InventHelp

Review: I am very disappointed with InventHelp, they have made many promises to me and have not kept any; they said as long as I gave them the idea of the invention and paid them for the costs of making the product and putting it in the market, they would create the product and sell it. They were supposed to send me a sample of my invention so I could confirm it but they have not done it yet and I am tired of waiting for them to do it. I started this on November 2011, it is now 2014, and they still haven't done anything for my invention. I need to pay $11,450, so far I have paid $9,246.12, there is no reason to continue paying if I see no results or future in my invention with them because they haven't made any progress. I had to make my own model and they were supposed to improve it but they still haven't sent me any feedback or the actual invention and it has been over two years. Every time I call them they either send me to the recording or tell me they are still working on it and that is unacceptable. They never return my calls unless it is to make a payment. I also asked them if there was a way I could check my balance and track my payments but they said there was no way to do that, I just had to make the payment either online or by phone and that's it, which is very suspicious because they don't give me any confirmation. They don't want to send me anything by the mail or meet with me, they want to do everything by phone and I can't know who they are or if they are a real company. I am very frustrated and would appreciate it a lot if this problem could be resolved as soon as possible because they are basically stealing my money by not doing anything with my invention.Desired Settlement: I would like a complete refund of the money I have paid which is, $9,246.12. I also don't want to continue with InventHelp anymore, and I will do my invention on my own.

Business

Response:

We are writing to update you on the above referenced consumer complaint.

In November 2011, our client contracted with InventHelp for assistance in submitting his invention to industry in an attempt to obtain a good faith review. We prepared descriptive materials about out client’s invention and submitted those materials to industry. Our client's information was also submitted to magazines and trade journals in an additional attempt to gain interest for the invention, it was displayed in

1 nue1t0r’S Galleria section at the 2012 ,NPEX Invention Trade Show it was published in one of our company’s invention catalogs, as well as listed on one of our websites reserved for companies etc. As a result of our efforts, Stanley Black & Decker responded that they were not interested in pursuing the invention further.

This complaint is not only an inaccurate depiction of our services it also contains several unsubstantiated and untrue statements; the most confusing and inaccurate being ...they said as long as I gave them the idea of the invention and paid them for the costs of making the product and putting it in the market, they would create the product and sell it.” This is simply not a service we provide. We are engaged in the business of assisting and aiding inventors in submitting inventions, products or ideas to industry in an attempt to obtain a good faith review and reviewing any interest which may be expressed. We do not “...create the product and sell it.” Our client acknowledged his understanding of this in writing prior to and during the time he contracted with us.

Our client also stated They were supposed to send me a sample of my invention so I could confirm it but they have not done it yet...” This again is not an accurate statement. We prepared various materials depicting our client’s invention such as a New Product Submission Brochure which we sent to the client for his revision suggestions and/or approval, (incidentally, our client rated our work as Very Good”) and then we used these materials in our submission to industry efforts.

The complainant further states “...I had to make my own model and they were supposed to improve it but they still haven’t sent me any feedback or the actual invention and it has been over two years.’1 This is also misleading and untrue. Our client was not told he had to make his own model. In fact, our client informed us, in writing, the first time we met with him that he already had a prototype of his invention and provided u$ with photographs of the prototype Furthermore, we do not develop or refine our clients’ inventions, rather we attempt to emphasize the most positive and marketable features of each. Our client claims he received no “...feedback...’' Again, this is untrue. We notified our client in writing as each service was completed. Furthermore, his description of his experiences regarding payments are also not true, as our records of conversations with this client do not substantiate these claims whatsoever. Rather, it has been our experience with Universal Payment Corporation that they are more than accommodating to any such request regarding payments.

Review: March 16 of 2015, I went to InventHelp with an idea I believed to be patentable. My idea was well worth the money that the InventHelp consultant, [redacted], recommended I pay to get things started. We signed an agreement and verbal warranties were given by [redacted] on behalf of the company. The agreement included the No-Use and Confidentiality agreement plus the Basic Information Package and Patent REFERRAL. I thoroughly understand the services that were supposed to be provided and what the contracts said. I also know that a verbal agreement is still binding in contract law so the promises made by [redacted] did have value in the agreement. 6 weeks later, still no update from the Patent attorney I was supposedly referred to as well as no BIP. I immediately cancelled payment of the second installment as I became aware of many other fraudulent allegations from consumers much like myself. The service was promised to be completed within 6-8 weeks time with constant contact between [redacted], the patent attorney and myself. None of which were followed through. I am truly dissatisfied with the results and refuse to be scammed by this company or any subsidiaries. [redacted] have attempted to collect payment from me, however I have already stated I will only resume contact via email to maintain accurate reporting of all conversations. I will not submit further payment until services are completed as promised.Desired Settlement: If a resolution is attainable through mediation, I am more than happy to accept what was promised as it was promised. I purchased services from InventHelp with the intentions of producing a tangible document for my idea. I still remain content in receiving such services. However, at this point the patent search seems questionable as the apparent referral has yet to reach out to me via any form of communication. So my demands are simple, deliver the Basic Information Package and I will submit the rest of the payments minus the referral fee due to non compliance. Otherwise, refund my $300 and cancel all agreements and I will take my idea elsewhere.

Business

Response:

June 12, 2015 Via Fax and Regular MailRevdex.comDispute Resolution Consultant[redacted]Re: Complaint ID # [redacted]To whom it may concern:We are writing to update you on our efforts regarding the above referencedcomplaint. The complainant contracted with InventHelp® for the preparation of a Basic Information Package (BIP) report on his invention. The BIP assembles basic information about an invention, idea, concept or new product and the history of its development in areport format. In addition, a Preliminary Patentability Search and Opinion was conducted for the idea by apatent law firm to which InventHelp refers its clients’ patent work. This client’s services were completed in their entirety and in a timely manner. However,the complainant claims otherwise. This is simply not true. Further, the complainant claims he became aware of “…other fraudulent allegations.” We believe this also is a ploy to justify not paying for the services. Furthermore, upon receipt of this complaint, we reached out to the client in numerous ways inan effort to resolve this matter. We have not heard back from him. InventHelp provided the services in accordance with our contractual obligations and would assume that this particular complainant should uphold his contractual obligations as well and pay for the services he received. To date, he has not done so. At this time, we are requesting that your file on this complaint be closed. Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention.Sincerely, [redacted]Compliance Manager Tell us why here...

Review: I entered into contract with Invent Help in May of 2013. It was supposed to be a 2 year contract. $395.48 was automatically debited every month for over a year. During this time I received a copy of a brochure that listed my invention, a website link that listed my invention, and a almost 3 page list of companies, from their database, that a request for submission was sent to. I later received a letter stating that one company requested more information but chose not to go forward. Only 1 company out of 3 pages. I never once saw an official letter of the submission or a rejection letter from that company. After dealing with little to no activity after this I decided I no longer wanted their services. I contacted Invent Help in Sept. 2014 to let them know that I no longer had faith in the company and no longer wanted their services. I was then told that I was out of my 7 day termination period and could not cancel. It literally takes longer that 7 days to get the company's portion of the contract, being that I signed in the [redacted] La. Office. and they are located in Pennsylvania. My response was that Invent Help was a company that was doing a service for me,and I no longer wanted the services due to non existence of productivity. The rep then told me that theyou were about to send out my info to another 100 companies that coming January. I told another rep that I no longer wanted the services and was told that I couldn't cancel, I offered to pay a prorated amount for the amount of time I was into the contract. The rep then tells me that [redacted] paid them the full contract amount up front and that I was only paying installments back to them. After speaking with my account rep with [redacted] I learned that that wasn't true. That they only collect payments on the behalf of Invent Help. They do not pay them full payments as loans to clients as stated by the Invent Help Rep. Theyou could only stop taking payments if Invent Help told them to. I then called Invent Help back and told them I no longer wanted the services. I was told that I could stop receiving services but would still have to pay. I later read in my contract, a clause that stated if a client failed to keep up with their payments, Invent Help would stop services and the client would not be financially obligated to them any longer. It also stated that the client could not work with another company during the contract time or Invent Help would discontinue services and the client would no longer be held financially obligated. Sense then I have stopped paying over a year ago, I took my business to a company that could aid in patenting and marketing my invention. I have recently pulled my credit report and found that [redacted] has been reporting me delinquent on payments for the past 11 months. I called them and was told they were never told to close the account. I have called Invent Help and once again asked how to get this settled. I was told that the account is on a financial hold and once I become current with payments my services would restart. I explained yet again that I DO NOT want their services. I quoted from the clause in the contract about not being obligated and was told that I am out of the 7 day termination period and I can only pay. Until I pay the account will be on a financial hold indefinitely.

This company is only interested in preying on people who don't have knowledge of this industry. They use celebrities as spokesmen to add to validate them as a good company when really EVERYTHING they do is in house and not of quality material that a manufacturer would accept. They charge 10% more than the USPTO says is fair if they are successful in marketing your invention. But they never really have to get you a deal because they make millions on payments from consumers who don't realize they are not reputable.Desired Settlement: I want to be released from the contract and negative reporting removed from my credit report, that was reported by their payment collection company , [redacted].

Business

Response:

We are responding to the above referenced consumer complaint.The complainant contracted with our company nearly five (5) years ago for assistance in submitting her invention to industry in an attempt to obtain a good faith review. Our records indicate that her services were performed in accordance with our contract until such time that the complainant stopped paying for the services. Upon receipt of this complaint we reached out to the complainant in an effort to resolve her concerns. Her complaint is based solely on her belief that she should have been able to cancel her contract with our company at any time. We explained to the complainant that our cancellation policy is extremely clear; in fact it is in bold print on all of our agreements. Nevertheless, we worked with the complainant and resolved her concerns. Therefore, we respectfully request that your file on this matter be closed. Thank you for bringing this complaint to our attention.Sincerely,LARK B[redacted]Compliance Manager

Consumer

Response:

I got a phone call from someone from InventHelp to meet with someone ( 2 hours away from my home) I set up the appointment and the girl said she will text the address to me after we got off the phone after I got the text I did my research on InventHelp and all reviews I seen were about InventHelp wanted money, one review said they ask for $700 then the got a book and something that looks like a rubber stamp in the mail then they want thousands of more money,so after seeing that I text the girl back asking if this is going to cost me anything before I drive 2 hours from home (plus I had a surgery coming up and couldn't be give money out like that) the girl never replied back I call the office in Columbia SC many times I did leave a message saying the same thing as the text message and NEVER had anyone to return my phone call, I seen them on Facebook and people were asking for information I again ask about the money thing they blocked me. So Happy I Never Took That 2 Hour Drive but VERY DISAPPOINTED ......can't trust anyone now days

I got in contact with the guy in the San Diego, CA Inventhelp (Brian W[redacted]) office and from the beginning I should've known better. I asked him to meet me halfway between his office and Murrieta, CA and he said no that if I was serious that I needed to see him at his office which to a certain extent I could understand so I did. Well I pay him and he gets the research back and he emails me this generic book that a high school student could probably put together using another tool that was the complete opposite of mine as an example. Now the only reason he emailed the book to me was because after I had actually got the funding to start the marketing I was working in Los Angeles, CA and I couldn't make it to see him without taking off work so I wanted him to meet me closer to me so I wouldn't miss work. Well when I threatened to go somewhere else is when he mentioned doing everything via email and mail. Well I then started to do research on them and said forget it because the more I looked into them the less I wanted to use them. I don't get how someone can tell you that they have 10k cash for you and you can't manage to make a 45 minute drive. Inventhelp are garbage, unprofessional, and solely out to take your money so stay away. I still haven't received my hard copy of my findings from the research.

Review: I am a disabled veteran and Invent Help client. In 15 months of dealing with Invent help they have managed to mess up at every step in the process. They have not kept their word, delivered in a timely fashion, or followed through on their promises. On 7/3/13 I signed a Basic Information Package Agreement with Invent Help. On 7/10/13 I returned to Invent Help's office and paid them for their Patentability Search services. The patentability search was supposed to take two weeks. At three months they said they forgot to send the information and search request to the patent attorney. They had the attorney do a rush job on my search. It was such a disaster that Invent Help made the attorney do it over again. I signed a Submission Agreement contract with Invent Help on 11/14/13. The four to six week administrative phase of the process for some reason didn't start until 12/18/13, 34 days later. When I received the rough draft for the press release and invention summary they were inaccurate. I made corrections to the items. Some were edited in, and some were not, and I had to re-correct the same mistakes again. I was then told that these mistakes would not take place on the New Product brochure because it would be made from the revised press release and invention summary. The first try was identical to the first rough draft of the product summary and press release with no exceptions. It took three tries to get it right. Many times I have been told something would be done by a certain time, and it was not, but I was given excuses instead. When I finally received my Virtual Invention Presentation it was wrong also and they agreed that it should be redone. I haven't got it back yet and it's been a while. They are now submitting my invention to quite a few retailers and unrelated companies with different SIC codes than my invention, and not just manufacturers, contrary to what I was told would be done. I have paid them $5,304.52 so far and have received incompetence, excuses, and lack of effort for my moneyDesired Settlement: I would prefer a refund and voiding of my contract with Invent Help.

Business

Response:

We are writing to update you on the above referenced

consumer complaint. In November, 2013,

our client contracted with InventHelp for assistance in submitting his

invention to industry in an attempt to obtain a good faith review.

We spoke at length with our client in an effort to resolve

this matter. While the complainant’s

concerns stem from his frustration with the preparation of his submission materials,

we explained that since we are dealing with ideas and innovations, it is

possible for misinterpretations or misunderstandings to occur. We make every effort to prepare the materials

to the client’s complete satisfaction.

Nevertheless, upon receipt of the complaint, we did reach

out to our client to discuss the matter and resolved his concerns. Accordingly, we request that your file on

this complaint be closed.

Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention.

Sincerely,

Compliance Manager

/

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and do take exception to some of their claims. The conversation between Ms. [redacted] and myself did not go as she explained in Invent help's response. Ms. [redacted] did not explain anything to me in our conversation. She did however agree that I had a valid complaint, and that their own call logs and my letters to them verified my complaints.

We did however resolve the matter. They voided my contract with Invent Help, agreed to stop all collection attempts, agreed to remove all marks or remarks from my credit report, refund to me a an equitable amount of moneys I had paid to them, and return my original submission materials.

I have now received the refunded money and have deposited it in my account, and am willing to mark this complaint as resolved and close this complaint against Invent help.

Regards,

Review: I initially visited the local staff of InventHelp, [redacted], at their [redacted] office on 9/23/14 for my 1st invention idea. At that time, I told Ms. [redacted] that I already had two patents of this invention in [redacted], and wondered if I could skip the 1st step Basic Information Package and take the 2nd step Submission Services directly. She told me that it was required to take Basic Information Package before taking the Submission Services. Therefore, I paid $945 for the Basic Information Package for my 1st invention idea. After that, I paid $10,900 for the 2nd step Submission Services for my 1st invention idea, and also paid two $945 ($945x2=$1,890) for my 2nd and 3rd invention ideas in December, 2014. I did not pay any fee for the 2nd and 3rd ideas, because I would like to observe the performance of InventHelp for my 1st idea before paying for the 2nd and 3rd ideas. Before paying any of these fees, I also asked if InventHelp would provide technical support. Ms. [redacted] said that InventHelp has someone who can help the technical issue. While paying the fee for the Submission Services, I also provided many images, drawings, computer renderings, and writings to thoroughly show the detail of my invention to InventHelp.

InventHelp did not start my 1st invention idea until February 2015. However, every time when I made the phone call inquiring for questions, their staff had no idea about my invention at all. No matter it was technical issue, or strategy issue, such as using one or both patents that I have in [redacted] to the US, InventHelp did not provide any support. InventHelp used the excuses at all times that I am the inventor, so I should know this invention the most.

At the end of February 2015, I received the first draft of the one page “Invention Summary” date 2/18/15 from InventHelp by USPS mail. There were mistakes in this “Invention Summary”, such as “prototype available”, and “patent granted”. At that moment, I had no prototype built by InventHelp or myself, and had not submitted my US patent application. I responded it by fax on 3/1/15 to ask for correction. I also called InventHelp to confirm that InventHelp had received my response, asked for response by email for faster service, and also asked about the security issue of email. InventHelp said that the email system is very secure, and InventHelp will respond by email. However, I still did not receive any response at the end of March. I made several phone calls with serious concerns, and finally got the response by email on 4/3/15. I responded on 4/6/15 by email with some revisions, and did not get any response for more than two weeks.

Meanwhile, at the beginning of April, I received the first draft of the one page “Submission Brochure” date 3/17/15. This document did not represent my invention properly. I responded it on 4/7/15, with additional texts that I wrote and artwork that I created. However, just like the “Invention Summary”, there is no response for more than two weeks.

I cannot accept the slow and incomplete response for both documents, so I made several phone calls with great concern to ask for faster response, including a phone call on 4/20/15. InventHelp finally responded by email on 4/21/15. However, I was shocked for the work that InventHelp responded. For more than two weeks, the only work that InventHelp did for the “Invention Summary” was just incorrectly put one feature of my invention that I pointed out to the “Inventor Q and A” section. Similarly, the “Submission Brochure” was only updated with the same feature, and contained no artwork that I created. These works definitely took only several minutes to complete. They were not works that took more than two weeks.

In addition, on 4/21/15, I also received the first draft of the patent from [redacted], the patent attorney that InventHelp referred. The quality was terrible and unacceptable. It was not my invention. I understand that Revdex.com would not handle the quality issue of legal problems, and InventHelp keeps claiming that the referred patent attorney is not part of their company. Therefore, I had negotiated and settled with this attorney by myself to get the $1,450 patent attorney fee back. However, the attitude of InventHelp about the patent application really scared me. InventHelp did not care about the quality and strength of the patent at all. They threw back all the responsibility of the patent back to me as well as the referred attorney, and claimed that they cannot do anything about it at all. This is not the right attitude for a company sharing 20% of a licensing royalty with an inventor. In the event if the invention gets a licensing deal, InventHelp’s associated company, [redacted], would hold 20% of the royalty. If they care about the 20% royalty, they should work with me to find the way to resolve this issue of the patent.

After wasting 4 months of time, I was very tired and disappointed with InventHelp, and could not keep working with InventHelp. InventHelp did not make any effort to understand my invention. InventHelp did not analyze, review, nor study my idea. Instead, InventHelp threw all the works and responsibility back to me. If the invention does not get a licensing deal, InventHelp always uses the excuse that it is because the invention is not good enough, and InventHelp never believes it is because InventHelp does not understand customer’s invention. This is not the way that a customer pays $10,900 for. I had to go back and forth to guide them, provide materials, and change the documents. InventHelp had been using the excuse that I can always change the documents until I fully satisfy, but why should I do the work and pay them? I should not guide and babysit InventHelp, and pay them for just printing and mailing documents. InventHelp should work for me for the $10,900 fee that I paid them. As I mentioned to Ms. [redacted], I even had to provide the list of the potential manufacturers for my invention, so I could not see any value of the work by InventHelp. What Ms. [redacted] claimed was: I should sit back and relax at home, and have InventHelp do the work. But I am actually doing most of the work. InventHelp is just a lousy patent broker. The work of InventHelp is very unprofessional. I do not think a good manufacturer will contact InventHelp based on their unprofessional performance. Therefore, according to all of the above factors, there is no value and no quality of InventHelp’s work.

Because of the descripted frustration, I made a phone call to InventHelp Client Service staff, and another phone call to the Supervisor [redacted] afterwards to terminate the service and ask for my money back. Both of them refused to refund the money. However, when I asked [redacted] if she understand my invention in the phone call, she still had no idea about my invention, and had to find my “Submission Brochure” to figure what my invention is about. This was way of ridiculous. The “Submission Brochure” should not disclose all of the details of the invention, and [redacted] can only use it to understand my invention during the phone call.

After that, I got referral from Ms. [redacted] that [redacted] in the headquarter was actually the right person to talk about the termination. I made the phone call to Ms. [redacted]. She was very rude in the phone call, and refused to refund the money. This kind of customer service is considered very poor and unprofessional.

After that, I made a phone call to [redacted] Director of the local office of InventHelp in [redacted]. He told me that the 1st step Basic Information Package could actually be skipped if the inventor has the patent outside the US. This actually fits my case. I have the patents in [redacted]. I think InventHelp was dishonest. If I knew that I can skip the Basic Information Package, I would paid the amount of neither $945 for my 1st invention idea, nor $1890 ($945 x 2) for my 2nd and 3rd invention ideas. I would have filed the patents in [redacted] before working with InventHelp. In addition, Mr. [redacted] also told me that at this stage, depends on the works, I have the right to get some money back.

I made another phone call to Ms. [redacted] to describe the facts that I got from Mr. [redacted]. She told me that she got that, and had to discuss with senior managers and should get back to me before the end of 5/1/15. However, I did not hear from Ms. [redacted] by 5/1/15. I made a phone call on 5/4/15, and another one on 5/5/15 to leave two messages to ask Ms[redacted] contact me. So far, I have not got any response after that.Desired Settlement: I demand to get my $12,285 back from InventHelp. This $12,285 is broken down as follows: (1) the $945 of my 1st invention idea Basic Information Package, (2) the $945 of my 2nd invention idea Basic Information Package, (3) the $945 of my 3rd invention idea Basic Information Package, and (4) the $9,450 of my 1st invention idea Submission Services after deducting $1,450 [redacted]’s attorney fee from $10,900. As Mr. [redacted] described, I can skip the Basic Information Package because of the foreign patents that I have; or I will not do Basic Information Package before applying the foreign patents. As I described in the problem, InventHelp did not provide the work that they should deliver in Submission Services. Therefore, I demand to get my $12,285 back.

Business

Response:

We are writing to update you on our efforts regarding this complaint.Five months ago, the complainant contracted with InventHelp for assistance insubmitting his invention to industry in an attempt to obtain a good faith reviewand reviewing any interest which may be expressed.The complainant’s concerns stem from his belief that our company does not properly understandhis invention. Despite numerous attempts to work with the client to assuage his concerns and to move forward with our services, we simply have been unable to please him.We are currently working with the complainant to reach an amicable resolution andwill continue to keep you updated on our efforts regarding this matter. Thank you for bringing this complaint to our attention. Sincerely,[redacted]Compliance Manager

Review: We initially contacted and visited with a gentleman about our product and had satisfaction as to what we saw and heard. We put a deposit down to retain a lawyer based on their recommendation. Based on the recommendation of the lawyer, we continued our search to pursue a patent on our product where we paid @10,000. We even went to an Inpex event where we got mixed reviews from attendees about InventHelp. We then spoke with the 2ndn Lawyer after it was discovered on "you tube" that our product was patented in 2012 who advised us to go no further. We immediately wrote a letter of cancellation to InventHelps' [redacted] cancelling our contract asking for our money back and sent a copy to ** home office, and we sent to our credit card company who immediately awarded us our money returned to our credit card. Then InventHelp, sent a letter to our bank declaring they provided service and did not promise a patent. So our bank then awarded them the money back. We are not saying they did not give us service. The service they gave us. They gave us bad advice. The first attorney they sent us to told recommended us to proceed, their own representative recommended us to proceed, everything looked pretty on paper, but obvious they did not do enough of the research they promised sis the service they were supposed to be providing us was to make sure the product we wanted to get a patant on was pantentable and their was no current patent on in. In fact there was an active patent on in with the product being sold in sports stores since 2012. They did not do their job. I deserve my $10,000.00 never mind they attorneys fees that I paid to attorneys that they recommended. They are a fraud. Now the Credit card company says they can't help because too much time has passed. Please help. We live on a fixed income and got an extention on a paid off credit card to make it big for ourselves now are so far in debt we can't even crawl at a snails pace to pay this.Sincerely, [redacted] and [redacted]Desired Settlement: I would like the refund of $10,000 placed back on my [redacted] Bank Card account # [redacted] plus any fees such as interests, late payments, that have been accrueing since the beginning to bring this card back down to a $0.00 balance.The attorneys fees were paid by a different Credit Card and if they feel so kindly to pay all of if I would be more than happy to provide you with that card number when that time comes. Thank you for your help.

Business

Response:

February 27, 2015We are writing to update you regarding the above referenced consumer complaint. In May, 2014, the complainant contracted with InventHelp for assistance in submitting herinvention to industry in an attempt to obtain a good faith review. In addition, we referred the complainant to an independent patent attorney for the preparation and prosecution of a patentapplication. Our records indicate that his services are being performed in accordance with the complainant’s contract with us. The complainant’s concerns stem from his discovery of a similar product. We make it clear to all of our inventor clients that similar products are a common occurrence in this industry. In fact, our literature, contracts and company disclosures clearly state: “…InventHelp® cannot be responsible for the existence of similar products which may be on the market or which may beintroduced at a later time. It is not possible to adequately check the marketplace for similar products. InventHelp® performs a very limited competitive check usually through catalogs.” With regard to the complainant’s concerns regarding patents, we referred him to an independentpatent attorney. The complainant needs to contact his patent attorney for any patent related matters. Nevertheless, we reached out to the complainant and resolved this matter.Thank you for bringing this complaint to our attention. [redacted]Compliance Manager

I am writing about Invention Submission Corporation. My husband & I submitted an invention to ISC, paid thousands of dollars for them to let the info get into the hands of

[redacted] and we got NOTHING.

How do I get my money back? I feel like we got ripped off BIG TIME. My husband has passed away & I had to sell my home to pay the medical bills. I sure could use the money

that went down the drain from this company. Any ideas what I can do?

Review: I called and spoke with [redacted] about a refund last Friday. I told her that I was unhappy with the clients service department and would like a refund. I waited until Monday and didn't hear from her so I called her back and she said that I was on her list to call me back.I told her that I looked on the internet to see who the manufactures where that was on the list and that was sent to me of over 100. And that I didn't think that they would have anything to do with my invention. She then said that they had a code list that they look at to find out who would be interested in my invention to manufacture it.Then she started asking who I look up exactly with one and I got frustrated and I no that I started raising my voice and she did too. She then called me a it and that if I couldn't talk to her she was going to hang up. I told her I was not an it and that my husband was listening on the line. I then gave the phone to him cause she was hollowing at me and we were not getting anywhere. I got real nervous and told my husband I could talk to her. So he got the phone and she talked him in to not canceling and that they where going to kept in touch with me at least once a month and that they would make a disk of my invention to send out with the brochure to the manufactures. I received another contract to sign form them to make the disk and I haven't returned it back to invent help. I don't fell that they are calling back on the manufactures to make sure that they received my brochure or even looked at it. I'm mot happy with invent help and I want my contact canceled and all of my money I have put into to this invention. I also don't like that my brochure is out there without a patent on it. I did ask her on if she could tell me how to get it patent or send me the size and what it would be made out of. She did send me a brochure of there patent attorneys that they use and that was all plus the new contract of the disk to be made of the invention. Please help me get my money back. Thank YouDesired Settlement: $ 900.00 for Preliminary Patentability Search and Opinion Referral Request. $2000.00 + $8449.15 dollars payment to Invent Help Submissions of invention of signed contract.

Business

Response:

We are writing to update you on the status of the above referenced consumer complaint. Mr. and Mrs. [redacted] contracted with us 11 months ago, for assistance in submitting their inventions to industry in an attempt to obtain a good faith review. Our records indicate their services are being performed in accordance with the terms of their agreements. Our company prepared New Product Submission Brochures announcing the availability the [redacted]' inventions. We submitted their New Product Submission Brochures to companies in the InventHelp Data Bank™ who have agreed to review our clients’ inventions in confidence. One such company, [redacted], responded to this submission however they indicated they were not interested in pursuing the invention further. We also followed up with several of these companies and the [redacted] received specific feedback from 3 companies, [redacted]. We also prepared invention Summaries, which announces the availability of the inventions while not disclosing the working details and submitted them to companies in our other database, We also prepared Press Releases which will be submitted to various magazines and trade publications in an additional attempt to gain publicity for the inventions. In addition, the Press Releases will be posted to an online publicity distribution service and the [redacted] will receive reports detailing the activity as a result of this submission. InventHelp will also list brief descriptions of the inventions on an internet web site which we have created for companies which may be interested in reviewing new product ideas. The Invention Listing will be published on the web site for a period of two years. In addition, the New Product Submission Brochures will be included in one edition of InventHelp’s INVENTION CATALOG. Mrs. [redacted]’s complaint stems from her belief that InventHelp was not targeting the correct types of companies. In our conversation of June 26, 2013,1 attempted to explain in detail the companies to which we submitted her invention.Mrs. [redacted] was extremely confrontational and continually screamed at me. Contrary to Mrs. [redacted]’s allegation that I “...called her an it". I simply told her if she continued to scream at me I would have to call her back later. At that point, Mr. [redacted] got on the phone and we had a productive conversation about their concerns. We discussed a number of the companies the [redacted] were questioning and Mr. [redacted] agreed that those companies seemed to be appropriate matches. I followed up my conversation with Mr. [redacted] in a letter dated June 28, 2013. In an attempt to resolve the [redacted]' concerns we agreed to a couple of addition services, including that we would provide the Virtual Invention Prototype (VIP) service at no charge. This service typically costs an additional $2500, Additionally, Mr. [redacted] requested that we provide an additional submission to a specific company. At this time, if the [redacted] no longer wish to pursue their inventions, we would not be willing to refund their money, however, we would be willing to cancel the services and the balance owed on their Retail Installment Contract with [redacted]. This would relieve them of any further financial obligations. Please let us know what they wish to do. [redacted] Compliance Manager

Consumer

Response:

I would like to no if I do cancel (only mine) contract. My husband is not in with this complaint. He doesn't want at this time to discontinue to cancel at this time. I only put my name on the complaint. I don't fill that I was talked to unprofessional by Ms [redacted]. My husband did hear her call me an it as well that was the only reason why I brought his name into this matter. I need to no if I will receive all of my material if I do cancel with Invent Help and will I have any thing to do as to cancel with the company Intromark Incorporated? I don't fell like I received enough from Invent Help that she claimed that was sent to me. I haven't receive anything from them expect for the company's that they sent my brochure to. I fell that I should receive some of my money back. I realize that they need to be paid something for what little they did do. Please let me no on this matter.

Thank You

Business

Response:

We are writing to follow up our response letter to your bureau dated July 24, 2013 and the complainant’s subsequent message dated July 29, 2013. We reached out again to our client and in accordance with her request we agreed to cancel her outstanding balance of nearly $6,000. In an additional good faith gesture, we agreed to also provide a modest refund. Accordingly, we respectfully request that your file on this complaint be closed. Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention.

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.

Review: I meet with Invent Help concerning my ideal that I created. I paid the initial $1200.00 to start the process to get my product in front of the first 50 manufactures to review my product and see if they would be interested in my ideal. After, doing more research on the 50 manufactures.. None of these manufactures had nothing to do with my ideal or even came close to category that my product was in. This was an instant red flag. I tried to patience with Invent Help to see if that the company would honorable with their service. When, I called in to check on my product one day I received the WORST customer service from the staff and managers every when informed them that they're manufactures had nothing to do with my invention. I immediately request a compliance department in which I was instructed by the local Invent Help Office. (WHICH DOESN'T EXIST) I call several times and was treated horrible when it came to asking for Invent Help for assistance. At this point the more research I did on Invent Help it came evident that this was starting to be "SCAM" for people to make money on customer that submitted their ideals while they collect a monthly fee ranging from $200-$450 a monthly while they sit and do nothing. They send your ideal to companies that have nothing to do with your product and collect a LARGE monthly fee while they're telling you it could 6 months, a year, or even 2 years before they hear back from a manufacture that has nothing to do with your product. "TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE WITH INVENTIONS" While your sitting around waiting on Invent over long period of time on just a response from manufacture that could a least 1-2 years. They're collecting "THOUSANDS of dollars" and someone else could have come up with your invent during this unnecessary wait. I ask them several question about this and ALL I RECEIVED WAS RUDE ASST MANAGER AND MANAGER that didn't want to discuss they matter.

I WANT A FULL REFUND OF MY $1,200.00, due to fact the Invent Help gave a creating FALSE HOPE AND VIEW of what they're really trying to help customers get their ideals to manufactures to buy their products. They simple want and are expecting customer to playing the "WAITING GAME" for 2 to 3years so that they can make THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS OFF YOU to tell you that the manufacture wasn't interested in your product. While they've made a least a $10,000.00 to $12,000.00 profit will giving customer FALSE HOPE, by submitting customers ideals to manufactures THAT HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH THEIR PRODUCT WHILE THEY COLLECT MONEY.Desired Settlement: FULL REFUND OF MY $1,200.00

Business

Response:

We are in receipt of the complaint filed by the above referenced consumer.We question this consumer’s motive in filing his complaint. The complainant contracted with InventHelp in June, 2014 for assistance in submitting his invention to industry in an attemptto obtain a good faith review. We had been providing the services for which he contracted. However, the complainant has not upheld his contractual obligations and has not made anyof his agreed upon payments for the services. In fact, he is thousands of dollars past due and because of the arrears, our work on his behalf eventually stopped. We believe it is unfair for thecomplainant to accuse us of being a ”scam” when it is he who has not upheld his contractual obligations by failing to pay for the services he has been receiving.InventHelp does not agree with the complainant’s claim about the companies to which we submittedhis invention. The invention was submitted to companies in the InventHelp® Data Bank who have agreed to receive new product ideas in confidence and within their specified areas of interest. In reviewing the companies, we believe the invention was submitted to the appropriate types of companies and see noevidence to the contrary. The complainant claims that he did not receive good customer service. We find this statement rather insulting as itwas the complainant who was abusive and shouted profanities to every customer service representative and manager who attempted to help him. Nevertheless, InventHelp would be willing simply in good faith to work out an amicable resolution to this complaint. Should the complainant wish to pursue this option, he is free to contact us directly provided he speaks with us in a professional manner. Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention.Sincerely,LARK B[redacted]Compliance Manager

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted] and have determined that this does not resolve my complaint. For your reference, details of the offer I reviewed appear below.I do not agree withthe response. After, I start doing research on the companies theysent my invention to I realized NONE of these companies had NOTHING to do withmy invention. They were merely creating a stall tacit to collect money for thisthird party while my invention is just sitting there and wasting time. TIME ISOF THE ESSENCE WHEN IT COMES TO INVENTION and they're process is NOT to helpthe inventor but to collect this large month fee. Once, started to question this process the customer service IMMEDIATELY went from good to horrible. The manager thatI tried to talk was extremely RUDE, and would NOT let me speak concerning thematter. He would CUT me off every time I tried to explain my side of thestory. I DONT want to speak ANYONE inthat office. I WANT COMPLETE REFUND OF MY $1200.00 AND WANT TO MOVE ON WITH MYLIFE. THANK YOU!

Review: it is difficult to put this into words however here it is. I visited inventhelp with my new idea for undergarments. I spoke to the representative visited the office a few times and was told that invent help was only able to locate one item that was somewhat similar to my own. my product being one of much greater improvement than that which was presented (I do have the paperwork) so at this point I decided that I would go with their services. Needless to say some mail correspondences, several phone calls to follow-up on my invention with irritated customer service representatives and a huge chunk of cash paid out nothing else happened. I was even told that the annual convention that normally would allow new client the opportunity to attend a convention to showcase their idea was postponed, cancelled, and then completely done away with. This in itself was dream shattering. This was very disappointing a huge loss of money and most surely the dream of being able to help my family financially was squashed. I come from a poor family and had high hopes in this false hope yielding event. I had been very careful about sharing my idea. I trusted the company and research team regarding my idea submission and that there was none out or submitted as my own especially once I got the news that there were no products out as mine seeing the photo of what was found that was out I had high hopes. I solely depended on invent help. I was afraid to research the idea myself for fear that a search engine would get it and submit it. Until a few months ago I gooled it until just recently and to my amazement I saw a very similar product I almost thought it was mine it look so similar this is it [redacted] Jul 31, 2006 Aug 14, 2008 [redacted] Women's undergarment with security pockets. I have since learned that this was brought about thru none other but inventhelp. They knowingly took my money and lied to me about the product that the research team performed told me there was only one product that had some functional use as my own and here they have actually worked with someone with the exact same product almost the same diagrams and all. This has been a complete fraud scam illegal gain of my money. My submission was in 2008 this was prior the research team failed to check their own system for the product and or created factors contraindicating the reason for my submission when they were already working with or had assisted someone with the same product. Deception and lies.Desired Settlement: I would like a full refund with interest on the funds that I paid in the amount of interest that was charged to finance this bogus scam.

Business

Response:

We

are responding to this complaint.Over

6 years ago, the complainant contracted with InventHelp for assistance in

submitting her invention to industry in an attempt to obtain a good faith

review. We prepared and submitted to

industry descriptive materials about the complainant’s invention such as brochures,

press releases, brief descriptions for catalogs, an invention listing published

on a website reserved for companies etc. We also followed up on these efforts in an

attempt to obtain feedback for the inventorThe

complainant’s concerns stem from her discovery of a similar product. We inform our clients before, during and even

after they contract with us that we are not responsible for the existence of similar

concepts or products which may already be on the market or which may be

introduced at a later time. Nevertheless, we investigated this similar

concept and found that the only common characteristic of both inventions was that

each belonged in the broad category of women’s underwear items. They are clearly not the same idea. We spoke with the complainant in an attempt

to resolve this matter and explained the above to her. Furthermore,

the complainant’s services were completed nearly 5 years ago and the fact that

we cancelled our 2009 INPEX Trade Show had no impact on her services whatsoever,

as she did not purchase that particular service.At

this time we respectfully request that your file on this complaint be closed. Thank you for bringing this matter to our

attention.Sincerely,LARK

B[redacted]Compliance

Manager

Review: I was scammed out of $250 when I went to Invent Help [redacted] location by sales representative [redacted]. I was told by [redacted] that my idea was great for a dental product and that himself and his company would provide services listed below for a rate of $856.00. Services and Material Products included:-idea processing and patent search processing and reports-study reports of how many dental procedures are completed each year that would utilize the product-full business resume describing the product details, it's structure, uses, and improvment outcomes-laminated brochures picturing and highlighting products assets-an info mercial advertising the product with cope on dvd for inventor to keep-communication with sales rep, [redacted], as well as patent attorney, [redacted]-feedback from both [redacted] and [redacted] as to whether idea existed in patent system as well as marketing perception and strategy-marketing of this product with these materials at a national trade show and through hundreds of dentists and companies on lists that Invent Help possesed for their networking and client marketing-Product physical model and profit margins report-product licensing and 10 year patent agreement-marketing and selling of the idea and production of product and splitting the royalties 80 percent going to myself and 20 percent going to Invemt help and agent [redacted]-complete confidentiality of the idea and all its details by [redacted] everyone employed at Invent Help as well as anyone involved with any of the processing of the idea and promising not to use or try to reproduce my idea or product in any way without my direct knowedge and consent of them doing soI met with this agent in person two different days at an office on the second floor above the [redacted] in the [redacted] and spoke to him several times on the phone in between these two visits. On the first visit we signed confidentiality agreement and on the second visit we signed a schlew of paperwork wDesired Settlement: I would like a refund of the $250 that I already paid with a check that was cashed on March 13th 2014. The reason being that I was promised these services and marketing materials would be produced and presented to me in a meeting 3 weeks after the previous meeting. I never heard from [redacted] its now well over two months and I get no response call back or answer from [redacted]. Invent help corporate office told me I can back out of contract and get full refund thru [redacted] is not complying.

Business

Response:

We are writing to update you on the above referenced consumer complaint.

We spoke at length with our client regarding her complaint. Her concerns seem to stem from her belief that ai! of the services she listed in her complaint were included in the $845 fee for which she contracted. We clarified with the client that we offer our services in two distinct stages. Stage one consists of our Basic Information Package (BIP) report which assembles basic information about an invention, idea, concept or new product and the history of its development in a report format. In addition, a Preliminary Patentability Search and Opinion was conducted for the idea by a patent law firm to which InventHelp refers its clients’ patent work, Stage two of our services is our Submission to Industry service where we prepare descriptive materials about our clients’ inventions and submit those materials to industry in the hope of obtaining a good faith review.

We clarified with the client that she contracted for the BIP service only. However, we also discussed that the normal turnaround time for the BIP and Preliminary Patentability Search and Opinion is 60 to 90 days, not the 3 weeks the client mentioned in her letter.

Nonetheless, we worked with our client and resolved her concerns. Accordingly we request that your file on this matter be closed. '

Thank you for bringing this complaint to our attention.

Review: I am not satisfied with the services. I was lead to believe that my idea would go to marketing. I haven't seen anything towards that. I have spoke with a representative about a letter I received in February stating; that My Product Submission Brochure was mail to companies on an enclosed report list as "Data Bank". I haven't heard anything else since. I'm requesting for something in return, some type of refund.

Thank you.

[redacted]Desired Settlement: A refund at least 50%, or more.

Business

Response:

We are writing to update you on our efforts regarding the above referenced consumer complaint. Over 3 years ago, the complainant contracted with InventHelp for assistance in submitting his invention to industry in an attempt to obtain a good faith review. A review of our records indicates that the complainant’s services were provided in their entirety and in accordance with our contract. We spoke with our client in an effort to resolve this matter. We explained our process of submitting his invention to industry, discussed the services provided and clarified any confusion which existed. Furthermore, we reiterated that we make it very clear in our literature, contracts and company disclosures that we do not evaluate, make promises of success or profit and that the purchase of invention promotion services is high risk. The complainant signed his understanding of this many times. While we do not agree that a refund is warranted, we are pleased that we were able to amicably resolve this matter. Thank you for bringing this complaint to our attention. Sincerely, LARK B[redacted] Compliance Manager

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.

Review: On February 13, 2015 I had an appt with an InventHelp rep in [redacted], Ca named Phil H[redacted] I received a huge sales pitch and lots of empty promises. He told me that my inventiuon might not be picked up by any of their companies in their database but they would do everything they could to make it happen. That day I paid him $646 for the Basic Information Package which I received 5 weeks later. I then went back to his office on April 3, 2015 and he talked me into signing up for their "Submission Services Package" for $9,900. That day I put $2,000 down and they have been taking $247.55 out of my checking account the 15th of every month starting on May 15, 2015. To date, I have paid $4,626.40. In June I received 2 pieces of paper an "Invention Summary" and a "Press Release". When I got these 2 reports it looked as if someone had a few extra minutes to put these together. I had to rewrite them and send them back to them for re-submission. Then came the "New Product Submission Brochure". I had to keep calling to see when they were sending this brochure to the first 25 companies. Finally on Sept 16 they sent it out. I went over the list and couldn't find 3 companies and 10 or more had nothing to do with my product. They said they would follow up with them but when I called I was told that they only respond to the companies that email them that they are interested. They were going to send the next 25 out 1st part of Dec. Still waiting. And last, I received an email from Phil H[redacted] Dec 21 stating that he was relocating and wanted to meet with me before he leaves to "Begin the Submission Phase of their Services". Which by the way began in May.I am totally dissatisfied with this company and feel like I was totally duped out of my money. And I don't believe they are an honest company.Desired Settlement: I would like a refund of $3,980.40 and for them to cancel my contract with them and not put anything negative on my credit report. They can keep the $646 I paid in the beginning.

Business

Response:

We are responding to the above referenced complaint. In April, 2015 the complainant contracted with our company for assistance in submitting her invention to industry in an attempt to obtain a good faith review. Our records indicate that her services are being provided in accordance with her contract with us. Upon receipt of this complaint, we reached out to the client in an attempt to resolve this matter. Her concerns stem from her impression that the services were not proceeding as quickly as she anticipated and her initial dissatisfaction with her first group of written materials. In our conversation with the complainant, we explained the services she purchased to clarify any confusion which existed. We also clarified that occasionally our clients wish to make revisions to their materials. However, we explained that upon receipt of the complainant’s revisions, we revised her materials and returned them to the complainant for her approval within ten days. We investigated the companies to which we submitted the complainant’s New Product Submission Brochure, and we believe the companies to be appropriate choices for her invention. Any misunderstanding regarding our follow up procedures with companies was also clarified with the complainant. We spoke at length with the complainant and resolved her concerns. Furthermore, she indicated that she would contact your bureau to indicate her satisfaction with our resolution. Accordingly, we request that your file on this matter be closed. Thank you for bringing this complaint to our attention. Sincerely, LARK B[redacted] Compliance Manager

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.

Don't be another victim More info at [redacted]

Review: I signed up with InventHelp on 7/1/14 and [redacted], Regional Sales Director informed of the process, fees and that he would be in contact with me every 2 weeks. Mr. [redacted] contacted me around 7/17/14 and informed me that the Patent Attorney would be in contact with me every 2 weeks. Going foward, I had to contact Mr. [redacted] for updates. I contacted him on 7/31/14 and he informed me the Patent Attorney was still working on the report and I stated I thought you were going to contact me with an update every 2 weeks and he claims he was about to call me. The patent attorney contacted me on 8/1/14 stating they are working on my report and it will be completed in three weeks. I contacted Mr. [redacted] on 8/25/14 and left him a message stated I was disappointed that he has not been in contact with me every 2 weeks. He called me back irrate stating, "nothing is every good enough for you no matter what I do," I said [redacted] you must have me confused with someone else because they only contact you and I have had is when I contact you every two weeks for an update. I have not been constantly badgering you. He said your report will be available in 8 weeks and I said the Patent Attorney told me on 8/1/14 three weeks. The report will be available in 8 weeks would you like to pick it up or receive it by [redacted] and I said [redacted] is fine. I said [redacted] it's not fair that you are upset with me because I'm requesting that you keep you promise to contact me with an update every 2 weeks and we ended the conversation. I called him back and asked if there was an option for me to terminate the relationship and he stated we we no longer want a client like you and I said you no longer want a client like me because you were not able to deliver the services you promised. I informed him that I was contact the Revdex.com and he said be careful doing so. I'm not sure what he meant by that and he hung up the phone.Desired Settlement: I would like a refund for the services that I paid for in the amount of $518.59 because Mr. [redacted] and the Patent Attorney did not deliver the services they promised. Mr. [redacted] was very friendly when he was collecting fees from me, but ended up be irrate and unable to produce the services that he promised.

Business

Response:

We are writing to update you on our efforts regarding the above referenced consumer

On July 2, 2014, the complainant contracted with InventHelp for the preparation of a Basic Information Package (BIP) report on his invention. In addition, a Preliminary Patentability Search and Opinion was conducted for the idea by a patent law firm to which InventHelp refers its clients’ patent work. This information is also included in the bIH. The total cost of the above mentioned service was $945.

We do not believe this to be a legitimate complaint. The sales representative's records indicate that he did speak with the client on three occasions; July 15[h July 30th and August 25th while the client also received emails on July 9th, July 23rd and August 6th

Although we do not agree with the complainant, we reached out to our client and resolved her concerns.

Accordingly, we request that your file on this complaint be closed. Thank vou for bringing this matter to our attention.

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and they resolved the issue by refunding the fee that they charged me.

Regards,

Review: I was mislead about the companies that would be contacted about my product as well as the entire amount I would have to contribute from the beginning. Initially, I was only told I would have to pay $950 up front for patent search and $1400 for a patent and that would be it. I did agree to the $950 and to hold off on the patent until I got the results of the search. Then I was called back late at night for "good news" and that I would need to give over another $9500 with a $2500 down payment to move forward as my product reached patent potential and it was imperative I sign then as their 1% financing was about to expire. I signed reluctantly without really being fully informed again of their full pricing and success rate with the full hopes and dreams [redacted] was selling me. Several weeks later I received a welcome packet with the copied contracts and then showing to poor numbers of consumers who even made agreements with vendors and even fewer who made more back than the money they invested which was below 2%. I was also not aware until later that I did not have to sign for the 1% financing that night but actually had a week more to decide but instead I signed under pressure and the feeling of being rushed by [redacted]. Had I bern given all the facts upfront especially with the entire amount I would had to invest over the course of time, I never would have agreed to it as I am someone who lived mostly paycheck to paycheck. I felt schemed and swindled out of a dream that they portrayed to me was going to be my retirement. I as even told that may be you make a few payments and then I get the other guy I sell the product too to cover the rest as well as even the patent cost. Again it seems like more false hopes and dreams and all I want back is my money I invested and for the remaining balance I owe to be erased.Desired Settlement: I desire to be refunded the entire amount I had to give to invent help from the beginning and for the remaining balance to be removed

Business

Response:

I spoke to corporate the client is within the cancelation period he will be refunded the 2500 deposit and no further payments are due/ you will receive a formal reply to the complaint from corporate within the time frame you requested [redacted]

Consumer

Response:

I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID [redacted], and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.