Last Updated on Thursday, 19 January 2012 15:11

The Department of Consumer Protection fights hard to ensure a fair and equitable marketplace for consumers. You may call us at (914) 995-2155 if you need assistance.

With the tax season here, look at possible tax credits for which you may be eligible and other tax programs that give you back money or reduce your taxes, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Using a tax preparer? Need your refund sooner rather than later? Be wary of “refund anticipation loans” (RALs) and “Refund Anticipation Checks” (RACs).

Check out our comprehensive financial education section, with the downturn in the economy and the housing crisis you may find helpful information. View these short videos on personal financial management skills.

Another initiative is Senior Crime Busters. This one-hour, elder fraud protection program, which is available to your group, provides tips on how seniors can stay safe and avoid financial exploitation. Senior citizens should also beware of the "grandson" scam.

We have so much going on:

• Looking to join a health club? Read our tips before you sign up.
• Take simple steps to avoid A.T.M. fraud.
• Home heating oil information

• Gas saving tips can help you alleviate the pain at gas stations.

• Energy efficiency measures can help you save on energy costs and protect the environment.  
• Changes to the item pricing law will protect consumers and offer business relief from price marking every item individually. Amendments allowing for waivers of the county’s item pricing law took effect on June 27, 2010. Business owners can complete an item pricing waiver application and forward it to the Department of Consumer Protection.
• Read about consumer protections under the Credit Card Accountability Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009 (“CARD”).
• County restricts sale and use of phosphorous fertilizer.  
• Phosphorous fertilizer law has specific requirements for landscapers and persons and businesses which sell fertilizer. 
• Home improvement contractors are #1 on our “Top 10 List” of consumer complaints. We continue to crack down on unlicensed contractors, enforcing a law that allows the county police to seize the assets of these contractors. Do your homework before you hire a home improvement contractor and avoid problems with home improvements. Find out if the contractor is licensed and avoid hiring renegade renovators. 
• First-time home improvement applicant must pass a written exam prior to submitting a license application.
• Check licensing information for electricians and plumbers before you hire one.
• File a complaint online or by mail in English or Spanish if you have a problem.
• Vea información en español.