The booklet is an informational and educational tool designed to help a consumer do three things: (1) to communicate more effectively with those who provide the products and services he or she buys; (2) to locate sources of help; and (3) to resolve complaints in the most effective manner. The booklet contains two major parts. Part 1, "How To Be a Smart Consumer," features tips on how to get the most for one's money and avoid purchasing problems, gives steps for handling complaints and writing a complaint letter, and highlights special sources to contact when unable to resolve a complaint directly through the seller. Part 2, "The Consumer Assistance Directory," lists consumer offices in the public and private sectors that provide assistance with consumer complaints. An index of appropriate organizations or agencies arranged by subject and a section highlighting services for the disabled are included. The teacher's guide that concludes this document is intended to be used in conjunction with the Handbook but can be used without it also. The guide contains three sections: (1) two suggested teaching units with related support material (unit 1 covers purchasing and unit 2 deals with effective complaint handling); (2) a separate "Major Sources of Help" section that includes public and private agencies; and (3) suggested follow-up activities. While written for the secondary level, the guide is also useful for elementary and adult programs. (TRS)