Maryland consumers facing unfair, abusive, or deceptive trade practices can file a complaint with the Maryland Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division either online or by filling out and mailing a consumer complaint form. This division, part of the Office of the Attorney General, handles complaints related to transactions occurring within Maryland or directed at Maryland consumers. Filing does not guarantee a refund or resolution; a representative reviews the complaint to determine if action, such as investigation or mediation, is appropriate.
Gather supporting evidence before filing, such as transaction details, business contact information, receipts, correspondence, and a clear description of the issue. Specific email addresses exist for certain complaints: [email protected] for general business issues and [email protected] for health care or insurance billing problems.
What Controls Maryland AG Consumer Complaints
The Maryland Consumer Protection Division enforces the Maryland Consumer Protection Act against unfair, abusive, and deceptive trade practices in qualifying transactions. Official guidance confirms complaints can be submitted online through the division's website or by mailing a printable consumer complaint form available on the same page.
This process applies to Maryland-specific consumer issues and excludes matters governed exclusively by federal law, such as those under the FTC Act or Truth in Lending Act. The division provides phone support, including toll-free lines for medical billing and health insurance complaints, listed on the official site.
| Filing Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Online | Use the web form on the Consumer Protection Division page |
| Download, complete, and send the consumer complaint form | |
| [email protected] (business); [email protected] (health/insurance) |
How to File a Complaint
Start by visiting the Consumer Protection Division page to access the online form or download the mail-in version. Provide details about the business, the transaction, the problem encountered, and any evidence like receipts or emails.
After submission, an Attorney General representative reviews the complaint. This may lead to mediation, which depends on voluntary cooperation from the business. No fixed timelines or outcomes are specified in official guidance.
Evidence Checklist
- Business name, address, and contact details
- Date and description of the transaction
- Explanation of the unfair or deceptive practice
- Receipts, contracts, emails, or other records
- Previous attempts to resolve with the business
What Does Not Control This Process
The Maryland AG Consumer Protection Division process differs from federal options like FTC or CFPB complaints, which handle nationwide issues. It is not a substitute for merchant refund policies, credit card chargebacks, or BBB mediation.
Financial services complaints may route through the Maryland Office of Financial Regulation instead. Local processes, such as those in Howard County, do not apply statewide. Private lawsuits under the Maryland Consumer Protection Act require separate legal action with proof of injury.
FAQ
Does filing a complaint guarantee a refund?
No. The division reviews complaints to decide on potential action like mediation; resolution depends on the review and business cooperation.
What issues does it cover?
Unfair, abusive, or deceptive trade practices in Maryland transactions, excluding those solely under federal law.
Can I file online?
Yes, through the Consumer Protection Division website.
What if it's financial or insurance-related?
Use [email protected] for health care or insurance billing; other financial matters may require the Office of Financial Regulation.
Next, check the official Consumer Protection Division page for the latest forms and contacts, and attempt resolution directly with the business first if possible.