The FTC Cracks Down on Hidden Fees: A Win for Consumers

The FTC Cracks Down on Hidden Fees: A Win for Consumers

In a significant win for consumers, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has taken decisive action to curb the practice of hidden fees in the hotel and ticketing industries. The newly approved rule mandates that businesses must disclose the total price of a hotel stay or live event ticket before checkout. This means no more surprise charges or hidden fees that can inflate the final cost of your purchase. Unveiling the Hidden Costs For years, consumers have been frustrated by the deceptive practice of businesses advertising low prices only to reveal additional fees during the checkout process. These hidden fees, often labeled as "resort fees," "convenience fees," or "service fees," can significantly increase the final cost of a trip or event. The FTC's new rule aims to address this issue by requiring businesses to: Disclose the Total Price Upfront: Businesses must clearly and conspicuously display the total price of a product or service, including all mandat…