How can I get help with a consumer problem?

We do not handle consumer complaints. We provide information through the publications that are listed in our Consumer Information Catalog and on our website. But here are some resources that may be able to help you resolve your problem:

The Consumer Action Handbook, published by FCIC, lists federal, state, and local government consumer offices. The Handbook also includes Better Business Bureaus, consumer contacts with corporations and trade associations, and shows you how to write an effective complaint letter.

You can read the Handbook, order it online, or by writing for a free copy to:
Handbook
Pueblo, CO 81009

Another valuable resource is your local library. The reference section is likely to have materials to help answer your questions, and the librarian has been trained to assist you in finding the information you need on any subject.

If you have questions about Federal programs, benefits, or services, you can call the FCIC's National Contact Center at 1 (800) FED INFO (that's 333-4636), Monday - Friday 8:00am - 8:00pm eastern time.

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How can I buy used federal property (cars, real estate, office equipment, etc.)?

Check out USA.gov's Government Sales and Auctions page for more information.

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Where can I go if I have a car problem?

See the listing of major car manufacturers in the Consumer Action Handbook.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has a free program to help automobile manufacturers and individual customers resolve disputes concerning alleged manufacturing defects. Companies participate in this program, called BBB AUTO LINE. Acting as an impartial third party, the BBB utilizes conciliation and mediation techniques and, if needed, arbitration to help resolve problems. This informal, out-of-court settlement mechanism is free to consumers.

BBB AUTO LINE is confined to disputes between consumers and automobile manufacturers involving alleged defects in a vehicle's material or workmanship. It does not handle disputes between consumers and automobile dealerships, automotive repair facilities, or automobile insurance companies. Problems other than alleged manufacturing defects can be directed to your local Better Business Bureau.

For more information about filing a claim, call the BBB AUTO LINE program at (800) 955-5100.

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How can I solve insurance problems?

Each state has its own laws and regulations for all types of insurance, including car, homeowner, and health insurance. See the Consumer Action Handbook for information on contacting the appropriate office in your state. Many of these offices can provide you with information to help you make informed insurance buying decisions.

Your local library also will have information that can help you compare insurance companies before making a purchase.

If you have a question or complaint about your insurance company's policies, contact the company before you contact the state insurance regulator.

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Where can I learn more about education grants and loans?

For general information on student loans, grants, and scholarships available from the Department of Education's Student Aid on the Web, call toll-free 1-800-433-3243.

For information on a defaulted account, call the Default Line toll-free 1-800-621-3115.

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Where can I find out more about veteran's benefits, assistance, etc.?

Call the US Department of Veterans Affairs' nationwide toll-free number (800) 827-1000 or see their website: www.vba.va.gov

VA toll-free numbers for specific information are:

• Telecommunication Device for the Deaf (TDD): (800) 829-4833
• Life Insurance: (800) 669-8477
• Persian Gulf Help: (800) 749-8387
• CHAMPVA: (800) 733-8387

For information on the Agent Orange Registry or the Persian Gulf Registry, contact your nearest VA medical center.

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How can I find out about Social Security benefits?

We lists several publications on this subject. See the Federal Programs category in the current Consumer Information Catalog.

Contact the Social Security Administration toll-free 1-800-772-1213 between 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.

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