Mutual Funds For Dummies®, 6th Edition

Chapter 19. Common Fund Problems and How to Fix Them

In This Chapter

• Dealing with fund company representatives

• Moving money into and out of funds

• Fixing paperwork, online snafus, and other problems

Established fund companies and discount brokerages have hundreds and, in some cases, thousands of telephone representatives who field phone calls and process stuff you send them in the mail. Most of the bigger and better companies recommended in this book do a good job of training their employees, so you should receive competent assistance. But keep in mind that these people are human — that is, not perfect. Some are more competent and service-oriented than others at getting the job done right the first time with the proper attitude. Although I can't guarantee that this chapter is a page turner, it can help bail you out and soothe your nerves when you just don't know how to get a problem fixed.

Playing the Telephone Game

Tip

When you call fund companies to ask a question or express a concern, you may end up speaking with someone who doesn't know how to fix your problem, gives you the runaround, or worse — gives you incorrect information. Here's what you can do to ensure that you get accurate solutions:

• Know the representatives' limitations. Fund company reps are there to provide assistance. Don't depend on them for tax advice. (Most of the larger fund companies have retirement account specialists who have more detailed knowledge about tax issues relating to those accounts.)

• Talk to someone else ...