Monica Eaton Says “Talk Directly” to Small Businesses
This is a difficult time for everyone. Small businesses, though, are facing the true economic brunt of the coronavirus outbreak. In response, a panel of experts, including Chargebacks911 COO Monica Eaton, spoke with the staff at Readers’ Digest to share their tips for supporting small businesses.
Reader’s Digest is America’s fourth-largest magazine brand by circulation. After nearly a century in publication, RD stands out more than ever in today’s cultural landscape due to its themes of optimism, faith, heroism, trust, humor, and wellness.
Chargebacks were already a costly source of revenue loss for merchants. During this outbreak, though, they stand to present a greater challenge than ever, which is why it’s important to retrain consumers not to go straight for the dispute without first contacting the merchant.
“One of the biggest, most critically important ways you can support your favorite local business is also the most overlooked,” Monica says. “If the pandemic has altered your future plans, then please contact the business directly to request a refund, instead of first filing a complaint with your bank or credit card company.”
This is a concern that won’t vanish once the pandemic finally subsides. We need to work to fix the outdated dispute process and create more fair, usable standards for each party.
“Most businesses are extremely happy to offer you a refund–and not just because it’s the right thing to do during these chaotic, uncertain times, but because it actually saves them money.”
