The Consumer Federation of California has compiled a comprehensive consumer complaint directory to help anyone that has been wronged or treated unjustly in the marketplace. We hope you will take advantage of this resource and recommend it to others who may find it useful as well. Just go to the issue that most closely relates to your personal grievance and click!
Board Of Accountancy
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs. Information: (800) 952-5210)
2000 Evergreen Street, Suite 250
Sacramento, CA 95815-3832
www.dca.ca.gov/cba/
Email: enforcementinfo@cba.ca.gov
Takes complaints against certified public accountants (CPAs) regarding
problems such as retention of records, preparation of tax returns,
errors and commissions. Find out more and file a complaint.
California Acupuncture Board
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs,Information: (800) 952-5210)
1747 North Market Blvd, Suite 180
Sacramento, CA 95834
(916) 515-5200
www.acupuncture.ca.gov
Email: acupuncture@dca.ca.gov
Takes complaints regarding illegal or unethical activities by a certified
acupuncturist. Complaints must be written in detail, or consumers may
complete the complaint form and mail it to the above address. File a complaint.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
800 Independence Avenue, S.W.
Washington, DC 20591
Consumer Hotline: (800) 322-7873
Safety Hotline: (800) 255-1111
www.faa.gov
Online question form
U.S. Department of Transportation
Aviation Consumer Protection Division
400 7th Street, S.W., Washington, DC 20590
(202) 366-2220
www.dot.gov/airconsumer
Handles complaints about airline safety and security, disability and discrimination, on-time performance, reservations and privacy. When appropriate, consumer complaints will be forwarded to the proper airline. Find out more and file a complaint here.
California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
(800) 777-0133
Documentation: (858) 565-6691
Dealer Complaints: (858) 627-3952
www.dmv.ca.gov
Accepts written complaints regarding new or used vehicle dealers, odometer fraud, misuse of Disabled Person Placard/Plates, driving schools or traffic violator schools, dismantlers and other topics. DMV cannot give legal advice or discuss a case prior to investigating a complaint.
New Motor Vehicle Board (NMVB)
California Department of Motor Vehicles
1507 21st Street, Suite 330
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 445-1888
www.nmvb.ca.gov
Gives advice on the California Lemon Law, which covers new and used vehicles sold or leased in California that come with the manufacturer’s new vehicle warranty. The NMVB can mediate disputes through its Consumer Mediation Services Program. Click here for DMV guidance on problems with the purchase of a vehicle.
Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR)
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs; information: (800) 952-5210)
10949 North Mather Boulevard
Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
BAR also has 12 field offices around the state; find addresses and phone numbers here.
www.bar.ca.gov
Email: BAReditor@dca.ca.gov
Reviews complaints about mechanics, repair estimates, unnecessary repairs, and smog check programs. Call, send a written complaint, or access a complaint form online.
In addition, the state Department of Consumer Affairs' Arbitration Certification Program certifies and monitors third-party arbitration programs of nearly two dozen participating automobile manufacturers, from Aston Martin to Volkswagen, to ensure compliance with California laws and regulations related to new vehicle warranties and manufacturer-sponsored arbitration programs.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE
Washington, DC 20590
(888) 327-4236
www.nhtsa.gov
Carries out federal auto safety and consumer programs to reduce deaths, injuries and economic losses resulting from motor vehicle crashes; maintains an online database of recalls by Vehicle Identification Number and a toll-free hotline for automobile recalls ((888) 327-4236); the website's home page even has a database to consult for safe child car seats according to the child's age, height and weight.
California Department of Business Oversight (DBO)
1515 K Street, Suite 200
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 445-7205
(866) 275-2677
Regional offices and more contact information
www.dbo.ca.gov
The DBO supervises the operations of state-licensed financial institutions, including banks, credit unions and money transmitters; it also licenses and regulates financial service providers including securities brokers and dealers, investment advisers, payday lenders and other consumer finance lenders.
Online complaint forms are available on the website under Consumer Services. Complaints may also be mailed to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (below):
(U.S.) Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
(855) 411-CFPB (2372)
www.consumerfinance.gov
Email: info@consumerfinance.gov
Since 2011, the CFPB has been an independent federal agency working for fair treatment of consumers in the financial marketplace. Acting on mortgages, credit cards, payday and installment lending, auto loans, debt collection student lending, checking accounts and other areas, it has secured over $10.8 billion dollars in relief for more than 25 million consumers harmed by illegal practices. Submit complaints about potential violations of federal consumer financial law here.
Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC)
25 Jessie Street at Ecker Square, Suite 2300
San Francisco, CA, 94105-2780
Toll-free: (800) 756-3558; (415) 546-0160
Western regional offices
www.fdic.gov
The FDIC takes complaints about state-chartered banks that are not members of the Federal Reserve System.
FDIC Division of Supervision and Consumer Protection
550 17th Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20429
Information Line: (877) 275-3342
www.fdic.gov/consumers
This division's consumer protection resources include information on identity theft, frauds and scams, credit reports, mortgages and more.
Federal Reserve Bank (12th Federal Reserve District)
Consumer Complaints
Division of Banking Supervision and Regulation
101 Market Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
Mailstop 620
(800) 227-4133; (415) 974-2000
Consumer Affairs: (415) 974-2967
www.frbsf.org
Registers complaints about state-chartered banks within the Federal Reserve banking system.
National Credit Union Administration (NCUA)
1775 Duke Street
Alexandria, VA 22314-3428
National Fraud Hotline: (800) 827-9650
Consumer contact information
www.ncua.gov
Regulates federally chartered credit unions and handles complaints about violations of the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, Truth in Lending Act, Fair Credit Reporting Act, Electronic Funds Transfer Act, Federal Credit Union Bylaws, and the National Credit Union Rules and Regulations.
U.S. Comptroller of the Currency
50 Fremont Street, Suite 3900
San Francisco, CA 94105
Complaint Line: (800) 613-6743
Consumer assistance: (800) 755-1030
(415) 545-5954
www.occ.treas.gov
Email: CustomerAssistance@occ.treas.gov
Handles complaints concerning federally chartered national banks, their subsidiaries, and credit card companies. The Comptroller does not regulate savings and loans or credit unions. Telephone or email the comptroller to begin the complaint process.
Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (BBC)
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs; information: (800) 952-5210)
2420 Del Paso Road, Suite 100
Sacramento, CA 95834
www.barbercosmo.ca.gov
Email: barbercosmo@dca.ca.gov
The BBC is responsible for both the protection and the education of consumers seeking barbering, cosmetology, manicure/pedicure, electrology, waxing and similar services. Complaint forms can be filed online or downloaded and mailed.
Board For Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs; information: (800) 952-5210)
2535 Capitol Oaks Drive, Suite 300
Sacramento, CA 95833-2944
(866) 780-5370
www.bpelsg.ca.gov
Licenses and regulates civil, electrical, structural, mechanical and geotechnical/soils engineers, as well as geologists, surveyors and geophysicists and similar disciplines. Offers downloadable consumer guides (PDFs) to Engineering and Land Surveying and Geological and Geophysical Sciences. Also has a downloadable complaint form and guide.
Contractors State License Board (CSLB)
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs; information (800) 952-5210)
5280 Carroll Canyon Road, Suite 250
San Diego, CA 92121
(800) 321-2752
www.cslb.ca.gov
Oversees complaints about quality of service or disciplinary action taken against a private contractor. Also offers voluntary and mandatory arbitration programs to expedite out-of-court settlements.
Structural Pest Control Board
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs; information (800) 952-5210)
1422 Howe Avenue, Suite 3
Sacramento, CA 95825
Complaints: (800) 737-8188
Policy Issues: (916) 263-2540
www.pestboard.ca.gov
Takes complaints on proper termite/pest inspections and failure to honor extermination contracts.
Cemetery and Funeral Bureau
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs; information: (800) 952-5210)
1625 North Market Blvd., Suite S208
Sacramento, CA 95834
www.cfb.ca.gov
Takes complaints about cemeteries, cemetery brokers and sales agents, as well as embalmers, crematories, mortuaries, and funeral directors. Send a letter or access a complaint form online.
California Board of Chiropractic Examiners
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs; information: (800) 952-5210)
2525 Natomas Park Drive, Suite 260
Sacramento, CA 95833-2931
(916) 263-5355
Consumer Complaint Line: (866) 546-1311
www.chiro.ca.gov
Files complaints and deals with concerns regarding chiropractors and their practices.
Board of Psychology
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs; information (800) 952-5210)
1625 North Market Blvd., Suite N-215
Sacramento, CA 95834
Telephone: (916) 574-7720
Toll Free: (866) 503-3221
Fax: (916) 574-8672
www.psychology.ca.gov
Email: bopmail@dca.ca.gov
Anyone who thinks that a psychologist, psychological assistant or registered psychologist has acted illegally, irresponsibly, or unprofessionally may file a complaint with the Board of Psychology.
Board Of Behavioral Sciences
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs; information (800) 952-5210)
1625 North Market Blvd., Suite S-200
Sacramento, CA 95834
(916) 574-7830
www.bbs.ca.gov
Email: BBSWebmaster@dca.ca.gov
The BBS is responsible for consumer protection through regulation of the following disciplines: marriage and family therapists; licensed clinical social workers; licensed educational psychologists; licensed professional clinical counselors; associate clinical social workers. Complaint forms are available online or by calling the board's offices.
(U.S.) Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
(855) 411-CFPB (2372)
www.consumerfinance.gov
Email: info@consumerfinance.gov
Since 2011, the CFPB has been an independent federal agency working for fair treatment of consumers in the financial marketplace. Acting on mortgages, credit cards, payday and installment lending, auto loans, debt collection student lending, checking accounts and other areas, it has secured over $10.8 billion dollars in relief for more than 25 million consumers harmed by illegal practices. Submit complaints about potential violations of federal consumer financial law here.
Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Washington, D.C. 20580
Phone: toll-free (877) FTC-HELP (382-4357)
www.ftc.gov
Enforces and provides information on the enforcement of antitrust laws and
consumer protection laws, including consumers' financial privacy protections.
National Credit Union Administration (NCUA)
1775 Duke Street
Alexandria, VA 22314-3428
National Fraud Hotline: (800) 827-9650
Consumer contact information
www.ncua.gov
Regulates federally chartered credit unions and handles complaints about violations of the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, Truth in Lending Act, Fair Credit Reporting Act, Electronic Funds Transfer Act, Federal Credit Union Bylaws, and the National Credit Union Rules and Regulations.
National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC)
2000 M St NW #505
Washington, DC 20036
(800) 388-2227
www.nfcc.org
The nation’s largest and longest-serving nonprofit financial counseling organization, NFCC has a searchable database with dozens of member agencies throughout California that offer assistance obtaining credit reports and analysis, in-person credit and bankruptcy counseling, and money management education. Funded through federal grants and private donations.
(U.S.) Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
5670 Wilshire Blvd., 11th floor
Los Angeles, CA 90036
Consumer Information: (800) 732-0330
www.sec.gov
Email: help@sec.gov
The SEC registers complaints about trading of securities, mutual funds and brokers, lost stock certificates, and deceptive or fraudulent securities sales practices. Complaint forms may be submitted online, or printed and mailed to SEC Complaint Center, 450 Fifth St. NW, Washington DC, 20549.
Dental Board Of California
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs; information (800) 952-5210)
1432 Howe Avenue, Suite 85-B
Sacramento, CA 95825
Information: (800) 952-5210
Complaints: (916) 263-2335 or (916) 263-2300
www.dbc.ca.gov
Takes complaints about quality of care, fraudulent billing or misconduct by dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants. Does not handle disputes over costs or fees.
California Department Of Fair Employment And Housing
2218 Kausen Drive, Suite 100
Elk Grove, CA 95758
(916) 478-7251
Complaints and information: (800) 884-1684
www.dfeh.ca.gov
Handles complaints regarding employment and housing discrimination due to race, religion, national origin, age, marital status, disability, medical condition, or gender. Call their office to set up an appointment.
U.S. Commission On Civil Rights
Washington, DC 20425
Complaints: (800) 552-6843 or (202) 376-8177
www.usccr.gov
Email for complaint referrals: referrals@usccr.gov
Handles complaints about civil rights infringements. The referral service is designed to help place users in contact with the appropriate office for obtaining information about the complaint process.
Medical Board of California
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs; information (800) 952-5210)
Central Complaint Unit
1426 Howe Avenue, Suite 54
Sacramento, CA 95825
Complaints: (800) 633-2322
Information: (916) 263-2466
www.mbc.ca.gov
The Medical Board is the licensing agency for physicians, surgeons and other allied health care professionals in California, and is responsible for investigating complaints and taking disciplinary action.
Visitors to its website can verify a medical license and find links to many additional sources of information and assistance.
Bureau for Postsecondary Education (BPPE)
2535 Capitol Oaks Drive, Suite 400
Sacramento, CA 95833
Mailing address:
P.O. Box 980818
West Sacramento, CA 95798-0818
(916) 431-6959
www.bppe.ca.gov
Email: bppe@dca.ca.gov
BPPE oversees private postsecondary educational institutions in the interest of education quality and employment outcomes; combats unlicensed activity; and resolves student complaints. Complaint forms can be filed online or downloaded and mailed.
California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC)
505 Van Ness Ave.
San Francisco, CA 94102
(800) 848-5580 / (415) 703-2782
CPUC question/complaint page
Consumer Affairs Branch
Complaint hotline: (800) 649-7570
Email: consumer-affairs@cpuc.ca.gov
The Consumer Affairs Branch Web page describes CPUC's system for resolving complaints involving service providers regulated by the agency: telecommunications, moving companies, passenger carriers, and private electricity, gas, water, and sewer utilities operating within the State of California.
California Air Resources Board (CARB)
P.O. Box 2815
Sacramento, CA 95812
(916) 322-7664
Stationary Source Complaints: (800) 952-5588
San Diego Car Emission Complaints: (800) 287-6653
#SMOG from cellular phone
Website: http://www.arb.ca.gov/homepage.htm
Handles complaints about sources of air pollution emission.
California Environmental Protection Agency
1001 I Street
P.O. Box 2815
Sacramento, CA 95812-2815
(916) 323-2514
Website: www.calepa.ca.gov
Email: cepacomm@calepa.ca.gov
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
75 Hawthorne Street
San Francisco, CA 94105
(866) 372-9378
(415) 744-1500
Website: www2.epa.gov/aboutepa/epa-region-9-pacific-southwest
Email: r9.info@epamail.epa.gov
Handles complaints about violations of environmental regulations and directs environmental concerns to the correct agencies.
National Fraud Information Center/National Consumers League
1701 K Street, N.W., Suite 1200
Washington, D.C. 20006
Fraud Hotline: (800) 876-7060
Website: www.fraud.org
State of California Health & Safety Web page
Website: www.dir.ca.gov/dosh/dosh1.html
Has information and links to more resources, including the state's Health and Human Services Agency, Department of Health Care Services, Department of Public Health, Department of Managed Health Care, and the Medical Board of California.
California Department of Education
Nutritional Services Division
P.O. Box 94427
Sacramento, CA 94244-2720
(800) 952-5609
(916) 445-0850
Website: www.cde.ca.gov/re/di/or/nsd.asp
Handles complaints involving school food programs. Some common concerns include nutritional value and cleanliness.
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
4330 East West Highway
Bethesda, MD 20814
Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772
General Information: (301) 504-7923
Website: www.cpsc.gov
Handles consumer complaints pertaining to dangerous and hazardous products, including fire, electrical, chemical and mechanical hazards
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
4510 Executive Drive, Suite 225
San Diego, CA 92121-3023
(858) 550-3850
24 Hr. Urgent Line: (301) 443-1240 (NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR 911)
Regional Consumer Complaint Coordinators:
Northern California – (510) 337-6741
Southern California – (949) 608-3530
www.fda.gov
Handles complaints about food and drug safety and correct labeling. Also oversees medicines, medical devices, blood products, vaccines, cosmetics, veterinary drugs, animal feed, and electronic products that emit radiation (such as microwave ovens and video monitors).
State of California Health & Safety Web page
www.ca.gov/HealthSafety
This online clearinghouse gives an overview of available state health services and includes links to dozens of agencies, including the Health and Human Services Agency, Department of Health Care Services, Department of Public Health, Department of Managed Health Care, and the Medical Board of California.
California Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC)
Help Center
980 Ninth Street, Suite 500
Sacramento, CA 95814
General Information: (888) HMO-2219
Independent Medical Review Requests: (888) HMO-2219
Health Plans and Providers: (877) 525-1295
www.hmohelp.ca.gov
The DMHC's policy experts provide benchmarks for health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and their regulation, health care policy, patent advocacy and consumer awareness.
California Department Of Public Health
PO Box 997377, MS 0500
Sacramento, CA 95899-7377
(916) 558-1784
www.cdph.ca.gov
Has information on programs, services and other topics, including county-by-county citations and other actions taken against nursing homes, hospitals and other care facilities, as well as patients' rights, such as allowable nurse-to-patient ratios.
California Board Of Pharmacy
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs. Information (800) 952-5210)
Attention: Enforcement Unit
1625 N. Market Blvd, Suite N 219
Sacramento, CA 95834
www.pharmacy.ca.gov
Licenses and regulates pharmacy professionals and businesses, offers consumer education on prescribed medications, and investigates complaints, which can be filed online or downloaded and mailed to the address above.
Covered California
www.coveredca.com
Consumer Protection page
Covered California is implementing the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act in California in a joint partnership between the California Health Benefit Exchange and the California Department of Health Care Services. Covered California has information on health insurance options, providers and other topics, such as a comparison tool for evaluating coverage and costs. Open enrollment for 2016 coverage begins Nov. 1, 2015, and continues through Jan. 31, 2016.
Bureau of Electronic & Appliance Repair, Home Furnishings & Thermal Insulation
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs; information (800) 952-5210)
bearhfti.ca.gov
4244 South Market Court, Suite D
Sacramento, California 95834-1243
(916) 999-2041
Service Contract Licensing: (916) 445-3730
email: HomeProducts@dca.ca.gov
The Bureau of Electronic & Appliance Repair regulates home electronics and appliance sales, repairs and service contract providers. The Bureau of Home Furnishings and Thermal Insulation regulates health and safety standards in the bedding, furniture and thermal insulation industries. The combined bureau also has consumer education and information guides and other resources, including registries to verify licenses under its jurisdiction. File a complaint.
California Department of Insurance (CDI)
Information/questions: (800) 927-4357
Sacramento Office
300 Capitol Mall, Suite 1700
Sacramento, CA 95814
San Francisco Office
45 Fremont Street, 23rd Floor
San Francisco, CA 94105
Los Angeles Office
300 South Spring Street, South Tower
Los Angeles, CA 90013
www.insurance.ca.gov
Email: 927HELP@insurance.ca.gov
Has an online portal for filing complaints and a wealth of information on many kinds of insurance, from health, auto and homeowners' insurance to pet insurance and workers' compensation.
California Board of Registered Nursing
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs. Information (800) 952-5210)
400 R Street, Suite 4030
P.O. Box 944210
Sacramento, CA 94244-2100
Complaints: (916) 322-3350
Website: www.rn.ca.gov
Investigates complaints against registered nurses. Prefers complaints in writing but will take telephone calls.
Board of Vocational Nurses and Psychiatric Technicians
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs. Information (800) 952-5210)
2535 Capitol Oaks Drive, Suite 205
Sacramento, CA 95833
Complaints: (916) 263-7822
Website: www.bvnpt.ca.gov
Investigates complaints about licensed vocational nurses and psychiatric technicians. Call for a complaint form, print the form online or send a detailed letter describing your situation.
California Board of Optometry
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs. Information (800) 952-5210)
2450 Del Paso Road, Suite 105
Sacramento, CA 95834
Phone (866) 585-2666 / (916) 575-7170
Fax (916) 575-7292
Website: http://www.optometry.ca.gov/
Email: optometry@dca.ca.gov
Complaints about optometrists are accepted in writing or online. A complaint form can be accessed online, or by contacting the board. For complaints against an optical business or an ophthalmologist, contact the Medical Board of California.
Structural Pest Control Board
(Part of the Department of Consumer Affairs; information (800) 952-5210)
2005 Evergreen Street, Suite 1500
Sacramento, CA 95815
Consumer Complaint Line: (916) 561-8708
www.pestboard.ca.gov
Email: pestboard@dca.ca.gov
The Structural Pest Control Board regulates and licenses the industry that targets rodents, vermin, termites and other wood-destroying pests and may invade households or structures. Complaint forms can be downloaded online and mailed.
Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
4330 East West Highway
Bethesda, MD20814
Information Line: (800) 638-2772
www.cpsc.gov
Has information on product recalls as well as resources for product safety, regulations and research.
Medical Board of California
Central Complaint Unit
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs; information: (800) 952-5210)
1426 Howe Avenue, Suite 54
Sacramento, CA 95825
Complaints: (800) 633-2322
Information: (916) 263-2466
Website: www.mbc.ca.gov
Takes complaints dealing with psychiatrists, physicians,and other medical professionals. Complaints must be in writing. Call for more information or access the Medical Board's Consumer Information page to read about filing complaints and find other resources.
Board of Psychology
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs; information: (800) 952-5210)
1625 North Market Blvd., Suite N-215
Sacramento, CA 95834
Telephone: (916) 574-7720
Toll Free: (866) 503-3221
Fax: (916) 574-8672
Website: www.psychology.ca.gov
Email: bopmail@dca.ca.gov
Anyone who thinks that a psychologist, psychological assistant or registered psychologist has acted illegally, irresponsibly, or unprofessionally may file a complaint with the Board of Psychology.
Bureau of Real Estate (CalBRE)
(Part of the Department of Consumer Affairs. Information (800) 952-5210)
1651 Exposition Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95815
(877) 373-4542
Website: http://www.dre.ca.gov
CalBRE is responsible for licensure, regulation, education and enforcement concerning real estate agents, mortgage brokers, timeshare contracts and property managers. Complaints can be filed online or downloaded and mailed.
Bureau of Real Estate Appraisers)
(Part of the Department of Consumer Affairs. Information (800) 952-5210)
1102 Q Street, Suite 4100
Sacramento, CA 95811
(916) 552-9000
Website: http://www.orea.ca.gov/
BREA is responsible for licensing, education and enforcement within the real estate appraisal industry. Information about filing complaints can be found on the Enforcement FAQs page and mailed to the Enforcement Unit at the Q Street address in Sacramento.
The 2012 edition of the state California Department of Consumer Affairs'
online publication, California Tenants: A Guide to Residential Tenants´ and Landlords´ Rights and Responsibilities, covers a range of landlord-tenant issues.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
451 7th Street S.W.
Washington, DC 20410
Telephone: (202) 708-1112
Website: portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD
Bureau of Security and Investigative Services
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs; information (800) 952-5210)
2420 Del Paso Rd., Ste. 270
Sacramento, CA 95834
Complaints and information: (800) 952-5210 / (916) 322-4000
http://www.bsis.ca.gov
Email: bsis@dca.ca.gov
Takes complaints about burglar alarm companies and their agents, locksmiths, patrol dog operators, private investigators, repossession agencies and their employees, security and patrol guards, and security training facilities and their instructors. File complaints online or download a form and print it to mail along with documentation of your complaint to the address above.
California Department of Consumer Affairs
Senior California Consumer Resource Center
P.O. Box 942732
1800 Third Street, Ste. 162
Sacramento, CA 94234-7320
(916) 323-6838
(800) 236-9747
http://www.dca.ca.gov/consumer/seniors
Has information on financial and privacy resources, health and welfare resources and reporting elder abuse; the site links to the California Senior Gateway, a clearinghouse of other online resources.
California Department of Justice
Bureau of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse (BMFEA)
P.O. Box 944255
Sacramento, CA 94244
Complaint Hot Line: (800) 722-0432
www.ag.ca.gov/bmfea
Fights fraud and abuse of the state’s Medi-Cal Program. It accepts complaints by mail, email or online.
California Board of Equalization
State Board of Equalization
3321 Power Inn Road, Ste. 130
Sacramento, CA 95826
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 942879
Sacramento, CA 94279
General tax questions: (800) 400-7115
Taxpayers' Rights Advocate: (888) 324-2798
www.boe.ca.gov
Regulates compliance with California state sales tax law and local sales and use tax laws.
Internal Revenue Service
Treasury Inspector General
California Offices (locations and phone numbers)
Employee Misconduct: (800) 366-4484
Tax Evasion: (800) 829-0433
Website: https://www.irs.gov
Accepts complaints about IRS employees or federal income tax evasion and fraud. Reports of tax fraud can remain anonymous.
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
445 12th Street SW
Washington, DC 20554
Phone: (888) CALL-FCC (888-225-5322)
Website: https://www.fcc.gov/
Email: fccinfo@fcc.gov
Regulates U.S. telecommunications services, including radio, television, telephone, wire, satellite, Internet and cable. The Consumer Help Center has information on consumer rights and online complaint forms.
Federal Bureau Of Investigation (FBI)
Scams And Safety Web Page
https://www.fbi.gov/scams-safety
This FBI Web page has information about many types of fraud and has links to report complaints, submit anonymous tips and more.
Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the FBI has field offices around the country; find a list with contact information here.
Veterinary Medical Board
(Part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs. Information (800) 952-5210)
1420 Howe Avenue, Suite 6
Sacramento, CA 95825
Policy Issues: (916) 263-2610
www.vmb.ca.gov
Email: vmb@dca.ca.gov
Takes complaints about veterinarians, veterinary technicians and veterinary services including overcharges and inadequate medical attention. Complaint forms are available by calling the Board at (916) 263-2610 or downloading a form and mailing it.
California Industrial Relations Department
Division Of Occupational Safety And Health (CalOSHA)
Headquarters: 1515 Clay Street, Suite 1901
Oakland, CA 94612
(510) 286-7000
Website: www.dir.ca.gov/occupational_safety
CalOSHA Enforcement Branch Regional and District Offices
CalOSHA Offers assistance to those with potentially dangerous or hazardous conditions in the workplace. File a workplace safety complaint.
(http://www.dca.ca.gov/)
Most of the agencies above are part of the California Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA); topics not seen here may be covered by the DCA, which is often a good place to start looking for information and assistance. DCA’s toll-free Consumer Information Center at (800) 952-5210 is staffed Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Automated services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Click here for links to all 42 DCA boards, bureaus and other agencies.
Many DCA complaint forms can be completed online.
The DCA’s 152-page online Consumer Action Handbook, updated in 2016, goes beyond direct consumer interests to list information links on topics ranging from Cars & Drivers, Children & Teens, and Contests, Lotteries, & Gambling to Sports, Travel & Transportation and Voting.
(https://oag.ca.gov/consumers)
While it cautions, “You must pursue remedies in your private dispute on your own. The Attorney General cannot provide you with legal advice or represent you in personal legal actions,” the OAG’s Protecting Consumers Web page has a trove of useful information, including an alphabetical listing of helpful links on more than 50 consumer topics.