What We Do

The Attorney General for the District of Columbia is the District’s chief legal officer. The D.C. Charter gives the Attorney General responsibility for “charge and conduct” of all the District’s law business. The charter also states that the Attorney General is “responsible for upholding the public interest.”

The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) enforces the laws of the District, provides legal advice to the District’s government agencies, and promotes the interests of the District’s residents. OAG’s goal is to be the nation’s most effective and respected public law office.

The OAG has approximately 275 attorneys and 300 other professional staff members.

Learn about OAG’s structure and divisions.

What we don’t do…

While OAG takes on certain types of legal cases that promote the interests of the public, OAG cannot provide legal assistance to individual residents or get involved in private disputes.

Learn about other legal resources and agencies that may be able to assist you.

In addition, while OAG is the chief juvenile prosecutor for the District and also prosecutes certain adult misdemeanors, OAG shares prosecutorial authority for local crimes with the United States Attorney for the District of Columbia.

Visit the website of the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia.
 

Consumer Protection: How to Protect Yourself in Wake of Equifax Data Breach

To find out if you personal information was compromised by the Equifax data breach and to learn steps you can take to protect yourself from identity theft, click here. You can also learn other consumer protection tips from our Identity Theft and Online Privacy resources.

Given the massive size of the breach, Attorney General Racine suggests all District consumers take the following precautions:

  1. Check to see if your personal information was compromised by visiting the special website Equifax has set up to assist consumers (https://www.equifaxsecurity2017.com/);
  2. Regularly review your credit reports to check for any suspicious activity;
  3. Contact the Office of the Attorney General if you believe your identity has been stolen or your personal information may have been exposed by a retailer by calling OAG’s Office of Consumer Protection through the OAG Consumer Hotline at (202) 442-9828, by sending an e-mail to consumer.protection@dc.gov, or online using OAG’s Consumer Complaint Form.
  4. If you are a victim of the Equifax data breach, and you are concerned that your Social Security number may be used to file a fraudulent federal income tax return in your name, you can go to the IRS’s website at https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/get-an-identity-protection-pin and obtain a six digit PIN to use to authenticate your tax filings.

OAG brings court actions to stop deceptive and unconscionable business practices and to obtain compensation for consumers. Although OAG does not represent individual consumers, it helps consumers and merchants to resolve their disputes. In addition, it uses consumer complaint information to determine whether there is a pattern or practice by a business that warrants investigation or possible legal action by OAG.

To reach the Consumer Protection Hotline, call (202) 442-9828 or email consumer.protection@dc.gov. The office hours are Monday - Friday from 8:30am - 5:00pm.

Consumer Protection in puzzle pieces

OAG's Consumer Protection Library

OAG's Consumer Protection Guide: A comprehensive collection of consumer protection tips and information.

Contact TTY: 711

Office Hours:

Monday-Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm

Service Location:

GIS Address: 441 4th Street, NW

City: Washington

State: DC

Zip: 20001

Legal Help for Tenants

Office of the Tenant Advocate

If you are a tenant in a dispute with your landlord, please contact the Office of the Tenant Advocate for advice and links to resources, including legal representation.

Legal Service Providers

See our Community Resources page for a complete list of free and low-cost legal services providers in the District.

Below is a list of free legal services providers who specialize in housing matters. These providers do not give legal advice but they can help with things like filing documents in court, understanding the process on the day of your hearing, and in limited cases, finding an attorney to represent you in court.

  • Neighborhood Legal Services:The Neighborhood Legal Services strives to provide legal assistance to low-income residents of the District of Columbia regarding preventing evictions, homelessness, and related legal matters. Phone (202) 832-5100 Fax (202) 832-1984.
     
  • Bread for the City: Volunteer and Staff attorneys represent clients in landlord-tenant disputes, Social Security disability benefits, and public benefits cases.
     
  • DC Law Students In Court Program, Inc.: Students from local law schools (with supervision from attorneys) provide legal assistance to low-income families in civil and criminal cases. 
     
  • Washington Legal Clinic for the Homeless: Provides legal representation to low- and no-income clients through volunteer attorneys.
     
  • DC Bar Pro Bono Program: The DC Bar Pro Bono Program provides legal services, through training and recruiting volunteer attorneys in assisting low-income families. The program also helps small businesses and community-based non-profits seeking legal help.
     
  • University of the District of Columbia School of Law Housing: The Housing and Consumer Law Clinic provides representation in housing-related civil litigation.
     
  • DC Superior Court Landlord Tenant Court: The Resource Center provides free legal information to both unrepresented landlords and unrepresented tenants who have residential housing disputes.
     
  • Legal Aid Society: The Legal Aid Society of the District of Columbia provides civil legal aid to low-income individuals, families and communities in the District of Columbia.

Tenant and Consumer Advocacy Organizations

The organizations below do not offer legal services or legal representation, but can provide advice and training on how to assert your rights as a tenant or consumer in the District.

  • Latino Economic Development Center: Program assists low- to moderate-income Latinos and other DC area residents on financial advice.
     
  • Housing Counseling Services: Provides comprehensive housing counseling, training, advocacy, technical assistance and housing opportunities for low and moderate-income homebuyers, homeowners, and tenants.
     
  • DC Tenants Advocacy Coalition (TENAC): TENAC is a nonprofit, public service organization dedicated exclusively to tenant interests, tenant rights and support for rent control in the District of Columbia.
     
  • DC Coalition for Housing Justice: Facilitates and encourages cooperation among local and national peace and social justice groups.

 

Resources for Tenants

Contents

If you are a tenant renting a home, the resources and tools below can help you protect your legal rights and deal with any problems you may have with your housing or with your landlord.

Know your rights

People who rent homes in the District of Columbia are protected by District law. The Office of the Tenant Advocate provides tenants with an overview of their basic rights, including the right to safe and sanitary living conditions. You can download a copy the Tenants Bill of Rights from the OTA website.

Click here to learn more about the laws that OAG can enforce to protect tenants.

Document and Report Problems

If you are having problems with your apartment, keep a notebook or diary. Track of all of the problems you are having, all of your conversations with the landlord, and any action the landlord takes to fix the issues. Keeping a record is very important in the event of a dispute about rent or repairs later.

  • Start with a complete list of all the problems in your apartment. Write your name, unit number, and the date at the top of the list. If needed, make a separate list for problems in common/shared areas of your building or complex, such as hallways, stairwells, laundry rooms, and exterior areas.
Sample Diary Entry

Sample Diary Entry (1): List of Problems

Jane Doe, Unit #205, 5432 Sesame Street NW
June 3 2017

Problems in my apartment:

  • Sink faucet is leaking water from the base of the tap when water is turned on
  • Smell of mildew in cabinet area underneath sink (smell is still there even after wiping down cabinet area with cleaner)
  • The counter top is separated from the wall
  • The kitchen window is stuck, only opens about an inch

Problems in the common areas:

  • The lights in the second floor hallway are out
  • Locks on the front doors are broken, I have seen people who do not live in our building coming in and out without a key.
  • Several mattresses are leaning against the dumpsters at the rear of the building; the trash collectors empty the dumpsters but they leave the mattresses there.

Take photographs or videos of any problems in your unit or building.

  • Remember to label each photograph with the date and specific location where the picture was taken. Make sure to do this at or close to the time you take the photo. If you end up in a dispute with your landlord about repairs later, the dates can be very important. Sometimes landlords argue that a photograph is older than the tenant claims, and that they have already fixed the issue; or they argue that the photograph is of new damage and that they were not notified. 
  • If you are using a phone camera, email the photographs to yourself or to someone else right after you take them, along with a note that states when and where the photograph was taken. For example:
Sample Email

To: Tenant@personalemail.com
From: Tenant@personalemail.com
Re: Needed Repairs
Date: October 15, 2017 2:32 PM
Attachment: Photo-1.jpg

I took the photograph below today, October 15th, 2017, at 2:15 p.m.

The photograph shows a crack along the bottom of the wall in my son’s bedroom near the closet

  • Notify your landlord, resident manager, or rental office about the violations.
    • If possible, make all of your requests for repairs in writing. Keep a copy of every letter or note you write.
    • If you call the landlord or management company to report a problem, write down the date and time of each call, the name of the person who takes your complaint, and any statements made about repairs.
  • Keep a record of all activities related to the repairs you requested, including when you informed the landlord or property manager of the problem, what the landlord or property manager did in response to the complaint, and when and if the repairs were completed.
Sample Diary Entry 2

Sample Diary Entry (2): Notice to Landlord

July 18, 2017, 9:45 am – Called repair hotline. The woman who answered said her name was Sarah. I told her that I had a leak in my bathroom sink. She said she would put in a request and the company will have a plumber call me in the next day or two to make an appointment with me to look at the sink.

July 21, 2017, 10:45 am – Luke from Generic Plumbing Company called and asked if I can be home tomorrow afternoon for him to come look at the sink. I said what time and he said between 1 and 5 pm. Told him I work until 3pm but I can be home by 3:30. He said he will come around 3:30.

July 22, 2017, 6:00 pm – I waited at home between 3:30 and 6:00 pm but nobody came to my apartment or called

Request a Housing Code Inspection from DCRA

Rental homes are required to meet the standards set out in the District’s housing code, and most basic maintenance issues that tenants encounter are covered by the code. Therefore, if your landlord fails to make needed repairs, you can request an inspection from the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA). If the DCRA inspector finds code violations in your unit or in your building, the inspector can issue Notices of Violation ordering your landlord to make repairs.

The DCRA website provides an overview of housing code standards that are common issues for tenants as well as a Quick Housing Code Checklist that tenants can use to identify and document common code violations in their units.

Note: Mold is not part of the Housing Code and DCRA does not cite for mold. Please see the mold section below on how to address a mold issue with your landlord.

a. Request a DCRA Inspection

You can contact DCRA to request an inspection in any of the following ways:

Email:
dcra.housingcomplaints@dc.gov

Phone:
(202) 442-4400

Mail:
DCRA Inspections and Compliance Administration
1100 4th Street, SW, 4th Floor
Washington, DC 20024

b. Property-wide inspections

If there are other tenants in your building or complex who have problems in their units, or if there are problems that affect the whole building or complex (such as roof leaks, sewage backups, or rodent or insect infestation), you may want to request a property-wide inspection from DCRA.

If you cannot be present during a scheduled DCRA inspection, but you want the inspectors to cite the landlord for violations that exist in your unit, you can authorize someone else to provide access to your unit using the following form:

Dealing With Mold

Under District law, landlords are required to take action if a tenant notifies them of the presence of mold in their unit. See the below PDF for a summary of the legal requirements for landlords once they are notified of possible mold in a residence.

If there is mold in your apartment, send an email or a letter to your landlord about the mold.

Below is a form letter you can print out and fill in before sending to your landlord. Remember to keep a copy of your letter for your records.

After getting your email or letter, your landlord must perform a visual inspection of the mold within 7 days, and remove any mold that is found within 30 days of the inspection. The visual inspection must be done before the landlord takes any steps to remove the mold.

If a moldy area in your apartment is 10 square feet or more, your landlord must use a licensed professional to assess the mold problem, and another licensed professional to eliminate the mold.

Get Legal Help

If you are a tenant in a dispute with your landlord, please contact the Office of the Tenant Advocate for advice and links to resources, including legal representation.

Below is a list of free and low-cost legal services providers who specialize in housing matters. You can find additional information on free and low-cost legal services on our General Resources page.

  • Neighborhood Legal Services
    Neighborhood Legal Services strives to provide legal assistance to low-income residents of the District of Columbia regarding preventing evictions, homelessness, and related legal matters.
  • Bread for the City
    Volunteer and Staff attorneys represent clients in landlord-tenant disputes, Social Security disability benefits, and public benefits cases.
  • University of the District of Columbia School of Law Housing and Consumer Law Clinic
    The Housing and Consumer Law Clinic provides representation in housing-related civil litigation.
  • Legal Counsel for the Homeless
    Provides legal representation to low- and no-income clients through volunteer attorneys.
  • University Legal Services
    University Legal Services (ULS) is an intake center for the Department of Housing and Community Development's housing programs that help low and moderate-income families and individuals buy homes, rehabilitate homes, and prevent mortgage default and foreclosure. ULS also provides rental counseling and assists DC residents with locating affordable and accessible housing.

Tenant and Consumer Advocacy Organizations

The organizations below do not offer legal services or legal representation, but can provide advice and training on how to assert your rights as a tenant or consumer in the District.

  • Latino Economic Development Corporation
    Program assists low- to moderate-income Latinos and other DC area residents on financial advice.
  • Housing Counseling Services
    Provides comprehensive housing counseling, training, advocacy, technical assistance and housing opportunities for low and moderate-income homebuyers, homeowners, and tenants.
  • DC Tenants Advocacy Coalition (TENAC)
    TENAC is a nonprofit, public service organization dedicated exclusively to tenant interests, tenant rights and support for rent control in the District of Columbia.

How OAG Can Help

The Housing and Environmental Justice Section primarily uses two laws in their work to protect District residents: the Tenant Receivership Act and the Drug-, Firearm-, or Prostitution-Related Nuisance Abatement statute.

  • Under the Tenant Receivership Act, the Attorney General can ask a judge to appoint a Receiver for a property when a landlord’s chronic neglect and failure to make repairs endangers the health, safety, and security of the tenants. A Receiver is a neutral third party who takes control of the property, makes all decisions about its management and operation, and ensures necessary repairs are made. They must be experienced in managing rental property and taking care of tenants’ day-to-day needs. Click here for more information about the Tenant Receivership Act.
     
  • Under the Drug-, Firearm-, or Prostitution-Related Nuisance Abatement statute, the Attorney General can take legal action against property owners who endanger the community by allowing their property to be used for certain types of illegal activity. If a judge finds that a property is being used to sell, store, or manufacture illegal drugs; to store firearms illegally; or to facilitate prostitution, the judge has broad powers to come up with a solution. For example, the court might order an owner to install cameras, hire security guards, add lighting, and ban certain visitors from their property. By bringing these cases, the Attorney General helps ensure that residents of all income levels, including those who may have limited means to relocate, are safe in their neighborhoods. Click here for more information on Nuisance Properties.

Read about OAG's housing justice legal wins here

Consumer Protection Issues

District law protects tenants from illicit practices by landlords like improper withholding of security deposits, collection of illegal late fees or attorney’s fees, harassing calls from debt collectors, improper rent increases, and other potentially deceptive practices. Tenants can submit complaints to the Attorney General’s Office of Consumer Protection. Complaints are assigned to a mediator, who will contact the landlord to try and resolve the issue. In some cases, if a complaint affects a large number of tenants, the Attorney General may initiate an investigation, bring an action in court to stop the practice, and to seek restitution for harmed consumers and a payment to the District for penalties and costs.

Consumers with complaints against their landlords, or any other consumer complaint, can contact OAG’s Office of Consumer Protection through the OAG Consumer Hotline at (202) 442-9828, by sending an e-mail to SocialJustice@dc.gov, or online using OAG’s Consumer Complaint Form.

Restitution for Renters

In any lease, the landlord agrees to provide livable, safe housing to the tenants. In some cases, the Office of Attorney General may take action to hold landlords accountable under the District’s consumer protection laws for not holding up their end of the bargain in the lease. If a court finds that a landlord has defrauded or misled consumers, the landlord may be forced to pay restitution to those who have been harmed, as well as monetary penalties to the District. For more on our office’s work to protect consumers, visit our Office of Consumer Protection page.

Agency Partnerships

Our office works closely with other District agencies to protect safe and affordable housing in the District, particularly the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs and the Office of the Tenant Advocate.

  • The Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) enforces District laws that require landlords to maintain apartments in a safe and habitable condition. These laws are referred to collectively as the District’s “housing code.” DCRA inspectors can issue Notices of Violation ordering landlords to correct housing code violations in a certain amount of time. DCRA also issues fines and penalties to landlords who fail to correct violations in a timely manner.
     
  • The Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA) helps tenants who are in disputes with their landlords, provides information about the rights and responsibilities of tenants and landlords, and provides legal and technical assistance for further action such as filing tenant petitions.

Conservación de la Vivienda Asequible

La Oficina del Fiscal General utiliza la ley para conservar las viviendas asequibles, proteger a los inquilinos y responsabilizar a los arrendadores abusivos y negligentes. Si un arrendador viola la ley y obliga a los inquilinos o residentes cercanos a vivir en condiciones peligrosas o insalubres, el personal de nuestro Departamento de Vivienda y Justicia Comunitaria puede intervenir. Este equipo lleva a cabo acciones legales para resolver problemas en propiedades donde el público está en peligro debido a violaciones persistentes al código de vivienda o actividad criminal sin control.

¿Cómo puede ayudar el OAG?

Recursos para inquilinos

Ayuda para inquilinos

About the Public Advocacy Division

Public Advocacy Division

The Public Advocacy Division promotes the rights of District residents through civil enforcement actions—with a particular emphasis on protecting vulnerable and disadvantaged communities. The Division is focused on civil rights, workers’ rights, consumer protection, housing conditions, antitrust, non-profit enforcement, environmental enforcement, and protecting elders and vulnerable adults from financial exploitation. The Division also works with advocacy partners and other jurisdictions to tackle federal and nationwide issues that affect the rights of those living or working in the District.

Civil Rights Section

The Civil Rights Section engages with individuals, advocacy organizations, and community groups to investigate and litigate discriminatory policies and practices that harm District residents, including discrimination in housing, education, public accommodations, and employment. The Section also advocates for legislation to strengthen anti-discrimination laws and engages in community outreach to educate residents regarding their rights.  

Elder Justice Section

The Elder Justice Section protects District elders and vulnerable adults from financial exploitation. The Section investigates and pursues civil cases to stop financial exploitation, seeks restitution for victims, and obtains civil penalties against perpetrators, under the District’s Abuse, Neglect, and Financial Exploitation of Vulnerable Adults and the Elderly Act and other statutes. The Section also works with agency and nonprofit partners to address systemic issues affecting older District residents and conducts community outreach to raise awareness of financial exploitation and to increase reporting.

Learn more about protecting elders and vulnerable from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

Housing and Environmental Justice Section

The Housing and Environmental Justice Section litigates cases essential to preserving safe and habitable housing and enforces environmental laws that disproportionately impact low-income communities of color in the District. The Section holds landlords accountable when they fail to maintain rental units in accordance with the Housing Code and takes action to protect communities from drug, firearm and prostitution-related nuisances by enforcing the District’s Tenant Receivership Act and Nuisance Abatement Act. The Section’s environmental attorneys represent the District in utility rate-setting cases before the Public Service Commission and investigate and litigate matters under the District’s environmental laws that govern waste management, lead paint, engine idling, and water pollution control to ensure District residents have access to clean water and air and lead-free housing. The Section also drafts and supports legislation designed to protect tenants and the environment and regularly works with advocacy partners and the District’s Department of Energy and the Environment to ensure the District timely and relevantly respond to matters of most importance to our communities. In addition, the environmental attorneys contribute regularly to multi-state environmental litigation and comment letters.

Learn more about the work of the Housing and Environmental Justice Section.

Office of Consumer Protection

The Office of Consumer Protection (OCP) enforces the District's consumer protection laws and other public protection laws, including those related to debt collection and privacy. OCP investigates and litigates against businesses that are taking advantage of consumers to stop unlawful practices, obtain restitution and damages for consumers who have been harmed, and impose penalties to defer future unlawful conduct. OCP also mediates disputes between consumers and businesses. Finally, OCP drafts and supports legislation that protects consumers, and educates consumers through outreach events, an up-to-date online Consumer Resources library, and the distribution of consumer protection guides.

Learn more about the Office of Consumer Protection

Antitrust and Nonprofit Enforcement Section

The Antitrust and Nonprofit Enforcement Section enforces District and federal antitrust law and District statutes and common law relating to nonprofit corporations and charities.

Antitrust

The Section investigates and litigates matters involving harm to local businesses and competition in the District, including as part of regional and national multi-state groups. These cases include challenges to illegal price-fixing, bid-rigging, monopolistic practices, and restrictions on employment, as well as mergers that may harm competition, in almost any industry.

Learn more about District antitrust issues, including how to report potential antitrust violations.

Nonprofits and Charities

The Section enforces the District’s Nonprofit Corporations Act to ensure that nonprofits incorporated in or doing business in the District comply with the law and their charitable purposes. The Section also uses the Attorney General’s traditional common law authority to ensure that charitable funds are not wasted and that a nonprofit’s directors, officers, and trustees of charitable organizations act in the nonprofit’s best interests.

Learn more about District nonprofit or charities law, including how to notify the section of planned changes to or dissolution of a nonprofit, and how to report a violation of DC nonprofit law.  

Workers’ Rights and Antifraud Section

The Workers’ Rights and Antifraud Section holds employers accountable for paying the wages they owe their employees. The Section protects workers’ rights to minimum wage, overtime pay, and sick and safe leave. It also investigates and litigates against businesses that misclassify their employees as independent contractors to avoid the protections accorded workers by District law. The Section also seeks recovery from companies and individuals who defraud the District, resulting in the loss of public funds, including non-resident tuition fraud.

Learn more about this Section’s work to protect workers’ rights.

Laws & Legal Opinions

Below you'll find links to commonly referenced legal opinions and guidance.

Attorney General's Legal Opinions

Legal Advice to ANCs
The Office of the Attorney General is charged by statute (D.C. Official Code § 1-309.12(d)(4)) with providing legal guidance to Advisory Neighborhood Commissions with regard to statutes and other issues concerning or affecting ANCs. This advice and guidance function is performed by the Legal Counsel Division. Commissions can obtain this guidance by emailing oag.anc@dc.gov. Advice letters in response to requests for guidance are posted for public viewing on the OAG website and provide a valuable resource for researching past issues. Commissions are strongly encouraged to take advantage of this resource before submitting a query to OAG. 

Legal Advice Memos

Requirements of the District’s Data Breach Notification Law

Immigration guidance for District Schools in English and Spanish

Immigration guidance for employers in English and Spanish

DC Marijuana Laws

Class Action Fairness Act (CAFA) Notices

Ethics Information for DC Employees

DC Consumer Protection Laws and Regulations

Your Wage Rights

Tenant Receivership Act

File a Claim Against the District

Predatory Mortgage Lending

Predatory mortgage lending, whether undertaken by creditors, brokers, or even home improvement contractors, involves engaging in deception or fraud, manipulating the borrower through aggressive sales tactics, or taking unfair advantage of a borrower's lack of understanding about loan terms.

Predatory lenders will target homeowners who have equity in their homes and may also have credit problems or need cash. They will advertise their services to people in financial need - people who may have fallen behind in paying their bills, or need money for medical bills, cars or costly home repairs. Often targeted are the elderly, low-wage earners and minority homeowners.

The Office of the Attorney General and the District of Columbia are fighting on behalf of DC citizens against the abusive practices of predatory mortgage lenders. If you have questions or would like to learn more about what you can do to combat these practices, visit HUDThe National Association of Consumer AdvocatesThe Federal Trade Commission and The Better Business Bureau

Related Content: 

About Predatory Lending

Office of Consumer Protection (“OCP”), Consumer Mediation Program

Consumer Resources & Referrals List

Individual Legal Representation Referrals & Resources

DC Bar

 

A few logistics:

  • Location: Bread for the City Michelle Obama Southeast Center, 1700 Good Luck Road SE, WDC
  • Parking: Street parking
  • Time: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. (depending on demand)
  • Masks: Required by venue

 

Bar Association of DC

 

DC Superior Court: Information & Resources for Representing Yourself in DC Superior Court: https://www.dccourts.gov/services/represent-yourself

  • DC Superior Court Civil Actions Branch: 202.879.1133
  • DC Superior Court Small Claims Branch: 202.879.1120

 

DC Debt Collection Defense Hotline (joint project of Legal Aid & Tzedek DC, in collaboration w/ Catholic Charities Legal Network, D.C. Bar Pro Bono Center, Legal Counsel for the Elderly, & Neighborhood Legal Services Program): Call 202.851.3387

 

Small Claims Resource Center Hotline (project of Neighborhood Legal Services Program) (for general questions about small claims court proceedings for both plaintiffs and defendants): Call 202.849.3608

 

Legal Information & Legal Services Provider Directory: www.Lawhelp.org/DC

 

DC REFERS: Online directory of lawyers offering reduced-fee services to people of modest means at https://www.dcrefers.org/

 

National Association of Consumer Advocates (NACA)

 

Other Places to File a Consumer-Related Complaint

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Bureau of Consumer Protection

 

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)

  • https://www.consumerfinance.gov/
  • The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, a U.S. government agency dedicated to making sure you are treated fairly by banks, lenders and other financial institutions.
  • You can submit a CFPB complaint about We currently accept complaints about: Checking and savings accounts; Credit cards; Credit repair services; Credit reports and other personal consumer reports; Debt collection; Debt settlement; Money transfers, virtual currency, and money services; Mortgages; Payday loans; Personal loans like installment and title loans’ Prepaid cards; Student loans; Vehicle loans or leases/
  • File a CFPB complaint online at https://www.consumerfinance.gov/complaint/, or call 855.411.2372.

 

USA.gov

 

NAAG – National Association of Attorneys General – list of AG offices

 

Better Business Bureau (BBB)

 

 

Contact Information for DC Government Agencies

Need to Contact a District of Columbia Agency – Visit the DC.gov Agency Directory at https://dc.gov/directory

Customer Service Contacts at Major Companies/Industries

Trying to Find Contact Information for Customer Service at Major Companies – Visit the Elliot Report’s Company Contact list at https://www.elliott.org/company-contacts/

 

Consumer Referrals and Resources by Subject Matter

Airline Disputes

Customer Service Contacts for Major Airline Carriers: https://www.elliott.org/company-contacts/#airline

U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)File a Consumer Complaint

  • DOT recommends trying to resolve the consumer issue with the airline, before filing a DOT complaint.
  • DOT consumer complaint form: https://airconsumer.dot.gov/escomplaint/ConsumerForm.cfm

 

Automobile Disputes

Customer Service Contacts for Major Car Manufacturers:  https://www.elliott.org/company-contacts/#auto-manufacturer

DC Department of Motor Vehicles (DC DMV)

DC Lemon Law Information: https://oag.dc.gov/consumer-protection/consumer-alert-lemon-law

Better Business Bureau (BBB) Auto Line: https://bbbprograms.org/programs/all-programs/bbb-autoline

  • BBB Auto Line is a free dispute resolution program for the vehicle owners of participating manufacturers. BBB Auto Line helps setter vehicle warranty disputes without the need for an attorney by offering mediation and arbitration services to resolve automotive warranty, lemon law, class action, and other manufacturer disputes.
  • BBB Auto Line claim form

 

Bank/Financial Institutions

Customer Service Contacts for Major Bank/Financial Institutionshttps://www.elliott.org/company-contacts/#bank-financial-institution

 

DC Department of Insurance, Securities & Banking (DISB)

  • DISB regulates the following financial services entities: 1)insurance companies, insurance producers, health maintenance organizations, captive insurance companies, and risk retention groups; 2) investment advisers, investment adviser representatives, broker-dealers, broker-dealer agents, securities issuers, and agents of issuers; and 3) District and state-chartered banks, mortgage lenders and brokers, mortgage loan originators, check cashers, money transmitters, consumer sales finance companies, money lenders, appraisal management companies, student loan servicers, and consumer service contract organizations.
  • DISB Services & Resources: https://disb.dc.gov/
  • File a DISB Consumer Complaint: https://disb.dc.gov/page/consumer-services-division

 

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)

 

Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC)

 

US Department of the Treasury: Personal Finance and Consumer Protection Information and Resources: https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/consumer-policy/personal-finance-and-consumer-protection-steps-for-quicker-financial-relief

 

 

Cable/Internet Disputes

Customer Service Contacts for Major Cable Providers: https://www.elliott.org/company-contacts/#cable

Customer Service Contacts for Major Internet Providers: https://www.elliott.org/company-contacts/#internet

Comcast

 

Cell Phone/Telecom Disputes

Customer Service Contacts for Major Telecom Provides: https://www.elliott.org/company-contacts/#telecom

 

Civil Rights/Discrimination

OAG Civil Rights resources:

 

DC Office of Human Rights (DC OHR)

 

U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Civil Rights Division

 

U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) - (Federal)

 

Credit Card Disputes

Customer Service Contacts for Major Credit Card Companies: https://www.elliott.org/company-contacts/#credit-card

 

Instructions/Education on How to Dispute Credit Card Charges from the FTC: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/using-credit-cards-disputing-charges

 

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)

 

Credit Repair: Credit Scores & Credit Reporting

How to Get a Free Copy of Your Credit Report:

 

How to Find Out Your Credit Score; Information from the FTC: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/credit-scores

 

Tzedek DC, Legal Help for People in Debt

 

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)

Employment

OAG Workers’ Rights & Antifraud Resources

  • https://oag.dc.gov/worker-rights
  • Workers@dc.gov
  • Trabajadores@dc.gov
  • Phone: 202.727.3400 

 

Washington Lawyers’ Committee Workers’ Rights Clinic

 

  • Assists any worker with an employment related matter including unpaid wages, discrimination, family and medical leave act (FMLA violations), unemployment compensation, workers’ compensation, sexual harassment, barriers to employment, and sick leave violations.
  • Phone: 202.319.1040, 202.319.1000 ext. 118
  • Email: clinic@washlaw.org
  • https://www.washlaw.org/clinic

 

DC Office of Wage-Hour Compliance

  • https://does.dc.gov/service/office-wage-hour-compliance-0
  • The Office of Wage-Hour conducts compliance audits and works to recover unpaid wages for employees who have not been paid pursuant to DC wage laws, either administratively or through court action. Wage-Hour compliance involves ensuring adherence to the wage laws of the District of Columbia by holding employers accountable to the laws. Investigates employee claims for minimum wage, unpaid overtime, accrued sick and safe leave, and living wage matters.
  • Phone: 202.671.1880
  • Intake Form: https://does.dc.gov/page/office-wage-hour-employees

 

U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)

 

Healthcare-related Disputes

Customer Service Contacts for Major Healthcare Providers: https://www.elliott.org/company-contacts/#healthcare

 

DC Department of Health

 

Medicare.gov

  • File a complaint about: 1) a doctor, hospital, or provider; 2) your health or drug plan; 3) your quality of care; 4) complaints about dialysis for kidney transplant care; 5) file a complaint about durable medical equipment.

 

The Joint Commission

 

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

  • FDA is responsible for ensuring that foods are safe, wholesome, and correctly labeled. It also oversees medicines, medical devices (from bandages to artificial hearts), blood products, vaccines, cosmetics, animal food (including pet food) and animal drugs, and electronic products that emit radiation (such as microwave ovens and video monitors). FDA also regulates tobacco products.
  • Report a Problem to the FDA: https://www.fda.gov/safety/report-problem-fda

 

Home Improvement / Construction Disputes

DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP)

 

DC Department of Buildings (DOB)

 

Housing Disputes (Homeowners & Tenants)

Resources for Homeowners

 

DC Department of Housing and Community Development

  • DHCD) is to produce and preserve opportunities for affordable housing and economic development and to revitalize underserved communities in the District of Columbia.
  • https://dhcd.dc.gov/

 

DC Legal Aid Society (LAS)

 

DC Homeowner Assistance Fund (DC HAF)

  • https://haf.dc.gov/
  • Phone: 202.540.7407
  • The DC HAF uses funding from the American Rescue Plan to provide grants to District Homeowners who have been affected by COVID-19 to help keep their home. The financial assistance program is accessed via a digital portal, that serves as a one-stop shop, providing grants to District homeowners impacted by COVID-19 who are struggling with their mortgage payments and other property or housing expenses.

 

DC Legal Counsel for the Elderly (LCE) – Age 60+

 

Housing Counseling Services, Inc. (HCS)

  • https://housingetc.org/
  • HCS provides comprehensive housing counseling, training, advocacy, technical assistance and housing opportunities for low- and moderate-income home buyers, homeowners, and tenants; to help them achieve successful living in healthy, safe, and affordable homes.
  • HCS Contact Information:
    • General Housing Information: 202.667.7706
      Email: info@housingetc.org
    • Rental Assistance Hotline: .202.667.7339
    • Cooperative and Condominium Department: 202.667.7608 or jadehall@adminhousing
    • Foreclosure Prevention Department: 202.265.2255 or foreclosure@housingetc.org
    • Emergency Rental Assistance: Contact the DC Department of Human Services to apply: https://erap.dhs.dc.gov or call DHS at 202.507.6666
    • Home Purchase Assistance Programs: 202.667.7706 or info@housingetc.org
    • Services for  Personas Living with HIV or AIDS: 202.900.9471 or mhap@housingetc.org or tbra@housingetc.org or efaprogram@housingetc.org
    • Supportive Services for Veteran Families: 202.667.7366 or ssvfprogram@housingetc.org
    • Tenant Services Department: 202.900.9464 or tenants@housingetc.org

Resources for Renters

 

DC OAG Tenant Resources: SocialJustice@dc.gov

Report Housing Discrimination: If District residents experience housing discrimination—like landlords not accepting housing vouchers—they can report it to:

 

DC Superior Court Landlord & Tenant Resources/Information: https://www.dccourts.gov/services/civil-matters/landlord-tenant

 

District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA)

  • https://www.dchousing.org/wordpress/
  • If a resident believes that DCHA has taken an action or failed to take an action that adversely affects their rights, duties, welfare or status and the resident has tried unsuccessfully to resolve the issue directly with the housing manager or office involved, the resident may file a grievance with the DCHA Office of fair Hearings, or the management office of the property in which they reside within one year of the action to be grieved.

 

DC Legal Aid Society (LAS)

 

DC Legal Counsel for the Elderly (LCE) – Age 60+

 

DC Office of Tenant Advocate (OTA)

  • https://ota.dc.gov/
  • OTA provides financial assistance for certain emergency housing and relocation expenses to tenants displaced by fires, floods, or government closures and OTA provides in-house representation for tenants in certain cases; and refers other cases to pro bono or contracted legal service providers and attorneys. 
  • Phone: 202.719.6560 or 711

 

Housing Counseling Services, Inc. (HCS)

  • https://housingetc.org/
  • HCS provides comprehensive housing counseling, training, advocacy, technical assistance and housing opportunities for low- and moderate-income home buyers, homeowners, and tenants; to help them achieve successful living in healthy, safe, and affordable homes.
  • HCS Contact Information:
    • General Housing Information: 202.667.7706
      Email: info@housingetc.org
    • Rental Assistance Hotline: .202.667.7339
    • Cooperative and Condominium Department: 202.667.7608 or jadehall@adminhousing
    • Foreclosure Prevention Department: 202.265.2255 or foreclosure@housingetc.org
    • Emergency Rental Assistance: Contact the DC Department of Human Services to apply: https://erap.dhs.dc.gov or call DHS at 202.507.6666
    • Home Purchase Assistance Programs: 202.667.7706 or info@housingetc.org
    • Services for  Personas Living with HIV or AIDS: 202.900.9471 or mhap@housingetc.org or tbra@housingetc.org or efaprogram@housingetc.org
    • Supportive Services for Veteran Families: 202.667.7366 or ssvfprogram@housingetc.org
    • Tenant Services Department: 202.900.9464 or tenants@housingetc.org

 

Landlord Tenant Legal Assistance Network (LTAN)

 

Bread for the City

  • https://breadforthecity.org/
  • Bread for the City’s Legal Clinic provides advice and representation to DC residents living with low-incomes and by helping tenants in landlord-tenant and subsidized housing cases.
  • Southeast Center - 1700 Good Hope Road SE, DC 20020
  • Northwest Center - 1525 7th Street NW, DC 20001
  • Phone: 202.386.7616 

 

Neighborhood Legal Services Program  (NLSP)

  • https://nlsp.org/
  • NLSP is a nonprofit legal services organization that provides free legal information, advice and representation to low-income District of Columbia residents on civil legal matters.
  • Phone: 202.832.6577
  • Intake Form: https://www.nlsp.org/contact/inquiry-form

 

Rising for Justice

  • Website:  https://risingforjustice.org/
  • Rising for Justice advocates for tenants in the District to avoid displacement and enforce their rights. If you have a hearing at Landlord and Tenant Court or have to file a document at Landlord and Tenant Court, you may come to our courthouse office to seek assistance on your court date or the day your filing is due.
  • Phone: 202.638.4798

 

Washington Legal Clinic for the Homeless

  • https://www.legalclinic.org/
  • Provides Legal Assistance for anyone in DC who is either homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
  • Phone: 202.328.5500
  • Intake Form: https://www.legalclinic.org/contact-us/

 

DC Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)

  • https://erap.dhs.dc.gov/
  • The Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) helps District residents earning less than 40% of the Area Median Income (AMI) who are facing housing emergencies, by providing funding for overdue rent including late fees and court costs if qualified household is facing eviction. The program also supports security deposits and the first month's rent for residents moving into new apartments. The amount paid on behalf of eligible households depends on a household's income and available resources and is subject to certain limitations.
  • Phone: 202.641.4200
  • Intake Form: https://erap.dhs.dc.gov/ScreeningTool/Screening

 

Catholic Charities

  • www.catholiccharitiesdc.org
  • Catholic Charities offers many different housing programs designed to work with families and adults who are experiencing homelessness and/or trying to recover from substance abuse or mental health challenges.
  • Phone: 202.338.3100

 

Hotel & Travel Disputes

Customer Service Contacts for Major Hotel Providers: https://www.elliott.org/company-contacts/#hotel

 

Customer Service Contacts for Major Airlines: https://www.elliott.org/company-contacts/#airline

 

Customer Service Contacts for Major Cruise Lines: https://www.elliott.org/company-contacts/#cruise-line

 

Customer Service Contacts for Major Car Rental Providers: https://www.elliott.org/company-contacts/#car-rental

 

Customer Service Contacts for Major Online Travel Booking Sites: https://www.elliott.org/company-contacts/#online-travel-booking-sites

 

Customer Service Contacts for Major Travel Agencies: https://www.elliott.org/company-contacts/#travel-agency

 

Customer Service Contacts for Major Tour Operators: https://www.elliott.org/company-contacts/#tour-operator

 

USA.gov: Resources for filing a complaint about an airline, travel agency, hotel, or U.S. Embassy or Consulate

 

Identity Theft: Personal Identity Theft & Data Breaches

File a Local Police Report: DC Metropolitan Police Department

 

When Your Personal Information is Lost or Exposed Through a Data Breach

 

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)

  • The FBI IC3 is the central hub for reporting cyber crime. The public may file a complaint with the IC3 when they believe that they have been the victim of an internet crime.
  • File an IC3 complaint online: https://www.ic3.gov/home/filecomplaint

 

US Department of Justice (DOJ) – Advice  on What to do if You Are a Victim of Identity Theft or Identity Fraud: https://www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/identity-theft/identity-theft-and-identity-fraud

 

Insurance Disputes

DC Department of Insurance, Securities & Banking (DISB)

  • DISB regulates the following financial services entities: 1)insurance companies, insurance producers, health maintenance organizations, captive insurance companies, and risk retention groups; 2) investment advisers, investment adviser representatives, broker-dealers, broker-dealer agents, securities issuers, and agents of issuers; and 3) District and state-chartered banks, mortgage lenders and brokers, mortgage loan originators, check cashers, money transmitters, consumer sales finance companies, money lenders, appraisal management companies, student loan servicers, and consumer service contract organizations.
  • DISB Services & Resources: https://disb.dc.gov/
  • File a DISB Consumer Complaint: https://disb.dc.gov/page/consumer-services-division

 

DC Office of the Health Care Ombudsman and Bill of Rights

  • The DC Office of the Health Care Ombudsman provides assistance to consumers with health insurance questions or problems.
  • Phone: 202.724.7491, or 1.877.685.6391
  • Email: healthcareombudsman@dc.gov

 

Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF)

  • DHCF can help if you have a hard time affording health coverage or if you have questions about eligibility for Medicaid or about current Medicaid benefits.
  • 202.442.5988
  • https://dhcf.dc.gov/service/medicaid

 

US Department of Labor

  • If you have a question, complaint, or dispute regarding insurance through a “self-insured” employer (typically a large company or one with locations in multiple states or countries, Labor may be able to help.
  • 866.444.3272
  • http://www.askebsa.dol.gov

 

Junk Mail

How to Get Less Postal Mail & Email  From Marketers:

  • FTC education info: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-stop-junk-mail
  • Consumers can register at the Direct Marketing Association’s consumer website, https://www.dmachoice.org/, and choose what catalogs, magazine offers and other mail they want to get. DMAchoice will stop most, but not all, promotional mail. This service costs a $4 processing fee, and the registration lasts for 10 years.
  • If you do not have online access, register by sending your name and address (with signature), along with a $5 processing fee (check or money order payable to the Association of National Advertisers or ANA) to:

DMAchoice
Consumer Preferences
P.O. Box 900
Cos Cob, CT 06807

 

 

How to Stop Credit  Card and Insurance Offers:

  • If you don't want to get prescreened offers of credit and insurance in the mail, you have two choices for opting out of those offers:
    • To opt out for five years: Go to optoutprescreen.com or call 1-888-5-OPT-OUT (1-888-567-8688). The phone number and website are operated by the major credit bureaus.
    • To opt out permanently: Go to optoutprescreen.com or call 1-888-5-OPT-OUT (1-888-567-8688) to start the process. But to complete your request, you’ll need to sign and return the Permanent Opt-Out Election form you’ll get after you’ve started the process.
    • When you call or visit optoutprescreen.com, they’ll ask for your personal information, including your name, address, Social Security number, and date of birth. Sharing your Social Security number and date of birth is optional, but the website says that giving this information can help them ensure that they can successfully process your request. It says the information you give is confidential and will be used only to process your request to opt out.

Licensing & Permitting

DC Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP)

 

DC Department of Buildings (DOB)

Money-Lending & Money Lending Apps

DC Department of Insurance, Securities & Banking (DISB)

  • DISB regulates the following financial services entities: 1)insurance companies, insurance producers, health maintenance organizations, captive insurance companies, and risk retention groups; 2) investment advisers, investment adviser representatives, broker-dealers, broker-dealer agents, securities issuers, and agents of issuers; and 3) District and state-chartered banks, mortgage lenders and brokers, mortgage loan originators, check cashers, money transmitters, consumer sales finance companies, money lenders, appraisal management companies, student loan servicers, and consumer service contract organizations.
  • DISB Services & Resources: https://disb.dc.gov/
  • File a DISB Consumer Complaint: https://disb.dc.gov/page/consumer-services-division

 

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Bureau of Consumer Protection

 

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)

  • https://www.consumerfinance.gov/
  • The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, a U.S. government agency dedicated to making sure you are treated fairly by banks, lenders and other financial institutions.
  • You can submit a CFPB complaint about We currently accept complaints about: Checking and savings accounts; Credit cards; Credit repair services; Credit reports and other personal consumer reports; Debt collection; Debt settlement; Money transfers, virtual currency, and money services; Mortgages; Payday loans; Personal loans like installment and title loans’ Prepaid cards; Student loans; Vehicle loans or leases/
  • File a CFPB complaint online at https://www.consumerfinance.gov/complaint/, or call 855.411.2372.

 

Non-Profit Issues

OAG Anti-Trust & Non-Profit Section

  • The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) is officially responsible for oversight of charitable organizations and their assets in the District of Columbia, and tasked with protecting residents from fraud by charities and nonprofits.  Common examples of violations that prompt our office to bring court actions include governance violations, breaches of fiduciary duty, and diversions of nonprofit funds away from the organization’s purpose.
  • Consumers that have a nonprofit concern can email nonprofit@dc.gov

 

Public Transit Disputes

Customer Service Contacts for Mass Transit Providers: https://www.elliott.org/company-contacts/#mass-transit

 

DC Department of Transportation (DDOT)

 

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)

 

Federal Transit Administration (FTA)

  • If you believe you have been discriminated against by a public transit provider, you may file an administrative complaint with the FTA Office of Civil Rights: https://www.transit.dot.gov/regulations-and-guidance/civil-rights-ada/file-complaint-fta

 

Realtor Disputes

District of Columbia Real Estate Commission

  • The District of Columbia Real Estate Commission regulates the licenses of professional real estate agents and protects consumers by upholding the District of Columbia real estate license law.
  • Phone: 202.442.4320
  • https://dlcp.dc.gov/page/real-estate-commission

 

Restaurant Disputes

DC Department of Health

 

Returning Citizens

  • Mayor’s Office on Returning Citizen Affairs (MORCA)
    • https://communityaffairs.dc.gov/morca
    • MORCA seeks to remove barriers to reentry and empowers residents to break the cycle of recidivism. Through MORCA case management program MORCA ensures that previously incarcerated people are connected to essential programs and services in areas such as employment, health, education, housing assistance, and social services.
    • Phone: 202.715.7670
    • Intake Form: https://dcmayor.secure.force.com/MORCARegistration

 

  • Public Defender Service (PDS)
    • https://www.pdsdc.org/
    • PDS is here to help DC Residents and Families navigate the District of Columbia’s juvenile and criminal legal systems.
    • Phone: 202.628.1200
    • Community Defender Division
      • Prisoner & Reentry Legal Services
      • Phone: 202-824-2801

 

Robocalls/Telemarketing Disputes

 

  • National Do Not Call Registry
    • The National Do Not Call Registry was created to stop sales calls from real companies. It’s free to register your home or mobile phone number.
    • https://www.donotcall.gov/
    • If you receive an unwanted call after your number was on the National Do Not Call Registry for 31 days, you can report it to the FTC: https://www.donotcall.gov/report.html

 

Scams: Lottery Scams, Charity Scams, Romance Scams, etc.

DC Office of Lottery and Gaming (OLG)

  • https://dclottery.com/
  • OLG is the regulatory body over all licensed gaming in the District of Columbia, including Lottery, Charitable Gaming, Sports Wagering, and Games of Skill. The OLG's Regulation and Oversight Division oversees the licensing process for gaming-related activities and ensures the operational compliance of licensee.
  • Phone: 202.788-2100 and 202.645.8000
  • Online Complaint: https://dclottery.com/olg/contact-us

 

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Bureau of Consumer Protection

  • https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/bureau-consumer-protection
  • The FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection stops unfair, deceptive and fraudulent business practices by collecting reports from consumers and conducting investigations, suing companies and people that break the law, developing rules to maintain a fair marketplace, and educating consumers and businesses about their rights and responsibilities.
  • Report a Fraud to the FTC: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/
  • FTC Fraud Report FAQs: https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/faq
  • Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
    • https://www.consumerfinance.gov/
    • The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, a U.S. government agency dedicated to making sure you are treated fairly by banks, lenders and other financial institutions.
    • You can submit a CFPB complaint about We currently accept complaints about: Checking and savings accounts; Credit cards; Credit repair services; Credit reports and other personal consumer reports; Debt collection; Debt settlement; Money transfers, virtual currency, and money services; Mortgages; Payday loans; Personal loans like installment and title loans’ Prepaid cards; Student loans; Vehicle loans or leases/
    • File a CFPB complaint online at https://www.consumerfinance.gov/complaint/, or call 855.411.2372.

 

AARP Fraud Watch Network (for 60 years old and over)

Senior Citizen Consumer Resources

OAG Elder Justice Section

  • If you have an elder justice issue, please contact OAG’s Elder Justice Section at elder.justice@dc.gov. You can learn more about OAG’s elder justice work at https://oag.dc.gov/about-oag/our-structure-divisions/about-public-advocacy-division.

 

DC Department of Aging and Community Living (DACL)

  • https://dacl.dc.gov/
  • Phone: 202.724.5626

 

AARP Fraud Watch Network (for 60 years old and over)

 

DC Legal Counsel for the Elderly (LCE) – Age 60+

 

Student Loans

DC Student Loan Ombudsman

  • https://disb.dc.gov/studentloanhelp
  • The Ombudsman is an unbiased and confidential resource and evaluates the concerns of District borrowers and student loan servicers to promote collaborative solutions. The Ombudsman cannot represent borrowers or make decisions about specific loan forgiveness or repayment plans.
  • Phone: 202.727.8000

 

National Student Loan Center

 

U.S. Department of Education

  • MOHELA (Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF))
  • 866-222-7060
  • 866-222-7060

Taxes

DC Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR)

  • https://otr.cfo.dc.gov/
  • MyTax.DC.gov
  • OTR provides a state-of-the-art, walk-in customer service facility, which is available to meet District taxpayers' needs.
  • OTR Customer Service Center, 1101 4th Street, SW, Suite W270,WDC 20024
  • Phone: 202.727.4TAX (727.4829)
     

DC Office of the Taxpayer Advocate (OTA)

  • OTA works with the public to offer individual assistance, provide outreach and education to the public, stakeholders and OTR, and engage in systemic advocacy.
  • Phone: 202.442.6348
  • https://taxpayeradvocate.dc.gov/

 

Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Taxpayer Assistance Center

  • https://www.irs.gov/
  • Assistance with account inquiries, Basic individual tax law assistance, check, money order, or cash payments (Exact Change is Required), Departing alien clearances, Form 911 PDF, Request for Taxpayer Advocate Service Assistance, Form 2290, Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax Return Identity Protection Personal Identification Number Request, Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers and Form W-7 (More Information), Payment arrangements, Tax forms.
  • Phone: 844.545.5640 or local office: 202.803.9000
  • Get Help: https://www.irs.gov/help/ita

 

Free Tax Return Preparation for Qualifying Taxpayers

 

Utilities

Customer Service Contacts for Major Utilities Providers: https://www.elliott.org/company-contacts/#utilities

 

DC Department of Energy & Environment (DOEE)

           

Office of the People’s Counsel (“OPC”)

  • https://opc-dc.gov/
  • The Office of the People’s Counsel is an independent agency of the District of Columbia government. By law, it is the advocate for consumers of natural gas, electric and telephone services in the District. District of Columbia law designates the Office as a party to all utility-related proceedings before the Public Service Commission. The Office also represents the interests of District ratepayers before federal regulatory agencies. The Office is authorized to investigate the operation and valuation of utility companies independent of any pending proceeding.
  • File a Complaint Online: https://opc-dc.gov/file-a-complaint/
  • Phone: 202.727.3071
  • Email: info@opc-dc.gov

 

Public Service Commission for the District of Columbia (DCPSC)

  • https://dcpsc.org/
  • The DCPSC has jurisdiction over the electric (Pepco), natural gas (Washington Gas) and local telephone (Verizon) companies in the District.
    • Electric
      Pepco has a monopoly over the distribution of electricity to consumers, but the Commission also regulates Competitive Electric Generation and Transmission Suppliers who supply the generation and interstate transmission of electricity to Pepco’s distribution system.
    • Natural Gas
      Washington Gas, a WGL company, has a monopoly over the distribution of natural gas to consumers, but the Commission also regulates Competitive Commodity Gas Suppliers who supply the natural gas that flows through WGL’s pipes and mains.
    • Local Landline Telephone
      Verizon provides landline telephone service to the District. The Commission also regulates Competitive Local Exchange Carriers.
  • Phone: 202.626.5100
  • Submit a Question to DCPSC online: https://dcpsc.org/About-PSC/About-the-Commission/Contact-Us.aspx

 

Pepco

 

DC Water

 

​​​​​​​Washington Gas Light Company

 

​​​​​​​DC Water and Sewer (DC – WASA)

 

​​​​​​​The Greater Washington Urban League (GWUL)

  • https://www.gwul.org/
  • GWUL is in partnership with DC Water and PEPCO to provide assistance to families needing assistance with their electric and gas bills. Through the program families can apply for up to $500 for Electric and Gas and up to $350 for their water bill once per year to help pay for their utilities.
  • Phone: 202.265.8200
  • Intake Form: https://www.gwul.org/emergency-services

Veterans

DC Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs

 

US Department of Veterans Affairs

 

FTC Military Consumer Protection Resources: https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/topics/military-consumer-protection

 

Wire Fraud

FTC Advice What to Know Before You Wire Money: https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/you-wire-money

 

If you sent money using a wire transfer company like MoneyGram or Western Union, contact that company right away. Tell them it was a fraudulent transfer. Ask them to reverse the wire transfer and give you your money back.

  • MoneyGram at 1-800-926-9400
  • Western Union at  1-800-448-1492
  • Ria (non-Walmart transfers) at 1-877-443-1399
  • Ria (Walmart2Walmart and Walmart2World transfers) at 1-855-355-2144

 

If you sent the wire transfer through your bank, contact them and report the fraudulent transfer. Ask if they can reverse the wire transfer and give you your money back.

 

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Bureau of Consumer Protection

 

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)

  • https://www.consumerfinance.gov/
  • The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, a U.S. government agency dedicated to making sure you are treated fairly by banks, lenders and other financial institutions.
  • You can submit a CFPB complaint about We currently accept complaints about: Checking and savings accounts; Credit cards; Credit repair services; Credit reports and other personal consumer reports; Debt collection; Debt settlement; Money transfers, virtual currency, and money services; Mortgages; Payday loans; Personal loans like installment and title loans’ Prepaid cards; Student loans; Vehicle loans or leases/
  • File a CFPB complaint online at https://www.consumerfinance.gov/complaint/, or call 855.411.2372.

 

​​​​​​​File a Local Police Report: DC Metropolitan Police Department

 

​​​​​​​When Your Personal Information is Lost or Exposed Through a Data Breach

 

​​​​​​​Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)

  • The FBI IC3 is the central hub for reporting cyber crime. The public may file a complaint with the IC3 when they believe that they have been the victim of an internet crime.
  • File an IC3 complaint online: https://www.ic3.gov/home/filecomplaint