Credit and Finance

The FTC enforces laws that protect consumers from unfair or deceptive financial practices in lending, loan servicing, debt collection, and debt relief services.  The FTC also takes action against certain illegal practices related to billing, payments, and payment processing, as well as other practices that cause financial harm to consumers.

Credit and Loans

If you extend credit to consumers, are in the business of offering loans, or help companies that do, know your compliance responsibilities.  (Looking for information about credit reports or consumer reports?  Visit Credit Reporting.)

Debt

If you market products or services promising to help consumers with their debts – or assist companies that do – are you up on the rules and laws that apply to your business?  (For resources related to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, visit Debt Collection.)

Debt Collection

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act protects consumers from abusive or harassing treatment by debt collectors and establishes guidelines for the industry.  Is your company complying with the law?

Mortgages

The FTC enforces laws that protect consumers from deceptive mortgage practices by certain kinds of lenders.  The FTC also takes action when companies use illegal tactics directed to people facing foreclosure.  If your company is within the jurisdiction of the FTC, are you complying with the law?

Payments and Billing

Under the law, businesses must take steps to ensure that charges to customers' credit cards, debit cards, phone bills, and other accounts are authorized.  Those principles also apply to mobile payments.  Does your company process payments for others?  There are compliance standards you need to meet, too.  Find out more about resources from the FTC.