Bankruptcy Basics
General facts about D.C. bankruptcy laws, including information about deciding whether to file, how to file and alternatives to bankruptcy.
Consumer Rights and Making a Consumer Complaint in DC
A comprehensive self-help site covering many topics such as identify theft, student aid, complaints, scams, credit, debt collection, and more. An online form to submit a consumer complaint to the D.C. Office of the Attorney General can be found at the linked website. The Office of the Attorney General does not represent individual consumers; however, the information you submit will help them determine whether there is a pattern or practice by a business that warrants investigation or possible legal action.
Credit Reports
Information about credit reports -- what they're used for, how to correct mistakes, and how to get free reports.
Fact Sheet: Know Your Rights With Credit
As a DC consumer, you have rights when dealing with debt collectors and credit. To protect those rights when they are threatened, it is important that you act or get help. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:
File a Complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
If you have a problem with a bank, credit card company, or other financial institution, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, a federal agency created in the wake of the 2008-09 financial crisis to protect consumer rights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chapter 7 Bankruptcy and Home Foreclosure
This FAQ provides general information about how a D.C. resident’s bankruptcy filing affects the foreclosure of homes in the District of Columbia. This FAQ does not apply to rental or investment properties or to any home that is not used as the bankruptcy filer’s primary residence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Utility Bills and Bankruptcy
These FAQs discuss how filing bankruptcy can impact your household utilities if you are behind on your bills.
Information About Credit Counseling and Courses for Debtors
Information about how to choose a trustworthy credit counseling program.
Information about Debt Collection Practices
If you use credit cards, owe money on a personal loan, or are paying on a home mortgage, you are a "debtor." If you fall behind in repaying your creditors, or an error is made on your accounts, you may be contacted by a "debt collector." Many people are unable to pay their debts on time, and debt is not always within your control. A federal law, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, requires that debt collectors treat you fairly, and doesn't allow certain kinds of debt collection. Of course, the law does not erase any legitimate debt you owe. In addition to the federal law, D.C. has its own debt collection law, D.C. Code §28-3814.
Protecting Your Disability Benefits from Creditors
Brief information on obtaining benefits and step-by-step information on how to protect your benefits from creditors.
Reverse Mortgages
A reverse mortgage is a loan against your home that you do not have to pay back for as long as you live in your home. With a reverse mortgage, you can turn the value of your home into cash and not have to make monthly repayments. The total loan must be paid back when the last surviving borrower dies, sells the home, or permanently moves away. Reverse mortgages are quite a bit different from other types of debt. These loans can be complicated, and you have a lot at stake. So be sure to investigate reverse mortgages carefully before deciding if one makes sense for you.
Student Aid Information
General information about repayment, payment relief, disputes and other frequently asked questions, including a scam alert.