Ask Finney: California Lottery scratchers, TV gift warranty, tenant eviction

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- 7 On Your Side's Consumer Expert Michael Finney answers your consumer questions.

Question 1:

John from San Francisco asked: I won $1,000 from a lottery scratcher game. I sent it in as a claim, a month ago, but I still haven't received the check.

Why is it taking so long?

Answer 1:

Congratulations on your lotto win, John! The California Lottery is currently looking at a six-and-a-half week wait before checks are mailed to the winning recipients. The wait depends on how many claims the California Lottery receives.

Question 2:

Mary Ann from Fremont asked: I bought a T.V. as a wedding gift for my niece from Costco. Can my niece take responsibility of the warranty?

Answer 2:

Once your niece receives the TV set as a wedding gift, she can handle the warranty paperwork. If she needs help, the Costco Concierge Services will guide your niece through the manufacturer warranty process. Here is a link to their website.

Question 3:

Gail asked: I want to evict a tenant for failing to pay rent. What is the best way to go about an eviction?

Answer 3:

It is best to use an attorney because it is easy to mess things up. The system says you should give the tenant three-days notice *in writing* that they're being evicted if they don't pay rent. It they still don't pay, you can file a lawsuit for an eviction.