Virginia residents can file consumer complaints with the Virginia Attorney General's Consumer Protection Section using the online form, email at [email protected], phone hotline, or mail to 202 North 9th Street, Richmond, VA 23219. Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. This process addresses suspected violations of the Virginia Consumer Protection Act (VCPA), Code § 59.1-196 et seq., which prohibits fraudulent acts and practices by suppliers in consumer transactions. The section reviews complaints, provides assistance, and may mediate disputes or refer to other agencies. It does not guarantee refunds, replace merchant refund policies, credit card disputes, or small claims court, and relies on voluntary supplier cooperation.

Virginia Consumer Protection Act and AG Role

The Virginia Consumer Protection Act (VCPA), Code § 59.1-196 et seq., sets standards for fair practices in consumer transactions by prohibiting specified fraudulent acts by suppliers. The Attorney General's Consumer Protection Section enforces this law through complaint reviews and investigations.

The section handles complaints by assigning them for review, offering dispute resolution where possible, or referring to appropriate agencies. This focuses on state-level consumer protection under VCPA, separate from federal processes like the FTC.

How to File a Complaint

Use the official online complaint form at the Virginia AG Consumer Protection page. Alternatively, email [email protected], call the Consumer Protection Hotline during 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday, or mail to 202 North 9th Street, Richmond, VA 23219.

Prepare details like transaction records before submitting.

What Does Not Control AG Complaints

AG complaints under VCPA do not cover merchant refund policies, credit card billing disputes, financed purchases, or private lawsuits like small claims court. Price gouging for motor fuels goes to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, not the AG. Medicare fraud reports go to 1-800-HHS-TIPS. This process stays within Virginia state law and does not mix with federal FTC procedures.

Practical Next Steps and Evidence

Gather evidence such as receipts, correspondence with the supplier, transaction details, and dates before filing. Submit via the official channels above. The AG section will review the complaint, but outcomes depend on the case and supplier response--mediation requires voluntary participation.

If the AG process does not resolve the issue, consider separate private options like small claims for amounts under applicable limits, but confirm eligibility independently.

FAQ

Does filing an AG complaint guarantee a refund?
No, it triggers review or possible mediation but relies on voluntary supplier cooperation.

What types of issues does the Virginia AG handle?
Suspected VCPA violations like fraudulent supplier practices in consumer transactions.

Can I file anonymously?
Check the official form; identity may be needed for follow-up.

What if my issue involves federal law?
Consider FTC separately; Virginia AG focuses on state VCPA.

Are there fees to file a complaint?
No fees are mentioned in official guidance.