Dear Do-It Man: In 1993, I purchased a rechargeable TV marriage saver from DAK Industries in Canoga Park, Calif. I paid $75.90 including postage. It worked fine for about six months. Then it began making a high-pitched buzz so I sent it back to the company in 1994 to be fixed or to receive a refund. I sent the company $19 when I returned it to be repaired.
I have heard nothing since then. I have repeatedly tried to call it but I get no response. Someone recently told me the company went out of business.I am out nearly $100. I hope you can do something about it.
- M.J., North Salt Lake.
Dear M.J.: DAK Industries filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy (reorganization) in 1992. That was converted into a Chapter 7 (liquidation) last year.
It's apparently a big case. The court's press officer described it as a "mega case." And the docket clerk in charge of the case at the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Los Angeles told us over the phone that she receives claims every day, though she didn't have a current tally.
So, you are not alone.
The case number is LA-92-33-128-SB. For information about the case, call 1-213-894-1486.
To file a proof-of-claim form (available at local stationery stores and, we assume, the bankruptcy court nearest you, send it to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Intake Section, 300 North Los Angeles St., Los Angeles, CA 90012.
The first meeting of creditors was held Feb. 2. The deadline to file a claim is May 3.
Social Security benefits
The Social Security Administration will send out 9 million Personal Earnings and Benefits Statements to people turning 60 this year, according to spokesman Phil Gambino.
The statement provides estimates of future retirement, disability and survivors benefits that a worker and his or her family may receive, if their work situation and annual income don't change substantially.
With the statement, people planning for retirement know ahead of time what portion of their monthly income will be paid by Social Security.
By the year 2000, anyone over 25 will receive this annual income statement. People now in their 40s and 50s who do not want to wait that long, or who need to correct information on an existing statement, may call (800) 772-1213.
People turning 60 in 1995 who do not receive this benefits statement by Nov. 1, 1995, should call the same number. People can also request it in person at any Social Security office. - Maturity News Service
Distributed by Universal Press Syndicate