Consumer 6 Clips: Interest-free loans and shopping online

While shopping this holiday season, be wary of interest-free loans offered by many stores. What might be a good deal in the beginning, could end up costing you in the long run. If you don't pay the

Wednesday, November 29th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

While shopping this holiday season, be wary of interest-free loans offered by many stores. What might be a good deal in the beginning, could end up costing you in the long run. If you don't pay the full balance when it is due, you'll have to pay finance charges for the entire amount. They begin assessing them from day one.

Find out how much time you have to pay it off without interest, and what the interest rate is before you sign up.

Many people avoid the crowds at area malls by shopping online. There are a couple of things to remember before making an internet purchase. Check out the return policies and warranty coverage before buying.

Some web stores such as Old Navy, let you return items to their brick-and-mortar stores. But if you do have to send back the item, you'll probably have to pay the postage. And many online companies charge a restocking fee when you return items often as high as 20 percent.

During the holidays, many women buy special dresses for holiday parties. For expectant mothers who don't want to spend a bundle on a maternity dress, there's another option. Check out maternityoutfitters.com. You can lease an outfit for two weeks at a time or choose a selection of suits for a monthly fee. The service also pays for dry cleaning and postage.

If you have questions, comments or suggestions for consumer six, call our tip line at 732-6111 or send an e-mail to dwhite@kotv.com.