Consumer Protection publications available from the Federal Reserve

Identity theft is a federal crime. It occurs when one person's identification (which can include name, social security number, or any account number) is used or transferred by another person for unlawful activities. This booklet is designed to help you understand what identity theft is, how it happens, how to protect yourself, and what steps to take if your identity is stolen.

If you have a problem with a bank or other financial institution, contact the Federal Reserve for help. You can file your complaint using the online complaint form or download and send your complaint via fax or mail using our PDF form.

Explains your rights when buying from a dealer or a private party. Offers buying tips and resources if you have problems after the sale.

Tips to help you make a smart deal. Explains commonly used industry terms, and a worksheet to help you negotiate on price.

Explains your rights and steps to take to correct the problem. Includes a sample dispute letter.

Helps you find answers to your National Banking questions.

Learn to minimize your risk.  A con artist who knows your Social Security number, bank account information or other personal details can temporarily become you in order to commit fraud. Fixing the damage could take years. This FDIC Consumer News article which provides you with a checklist of ways to reduce your chances of becoming a victim of identity theft and fraud, and resources that can assist if you are now or become a victim of identity theft.  For additional information you may call 1-877-ASK-FDIC (1-877-275-3342); hearing impaired 1-800-925-4018.

Explains that federal law gives you the right to stop (opt out of) some sharing of your personal financial information, that you will receive privacy notices from financial institutions you do business with, and what to do when you receive the notices.

Whether you file a Form 1040EZ or a complicated corporate return, you will benefit from knowing your rights as a taxpayer and being familiar with the IRS' obligations to protect them. The goal of the Taxpayer Rights Corner is to be your one-stop shop for taxpayer rights information during every step of your interaction with the IRS.

Financial Education: FDIC's Money Smart financial education program. The Money Smart program can help you take charge of your finances and create a better financial future.  Available on-line or by mail free of charge; it may also be taught in a classroom setting or downloaded into a portable audio (MP3) format.  For additional information call toll-free 1-877-ASK-FDIC (1-877-275-3342); hearing impaired 1-800-925-4618.

Job termination or a reduction in hours can result in a loss of retirement and health benefits.  However, employees and their families may have rights under Federal law that can help protect benefits when employment changes.  This toolkit provides many resources to help employees facing job loss or a reduction in hours with information about their benefit rights to help them make informed decisions.  Many of the materials included on this page are available in Spanish.

You may use the FDIC Bank Find to determine the primary federal regulator of your bank or by calling the FDIC's toll-free call center number at:
1-877-ASK-FDIC (1-877-275-3342);
Monday through Friday, From 8 am until 8 pm (Eastern Time);
Hearing Impaired Line: 1-800-925-4618.

To submit a complaint, you may either fill out and sign this form, or write and sign a letter and fax or mail it to the Consumer Affairs Division.

You can file a complaint if you think a bank has been unfair or misleading, discriminated against you in lending, or violated a law or regulation. The Federal Reserve investigates complaints related to federal consumer protection laws, such as the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, Fair Credit Reporting Act, and the Truth in Lending Act.

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency’s Customer Assistance Group helps customers of national banks and their operating subsidiaries to resolve issues and complaints related to applicable banking laws and regulations. To talk with an information specialist, in English or Spanish, Monday through Friday 7:00 am to 7:00 pm CST. Toll free: 1-800-613-6743. TDD Number 713-658-0340.  To file complaints online and to find answers to common questions on a variety of topics in English and Spanish, visit www.helpwithmybank.gov.  The site also assists customers in filing complaints online by telling them what to provide and what to expect.

Many people will file a 2009 Federal income tax return even though the income on the return was below the filing requirement. The questions on this site will help you determine if you need to file a Federal Income Tax return or if you need to stop your withholding so you will not have to file an unnecessary return in the future.

Consumer facts about investments that are not deposits and are not insured by the FDIC.

A Guide to What Is and Is Not Protected by FDIC Insurance.

This website provides information that may be helpful to consumers, financial institutions, and the community groups working with them on foreclosure-related issues.