MAC MA information can't always be trusted. Alot of times the employees at the counters are the last to hear about company product changes. Unless they counter manager is kept really up to date on his/her company memos and passes that info along to all of his/her staff. (you could see how that might get a little sketchy)
Freestanding stores are better, but usually you can get really good information and direct answers from PRO store staff or PRO artists.