Chalet Swisse Spa

What can you do if a company goes out of business and you prepaid for goods or services?

I prepaid for some spa services (a 5 visit spa package to be exact) in May. Apparently they went out of business this month without any notice whatsoever - doors locked, website down and phone disconnected!!! Well, I still had two visits left on my package and they still have about $500 of my money! What can I do? I know the owner's name - can I track her down and sue her? I think it was pretty dispicable to just vanish with someone's money, regardless of the circumstances. I want this lady to learn her lesson and I want my money back, so useful, intelligent and valuable responses are appreciated. Thanks!!!

Public Comments

1. You can file a claim in small claims court against the business. If the business is organized properly (in a legal sense), they will be bankrupt and you will be out your money. It's a risk you took by pre-paying, unfortunately. If the business is organized improperly, the owner may be personally liable. In that case, you can take the owner to court and go after his/her personal assets and bank accounts.
2. There may not be much you can do. Maybe try and contact the person.