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RealCostIQ

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Cookie Policy

Effective Date: June 29, 2026

The short version

We use browser storage (localStorage and sessionStorage) for analytics โ€” understanding how the site is used so we can improve it. We never store your calculator inputs. You can accept or reject non-essential storage at any time using the banner or the link below.

What we store and why

We use browser storage (cookies, localStorage, sessionStorage) rather than traditional server-side sessions. Here is every item we may store in your browser:

Essential

rciq_consent

localStorage

Stores your cookie consent preference ("accepted" or "rejected"). Without this we would show the consent banner on every page visit. Persists until you clear browser storage.

Analytics (non-essential โ€” requires your consent)

rciq_vid

localStorage

A randomly generated UUID that identifies your browser across sessions. Used to count unique visitors and understand return usage patterns. Contains no personal information โ€” it is a random string. Persists until you clear browser storage or withdraw consent.

rciq_sid

sessionStorage

A randomly generated UUID for the current browser tab session. Expires automatically when you close the tab. Used to group page views within a single visit.

rciq_geo

sessionStorage

Caches your approximate location (country, state, city) derived from your IP address via ipapi.co. Cached to avoid repeated geolocation lookups during a session. We never store your actual IP address. Expires when you close the tab.

Third-party analytics (Google Analytics โ€” requires your consent)

_ga

Cookie ยท 2 years

Set by Google Analytics to distinguish users. Contains a randomly generated ID.

_ga_*

Cookie ยท 2 years

Set by Google Analytics to persist session state. Specific name varies by property ID.

What we do not store

  • Calculator inputs โ€” all calculations happen in your browser and are never transmitted
  • Your actual IP address โ€” we only store the derived location (country, state, city)
  • Payment or financial account information of any kind
  • Advertising or marketing cookies

How to manage your preferences

Cookie banner: When you first visit the site, a banner gives you the choice to accept or reject non-essential storage. Only the essential rciq_consent item is set before you make a choice.

Update your choice: You can change your preference at any time using the "Cookie preferences" link in the site footer.

Browser settings: You can block or delete all cookies and local storage via your browser settings. Note that rejecting all cookies may prevent the site from remembering your consent preference.

Google Analytics opt-out: You can also opt out of Google Analytics specifically using the Google Analytics Opt-out Browser Add-on.

Changes to this policy

We will update this page when we add new storage items. Material changes will be flagged on the site and, where required, will prompt a new consent decision.

Questions

Questions about this Cookie Policy? Contact us and we will respond within 30 days.