This list is current as of November 25, 2009. Readers should take into consideration the importance of the practice in question and the total performance of the company. For complete information, please visit http://www.bbb.org/.

1. Tis the season! Now more than ever charitable organizations are overwhelmed with requests for assistance during the holidays. The BBB recommends that you do your homework and check out the charity. The BBB has a Charity Review Program that can eliminate the question, "Where does my contribution go?" You can obtain reports on charities by visiting our Web site at http://www.indybbb.org/.

Some helpful tips to consider:

A) If you are writing a check, make the check out to the charity. Do not write it out to an individual.

B) Determine the purpose of the charity. Make sure you know what their mission is and have a clear understanding of their purpose. Keep in mind that many organizations have similar names which may cause confusion about the actual charity that they are donating to.

C) If you feel uncertain about anything, do not be pressured into donating right away. Ask questions.

D) In addition to donating, many organizations may also be looking for volunteers, as well as in-kind donations such as clothing, toys and food. The BBB issues two quarterly publications that list both national and local charities. If you would like to sign up to receive a copy of either or both publications, please contact Joseph Eldridge, Charity Review Coordinator at jeldridge@indybbb.org or call 317-488-2222 or toll free at 1-866-463-9222.

2.  Credit Answers, LLC of Plano, TX has received multiple inquiries over the last few weeks by Hoosier consumers who are looking for a way to reduce their credit card debt. The BBB of Dallas, TX reports the company has a pattern of complaints regarding dissatisfaction with the company's service, as well as misrepresentation of the results of the debt negotiation program.

Consumers report that paying the fees and following the debt negotiation program does not reduce debt as stated by the company. As a result, consumers report that their debts have actually increased due to late fees, additional interest charges, as well as negative credit reporting.

Although the company resolves most of the complaints filed with the BBB, it has failed to correct the underlying reason for those complaints. The company has an F rating. The BBB advises consumers to be wary of companies that guarantee debt settlement, inform consumers to stop paying their bills and collect upfront fees prior to providing services. For more information on debt negotiation and debt settlement offers, go to http://www.bbb.org/us/article/bbb-on-differences-between-debt-consolidation-debt-negotiation-and-debt-elimination-plans-9350.

3.  Top Ten Imports of Indianapolis advertises a product called the iHeater. The company's Web site says you can save up to 50 percent on your heating bills, the cost of the product is up to 50 percent less than the cost of competitive heater products and heats a 1,000 square foot area for pennies a day.

In December of 2008, the Central Indiana Better Business Bureau asked the company to substantiate those claims. The company has failed to provide the names of at least 10 individuals who have benefited from the claims. This company has an F rating with the BBB. To view this report, click http://www.bbb.org/indianapolis/business-reviews/product-sales-general/top-ten-imports-in-indianapolis-in-90002386/.

4.  Fitness Lifestyle Coaching of Fishers, IN is advertising, via their Web site, a program that offers a home-based weight loss and fitness program. The company Web site offers a 30-day free trial membership. The cost, thereafter, is $4.75 per week if you don't cancel within three business days prior to the next billing date.

Consumers have reported that after deciding not to continue past the free trial, they cancel according to the company instructions, but are still billed. Some consumers report being charged over $300. Consumers report the company does not contact them after cancelling and no replies to e-mails requesting assistance with their cancellation. This company has an F rating with the BBB.

5.  Christmas Layaway shoppers be smart! When paying out your layaway, have a store employee go through your items to make sure you have everything you purchased.

A BBB employee paid out her layaway the day before Thanksgiving, and a big sealed box was loaded into her car. The BBB employee asked the employee if the box should be opened to make sure everything was there. She was assured all items were in the box.

Not comfortable with this, the BBB employee insisted on having the box opened. Lo and behold, there was over $200 in merchandise missing from the box. Had she waited to get home to discover the missing items, it is not certain how the store would have handled the matter, but oftentimes matters like this boil down to your word over the employee's. Don't take the chance, open up those boxes and bags to ensure you walk out of the store with everything you paid for!

Want to report a potential scam or alert the BBB of unethical business practices? Send us an e-mail to info@indybbb.org.