ALBANY- The state Office of Consumer Services assisted 276,000 New York households with a variety of consumer protection matters returning nearly $9.7 million to consumers in 2023.
Nearly 25,000 investigations were conducted along with 26,137 consumer complaints handled during the year, resulting in the return of millions to consumers.
“We are putting money back in the pockets of hard-working New Yorkers who have been victims of a scam or overcharged by their utilities,” said Governor Kathy Hochul. “My administration has made a tremendous effort to respond to thousands of complaints and return millions of dollars to New York households. We will continue working to protect consumers and hold dishonest businesses accountable.”
The top categories of consumer complaints include complaints related to refunds and store policies, the order and delivery of goods purchased, merchandise or products that did not meet consumers’ expectations, erroneous charges, billing, card benefits and illegal surcharges on credit cards, and complaints related to home improvement, repair services, and contractors.
To file consumer complaints against a utility or to receive more consumer services information, go to http://www.dps.ny.gov/
