Consumer affairs departments and consumer protection offices work to safeguard residents from deceptive business practices, fraud, unsafe products, and unfair trade practices at the federal, state, and local levels.
There are 52 states with Consumer Affairs Department locations across the United States. The Federal Trade Commission receives more than 2.5 million consumer reports annually, making consumer protection one of the most active areas of government engagement with the public.
Consumer Affairs Department in the United States
Browsing by state helps consumers find the right agency to file a complaint, report fraud, seek mediation with a business, or access information about their rights as consumers under state and federal law.
Common Services
- Consumer fraud and deceptive business practice complaint filing
- Identity theft reporting and recovery assistance
- Product safety recall information and hazard reporting
- Tenant, debt collection, and consumer rights information
Tip: Before filing a complaint with a government agency, try to resolve the issue directly with the business in writing. Document all communications — a written record strengthens your complaint significantly.
For official information, visit Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
About Consumer Affairs Department
Government consumer protection offices operate at the federal, state, and local levels, with the FTC serving as the primary federal agency. State consumer protection bureaus are often housed within the attorney general's office and handle complaints about local businesses. Some counties and cities operate their own consumer affairs departments focused on local marketplace issues.
Common Services
- Consumer fraud and deceptive business practice complaint filing
- Identity theft reporting and recovery assistance
- Lemon law, auto dealer, and home repair fraud investigations
- Tenant rights, debt collection violations, and consumer education
If you have been the victim of fraud or an unfair business practice, gather all relevant documents including contracts, receipts, and correspondence before filing a complaint to help investigators evaluate your case efficiently.
For official information, visit Federal Trade Commission (FTC).