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COMPLNR FIELD GUIDE

How to write a complaint that gets a useful response

The strongest complaints are calm, specific and easy for the recipient to act on.

Start with the outcome

Before writing the backstory, decide what you want: a replacement, refund, correction, apology or explanation. A clear request gives the recipient somewhere to go.

Build a short timeline

State what you bought or arranged, when it happened and what went wrong. Include reference numbers only in a private message to the business, never in a public post.

Explain the impact

Describe the practical effect in one or two sentences. Stick to what you observed and avoid guessing at motives.

Make the next step obvious

Finish with the resolution you want and a reasonable response date. Keep copies of the message and any reply.

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Keep it safe

Do not publish names, contact details, account numbers, addresses or identifying information about private people. Complnr is not legal advice.