Where to Buy Milwaukee Power Tools: Authorized Stores, Online Options, and Buyer Tips
You can buy Milwaukee power tools from authorized Milwaukee distributors, major home improvement retailers, professional tool suppliers, local dealers, industrial supply stores, and selected online stores. For most buyers, the safest place to start is Milwaukee’s official “Where to Buy” or authorized distributor page because Milwaukee directly points customers toward approved partners for sales and support.
This matters because Milwaukee says where you buy its tools matters, and the company works with authorized partners to support customers from purchase through service. Milwaukee also states that products purchased from authorized distributors automatically come with warranty coverage, so the seller you choose can affect your confidence after the sale.
People usually search for where to buy Milwaukee power tools because they do not want to waste money on fake tools, unsupported products, used items sold as new, or deals that look cheap but create warranty problems later. Milwaukee tools are not always the cheapest tools on the shelf, so buyers naturally want to make sure they are getting genuine products, fair pricing, reliable service, and proper proof of purchase.
Milwaukee sells a wide range of tools and jobsite products, including corded power tools, M12 cordless tools, M18 cordless tools, outdoor power equipment, batteries, chargers, PACKOUT storage, hand tools, accessories, and personal protective equipment. Because the product range is so wide, the best place to buy may depend on what you need. A homeowner buying a first drill kit may shop differently from a contractor buying several M18 FUEL tools, batteries, and accessories for daily jobsite use.
The short answer is simple: buy Milwaukee power tools from an authorized dealer whenever possible. The longer answer is that you should also compare price, stock, return policy, warranty support, battery platform, and seller reputation before you purchase.
Where to Buy Milwaukee Power Tools?
The safest place to buy Milwaukee power tools is through Milwaukee’s official authorized distributor network or a retailer listed through Milwaukee’s “Where to Buy” page. Milwaukee provides buying options for both local shopping and online shopping, which makes it easier to find trusted sellers based on your location.
You can usually find Milwaukee tools through several types of sellers. These include Milwaukee’s official distributor locator, home improvement retailers, professional tool suppliers, local authorized dealers, industrial supply stores, and selected online retailers. In some countries, Milwaukee also has dedicated regional websites with store locator tools. For example, Milwaukee Europe and Milwaukee Germany provide store locator pages for finding nearby authorized sellers.
Availability can change depending on your country, city, retailer stock, tool category, and whether the product is a common item or a newer release. A basic Milwaukee drill kit may be easy to find at a large retailer, while a specialized trade tool, plumbing tool, inspection tool, or high-demand M18 FUEL product may be easier to find through a professional supplier.
If you are buying online, do not only look at the product photo or the marketplace name. Check the actual seller. Some online marketplaces show products from many third-party sellers, and not every seller will offer the same level of warranty confidence, return support, or product authenticity. If the price looks far lower than other trusted retailers, slow down and verify the listing before buying.
For the average buyer, the best buying process is simple. First, check Milwaukee’s official authorized distributor page. Second, compare major trusted retailers. Third, check the specific model number, kit contents, warranty information, and return policy. Finally, keep your receipt after purchase.
Why Buying from an Authorized Milwaukee Dealer Matters
Buying from an authorized Milwaukee dealer matters because it protects you in ways that a random low-price listing may not. Authorized dealers are important for product authenticity, warranty confidence, service support, and clear proof of purchase. When you buy from an approved seller, you have a stronger paper trail if something goes wrong.
Milwaukee says products purchased from authorized distributors automatically come with a warranty, and the company recommends keeping your receipt because it can help determine the product’s age and warranty assessment. This is especially important for power tools, batteries, chargers, and outdoor power equipment because repair or replacement decisions may depend on proof of purchase and product condition.
The biggest risk of buying from an unknown seller is not only that the tool may be fake. It may also be used, refurbished, missing original accessories, missing serial information, or sold without a valid receipt. Sometimes sellers split kits apart and sell bare tools, batteries, and chargers separately. That is not always wrong, but the listing must be clear. If a buyer thinks they are getting a complete kit but receives only the tool, the “deal” may not be a deal at all.
Random sellers can also create warranty confusion. Milwaukee’s warranty language often refers to products purchased from authorized Milwaukee distributors, and some warranties are tied to the original purchaser. That means a secondhand tool or marketplace purchase may not give the same confidence as a new tool purchased from an authorized seller.
Counterfeit tools are another concern. Fake tools may look convincing in photos, but they may use poor-quality materials, unsafe electronics, weak batteries, or inaccurate labels. With power tools, that is not just a money problem. It can become a safety problem. A cheap battery or charger from an unreliable source may overheat, fail early, or damage the tool.
A good authorized dealer gives you more than a box. It gives you a safer buying path, a cleaner receipt, better return options, and a stronger chance of service support if the tool fails under normal use.
Does Home Depot Sell Milwaukee Power Tools?
Yes, The Home Depot sells Milwaukee power tools. The Home Depot carries Milwaukee tool sets, cordless tools, power tools, accessories, outdoor power equipment, batteries, and related products. Its Milwaukee pages commonly show tool deals, M18 and M12 products, power tool accessories, and in-store availability options.
For buyers in the United States, Home Depot is one of the most common places to buy Milwaukee tools. It is popular because many locations carry Milwaukee products in store, and the website often offers online ordering, local pickup, delivery, and seasonal promotions. If you need a tool quickly, checking local Home Depot stock can be useful before visiting the store.
Home Depot is also a common place to find Milwaukee combo kits. Combo kits can be a better value than buying each item separately, especially if you need batteries and a charger. A buyer who already owns Milwaukee M18 batteries may prefer a bare tool, while a first-time buyer may get better long-term value from a kit that includes the tool, battery, charger, and case or bag.
However, even when buying from a major retailer, you should still read the listing carefully. Check whether the product is new, whether it is sold directly by the retailer, whether it includes batteries, and whether it is available for return. Product pages sometimes have different variations, such as “tool only,” “kit,” “with battery,” or “with free accessory.” Choosing the wrong option can lead to disappointment.
Home Depot can be a strong buying option for DIY users, homeowners, and contractors who want easy access, familiar customer service, and local pickup. Still, it should be compared with Milwaukee’s authorized distributor page and other reputable tool suppliers, especially if you are buying expensive or specialized tools.
Can You Buy Milwaukee Power Tools Online?
Yes, you can buy Milwaukee power tools online from authorized retailers, professional tool suppliers, and selected online stores. Online buying is convenient because you can compare prices, read reviews, check model numbers, find bundle deals, and search for tools that may not be available at your local store.
The main advantage of buying online is selection. A local store may only carry the most popular Milwaukee tools, while an online retailer may have a wider range of M12, M18, FUEL, outdoor, trade-specific, and accessory products. Online shopping also makes it easier to compare bare tools against kits, check battery sizes, and compare current promotions.
The main risk is seller quality. Online marketplaces can include both reputable sellers and unknown third-party sellers. That is why you should always check who is actually selling the product. The marketplace logo alone does not always tell the full story. A product may appear on a large platform but still be sold by a third-party seller with limited warranty support.
Before buying Milwaukee tools online, look for official authorized dealer status. Check the seller’s name, business address, return policy, warranty information, and recent customer feedback. Also compare the price with major retailers. If one seller is far cheaper than everyone else, there may be a reason. It could be a clearance deal, but it could also be an incomplete kit, refurbished item, open-box return, imported version, or suspicious listing.
Always keep your invoice or receipt. Milwaukee’s warranty support information recommends keeping receipts because they can help with product age and warranty assessment. A screenshot of an order confirmation may help, but a proper invoice from a reputable seller is better.
Online buying is safe when you choose the right seller. It becomes risky when you chase the lowest price without checking authenticity, warranty, and return protection.
Can You Buy Milwaukee Tools Directly from Milwaukee?
Milwaukee generally directs customers to authorized distributors and retail partners rather than operating like a standard direct-to-consumer store for every tool in every region. The official Milwaukee site provides a “Buy Now” or authorized distributor page to help buyers find approved sellers.
This setup makes sense because Milwaukee tools are sold through many retail and professional supply channels. Contractors, industrial buyers, and homeowners may all need different types of purchasing support. A professional tool distributor may help with bulk orders, account pricing, trade-specific products, and service support. A home improvement retailer may be better for quick local pickup and simple returns.
In some regions, Milwaukee’s websites may clearly state that Milwaukee itself does not operate its own online shop. For example, Milwaukee Germany’s authorized dealer page says authorized dealers are specialized tool and construction supply stores and that Milwaukee itself does not run its own online shop.
So, if you are wondering whether you can buy directly from Milwaukee, the practical answer is this: use Milwaukee’s official website to find trusted sellers, then buy from one of those authorized retailers or distributors. This gives you the benefit of Milwaukee’s official guidance without relying on a random search result.
This is especially useful if you are buying expensive tools, batteries, or professional equipment. A few minutes spent checking the seller can prevent a lot of stress later.
Where to Buy Milwaukee Tools Near Me
To buy Milwaukee tools near you, use Milwaukee’s official store locator or authorized distributor search for your region. These tools are designed to help buyers find nearby stores and authorized sellers. Milwaukee Europe, for example, offers a store locator that helps users find their nearest store.
When searching locally, do not only ask, “Who sells Milwaukee tools near me?” Ask better questions, such as: Is this seller authorized? Do they carry the specific tool I need? Do they have batteries and chargers in stock? Do they offer service support? Can I return the tool if it is not right for my project?
Local buying is useful because you can physically inspect the box, confirm kit contents, speak with staff, and take the tool home immediately. This is helpful for urgent jobs, emergency replacements, or buyers who want to compare tool size and weight in person.
Before visiting a store, check stock online or call ahead. Milwaukee’s product range is large, and not every store carries every model. A retailer may carry M18 drills and impact drivers but not specialized drain cleaning tools, concrete tools, or certain outdoor equipment.
If you are a contractor, a local professional tool supplier may be more useful than a general store. Professional suppliers may understand trade-specific needs, carry deeper inventory, and provide advice based on daily jobsite use. They may also offer business accounts, ordering support, or service connections.
If you are a DIY buyer, a large home improvement store may be more convenient. You can compare Milwaukee with other brands, check starter kits, and ask basic questions about battery compatibility.
The best local Milwaukee seller is not always the nearest one. It is the one that combines authorized status, stock availability, knowledgeable support, fair pricing, and a clear return policy.
Best Places to Buy Milwaukee Tools for Contractors
Contractors often need more than the lowest price. A professional user may depend on Milwaukee tools every day, so downtime matters. If a drill, saw, grinder, rotary hammer, or battery fails, the real cost is not only the replacement price. It may also be lost time, delayed work, and frustrated clients.
For contractors, authorized professional tool suppliers are often the best place to buy Milwaukee power tools. These sellers may offer deeper inventory, trade-specific advice, bulk ordering, jobsite delivery, business accounts, and access to newer or specialized Milwaukee releases. They may also understand which tools are better for electrical work, plumbing, HVAC, carpentry, concrete, metalwork, landscaping, or general construction.
Contractors should look for authorized dealer status first. After that, they should consider the full business value of the seller. Can the seller help source a replacement quickly? Do they carry batteries, chargers, blades, bits, and accessories? Do they understand Milwaukee’s M12 and M18 platforms? Can they help compare tool-only purchases with full kits?
Battery availability is especially important for professional users. Milwaukee’s cordless ecosystem is one of the biggest reasons people choose the brand. If a contractor already runs M18 tools, buying more M18 tools may reduce battery confusion and make daily work easier. If the work requires compact tools in tight spaces, M12 may be the better choice.
Professional buyers should also ask about service support. Milwaukee says it supports and services the products it designs and manufactures while working with authorized partners from purchase through service. That relationship matters more when tools are used heavily.
A contractor should not buy only based on a flash sale. The smarter question is: Will this seller support my work when I need help? For professionals, the best place to buy Milwaukee tools is usually the seller that saves time, reduces risk, and keeps the job moving.
Best Places to Buy Milwaukee Tools for DIY Users
DIY users often have different priorities from contractors. A homeowner may not need the most expensive Milwaukee tool or the largest battery. They may need a reliable drill, impact driver, circular saw, jigsaw, sander, or outdoor tool for weekend projects, repairs, furniture building, or yard work.
For DIY users, large home improvement retailers and reputable online stores can be convenient choices. These sellers often provide easy returns, clear product pages, customer reviews, and starter kits. A first-time buyer may benefit from a combo kit because it includes the tool, battery, charger, and sometimes a bag or case.
DIY buyers should understand the difference between Milwaukee’s M12 and M18 platforms before buying. M12 tools are generally compact, lighter, and useful for smaller jobs, tight spaces, and light-to-medium tasks. M18 tools are usually more powerful and better suited for heavier work, larger projects, and more demanding use. Choosing between M12 and M18 is not only about price. It is about the kind of work you plan to do.
A common beginner mistake is buying a bare tool without realizing it does not include a battery or charger. “Tool only” or “bare tool” means you are usually getting just the tool. That can be a good deal if you already own compatible batteries. But if this is your first Milwaukee purchase, a bare tool may not be usable right away.
DIY users should also check battery size. A compact battery may make the tool lighter, while a larger battery may provide longer runtime. For occasional home use, a starter kit may be enough. For larger projects, extra batteries can save time.
The best place for a DIY user to buy Milwaukee tools is a trusted retailer that clearly explains what is included, offers simple returns, and provides fair bundle options.
Should You Buy Milwaukee Tools on Amazon, eBay, or Marketplaces?
You can find Milwaukee tools on marketplaces, but you need to be careful. Marketplaces can be risky because they often include many third-party sellers. Some may be legitimate. Others may not provide the same warranty confidence, product history, or return support as an authorized dealer.
The biggest mistake buyers make on marketplaces is assuming that every listing is equal. It is not. Two listings may show the same Milwaukee tool photo, but one may be sold by a trusted retailer while the other may be sold by an unknown seller. One may be new, while another may be open-box, used, refurbished, or missing parts.
Before buying Milwaukee tools on Amazon, eBay, or another marketplace, verify the actual seller. Read the product condition carefully. Look for words like “new,” “open box,” “renewed,” “refurbished,” “tool only,” or “bare tool.” Confirm whether batteries and chargers are included. Check recent seller reviews, not just product reviews.
You should also check warranty eligibility. Milwaukee’s warranty coverage information refers to products purchased from authorized Milwaukee distributors, and it recommends keeping receipts. If you buy from an unknown seller, you may have trouble proving purchase details later.
That does not mean every marketplace listing is bad. Some authorized or reputable sellers may use marketplaces. But the buyer has to do more work. If you are unsure, use Milwaukee’s official authorized distributor locator before purchasing.
Marketplaces may be suitable for accessories, replacement parts, or price comparison, but for expensive tools and batteries, an authorized dealer is usually the safer path.
How to Tell If a Milwaukee Seller Is Legit
A legit Milwaukee seller should be easy to verify. The first step is to search for the seller through Milwaukee’s official authorized distributor page or store locator. If the seller appears there, that is a strong trust signal. If not, you should look more carefully before buying.
Check whether the seller has a real business address, clear contact information, professional product pages, return policy, and warranty information. A trustworthy seller should not hide basic business details. If the website looks poorly built, has strange wording, uses stolen-looking product photos, or offers prices far below normal retail, be cautious.
Look for complete product model numbers. Milwaukee tools often have specific model numbers that identify the exact tool or kit. A vague listing like “Milwaukee drill set cheap” is not enough. A good listing should tell you whether the item is M12 or M18, brushed or brushless, FUEL or non-FUEL, bare tool or kit, and what accessories are included.
Compare the price with major retailers. A modest discount may be normal. A huge discount with no clear explanation may be suspicious. Fake stores often use unrealistic prices to attract buyers quickly.
Read the return policy before buying. A seller that refuses returns, gives unclear warranty language, or has no customer support may not be worth the risk. Also check whether the seller provides a proper invoice or receipt.
Save all purchase documents. Keep the receipt, order confirmation, and product serial information if available. Milwaukee recommends keeping receipts because they can help with warranty assessment.
A simple rule works well: if you cannot verify the seller, do not rush the purchase. With Milwaukee tools, saving a few dollars is not worth losing warranty confidence, return protection, or product authenticity.
What to Check Before Buying Milwaukee Power Tools
Choosing where to buy Milwaukee power tools is only one part of the decision. You also need to check what you are buying. Milwaukee has many products that may look similar at first glance, but small differences can matter.
Start with the model number. Do not rely only on the product title. Different kits may include different batteries, chargers, cases, or accessories. A tool that looks like a great deal may be cheaper because it is a bare tool.
Next, check the battery platform. Milwaukee’s M12 and M18 systems are not the same. M12 batteries fit M12 tools, while M18 batteries fit M18 tools. If you already own one platform, staying with that platform can save money. If you are starting fresh, think about your long-term needs before choosing.
Check whether the motor is brushed, brushless, or FUEL. Milwaukee FUEL tools are generally positioned as higher-performance brushless tools, while some non-FUEL options may be more affordable. DIY buyers may not always need the highest-end model, but contractors may benefit from better performance and durability.
Look at the kit contents. Does it include who owns milwaukee power tools one battery or two? What amp-hour rating are the batteries? Is the charger included? Is there a hard case, soft bag, blade, bit, or accessory? These details affect value.
Check warranty coverage and seller authorization. Milwaukee says authorized distributor purchases automatically come with warranty coverage. Still, the exact warranty period and conditions can vary by product type, region, and category, so buyers should review the product documentation and Milwaukee’s support information.
Also check the return window. Even good tools may not fit your hand, your project, or your expectations. A clear return policy gives you peace of mind.
Finally, compare bundle deals. Sometimes buying a combo kit, battery starter kit, or seasonal promotion gives much better value than buying a bare tool and battery separately.
Is It Better to Buy Milwaukee Tools in Store or Online?
Buying Milwaukee tools in store and buying online both have advantages. The better option depends on your urgency, budget, location, and confidence in the seller.
Buying in store is useful when you want to see the tool physically before purchase. You can hold it, check the weight, compare sizes, and inspect the packaging. This is helpful for tools like drills, impact drivers, grinders, saws, and outdoor equipment, where comfort and balance matter.
In-store shopping also gives you faster access. If your tool breaks in the middle of a project, local pickup may be better than waiting for shipping. Returns may also be easier because you can bring the item back to the store.
Online buying is better for selection and comparison. You can compare multiple retailers, read customer reviews, check model numbers, and find bundle deals. Online stores may also carry tools that are not stocked locally.
However, online buying requires more caution. You must verify the seller, shipping terms, return policy, and warranty information. This is especially true on marketplaces with third-party sellers.
For many buyers, the best approach is to use both. Research online first, compare prices and model numbers, then decide whether to buy online or pick up locally. If you are buying from a known authorized retailer, either method can work well.
The key is not whether the purchase is online or in store. The key is whether the seller is trustworthy, the product is genuine, the listing is clear, and the support options are reliable.
When Is the Best Time to Buy Milwaukee Power Tools?
The best time to buy Milwaukee power tools is often during major retail sale periods or seasonal tool promotions. Common sale periods include Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Father’s Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, holiday shopping events, and new product launch periods.
Retailers often promote combo kits, battery starter kits, and free-tool-with-purchase offers during these periods. For buyers who are building a Milwaukee collection, these promotions can provide better value than buying one tool at a time.
However, the best deal is not always the biggest discount. A good deal should match your actual needs. For example, a discounted M18 circular saw is only valuable if you need an M18 circular saw. A cheap bare tool may not be useful if you still need to buy batteries and a charger separately.
Contractors should also consider timing around upcoming jobs. If a tool is needed for paid work, waiting months for a sale may not make sense. In that case, buying from a reliable local authorized dealer may be the smarter business decision.
DIY buyers may have more flexibility. If you are not in a rush, it can be smart to wait for holiday deals, bundle offers, or battery promotions. Milwaukee tools can be expensive, so timing your purchase can save money.
Before buying during a sale, compare the model number and kit contents. Some sale bundles may include smaller batteries or older models. That may still be fine, but you should know exactly what you are getting.
The best time to buy is when you find the right tool, from the right seller, at a fair price, with clear warranty and return support.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Milwaukee Tools
One of the most common mistakes is buying only because the price is low. Milwaukee tools are premium products, so fake or suspicious listings often use low prices to attract buyers. If the price looks too good to be true, check the seller carefully.
Another mistake is not checking whether the product is a bare tool or a full kit. Many buyers see a low price and assume batteries are included. Later, they discover they bought only the tool. Bare tools are useful for people who already own compatible batteries, but they are not ideal for first-time buyers unless they also buy a battery and charger.
Battery compatibility is another common issue. M12 and M18 are different platforms. A buyer who owns M12 batteries cannot use them in an M18 tool. Before buying, check the battery system and think about future purchases.
Some buyers also ignore warranty details. Milwaukee’s warranty support is strongest when the product is purchased from an authorized distributor and the buyer keeps proof of purchase. Buying from an unknown seller can make warranty claims more difficult.
Another mistake is not comparing bundle deals. A single tool may look cheaper, but a kit with batteries, charger, and accessories may be a better value. This is especially true for new Milwaukee users.
Buyers should also avoid assuming that every marketplace seller is authorized. Always check the actual seller, not just the website where the listing appears.
Finally, do not forget to save the receipt. A receipt may seem unimportant when the tool is new, but it can become very important if the tool needs service later.
Final Recommendation: Where Should You Buy Milwaukee Power Tools?
The best place to buy Milwaukee power tools is from an authorized Milwaukee dealer, trusted major retailer, professional tool supplier, or verified online seller with clear warranty and return support. Start with Milwaukee’s official authorized distributor page, then compare reputable sellers based on price, stock, service, and convenience.
For many U.S. buyers, The Home Depot is a common and convenient place to buy Milwaukee tools because it carries Milwaukee power tools, cordless tools, accessories, outdoor equipment, and tool deals. For contractors, professional tool suppliers may offer better advice, deeper inventory, and trade-focused support. For DIY users, large retailers and reputable online stores may provide easier returns and beginner-friendly kits.
If you are outside the United States, check Milwaukee’s official regional website. Milwaukee Europe and Milwaukee Germany provide store locator tools and authorized dealer information for local buyers.
The best place is not always the cheapest listing. It is the seller that gives you genuine products, proper proof of purchase, warranty confidence, easy returns, and fair pricing. Milwaukee tools are built for serious work, so your buying decision should be serious too.
A safe buying strategy is simple: verify the seller, check the model number, confirm what is included, compare prices, understand the battery platform, and keep your receipt. Do that, and you will be much more likely to get the right Milwaukee tool with the support you expect.
FAQs
Where is the best place to buy Milwaukee power tools?
The best place to buy Milwaukee power tools is from an authorized Milwaukee dealer or a trusted major retailer. Milwaukee’s official authorized distributor page is the safest starting point because it helps buyers find approved sellers.
Does Home Depot sell Milwaukee power tools?
Yes, The Home Depot sells Milwaukee power tools, cordless tools, tool sets, batteries, accessories, and outdoor power equipment. Its website also shows Milwaukee tool savings and in-store availability options in many locations.
Can I buy Milwaukee tools online?
Yes, you can buy Milwaukee tools online from authorized retailers and reputable tool suppliers. Before buying, check the actual seller, product condition, return policy, warranty information, and whether the listing is for a bare tool or a full kit.
Are Milwaukee tools cheaper online or in store?
Milwaukee tools may be cheaper online during some promotions, but in-store deals can also be strong. The better price depends on the retailer, season, stock level, bundle offer, and whether batteries or accessories are included.
How do I know if a Milwaukee seller is authorized?
Use Milwaukee’s official authorized distributor or store locator page to check trusted buying options. You can also look for clear business information, warranty language, professional product listings, and a valid receipt.
Should I buy Milwaukee bare tools or kits?
Buy a bare tool if you already own compatible Milwaukee batteries and a charger. Buy a kit if you are new to Milwaukee or need batteries, a charger, and sometimes a case or bag. Always check the listing carefully before buying.
Are used Milwaukee tools worth buying?
Used Milwaukee tools can be worth buying if the price is fair and the condition is good. However, you should check battery health, serial numbers, product condition, included accessories, and warranty limitations. For expensive tools, buying new from an authorized dealer is usually safer.
Can contractors buy Milwaukee tools in bulk?
Yes, many professional tool suppliers and authorized distributors support contractors with larger orders, business accounts, and trade-focused service. Contractors should choose sellers that offer reliable stock, replacement support, and access to batteries and accessories.
Is it safe to buy Milwaukee tools from marketplaces?
It can be safe if the seller is reputable and the listing is clear, but marketplaces require extra caution. Always check the actual seller, condition, return policy, warranty eligibility, and price compared with authorized retailers.
What should I check before buying my first Milwaukee tool?
Before buying your first Milwaukee tool, check whether it is M12 or M18, whether it includes a battery and charger, whether it is brushed or brushless, whether it is a bare tool or kit, and whether the seller is authorized or reputable.