File a Complaint
Step-by-step guide to filing an Attorney General complaint about consumer issues, fraud, or business practices
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What Does an Attorney General Do?
Consumer Protection
Attorneys General enforce consumer protection laws, investigate unfair business practices, and help citizens resolve disputes with businesses.
Learn more →Fraud Investigation
AG offices investigate and prosecute consumer fraud, identity theft, scams targeting vulnerable populations, and deceptive trade practices.
Learn more →Legal Representation
State Attorneys General represent the state in legal matters, defend state laws, and can file lawsuits on behalf of consumers.
Learn more →Top Scams by Reported Losses
US consumers reported losing $12.5 billion to fraud in 2024, a 25% jump over 2023, according to the FTC's Consumer Sentinel Network. The categories below are ranked by reported losses in that dataset. Where a figure comes from the FBI's separate IC3 report it is labeled as such — the two agencies collect reports differently, so their totals overlap and should not be added together.
📈 Investment Scams
$5.7 billion (FTC, 2024) - The single largest category by losses. Fake trading platforms, Ponzi and pyramid schemes, and "guaranteed return" offers promoted through social media.
Spot investment fraud →🎭 Imposter Scams
$2.95 billion (FTC, 2024) - Second by losses and the most-reported category overall. Covers anyone posing as the government, a known business, tech support, or a romantic interest.
Verify who's really calling →💰 Cryptocurrency Fraud
$9.3 billion (FBI IC3, 2024) - Counted separately from the FTC totals above. Crypto is the payment rail behind many investment and "pig butchering" romance schemes, and transfers are effectively irreversible.
Identify crypto fraud →💘 Romance Scams
$823 million (FTC, 2024) - Reported within the imposter total above. Scammers build a relationship over weeks or months, then ask for money for emergencies, travel, or investments.
Recognize the signs →🏛️ Government Impersonation
$789 million (FTC, 2024) - Also within the imposter total. Scammers pose as the IRS, Social Security Administration, or Medicare and threaten arrest or loss of benefits.
Verify real contact →🤖 AI Impersonation
Fastest-growing tactic - Crypto sent to impersonation-scam wallets rose over 1,400% in 2025 (Chainalysis). Deepfake video and cloned voices now make impersonation far harder to detect.
How to protect yourself →Popular State Attorney General Offices
How to File an Attorney General Complaint
Filing a complaint with your state Attorney General is free and can help resolve consumer issues. Here's the process:
- Gather documentation: Receipts, contracts, emails, photos, and any written communications with the business
- Try to resolve directly: Contact the business first and document all attempts to resolve the issue
- Find your state's complaint form: Visit your state AG's website or use our state directory
- Complete the complaint: Provide detailed information about what happened, when, and the resolution you're seeking
- Submit supporting documents: Upload or mail copies of all relevant documentation
- Wait for review: Most AG offices respond within 30-60 days, though complex cases may take longer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it free to file an Attorney General complaint?
Yes. Filing a consumer complaint with your state Attorney General is free in every state. You never have to pay to submit a complaint or to have it reviewed.
How long does an Attorney General complaint take?
Most offices acknowledge a complaint within a few days and work toward a response in about 30 to 60 days. Complaints that involve mediation or a broader investigation can take longer.
Will the Attorney General get my money back?
Not always. The Attorney General represents the public interest, not individual consumers, but many offices will try to mediate a refund with the business. To recover money directly, you may also consider small claims court.
Should I complain to the Attorney General, the FTC, or the CFPB?
It depends on the problem. State Attorneys General handle most local consumer disputes, the FTC tracks fraud nationwide, and the CFPB focuses on banks, loans, and credit. See our guide on where to file your complaint.
What does a state Attorney General actually do?
A state Attorney General is the chief legal officer of the state. For consumers, the office enforces consumer protection laws, investigates fraud and scams, and can sue businesses that break the law. Learn more about what AGs do.
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