Shoppers Question Joybird and Bassett’s Discounted Furniture Pricing, Consumer Rights and Legal Payouts 2026
Consumers are increasingly questioning Joybird and Bassett’s discounted furniture pricing as of January 2026, raising concerns over “false reference pricing.” If you purchased furniture based on a significant discount claim, you may have been misled by deceptive advertising. This guide explains the current legal challenges, your rights under consumer protection laws, and how to file for a potential settlement or refund.
The Controversy: Are Joybird and Bassett’s Discounts Deceptive?
The core issue involves “fictional” original prices. Shoppers have reported that retailers like Joybird and Bassett often list furniture with a high “original” price next to a “sale” price, creating a sense of urgency. However, investigations and consumer complaints suggest these items may rarely, if ever, sell at the higher price.
Under the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Act and various state Unfair and Deceptive Acts and Practices (UDAP) laws, a “former price” must be a price at which the retailer actually offered the product on a regular basis for a reasonably substantial period. If the “original” price is inflated just to make a discount look better, it is considered false advertising.
Current Legal Status: Lawsuits and Regulatory Action (January 2026)
As of January 30, 2026, several law firms are investigating potential class action lawsuits against major furniture retailers, including Joybird (owned by La-Z-Boy) and Bassett, regarding these “perpetual sales.” While no nationwide settlement has been finalized yet this year, past cases in the retail industry—such as those involving J.C. Penney and Kohl’s—have resulted in multimillion-dollar payouts for consumers who were misled by “phantom” discounts.
Regulatory agencies, including the Federal Trade Commission and various State Attorneys General, have ramped up enforcement against “junk fees” and deceptive pricing in 2025 and 2026. If a court finds that a retailer violated the Truth in Advertising Act, consumers may be eligible for damages, which can include a partial refund of the purchase price.
Which Products and Shoppers Are Affected?
The concerns primarily target high-ticket items where discounts appear most dramatic, including:
- Custom Sofas and Sectionals: Often advertised as “30%–50% off” during holiday events that seem to never end.
- Dining Sets: Large “original” price tags that may not reflect historical market value.
- Bedroom Furniture: Limited-time offers that reappear immediately after expiring.
Any shopper who made a purchase based on a “sale” price that appeared to be a significant reduction from a fake reference price may be an eligible claimant if a legal settlement is reached later in 2026.
What You Must Know
How to Identify Deceptive Pricing Tactics
The biggest warning sign of deceptive pricing is the “Perpetual Sale.” If you visit a website on a Monday and see a “24-hour only” 40% discount, and that same discount is still there on Friday, the “original” price may be a sham. Use price-tracking tools or screenshots to document whether the “regular” price is ever actually charged.
Common Misconceptions About Furniture Sales
Many consumers believe that “MSRP” (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) is a legally binding original price. In reality, if no one actually buys the product at the MSRP, using it as a reference for a “70% off” sale can be legally considered false advertising. Just because a price is printed doesn’t mean it’s the “actual” former price.
What to Do Next
Step 1: Document Your Evidence
If you are planning to file a complaint or join a class action settlement, you need a paper trail.
- Screenshots: Save images of the product page showing the “original” price and the “discounted” price.
- Purchase Records: Keep your digital receipts and order confirmations.
- Marketing Emails: Save “limited time” offer emails that show the sale never truly ends.
Step 2: File an Official Consumer Complaint
You don’t have to wait for a lawsuit to take action. Reporting the issue helps regulatory agencies build a case.
- FTC: File a report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
- State Attorney General: Contact your state’s consumer protection office to report unfair practices.
- Better Business Bureau (BBB): File a dispute regarding the retailer’s advertising claims.
Step 3: Consult a Consumer Protection Attorney
If you spent thousands of dollars on a furniture set that you believe was deceptively priced, you may want to speak with a lawyer about a product liability or consumer fraud claim. Many firms handle these on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless they win.
FAQs: Furniture Pricing and Consumer Rights
Are Joybird and Bassett facing a class action lawsuit?
As of January 2026, multiple law firms are investigating these retailers for potential deceptive pricing violations. No specific settlement has been reached yet, but legal filings are being monitored closely.
What is “False Reference Pricing”?
This is a deceptive tactic where a retailer lists a high “fake” price as the original cost to make the current “sale” price seem like a better deal than it actually is.
Can I get a refund if I was misled by a sale?
While you can request a refund directly from the retailer, legal remedies usually involve a class action settlement where you receive a portion of the purchase price back as cash or a voucher.
How do I join a furniture pricing settlement?
If a settlement is approved in 2026, an official settlement website will be launched. You will typically need to submit a claim form with your purchase details to receive a payout.
What consumer protections apply to furniture sales?
The Federal Trade Commission Act (Section 5) prohibits “unfair or deceptive acts or practices.” Additionally, state-specific laws like California’s Consumers Legal Remedies Act provide strong protections against false advertising.
Last Updated: January 30, 2026
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you believe you have been a victim of consumer fraud, contact a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.
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About the Author
Sarah Klein, JD, is a licensed attorney and legal content strategist with over 12 years of experience across civil, criminal, family, and regulatory law. At All About Lawyer, she covers a wide range of legal topics — from high-profile lawsuits and courtroom stories to state traffic laws and everyday legal questions — all with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and public understanding.
Her writing blends real legal insight with plain-English explanations, helping readers stay informed and legally aware.
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