CompUSA has set up a special Web site to provide consumers up-to-date information on programs and policies such as rebates, service contracts and gift cards as the retailer prepares stores for closing.

The site, at compusaconsumerhelp.com, will be updated regularly, according to the company, which is winding down operations at its 103 stores, including two in Hawai'i.

CompUSA on Dec. 7 announced that its Mexico-based owner had sold the company to an affiliate of the Boston-based advisory and restructuring firm Gordon Brothers Group LLC, which plans to liquidate store inventory over the holiday season.

The liquidation plan led to some initial confusion about consumer policies at various stores.

Yesterday CompUSA said gift cards purchased before Dec. 12 will be honored during closing sales expected to last no longer than eight weeks. Gift cards must be used to purchase merchandise at stores and may not be exchanged for cash or credit.

Ken Elton, CompUSA general manager in Honolulu, said his store has not sold gift cards since Dec. 7. But a salesperson at the Pearl Highlands CompUSA on Dec. 10 said gift cards could still be purchased.

Gordon Brothers representatives yesterday would not clarify when gift card sales were halted.

The company on Dec. 12 began discounting merchandise and said all sales made on or after that date are final, with no returns. CompUSA's return policy applies to purchases before Dec. 12.

CompUSA said no rain checks will be issued for merchandise as part of the liquidation sale, though previously issued rain checks will be honored with the rain check item or something comparable at a comparable discount.

Rebates issued before Dec. 12 or rebates included in any running advertisement will be honored, CompUSA said. Extended warranties and service plans also will be honored. Any merchandise being serviced at CompUSA will be returned to their owners when repairs are finished.

Customers with repair issues may call 877-520-8324, or visit www.assurantsolutions.com/extendedprotection/contactUs.html.

Reach Andrew Gomes at agomes@honoluluadvertiser.com.

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