How to lose your heart — not your money

2. The cost of online dating services can really add up. You may not pay as much for an online dating service as you might for a matchmaking service — but you could over time if you’re not careful. Such services typically cost about $30 to $60 a month over the course of a specified contract period. That may sound reasonable enough, but watch out: Your membership may be automatically renewed without you realizing it. This issue generated about two-thirds of the complaints filed with the BBB against online dating services. Because this can happen so easily, it’s important to clarify the cancellation procedures before you join. Mark your calendar so you’ll be sure not to miss any key cancellation deadlines. Be prepared to follow up with the dating service both over the phone and in writing in order to make your cancellation stick.

3. Do some sleuthing online. Whether you’re considering a local matchmaking company or an online dating service that has a wide reach, do a quick online search of the business in question. Your search may lead you to dozens, if not hundreds, of complaints in a matter of minutes. In addition to doing a general Internet search, you can visit this Better Business Bureau site to view a company’s complaint history. You also can check with your state’s attorney general’s office or consumer affairs department. To start the process of finding contact information for your state, click here.

4. Know where to gather key intelligence. Before joining an online dating service — or a matchmaking service that has a fairly comprehensive presence on the Internet — take the time to read these three sections of the company’s Web site: the privacy policy, the “about us” page and the “frequently asked questions” page. “These are the places where the consumer can discern the philosophy and business practices for the service,” Cox said. “You’ll see contract information here, as well as what you’ll be on the hook for.”

5. Have criteria in mind for online dating services. Opt for a service that’s been around for a few years and that has established itself in the industry. It’s also a good idea to choose a service that lets you browse profiles and photos before you have to join so you can see what you’re paying for, Cox advised. Another key detail: Be sure the service offers a secure payment method. When you reach the point of payment, the site’s address should contain an “s” after the “http:”, like so: “https:”. Internet browsers also display an icon such as a gold padlock to verify that the site is secure.

6. Understand what is meant by a free trial. The words “free trial” may sound straightforward enough, but in the world of online dating they might be anything but. Since a trial period can mean so many different things on different sites, take the time to read the fine print about this — and if the fine print is hard to find, call the customer service number and ask for specifics. Many consumers complained to the BBB about signing up for a free trial but getting funneled into a paid subscription instead. That’s all the more reason to avoid entering your credit-card information until you know exactly when you’ll start being charged.

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