The ad says only $14 for a Locksmith but the real price was $250. We have heard similar stories over and over from customers. Complaints made to the Attorney General, Consumer Fraud Dept. of the City of Chicago and the Illinois Dept. of Finance and Professional Regulation rarely produce any satisfaction.

These No-Name companies hide behind incorrect addresses that help them show up on Google and other searches. Some addresses even belong to other locksmiths.

Illinois law requires locksmiths to have invoices printed with the company name, Illinois license number, address and phone number. In order to file a complaint, you need this information.

You should also confirm the price before any work is done, to make sure the price quoted on the phone will be the price charged by the locksmith. If the price is a lot more than you were told on the phone, you should probably ask a lot of questions. Write down who this person is that you are trusting with your security.

Locksmiths should give you an honest estimate when you call; for both the amount you can expect to pay and the amount of time you will wait for them to arrive.
They should answer the phone with their company name, not just Locksmith or Service.
They should look presentable in a lettered vehicle and uniform or at least present a business card on arrival.
The name, address, phone and license number should be pre-printed on the invoice. A detailed description of materials, labor and service call charges should be on the invoice and have the locksmith's name clearly written (or printed).

If you think you have been the victim of consumer fraud, it is important that you have enough information to file a complaint.

Ask your neighbors for a referral, check a service like Angie's List or call your local chamber of commerce to find a reputable business.

FTC Alert: FTC Urges Consumers to Use Caution When Seeking a Locksmith

Find a Locksmith: Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA)