Q A company sent me a cookbook that I did not order, and it is billing me for $29.98. Someone told me that because I did not order the cookbook, I can keep it and don't owe the money. Will I have collection agencies at my door? I would return it except for the cost. -- E.T.
A. It is true that state and federal regulations allow you to consider the delivery of an item that you did not order as a gift, and you are under no legal obligation to pay for or return the item.
But to avoid hassles, the Federal Trade Commission advises, "It is a good idea to write a letter to the company stating that you didn't order the item and, therefore, you have a legal right to keep it for free. This may discourage the seller from sending you bills or dunning notices, or it may help clear up an honest error. Send your letter by certified mail. Keep the return receipt and a copy of the letter for your records. You may need it later."
In case it was an honest error, you may also offer to return the merchandise, as long as the company pays for the return.
The FTC also says: "Give the seller a specific and reasonable amount of time (say 30 days) to pick up the merchandise or arrange to have it returned at no expense to you. Tell the seller that you reserve the right to keep the merchandise or dispose of it after the specified time has passed."
More advice from the FTC about unordered merchandise is available at its Web site, www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/products/pro15.shtm.
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