How to File a Complaint

The Department of Financial Protection and Innovation’s toll-free telephone number to discuss a possible complaint is (866) 275-2677. You may call this number to discuss your problem and determine if your concern is an issue that should be addressed to the Department or another agency. Once it is determined that the DFPI is the appropriate agency to handle your complaint, a complaint form will be sent to you, or you may download the complaint form from our website.

If the company or person that is the subject of your complaint is licensed or registered with the Department, we will contact the licensee or registrant after receiving your completed complaint form and request the information and documents needed to complete an independent review of the complaint. The Department also requires the licensee or registrant involved to investigate and respond to both you and the Department regarding the concerns raised in the complaint.

If the company or person that is the subject of your complaint is not licensed or registered with the Department, the Department will review your complaint and determine if any action is appropriate concerning the unlicensed entity.

Please keep in mind that as an administrative agency, the Department represents the people of the State of California, not individual complainants, so we cannot act as your attorney. If the circumstances of your complaint require legal action, you may wish to consult an attorney.