Where to Report Credit Discrimination | Credit 101 Ep. 185

If you believe you’ve been a victim of credit discrimination, it’s essential to take action by reporting it to the appropriate authorities. Here’s a guide on where to report credit discrimination and how to go about it:

1. Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

• Role: The FTC is responsible for enforcing laws that protect consumers from unfair and deceptive practices, including credit discrimination.
• How to Report:
  • Visit the FTC’s Complaint Assistant.
  • Provide details about the discrimination incident, including the creditor’s name, the nature of the discrimination, and any supporting evidence.
  • Follow the prompts to submit your complaint.

2. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)

• Role: The CFPB oversees financial institutions and enforces federal consumer financial laws to ensure fair treatment.
• How to Report:
  • Go to the CFPB’s Complaint Page.
  • Select the type of product or service you are complaining about (e.g., credit card, loan).
  • Provide details about the discrimination and submit your complaint online.

3. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

• Role: HUD handles complaints related to discrimination in housing-related credit, such as mortgage lending.
• How to Report:
  • Visit the HUD Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) website.
  • Fill out the online complaint form or call the HUD Housing Discrimination Hotline at 1-800-669-9777.

4. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)

• Role: The EEOC addresses employment discrimination, including issues related to employer-provided credit benefits.
• How to Report:
  • Visit the EEOC’s website.
  • Follow the instructions to file a charge of discrimination.

5. State Attorney General’s Office

• Role: Your state attorney general’s office can handle complaints about unfair credit practices and enforce state consumer protection laws.
• How to Report:
  • Find your state attorney general’s website and look for the consumer complaint section.
  • Submit your complaint online or by mail as directed.

6. Local Consumer Protection Agencies

• Role: Many cities and counties have consumer protection agencies that can help with credit discrimination complaints.
• How to Report:
  • Locate your local consumer protection agency through an online search.
  • Follow their procedures for submitting a complaint.

7. Better Business Bureau (BBB)

• Role: The BBB handles complaints about businesses, including creditors, and can mediate disputes.
• How to Report:
  • Go to the BBB’s complaint page.
  • Provide details about the discrimination and submit your complaint.

8. Legal Assistance

• Role: If you need further assistance, consider consulting with a lawyer who specializes in consumer protection or credit discrimination cases.
• How to Report:
  • Find a local attorney through your state bar association or legal aid services.
  • Discuss your case and follow their advice on how to proceed legally.

What to Include in Your Complaint

When reporting credit discrimination, be sure to include the following information:

• Your Personal Information: Name, address, phone number, and email.
• Details of the Incident: Date, time, and location of the discrimination, and the names of any individuals involved.
• Description of the Discrimination: A clear and concise account of what happened, including any discriminatory comments or actions.
• Supporting Evidence: Copies of relevant documents such as denial letters, emails, or other communications.
• Witness Information: Names and contact information of any witnesses who can support your claim.

Conclusion

Taking action against credit discrimination is crucial for ensuring fair treatment and protecting your financial rights. By reporting discrimination to the appropriate authorities, you can help hold offenders accountable and prevent future incidents.