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Independent regulatory agency enforces federal consumer protection and antitrust laws on behalf of the general public.   Investigates complaints regarding unfair, deceptive or anti-competitive business practices. These practices may include: -  False advertising -  Unfair credit practices -  Misleading packaging -  Mail-order problems -  Price fixing    Cannot act on behalf of individual consumers, but collects information from individuals about problems with businesses.   Develops resource guides to help consumers find the appropriate agencies to contact about consumer-related matters. These guides contain lists of nonprofit, state and local agencies for the states in each federal region.   Brochures are available on a wide variety of topics of interest to consumers. Brochures are available in Spanish and English.

Provides regulatory oversight for state-chartered commercial banks, savings and loan associations, savings banks, trust companies, foreign banks, credit unions, payday loan companies and check cashers and sellers. Issues licenses to financial companies operating in Washington. Also provides oversight of mortgage brokers, mortgage loan originators, investment advisers, franchises and securities.  Consumers may file a complaint after contacting the company directly and getting no positive results. Cannot give legal advice, nor recommend attorneys. The agency cannot pursue redress on your behalf. Contact a private attorney who can advise you of your rights.