices and lack of follow through on the part of an organization that markets itself as credible. I have called and called recently with no return phone call regarding this book that has never been published, so I am seeking help at this point and want them to be exposed for who they are.

  Business Response

  Date: 05/16/2025

  *** *** ****
  
  
  ****** ******** ****** ******* *********************
  **********************************************************************************
  
  RE:  Complaint # ********
  
  Dear Complaint Analyst,
  In response to the above referenced matter, please note the following:
  Since 1898, Marquis Whos Who has remained the standard for reliable and comprehensive biographical data. Each year, we strive to continue the tradition established by our founder, ****** ****** Marquis, over 127 years ago with the first publication of Whos Who in ******** 

  
  For clarity, there has never been a cost associated with inclusion in Marquis Whos Who. Biographies are included in our registry strictly on merit no one can buy or purchase a position, listing, or award from Marquis Whos Who. Naturally, there are fees associated with editorial and commemorative items, such as narrative content, books, plaques, specialized websites, and distribution services. There is never an obligation to purchase these types of items nor is it contingent upon inclusion.
  
  *** **** was inducted into Whos Who in America after expressing interest in his consideration. At that time he opted to purchase commemorative products and services. Thereafter, his branding specialist contacted him, which is when he purchased a copy of an upcoming Whos Whos Who in America book. 
  
  *** **** and his family have contacted us on numerous occasions regarding receipt of the book. We have been upfront with an expected timeline throughout.
  
  As previously explained to *** ***** considering that Who's Who in ******* is released annually, our team reviews and determines placement during the current year for the following year's release. Thus, in 2024, we compiled the roster for the ******************************************************** 2026. As an organization that has been publishing relied upon data for over 127 years, we take great pride every step of the way with our publishing and production process and only go to print once a full editorial effort is completed. All listees who are slated to be published are contacted to review,submit necessary changes or updates and approve their data. Once that effort has commenced, that is when our editorial team reviews and proofs all the data and the final layout set in place thereafter. This is a lengthy process that will not be compromised. Additionally to note, we cannot ever pinpoint an exact release date or a specified date our books would be in hand; as shipping timeframes are subject to change due to delays in manufacturing and fulfillment supply.
  
  Going back to and regarding *** ***** initial purchase in May 2023 that included personalized products and services , we have already sent and completed that personalized material and content. Below is the link to the press release he previously approved, along with his access to our database which was also created and sent to him on May 19, 2023. A copy of that PDF is attached here for reference (password removed for privacy).
  Press release link:
  **********************************************************************************************************************;
  
  Additionally, he was sent a commemorative wall plaque complimentary.
  
  Nevertheless, in the interest of addressing any complaint expeditiously, and ask explained to As already communicated with *** **** we are issuing a refund for his book purchase. Please see attached refund receipt for reference attached. 
  
  Please note, we have placed *** **** on a Do Not Contact status. Should you require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.

  
  Best regards,
  
  **** ********
  ******** ******* *** ********** ********
  ******* **** ***
  ****** ************************
  **** **************

• Initial Complaint

  Date:01/30/2025

  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.

  Money Paid ******** dlls 01/29/2025 Just realize there is no cost for this Service, yet this person (employed or not) with this company, is using company information to scam people.

  Business Response

  Date: 01/30/2025

  ******* *******
  
  
  ****** ******** ****** ******* *********************
  ***************************************************************************************
  
  ***  **** *********
  
  Dear Complaint Analyst,
  
  In response to the above referenced matter, please note the following:
  
  Since 1898, Marquis Whos Who has remained the standard for reliable and comprehensive biographical data. Each year, we strive to continue the tradition established by our founder, ****** ****** Marquis, over 126 years ago with the first publication of Whos Who in ******** 
  
  For clarity,there has never been a cost associated with inclusion in Marquis Whos Who.Biographies are included in our registry strictly on merit no one can buy or purchase a position, listing, or award from Marquis Whos Who. Naturally, there are fees associated with editorial and commemorative items, such as narrative content, books, plaques, specialized websites, and distribution services. There is never an obligation to purchase these types of items nor is it contingent upon inclusion.
  
  I can confirm the communication that *** ****** had with our submission director, **** ********, is legitimate and she is an employee with the real Marquis Whos Who.
  We received communication from *** ****** directly as well and did of course take the opportunity to reply and provide the necessary clarity of the same. He has acknowledged this.
  
  Nevertheless,in the interest of addressing any complaint expeditiously, and ask explained to *********************** credit card account has already been refunded in full and the services cancelled. Please see attached refund receipt for reference. In addition, *** ****** has been informed informed of the refund being issued. Please note, we have placed *** ****** on a Do Not Contact status.
  
  Should you require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
  
  Thank you,
  **** ********
  **************** *** ********** ********
  Marquis Whos Who
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:02/14/2024

  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.

  In early December I was called by the company about being inducted into their database. At no time during the conversation did they say it could be done free and charged me over $1,200. When I began to research the company and found out that there should be no charge to be included, I reached out and requested a full refund, as I feel as I was tricked. The customer service rep said since I opened the email containing my account, that only a partial refund could be given to me. I asked her to delete the account, since I will not and have not used it since. She told me she could not and that I could only receive a partial refund. I find it difficult to imagine that the company in this day and age could not delete an account. Ive been fighting this charge with them and my credit card company for the past two months and will continue to do so. I was misled and refuse to believe that the account cannot be deleted and a full refund be returned. I would like the remaining $530.62 to be returned and am willing to fight this further if needed. A simple ****** search of the company will tell you everything you should know.

  Business Response

  Date: 02/15/2024

  ******** *** ****
  
  ****** ******** ****** ******* ************ ********
  *****************************************************************
  
  ***  **** * ********
  
  Dear Complaint Analyst,
  
  In response to the above referenced matter, please note the following:
  
  Please be advised, there has never been a cost associated with inclusion in Marquis Whos Who. Biographies are included in our registry strictly on merit no one can buy or purchase a position, listing, or award from Marquis Whos Who.Naturally, there are fees associated with editorial and commemorative items,such as narrative content, books, plaques, specialized websites, and distribution services. There is never an obligation to purchase these types of items nor is it contingent upon inclusion.
  
  ********************* spoke to one of our representatives on December 12, 2023 and opted to move forward with available products and services upon his induction.
  
  Part of the program that ********************** opted for included access to our Marquis Biographies Online database. These credentials were created and personalized for him upon his decision to move forward at the time and were included within his congratulatory materials sent via email on December 15, 2023. Our records indicate that this material was accessed and downloaded from our portal on which is was sent by.  Please see attached screenshot showing the activity retrieving the information where the credentials are included within and also showing his login activity with the credentials thereafter.
  
  On December 22, 2023 ********************** reached out to our customer service department stating he does not need the products and services he had opted to purchase and was under the impression it was all free of charge. At that time, the customer service representative clarified what the cost was connected to (as explained above) along with explaining that we have already personalized part of the program components that were sent. As a result, he had agreed to a partial refund while removing the part of the program that was not yet completed or sent yet. The refund of the agreed amount was issued that same day.
  
  On January 25, **** we received a dispute for the balance from *** ********** financial institution claiming the remaining items that were kept intact were cancelled. Again, ********************** had received his personalized credentials already.  A customer service representative reached out to him upon receiving the dispute and we responded to the credit card company accordingly. We have since received notification that the credit card company ruled in our favor and as such; we are unable to touch those funds for 45 business days from the ruling which would be ***** 11,****; this is in accordance to **************** rules and regulations in order to issue a refund to **********************.  Nevertheless, if *** ********************* contacts **************** to re-dispute the charge, we will certainly accept it in an effort to comply.
  
  Please note, we would also like to come to a resolution and satisfy **********************. We will happily reimburse ********************** on the calculated date indicated above unless we receive notification that the balance of the charge has been re-disputed by him prior to that date.  
  
  Should you require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
  
  Best regards,
  
  *************************
  ******** ******* *** ********** ********
  ******* **** ***
  ******************************
  **** **************
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 02/15/2024

  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID# ********, and have determined that my complaint has NOT been resolved because:

   Most of the information is correct, however I did not agree to the refunded amount; as I had no choice since I was told a full refund could not occur; make sure to upload that recorded conversation as well. Furthermore, it was never brought to my attention during the initial call that the induction was free.  
  

  I will continue to dispute this charge, especially after reading all the negative reviews about how this company misleads the consumer.  I understand that a plaque was part of my package and that was received, so I will be more than happy to pay for that, but like any other purchase, if the consumer is not satisfied, they are able to return it.  I ask that my account be deleted, because I find it ridiculous that it cannot be and see if a resolution can occur regarding the remaining amount.

   

   

   

  In order for the BBB to appropriately process your response, you MUST answer the question above.

  
  Sincerely,
  
  *********************************
  
  
  
  
   
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 02/16/2024

  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID# ********, and have determined that my complaint has NOT been resolved because:

  The charge will no longer be disputed by the request of Marquis Whos Who, however, I do not mind paying for the plaque as stated.  With the removal of my account, which I was told prior it could not be removed, I would like to know what the refunded amount will be, so I can explain the situation to *****************  
  

  I standby my comment of being misled as it was never discussed that the induction could be free, only after I contacted the company about a full refund, was when I was told it was free.

  I do appreciated the quick responses by the company and would like this resolution in writing via email if possible so I can close this complaint.

   

   

   

   

  In order for the BBB to appropriately process your response, you MUST answer the question above.

  
  Sincerely,
  
  *********************************
  
  
  
  
   
  

  Business Response

  Date: 02/16/2024

  ******** *** ****
  
  ****** ******** ****** ******* ************ ********
  *****************************************************************
  
  ***  **** * ********
  
  Dear Complaint Analyst,
  
  In response to the above referenced matter, please note the following:
  
  The amount that we will expect to be re-disputed and accepted is $530.62. To confirm, when you contact ***************** that is the amount you will want to contest again; as a refund of $700.00 was issued already.
  
  The plaque was sent to you complimentary and therefore you did not pay for it. As a result there is no payment necessary nor requested regarding that item. We will remove your data from our database and cancel the access the database; which as explained earlier is what we incur cost with upon creation and why it was explained as such.
  
  Of course, we do not want you or any listee for that matter to feel misled and we do hope that the additional clarification was helpful. Additionally, we do record all of our calls for quality assurance purposes and the initial call will be reviewed to determine where the misunderstanding may have stemmed from.
  
  Per your request, we will also send this copy to you via email for your records accordingly.
  
  
  
  
  Best regards,
  
  *************************
  ******** ******* *** ********** ********
  ******* **** ***
  ******************************
  **** **************
  
  
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:01/04/2024

  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.

  I want to express my profound disappointment with Marquis Who's Who. In July 2023, I was approached on LinkedIn for the "prestigious" online biographer program. I agreed to an interview, expecting a unique opportunity for my business.However, the reality was starkly different. The interview process, supposedly selecting me for a beneficial program, led to an inadequately written biography that misrepresented my professional achievements.The unethical practices exacerbated when I felt pressured into an immediate financial commitment. The representative insinuated that delaying my decision might lead to losing this exclusive opportunity, a high-pressure sales tactic that is both unethical and unacceptable.The promised article was never delivered. Instead, I received follow-up communications demanding additional payments for initially promised services.This experience has left me deeply dissatisfied and frustrated. I was deceived and taken advantage of by a company that fails to deliver on its promises. I demand a thorough investigation and resolution Full Refund: I expect a refund for the misrepresented services that were never delivered as promised Clear Explanation: I request a detailed explanation for the vast discrepancies between the promises made during the interview and the actual services provided Immediate Cancellation of Charges: I insist on the immediate cancellation of any additional charges or services not explicitly agreed upon Review of Sales Practices: Marquis Who's Who must review and improve its sales practices to ensure transparency, honesty, and ethical conduct in future interactions I anticipate a prompt and professional response from Marquis Who's Who. Failure to address this matter adequately may lead me to explore legal avenues to seek restitution for the financial losses incurred due to your organization's actions I trust you take this complaint seriously, and I expect appropriate measures will be taken to rectify the situation.

  Business Response

  Date: 01/04/2024

  ******* ** ****
  
  ****** ******** ****** ******* ************ ********
  *****************************************************************
  
  ***  **** * ********
  
  Dear Complaint Analyst,
  In response to the above referenced matter, please note the following:
  Since 1898, Marquis Whos Who has remained the standard for reliable and comprehensive biographical data. Each year, we strive to continue the tradition established by our founder, ************************* Marquis, over 125 years ago with the first publication of Whos Who in America. 
  **************** spoke to one of our representatives on July 25,2023 and opted to move forward with available products and services upon his induction. The article **************** is referring to was not included in the particular services he had agreed to at the time.  What he did opt for is the access to our Marquis Biographies Online database along with a commemorative wall plaque.  Please note that **************** has the ability to log in to view and edit his biographical profile where he can edit it as needed with his access. It is a natural part of the process for edits or adjustments to be required.
  On August 29, 2023, **************** spoke with his branding specialist,who typically reaches out to update information, make sure anything that should have been received to date has been and inform listees of any selections into our specialty series. Additional services that are available would be explained at this time. Please note, once an individual is inducted, it is possible to be chosen for additional honors that have corresponding services. There is obviously no obligation to move forward with the additional products and services presented by the branding specialist.
  
  Of course, we do record all of our calls for quality assurance purposes.Based on the provided feedback, the calls will be reviewed.
  
  Please be advised, we do not process any charges without authorization nor is there anything additional that would ever be billed automatically.
  
  Nevertheless, in the interest of addressing any complaint expeditiously, ****************** credit card account has now been refunded in full and the services cancelled. Please see attached refund receipt. Additionally, we have placed **************** on a Do Not Contact and Do Not Publish status.
  Should you require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
  
  Thank you,
  *************************
  **************** and Compliancy Director
  Marquis Whos Who

  Customer Answer

  Date: 01/04/2024

  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me and the matter has been resolved.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  *****************************
  
  
  
   
  
  

• Initial Complaint

  Date:09/17/2023

  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 August 7, 2023, I agreed to purchase a "legacy package" with Marquis Who's Who after a lengthy conversation with ***************************, Account Director. At the beginning of our conversation, I told her that I did not have the funds to pay for marketing, and she assured me it wasn't a sales call and that Marquis Who's Who never asks for payment. However, after a lengthy "interview," she revealed that it would cost over $1K to be included in Who's Who (I don't recall the initial price). Feeling pressured and embarrassed (which I now recognize is the strategy of these predatory sales practices), I agreed to pay a total of $1,230.62, because I felt like I had no choice even though I have only just started my business and I do not have any extra funds to spend on so-called advertising.To add insult to injury, ******************** called me again several times this past week, claiming that she had a few follow-up questions. To avoid any further solicitations, I returned her call at the end of a very long work day on 9/14/23 (5:22 p.m.). She proceeded to ask me increasingly personal and detailed questions about my life, career, and even my children and husband! She never explained the reason why until the end of our 30 minute phone call when she told me I was chosen to be the "focus" of a "chapter" on the website and exaggerations. Then came the climax when she said, "...and in order to proceed, I will be charging $2500 to the credit card we have for you on file, ending in...." I was appalled. I said no, I cannot spend that money. Then it was a demand for $1K, and when I declined it was a demand for $400. When I told her I did not have the funds because I already paid them money I did not have and DID NOT WANT to spend, she was obviously annoyed and immediately hung up. I fear that this business will continue to harass me and demand payment for questionable "services." It should be explicit from the outset that this service IS NOT FREE and I should receive a refund.

  Business Response

  Date: 09/19/2023

  ******* **** ***
  
  
  ********* *** ****
  
  ****** ******** ****** ******* ************ ********
  *****************************************************************
  
  ***  **** * ********
  
  Dear Complaint Analyst,
  In response to the above referenced matter, please note the following:
  Since 1898, Marquis Whos Who has remained the standard for reliable and comprehensive biographical data. Each year, we strive to continue the tradition established by our founder, ************************* Marquis, over 125 years ago with the first publication of Whos Who in America. 
  For clarity, there has never been a cost associated with inclusion in Marquis Whos Who. Biographies are included in our registry strictly on merit no one can buy or purchase a position, listing, or award from Marquis Whos Who. Naturally, there are fees associated with editorial and commemorative items, such as narrative content, books, plaques, specialized websites, and distribution services. There is never an obligation to purchase these types of items nor is it contingent upon inclusion.
  
  ********************** opted to move forward with available products and services upon her induction. She did receive and approve of the content that was sent to her for review. Please be advised, *************************** was her assigned branding specialist, who typically reaches out to update information, make sure anything that should have been received to date has been and inform listees of any selections into our specialty series. Please note, once an individual is inducted, it is possible to be chosen for additional honors that have corresponding services. There is obviously no obligation to move forward with the additional products and services presented by the branding specialist.
  
  Of course, we do record all of our calls for quality assurance purposes. Based on the provided feedback, the call will be reviewed. Again, our products and services are optional and our representatives are to present it as such along with explaining the corresponding benefits.
  
  Nevertheless, in the interest of addressing any complaint expeditiously, *** ********** credit card account has now been refunded in full and the services cancelled. This was also communicated to her upon her outreach to us directly yesterday. Please see attached refund receipt. Additionally, we have placed ******************** on a Do Not Contact and Do Not Publish status.
  Should you require further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
  
  Thank you,

  
  *************************
  **************** *** ********** ********
  ******* **** ***