Military Consumer Protection

The Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Section investigates and prosecutes businesses that engage in deceptive practices targeting members of the armed forces, their families, and our veterans. We are in regular contact with our sister law enforcement agencies, and with military legal assistance attorneys and financial counselors throughout California.

Helpful information on military consumer protection issues including scam alerts, and resources and tips regarding financial readiness, are available from the Federal Trade Commission, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and DOD Military OneSource.

You can report misconduct by a business by submitting a complaint to our office. You may also submit a complaint to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or, in cases regarding consumer financial products or services, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Military legal assistance offices and financial counselors are encouraged to send case referrals directly to the California Attorney General’s Office, Consumer Protection Section, 455 Golden Gate, Suite 11000, San Francisco, CA 94102-7004.

If you are a service member in need of legal help, please contact an armed forces legal assistance office. A list of offices is available at the Armed Forces Legal Assistance Locator Web Site. Members of the California National Guard may contact the Legal Support Command. If you are not eligible for armed forces legal assistance, go to our Attorneys/Lawyers page for information on how to find a lawyer or a legal aid organization. Additional information can be accessed from the State Bar of California or at LawHelpCA.org. Let them know if you are active military, family of active military, or a veteran.

Military members may also access financial counseling services through their local Army Community Service, Fleet and Family Support (Navy), Airman and Family Readiness (Air Force), Marine Corps Community Services, Coast Guard Work-Life Program, or National Guard Financial Management Awareness Program.