NYS Division of Consumer Protection - New York, NY

New York State Division of Consumer Protection

Consumer Advocacy and Mediation

The New York State Division of Consumer Protection (DCP), formerly known as the Consumer Protection Board, is the primary state agency dedicated to educating, assisting, and empowering New York consumers. In New York City, the Division maintains an office at 123 William Street, co-located with the Department of State. The DCP acts as a watchdog against unfair, deceptive, and fraudulent business practices. Through its voluntary mediation program, the Division helps resolve thousands of consumer complaints annually, bridging the gap between businesses and customers without the need for litigation.

Key Programs and Resources

The Division offers a wide range of services to protect the public. It enforces the Do Not Call Law to reduce unwanted telemarketing calls and investigates Identity Theft cases, providing mitigation support to victims. The DCP also monitors product safety and issues alerts regarding dangerous or recalled items. While they do not provide legal representation in court, they offer guidance on Small Claims Court procedures and other legal remedies. The Utility Intervention Unit represents consumers in matters related to natural gas, electricity, and telecommunications services.

• Consumer Complaint Mediation
• Do Not Call Registry Enforcement
• Identity Theft Prevention and Assistance
• Utility Service Intervention

Contact and Assistance

While the Division has a physical presence at 123 William Street, the most effective way to access its services is through the Consumer Assistance Helpline (1-800-697-1220) or by filing a complaint online. In-person visits for consumer complaints may be limited or require an appointment, as the walk-in counters at this location primarily serve licensing needs. Consumers are encouraged to utilize the extensive digital resources available on the DCP website to check the license status of businesses, read consumer alerts, and learn about their rights under New York State law.