After exhausting all communication efforts with Cartera's customer relations, I'm looking into small-claims court for actual and statutory damages -- not for the erroneous AA/Delta offer, but for a refund that Cartera agreed to send for a returned product and shipping costs. I haven't received the refund. I've followed up clearly, giving Cartera many chances (and reminders). Cartera is delinquent by months and shows no sign of following through, despite agreements and demands. I can't just reverse charges by credit card, because Cartera owes additionally for return-shipping of the product.

Since "actual" damages are smaller than court filing fees, it's only worth my time and expense to travel to Massachusetts (from hundreds of miles) if I'll recover statutory damages, which are justified. How do I calculate statutory damages? Any guidelines?

Also, anyone know of consumer-protection laws I can draw on? Other tips for recovering refund? All Cartera's promises have been broken.

I plan on sending a final demand letter to the Cartera point person I'm dealing with, and Cartera's CEO, and then serve the former. Other steps to call attention for a resolution?

All I really want is the refund, with delivery tracking.

EDIT: Well, well! After posting this, Cartera called to say they're now overnighting the refund. I'll leave this post up, unedited, until it reaches me. Cartera's credibility doesn't exist, so my court intentions remain unless I see the check tomorrow. Remember, it's been months of back-and-forth. Maybe it helped that I left voice messages this afternoon for the executives supervising the guy running "customer service."

EDIT #2: Check received!