North Carolina consumers who suspect price gouging during a governor-declared state of emergency report it to the North Carolina Department of Justice (NC DOJ) Consumer Protection Division. Call 1-877-5-NO-SCAM or submit online at ncdoj.gov/pricegouging. The state's price gouging law applies only during such emergencies and prohibits businesses from charging unreasonably excessive prices to increase profit. Businesses may raise prices to cover rising costs if they disclose increases before purchase, per NC DOJ guidance.
This process does not guarantee refunds, investigations, or penalties, and it is separate from merchant refunds or credit card disputes. Gather evidence like receipts, photos of prices, and comparisons before reporting.
When Does NC Price Gouging Law Apply?
North Carolina’s price gouging law takes effect only upon a governor's declaration of a state of emergency, as confirmed by the NC DOJ in guidance for events like Hurricane Erin in 2025. Outside these periods, the law does not apply.
The law targets prices that are unreasonably excessive under the circumstances. Businesses cannot use emergencies to raise prices primarily for profit. They may increase prices to offset rising costs, but must disclose any such reasonable increases to customers before the purchase. Official guidance does not specify percentage thresholds for what counts as excessive.
| Trigger | Applies? | Examples from Official Guidance |
|---|---|---|
| Governor-declared state of emergency (e.g., hurricanes) | Yes | Hurricane Erin (2025) |
| No emergency declared | No | Everyday pricing or cost-based increases |
| Disclosed cost-offset increases | Allowed if reasonable | Must inform customer pre-purchase |
How to File a Price Gouging Complaint in NC
Contact the NC DOJ Consumer Protection Division using these official channels:
- Phone: 1-877-5-NO-SCAM
- Online: ncdoj.gov/pricegouging
- Email: [email protected]
Provide details of the suspected violation, including the business name, product, price charged, date, location, and any comparable prices from before the emergency. Include supporting evidence such as receipts, advertisements, photos, or screenshots. No filing fees or strict deadlines appear in official guidance.
Evidence Checklist
- Receipt or proof of purchase
- Photos or screenshots of advertised price
- Comparisons to pre-emergency or nearby prices
- Date of purchase and emergency declaration
- Business contact details and location
What This Process Does Not Cover
The NC price gouging complaint process addresses only violations during declared emergencies under state law. It does not cover:
- Merchant refund requests or credit card billing disputes
- Pricing outside emergency periods
- General consumer complaints unrelated to excessive emergency pricing
- Federal rules or laws from other states
Businesses may justify some price increases tied to costs, so not every hike qualifies as gouging. Reporting prompts NC DOJ review but does not create a private right to refunds.
FAQ
Is NC price gouging law always in effect?
No, it applies only during a governor-declared state of emergency.
What counts as price gouging?
Charging unreasonably excessive prices under the circumstances to increase profit, per NC DOJ guidance. Businesses may cover rising costs with disclosed increases.
Will reporting get me a refund?
Reporting triggers NC DOJ review; official guidance does not specify automatic refunds.
What if it's not during an emergency?
The law does not apply. Consider merchant policies or other consumer options instead.