Frequently Asked Questions
Shopping
How does FPMT use the money it receives from The Foundation Store?
Are your values listed in US Dollars?
I have just placed my order and would like to add an item to save shipping/forgot to add?
I want to purchase/redeem a Gift Certificate?
Security
How do I know that my credit card information is 100% secure?
My account
How do I edit my email address or street address?
Errors / problems
Why can't I access my account? I'm being sent in a circle.
Why am I getting the message "Shipping information is missing" when I'm only buying downloadable items?
Why do items I add to my shopping basket keep disappearing?
Why my credit card does not work?
Shipping & returns
How much will it cost to ship my purchase?
What is your return policy?
I live in Puerto Rico, Why don't I see a shipping method?
I live outside the US, which shipping method should I choose?
I live outside the US, will there be any customs or duties?
I live in Canada, how will my order be shipped?
I want to ship my order UPS, what address should I use? I want to ship my order USPS, what address should I use?
How do I checkout when my billing address is different than my shipping address?
I want to order something for a friend. How do I have it shipped to their address?
My address is different than your shipping form. How do I fill it out?
During checkout I am not getting a shipping method choice?
How do I track my package and check my my account?
How long will it take to get my shipment?
How long will it take from the time I order until my order ships?
What do you mean by Business Days?
How do I contact The Foundation Store?
Online learning
I have questions about my purchase of an Online course?
Downloadable PDF/eBook practices
How do I access my downloadable PDF, eBook files once I’ve received my confirmation letter?
Why haven't I received my download? Why can't I open my download?
Why am I getting the message "Shipping information is missing" when I'm only buying downloadable items?
Materials Requiring Empowerment?
Video/Audio
How do I access my downloadable MP3 files once I’ve received my confirmation letter?
Why does my DVD not function properly?
What are the instruction to download audio material into my PC, Android, iPad or iPhone?
Education programs
How do I find out more about the Discovering Buddhism at Home Program?
Shopping
How does FPMT use the money it receives from The Foundation Store?
All offering proceeds received are carefully calculated and categorized to ensure that any proceeds from Dharma items are used for making more Dharma available and to further the charitable mission and projects of FPMT, Inc. We carefully follow Buddhist principles for the use of this money. This money is not used for staff salaries or food expenses. For the Annual Report on Dharma Income, click here.
Are your values listed in US Dollars?
All prices and shipping charges on The Foundation Store are in US dollars.
I have just placed my order and would like to add an item to save shipping/forgot to add?
Since we do not have your CC record, you will have to contact us immediately to cancel the order and place a new one.
How a certificate is delivered:
When you place an order for this product, the system will generate a Gift Certificate with a random code associated with this order. In addition to the New Order email you will also receive the Gift Certificate email with the details about how to redeem it. If this purchase is a gift for someone else, then simply forward the Gift Certificate email to the person who will be redeeming the certificate.
The customer who receives the Gift Certificate only needs to enter the code on the "Apply Coupon" box on the Shopping Cart or the View Cart page; this will display the Gift Certificate amount and the balance with the order.
Terms & Conditions
The recipient by redeeming the gift certificate accepts and agrees to comply with all of the terms and conditions set forth on this certificate.
- The certificate code must registered at time of check-out.
- The certificate may be supplemented by payment of a valid credit card.
- No credit or change will be given on unused portion of certificate.
- Not redeemable for cash or other substitutions, not replaceable if lost, destroyed, stolen or expired, and void if altered, photocopied, or reproduced.
- Terms are void where prohibited by law.
- We encourage to use certificate within 1 year after date of purchase.
- Certificates are subject to availability.
Refunds
Gift certificates are not refundable.
Security
How do I know that my credit card information is 100% secure?
The Foundation Store uses secure servers to protect your personal information using advanced encryption and firewall technology throughout the ordering process. Most browsers will show a lock icon in the bottom status bar on secure pages. To further protect our customers, The Foundation Store uses state-of-the-art SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encryption to protect your personal information from unauthorized use.
My account
How do I edit my email address or street address?
You can change your email address or street address in our store during the checkout process. Click the "Checkout " button from your shopping cart. On the billing and shipping page you can edit your email and street address fields. When you click the "Refresh Rates" button your changes will be saved.
Errors / problems
Why can't I access my account?
The machine that fails to get the correct result is Win XP Pro Service Pack 1 with Norton Internet Suite. You will need to perform either of the 3 methods below to show information correctly :
1) Turn off Privacy Control in Norton Internet Security
2) Click "Configure for Privacy Control" followed by Clicking on Advance button in Privacy Control and Clicking on Permit for Information about visited sites rather than Block.
3) Clicking Configure for Privacy Control followed by Clicking on Advance button in Privacy Control. Then click Add Site to add shop.fpmt.org and fpmt.3dcartstores.com. Then select the shop.fpmt.org and fpmt.3dcartstores.com created to Click Permit for Information about visited sites rather than Use default settings.
Why do items I add to my shopping basket keep disappearing?
This problem occurs when your web browser is set to not accept cookies. Cookies are alphanumeric identifiers that we transfer to your computer's hard drive through your Web browser. Cookies allow us to provide features such as storage of items in your shopping bag. Cookies must be enabled to make online purchases at The Foundation Store. By enabling cookie support on your browser, the communication between you and this site is strengthened. Cookies make certain it is you who are making transactions on your own behalf, and prevent leakage of your private information. Follow these detailed instructions for enabling cookies for your browser.
Why my credit card doesn't work?
This is due mainly because of these reasons:
1. The information entered in this section is very sensitive as banks are trying to avoid fraud. Please type the exact billing information you registered in your bank or typed on your credit card.
2. Cookies and Javascript: it is crucial that both cookies and Javascript are enabled in your browser in order to use the online Foundation Store. You can do a test to see if this is working.
Number 1 - Test if Cookies are Enabled
Go to http://www.javascripter.net/faq/arecooki.htm. Just above the Copyright at the bottom, in bold letters, it should say "Cookies are currently enabled in your browser."
Number 2 - Test is JavaScript is Enabled
Go tohttp://www.javatester.org/javascript.html. In the center of the screen, in a colored box, it should say "JavaScript IS WORKING in your web browser"
If either of these are not enabled/working, then click here -- https://sharklink.nova.edu/jsp/misc/java_cook.jsp)-- and follow the instructions to set up your browser to enable both Cookies and JavaScript.
Shipping & returns
How much will it cost to ship my purchase?
To find out your shipping costs, login to your Foundation Store account and place your items in your shopping basket. Click the CHECK OUT button and enter your shipping address into the space provided. The Shipping Method pull-down menu will display your shipping options and their corresponding costs.
What is your return policy?
All returns must be authorized before a refund is processed. Requests to return an item and to obtain a refund (excludes shipping costs) must be received within 45 days of the ordering date.
I live in Puerto Rico, Why don't I see a shipping Method?
When entering a shipping address choose Puerto Rico as the "country" rather than the United States.
I live outside the US, which shipping method should I choose?
USPS may be a cheaper shipping method, however customers outside North America and Europe who chose USPS experienced long delays due to customs and other issues. Keep in mind that Items shipped via USPS are not trackable outside USA.
If you want to choose USPS as shipping option, but do not see it as an option for your country during check-out, please contact [email protected]
I live outside the US, will there be any customs or duties?
International orders (orders outside the US) may be subject to customs/duties upon point of entry to your country. The Shop has to do customs declaration by regulation and how the duties/tax at the destination country are assessed is something that is totally up to the country.For further information please contact your local customs agency.
I live in Canada, how should I have my product shipped?
All Canadian orders are shipped via USPS or UPS. Rates do not include charges for customs clearance and is up to Canadian authorities to bill brokerage charges, duties, and taxes, so please be aware. Some shipments to and from certain locations may require additional time in transit. For guarantee details, service availability, and delivery time commitments visit: http://www.ups.com/content/us/en/shipping/time/service/standard.html
Due to Canadian law customers in the Canadian provinces of Manitoba, Quebec, and New Brunswick will be assessed the Provincial Sales Tax (PST) for residential orders once the shipment arrives in Canada. The PST varies from 6.5% to 11%.
I want to ship my order UPS/USPS what address should I use?
UPS orders can only be shipped to a physical street address.
USPS orders can be shipped to a PO Box or a street address.
If you enter a PO Box and choose UPS as your carrier, your order will not be processed, UPS does not allow PO BOX as a shipping address. Remember that international customers who choose USPS as their shipping method may experience long delivery delays due to customs and their local mail provider.
How do I checkout when my billing address is different than my shipping address?
I want to order something for a friend. How do I have it shipped to their address?
After you click the "checkout" button. You will be prompted to fill out your Address Information.
On this page it reads "This is also my Shipping Address (if not, uncheck this box and enter shipping address in next step)"
If you would like your purchase sent to an address different than your shipping address, uncheck the box.
When you click the next button you will be taken to a new screen
Click the "Add Address" Button and Enter the correct Shipping Address information
Click the "Save and Continue" button and proceed through checkout.
My address is different than your shipping form. How do I fill it out?
Fill out the shipping form with the information that makes the most sense for your country. If you are concerned that our shipping department will be confused by the address, send an e-mail to [email protected] with an explanation.
During checkout I am not getting a shipping method choice?
This problem occurs when a customer enters an incorrect state abbreviation and/or zip code.
How do I track my package and check my account?
On the The Foundation Store homepage, enter "my account' to view the status of your order. If we shipped your order via UPS, a tracking number will be displayed along with the status of your order. If you need further assistance tracking your order, please contact us at [email protected]
Click Here to track a UPS package
*Please remember that US Postal airmail and is not track able. Only US Postal Global Priority Package Service EMS is trackable. We are not responsible for lost packages for which no tracking was purchased.
How long will it take from the time I order until my order ships?
It can take up to 3 business days for an order to be shipped from the time that we receive the order. Therefore, if you have selected UPS Ground to New York which is five or six business days from being shipped to arrival, total time from when you submit your order to having it in your hands could be eight or nine business days. If it is critical that your order arrive sooner, you may wish to choose a faster shipping method or you can e-mail our shipping department ([email protected]) and ask that we try to move your order to a higher priority in the packing queue.
Orders paid with e-check will take 3- 5 days to be delivered.
How long will it take to get my shipment?
Orders are usually packed and put into the system in 2-3 business days. UPS Next Day packages are usually packed and shipped on the first business day after the order is received. Total time in the UPS system to delivery varies depending on whether you selected Next Day, Two Day, Three Day Select or Ground service. FPMT Shop cannot guarantee accuracy on UPS expedited methods. Click here to view a current UPS Ground Map.
What do you mean by Business Days?
Business days are defined as Monday through Friday and do not include holidays. We presently ship on business days as they correspond to our office hours. If you place an order on Friday night, we will begin to process your order on the next business day. This would be Monday. If you order on or during a holiday, we will begin processing orders on the first business day after the holiday has ended. As an example, if you order on the American holiday Thanksgiving, which is a Thursday, we will begin processing your order on the following Monday morning.
How do I contact The Foundation Store?
Contact The Foundation Store via e-mail: [email protected]
The Foundation Store
FPMT Inc. International Office
1632 SE 11th Avenue
Portland, OR 97214-4702 USA
Telephone: (1) (503) 914-6499
Toll Free: (1) (866) 251-3674 (US Only)
Online learning
If you have questions about an Online Learning Course you can find answers at one of the following:
- Visit the Online Learning Center
- Read the Student Guide
- Or, view the Technical Support Forum
Downloadable PDF/eBook practices
The PDF format is usable on Kindle, Nook, iPad, iPhone and other eReader devices. This format are also printable as single page layouts for those who have difficulty printing the double sided booklet versions.
How do I access my downloadable PDF, eBook files once I’ve received my confirmation letter?
Instructions to download PDF/eBook files onto different devices are found here.
Why haven't I received my download? Why can't I open my download?
All downloads are sent to the e-mail address entered during checkout.
Downloadable practice Materials are presented in PDF format and require Adobe® Acrobat® Reader to view them. This program is quick to download, easy to use and free! If you do not have this program installed on your computer, please Click here. All downloads have an expiration date - 30 days- after the order has been placed. If you continue to have problems with your downloads, please contact The Foundation Store and we will be happy to help.
Why am I getting the message "Shipping information is missing" when I'm only buying downloadable items?
An order of only PDF Downloads should not require shipping information, while Hardcopy Practices will. However, we occasionally experience a bug in our software that requires shipping information on PDF Downloads. If you find this happening, please try the following:
- clear your basket
(Click the "My Basket" tab at the top of the page > Check the box in the "Remove" column next to every item in your shopping cart > Click the "Update Quantity" button) - log in and resume shopping
If you are still experiencing problems please email the shop at [email protected] with a detailed list of the Names of the Practices you are trying to order and which Format (Letter or A4 or Reader e-book). We will reset the files in the shop and notify you when you can try purchasing them again.
Materials Requiring Empowerment?
All the practices on this section are restricted to those who have received a tantric empowerment into the deity that each practice features.
Please respect the profound tradition of tantra and do not order practices for which you do not have the appropriate empowerment. If you are unsure whether you are qualified to order a practice or not, email us at [email protected] If you do not have the required empowerment please do not place the order. All downloads have a 60 expiry day after the order has been placed.
Video/Audio
Instructions to download MP3 files onto different devices are found here.
Why does my DVD not function properly?
The main problem with DVDs for non-USA/Taiwan users, will definitely be the PAL/NTSC issue. The following sites are useful for working out which country does what:
http://www.video-pro.co.uk/worldtv/worldtv1.html#a
http://www.execulink.com/~impact/world_television_standards2.htm
Most players sold in the last year or so in PAL countries will play both standards. The players that will definitely not play NTSC, are usually name brand machines from more than a couple of years ago. Panasonic, Sony etc. Some older DVD players will not play DVD-R disks. FPMT Education Department DVDs will play on any PC using SP updated Win XP or 2000, as well as on Mac using OS9 or beyond.
Tips for troubleshooting "faulty" DVDs
There are a variety of conditions that can cause a DVD to not work properly. Please check the below before deciding that your DVD does not work:
- If you are playing your DVD on a computer the DVD memory can be full in which case you need to unplug the computer and start again.
- If the DVD disc has a finger print on it this can cause skipping or impaired sound.
- If there are too many programs open on your computer at the same time this can cause problems.
- If the sound is dropping out this can be a problem of the settings on your compute
We highly recommend to play CD's on a VLC media player. It is a highly portable multimedia player supporting most audio and video formats from files, physical media (DVDs, VCD, Audio-CD), TV capture cards and many network streaming protocols. This software can be downloaded for free in the internet.
"What are the instruction to download audio material in my PC,Android, iPad or iPhone?
Instructions to download MP3s on different devices are found here.
Education programs
How do I find out more about the Discovering Buddhism at Home Program?
For more information regarding the Discovering Buddhism at Home Program, please visit http://fpmt.org/education/programs/discovering-buddhism/