Filing a Consumer Complaint in Illinois
How to report a business to the Illinois Attorney General or consumer agency, and your rights under the state's consumer protection law.
Short answer: File a consumer complaint with the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division, preferably through the online submission form; printable forms can also be mailed. Illinois Attorney General, File a Complaint
| Filing a complaint | File a consumer complaint with the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division, preferably through the online submission form; printable forms can also be mailed. The office offers informal dispute resolution (mediation) for consumer complaints but cannot represent individuals privately. Consumer hotlines: Chicago 1-800-386-5438, Springfield 1-800-243-0618. |
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| Unfair and deceptive practices law | The Illinois Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act (815 ILCS 505) prohibits unfair or deceptive acts in trade or commerce. Anyone who suffers actual damage from a violation can sue; the court may award actual economic damages, injunctive or other relief, and reasonable attorney's fees and costs to the prevailing party. Punitive damages are limited against vehicle dealers unless the conduct was willful with evil motive or reckless indifference. Suits must be filed within 3 years. Source: 815 ILCS 505/10a |
Where to get help in Illinois
More Illinois consumer protection
- The Lemon Law in Illinois
- Your Right to Cancel a Purchase in Illinois
- Contractors and Repair Shops in Illinois
- All Illinois consumer protection rules
FAQ
How do you file a consumer complaint in Illinois?
File a consumer complaint with the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division, preferably through the online submission form; printable forms can also be mailed. The office offers informal dispute resolution (mediation) for consumer complaints but cannot represent individuals privately. Consumer hotlines: Chicago 1-800-386-5438, Springfield 1-800-243-0618.
What is the consumer protection law in Illinois?
The Illinois Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act (815 ILCS 505) prohibits unfair or deceptive acts in trade or commerce. Anyone who suffers actual damage from a violation can sue; the court may award actual economic damages, injunctive or other relief, and reasonable attorney's fees and costs to the prevailing party. Punitive damages are limited against vehicle dealers unless the conduct was willful with evil motive or reckless indifference. Suits must be filed within 3 years.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.