new york division of consumer protectionnew york division of consumer protection

These policies do not apply in the case of postponement; consumers should review the terms of a postponement with the vendor. Consumers can file a complaint with the Division of Consumer Protection at https://dos.ny.gov/file-consumer-complaint. DCP contacted the company, and the consumer was refunded for all nine months of erroneous charges. The FTC also received complaints of websites offering, for a fee, vaccine waivers and medical exemptions without seeing a doctor. Complaints already the subject of a lawsuit or other legal action cannot be handled by the DCP. The consumer tried contacting the parent company multiple times but did not receive a reply. Home Improvement Contractors - Westchestergov.com The Division of Consumer Protection works hard to assist individuals aggrieved in the marketplace through its complaint mediation efforts, along with educating the public on marketplace scams, and advocating consumers interest before legislative and regulatory bodies. In NYS, stores must clearly post their refund policies. If consumers purchase over the phone, the terms must be read clearly before the consumer completes the purchase. See Application Filing Process section. Consumer Complaint Form | NYS Department of State - Government of New York The Consumer Assistance Helpline 1-800-697-1220 is available Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm, excluding State Holidays, and consumer complaints can be filed at any time with the Division of Consumer Protection, they can also be reached via Twitter at @NYSConsumer or Facebook atwww.facebook.com/nysconsumer. Legal Services. Scammers set up fraudulent websites offering fake vaccine appointments or call people claiming to be COVID-19 surveyors to collect peoples personal information. In response, the Division of Consumer Protection is unveiling important tips across these five categories so consumers are armed with the tools to stay safe. Passes can be displayed on any smart device or can be printed from any computer. The New York State Division of Consumer Protection, a division of the Department of State, works to educate New Yorkers about consumer protection issues and recover money from common unfair and deceptive practices. In addition, the Division encourages businesses and industry to maintain high standards of honesty, fair business practices, and public responsibility in the production, promotion and sale of consumer goods and services. Resources to help reduce risk of identity theft and to assist victims in addressing the consequences of this crime. The NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP)formerly the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA)protects and enhances the daily economic lives of New Yorkers to create thriving communities. If you lose that proof, check withyour state health departmentor your vaccine provider to find out how to obtain a replacement. To kick off National Consumer Protection Week, Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the New York Department of State's Division of Consumer Protection assisted 19,752 New Yorkers with a variety of consumer protection matters in 2022, resulting in nearly $2.4 million being returned to consumers. You will be routed to the appropriate Agency. Security and privacy laws, regulations, and compliance: The - CSO DCP reached out to the company on behalf of the consumer and arranged for a full refund for the four items not received. The consumer contacted the retailer who directed her to the manufacturer. The Divisions Consumer Assistance Unit will review the complaint and, if appropriate, engage in voluntary mediation on behalf of the consumer or refer the complaint to the Office of the Attorney General to initiate an enforcement action. Ask whether the store imposes a restocking fee for returned merchandise or if the merchandise must be in a certain condition for the return to be accepted. Provides a variety of services to protect and assist utility customers. The trip was later cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There is a separate/unrelated NY Banking 9-x that deals with mortgage forbearance. She was promised a call back by a claims examiner numerous times but never received one. DCWP went door-to-door answering questions and informing small businesses about what they need to know to comply with the Citys business laws. Whistleblowers are often represented by private lawyers who can ensure that their clients rights are protected. Shop on trusted sites or in trusted stores to avoid fraud. Did/do you serve in the military? I thank Governor Hochul for her ongoing efforts to protect and empower the over 19 million consumers who call New York State home., Assemblymember Nily Rozic said, New York consumers have faced unprecedented issues during the past few years from price gouging and price hikes to fraud and identity theft. General Business Law 518: Ny Law Related to Credit and Debit Card External web sites operate at the direction of their respective owners who should be contacted directly with questions regarding the content of these sites. This page is available in other languages. DCP reached out to the travel site and was able to arrange for the consumer to receive a full refund. The work done was covered by warranty, so when some of the tape used to patch the holes began to peel, the consumer tried to contact the company for repair. This is the first in a series of more than a dozen education days that DCWP will conduct across the five boroughs. Consumer Protection - Suffolk County, New York DCWP Press Releases - NYC.gov Some travel insurance policies only cover limited circumstances or have long look-back periods. Call 311 or visit vote.nyc to register to vote. In NYS, stores must clearly post their refund policies. Ask about refund policies. When booking a reception or event space, make sure the contract is clear about what happens to your deposit and any money paid if the event must be cancelled or rescheduled, including provisions for cancellations by the vendor or forces out of your control. Download U-Visa Certification Application Form, Visit the Mayors Office of Immigrant Affairs website for additional information on U or T Visas. DCP reached out to the company on behalf of the consumer and arranged for the consumer to receive a full refund of $2000. Medical bill rights | CMS For instance, a consumer reported receiving counterfeit CDC vaccination cards in a vaccine cardholder ordered online. PDF New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection Notice of For "complaint description" please include dates of the observation or purchase, and any information you may have to demonstrate that the same goods were being sold for a different price previously by the same seller or for a lesser price by other merchants in the same area. The New York State Division of Consumer Protection serves to educate, assist and empower the states consumers. Supervision by DFS may entail chartering, licensing, registration requirements, examination, and more. Supervision by DFS may entail chartering, licensing, registration requirements, examination, and more. This announcement follows Governor Hochuls announcement from March 7, which announced the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles helped New Yorkers recover over $1.65M million. Always read product specifications to be sure of the product you will receive. For example, a consumer in Niagara County hired a franchise painting company to repair holes in a few walls and repaint the interior of their home. During National Consumer Protection Week, we are making sure all New Yorkers have the resources they need to protect themselves from fraud and make smart financial decisions. As New Yorkers resume travelling, they are strongly encouraged to read any travel insurance policies and related documents carefully if they are considering the purchase of travel insurance to fully understand what is covered in the event that travel plans go awry,said Superintendent of Financial Services Adrienne A. Harris. PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING BEFORE SUBMITTING THIS FORM: In filing this form, I understand that the Division of Consumer Protection (DCP) is attempting to mediate my complaint. The Department of Consumer and Worker Protection ("DCWP" or "Department") is proposing to add rules establishing a method for determining the minimum payments that must be made to a food delivery worker by a third-party food delivery service or third-party courier service, as required by New York City Administrative Code 20-1522. Always read the fine print. 2. For more consumer protection information, call the DCP Helpline at 800-697-1220, Monday through Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm, or visit www.dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection. Safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines are available to all New Yorkers age six months and older. For regular consumer protection tips and recall information, follow DCP via Twitter at @NYSConsumer or Facebook at www.facebook.com/nysconsumer. For example, a consumer in St. Lawrence County booked airline tickets through an online travel site. print a copy of the completed Consumer Complaint Form for your records. National Consumer Protection Week is celebrated during the first full week of March every year to help individuals understand their rights as consumers and to share resources available to help protect them. The Division of Consumer Protection engages in voluntary mediation to resolve consumers marketplace complaints; offers mitigation assistance for victims of identity theft; conducts consumer education campaigns; represents consumers at utility rate and policy proceedings before State and Federal regulators to advance cost effective and quality electric, gas, water, telephone and cable service; enforces the States Do Not Call Law; works to ensure compliance with Federal and State product safety regulations; and serves to advise the Governor on matters of New York consumer protection policy import. The New York State Division of Consumer Protection and the New York State Department of Financial Services are issuing this alert to consumers regarding two new laws - one providing new protections when purchasing recurring services, and the other requiring notification by New York State regulated financial institutions prior to charging any . Our delivery workers have consistently delivered for us now, we are delivering for them, said Mayor Adams. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) leads several public events during NCPW that promote consumer protection awareness. DCWP uses mediation to resolve complaints. The Investor Protection Bureau protects investors, businesses, shareholders, and consumers. The Federal Trade Commission leads several public events during National Consumer Protection Week that promote consumer protection awareness. Many consumers complain about companies billing their credit card after they call or go online to cancel their subscription. As a pioneer in this field, the office has brought cutting-edge cases and entered important settlements related to a wide range of online and technology issues, including child safety, privacy, deceptive or illegal trade practices, consumer fraud, spyware, spam, discrimination, and free speech. Travel insurance is regulated by the Department of Financial Services. All events are free to join and can be found at, https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/national-consumer-protection-week, The New York State Division of Consumer Protections mission is to assist, protect, educate, and represent consumers in an ever-changing economy. For example, a consumer in Nassau County purchased a new range from an appliance store. Phone: 716-773-7676 State Senator Kevin Thomas said, "During National Consumer Protection Week, I'm proud of the work we are doing to make sure New York consumers remain informed and safe. NYC protects the rights of all New Yorkers. Consumer with complaints about travel insurance policy or 'Cancel for Any Reason' coverage issued in New York or by New . The bureau enforces New York's antitrust laws (Donnelly Act) and also has the authority to sue for violations of federal antitrust laws (Sherman and Clayton Acts). Consumer Protection Complaint Form | Consumer Protection - Erie County Identity Theft Prevention and Mitigation Program. As more and more places are requiring proof of vaccination, scammers are taking advantage of this opportunity by selling fake verification tools including fake cards, certificates, test results or even doctors notes. Consumers should shop from sites known to them and exercise caution with unfamiliar sites or those that host items for third-party sellers. in goods and services from faulty or fraudulent auto dealers and repair shops. Get at least three estimates from reputable, insured contractors that include a list of the materials, price and services to be provided for the job. Learn more. Our Division of Consumer Protection and other law enforcement authorities are working hard to prevent illegal activities by these scammers that put us all at risk., State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker said,"Our highest priority is helping to ensure the health and safety of New Yorkers as we work together to combat COVID-19. For example, a consumer from Westchester County ordered bedroom furniture from a large retailer in Brooklyn. Never pay the full price up front and try to limit the amount of any deposit made prior to the commencement of work. Statement of Basis and Purpose of Rule The new law empowers the Attorney General, on behalf of consumers, to go after companies that automatically renew and charge consumers without adequate notice.. The Consumer Assistance Helpline 1-800-697-1220 is available Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm, excluding State Holidays, and consumer complaints can be . If you live in New York City, Westchester, Nassau, Suffolk, Orange, Putnam or Rockland Counties, check your local consumer affairs office. City of New York. Examine all charges and ensure they are for services you requested and are receiving. Know your rights. For more consumer protection information, call the DCP Helpline at 800-697-1220, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., or visit www.dos.ny.gov/consumer-protection. The New York State Division of Consumer Protection provides voluntary mediation between a consumer and a business when a consumer has been unsuccessful at reaching a resolution on their own. The Antitrust Bureau is responsible for enforcing the antitrust laws to prevent anticompetitive practices and promote competition throughout the state. To avoid a run in with the law or being a victim of a crime, the Division of Consumer Protection warns: Presenting fraudulent COVID-19 vaccination cards or test results can land you in jail. The consumer filed a claim with her credit card company, submitted the required supporting documentation, and then repeatedly contacted them over the next four months for an update. As part of the National Consumer Protection Week, we are highlighting that the most common complaints facing consumers in todays digital world and providing helpful tips to protect their personal information and hard-earned money., New York State is a national leader in protecting consumers from unfair, deceptive, or abusive practices, and holding companies that break the law accountable. 211 WNY is your free and confidential link to health and human services. Examine all charges and ensure they are for services you requested and are receiving. Immediately after installation, the range would intermittently shut off during cooking. Ensure you receive and save copies of all warranties, including those on the materials used. DCWP Office of Labor Policy & Standards Protects Workers - NYC.gov Some signs of a scam when booking travel include the following: The New York State Division of Consumer Protection provides voluntary mediation between a consumer and a business when a consumer has been unsuccessful at reaching a resolution on their own. The Division of Consumer Protection is committed to assisting, protecting, educating and empowering New York consumers. DCWP uses mediation to resolve complaints. Oversees insurance companies, banking, lending, and other financial services. Consumers have three days to cancel after signing a contract for home improvements. Have a consumer complaint? Merchandise/Product: Complaints related to merchandise or products that did not meet consumers' expectations. Check on automatic contract renewals. Make sure that what is being pictured is the product that you expect to receive. We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalized content, and analyze our traffic. Get an overview of what happens when you file a consumer complaint. Copyright The New York False Claims Act encourages whistleblowers to come forward by protecting them from retaliation, authorizing them to bring actions on behalf of the state or local governments, and rewarding their courage by making them eligible for a share of the sums recovered as a result of the actions they file. Request and check references from the contractor. ", Assemblymember Nily Rozic said, "From price gouging and price hikes to fraud and identity theft, New York consumers are constantly at risk of being scammed. Contact Division of Consumer Protection Contact us by phone: 518-486-3933 Consumer Helpline: 800-687-1220 Contact us by email: doscpwebmaster@dos.ny.gov The consumer contacted the cookware company and was told that, pursuant to the "Cooling Off Rule", she only had three days from the date of purchase to initiate a return. Refunds/Store Policy: Complaints related to refunds and store policies, including return policies, restocking fees, and refunds for damaged goods. New York State Department of Financial Services, Cybersecurity Requirements for Financial Services Companies (23 NYCRR 500) . The only legitimate way to get proof of vaccination or a negative test result is to get vaccinated or to test negative. "I'm proud that New York State has helped tens of thousands of consumers recover nearly $3 million of their hard-earned money. Check License Status NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP)formerly the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA)licenses more than 51,000 businesses in more than 40 different industries. Be aware of charges for automatic contract renewals. Housing. It applies to most types of health insurance, and protects you from unexpected out-of-network medical bills from: Emergency room visits. Learn more. Attorney General James Secures $102.5 Million Multistate Agreement with Maker of Opioid Addiction Treatment Drug for Illegal Monopolistic Tactics, Attorney General James Secures Agreement with Insulin Manufacturers to Cap Insulin Prices for Uninsured New Yorkers, Attorney General James Ends Harmful Labor Practices at Largest U.S. If we find that a business or professional is violating the law, we get remedies for investors and businesses, including monetary compensation. If you have any questions or need help completing the home improvement contractor application, call the office of Consumer Protection at (914) 995-2155. You must provide a receipt or other confirmation provided by the vendor that shows that 30 days has not elapsed from the date of purchase, and the merchandise must not have been used or damaged. Consumer Alert: New York State Division of Consumer Protection and When shopping for children, check that products are age-appropriate for their safetymanufacturers are required to provide this information on the packaging. This new protection will ensure that New Yorkers, so many of whom are navigating economic uncertainties, arent caught off guard and penalized without notice for mere inactivity, and instead have the opportunity to avoid these unnecessary costs.. Ripped off by a business? All events are free to join and can be found here. Governor Hochul Announces the Division of Consumer Protection Has The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) updates consumers regularly. Economic Justice Division | New York State Attorney General DCA - Consumers - Check License - NYC.gov Reports June 7, 2023 CONSUMER ALERT: Attorney General James Urges New Yorkers to be Vigilant of Price Gouging as New York's Air Quality Worsens Due to Canadian Fires May 23, 2023 Attorney General James Sues Telecommunications Company Over Illegal Robocalls May 22, 2023 Improves access and availability of services to Seniors. The Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP)formerly the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA)Office of Labor Policy & Standards (OLPS) is NYC's central resource for workers. Whistleblowers are private citizens who have evidence of fraud committed by persons or companies against New York State or local governments. When no refund policy is posted, consumers have 30 days from the purchase date to receive a full refund or a credit (at the consumer's option). Always read product specifications to be sure of the product they expect to receive. Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez said, Each and every day, the Division of Consumer Protection is hard at work helping New Yorks consumers better understand their rights and representing their interests. As Chair of the New York State Assembly Committee on Consumer Affairs and Protection Im hard at work fighting for our consumers and ensuring they have the protections and assistance necessary.. The Division of Consumer Protection works hard to assist individuals aggrieved in the marketplace through its complaint mediation efforts, along with educating the public on marketplace scams, and advocating consumers interest before legislative and regulatory bodies. Non-emergency care related to a visit to an in-network hospital, hospital outpatient department, or ambulatory surgical center. Fax: 716-773-7190. NYS Department of State Division of Consumer Protection The law allows such written notification to be sent electronically. Never give out personal information over the phone, especially if you unexpectedly receive a call asking for it. We are a dedicated voice in City government for workers in NYC. Advisory Boards | Department of Financial Services The consumer shipped everything back to the company three days after receiving it, however, the company refused to issue a refund. Consumer alert: NYS Division of Consumer Protection warns New Yorkers The New York State Division of Consumer Protection (DCP) warned New Yorkers about the risks of using or buying fake COVID-19 vaccination cards. The New York State Division of Consumer Protection (DCP) reminds New Yorkers of their rights as they plan spring and summer travel. Research and verify vendors to avoid placing orders on copycat sites for products that will never arrive. Read the DCWP Website Accessibility Statement. Always read verified customer reviews before placing an order on a new website. I thank the Department of State for continuing to raise awareness on the risks of fake vaccine cards and thank them for their commitment to the safety of New Yorkers., State Police Superintendent Kevin P. Bruen said, Making or possessing fake COVID-19 vaccination cards are serious crimes. DCWP Settles With Con Ed for Denying Workers Paid Safe and Sick Leave. The New York State Division of Consumer Protection (DCP) warned New Yorkers about the risks of using or buying fake COVID-19 vaccination cards. The person or firm you are complaining about will receive a copy of this complaint. Review contracts carefully, especially cancellation and refund policies. Note: You will be redirected to a new web page. Division of Consumer Protection | Department of State During National Consumer Protection Week, we are making sure all New Yorkers have the resources they need to protect themselves from fraud and make smart financial decisions. For health and safety reasons, the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) Licensing Center and NYC Small Business Support Center cannot serve walk-ins, but you can schedule an appointment to submit your license application in person. When scheduling a vaccine appointment online, schedule it directly through the New York Department of Health or gov to ensure youre using a legitimate site. Under NY General Business Law, anyone selling automatic renewal programs or continuous services to New Yorkers must provide consumers an easy-to-use cancellation mechanism before the consumer pays for the service. DCWP enforces the City's Consumer Protection Law and uses mediation to help you resolve complaints against a business. All events are free to join and can be found at https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/national-consumer-protection-week. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission updates consumers regularly. Governor Kathy Hochul announced today the New York State Division of Consumer Protection assisted 21,855 New Yorkers with a variety of consumer protection matters in 2021, resulting in a record $2,918,025 being returned to consumers wallets. New Yorkers are also encouraged to install the NYS Excelsior Pass Wallet app from the Apple Store or Google Play, or to retrieve their Passes here. Mailing Address:NYC Department of Consumer and Worker ProtectionConsumer Services Division42 Broadway, 9th FloorNew York, NY 10004. Governor Hochul Announces the Division of Consumer Protection Has Helped New York Consumers Recoup Nearly $3 Million in 2021, When bad actors try to rip off New Yorkers, our Division of Consumer Protection has your back,". However, we cannot require the company to make an adjustment. The Department of Consumer and Worker Protection ("DCWP" or "Department") received and reviewed comments submitted. Remember to always shop on trusted sites when shopping online. United States Attorney Breon Peace Announces Formation of Consumer New Yorkers should be aware that buying fake vaccine cards, making their own or filling the blanks with false information is illegal and could land them in jail. 2023 All Rights Reserved, NYC is a trademark and service mark of the City of New York. Top Five Categories of Consumer Complaints. AT&T has already paid consumers more than $15,000 in refunds as part of the settlement. By using this website you consent to our use of cookies. The division can also be reached via Twitter at @NYSConsumer or Facebook atwww.facebook.com/nysconsumer. CPSC works to save lives and keep families safe by reducing the risk of injuries and deaths associated with consumer products. This page is available in other languages. Federal Trade Commission CPSC is an Independent Federal Regulatory Agency. New York City Agencies issue summonses for violations of quality of life laws and other City rules and regulations. DO NOT SEND ORIGINALS. The company sent a service technician to the consumers home four times in effort to repair the microwave, but the problem was never fixed. Get consumer protection tips for immigrants in 11 languages. The Department of State's Division of Consumer Protection provides resources for the business community to help them comply with the law and to prevent fraudulent, deceptive and unfair practices in the marketplace. Four days before the scheduled trip, the consumer's husband suffered a medical emergency that qualified for trip cancellation. The Domestic Worker Mediation Program was created to help the citys approximately 18,000 domestic workers and their employers resolve workplace issues in a respectful, confidential, and free way without going to court.