Filing a Consumer Complaint in Tennessee

The Division of Consumer Affairs, within the Attorney General's Office, runs an informal complaint mediation program for consumers who live in Tennessee, businesses located in Tennessee, or transactions that occurred in Tennessee. Consumers should contact the business first, then file online (the fastest way) or by mail, fax or email using the printable form. A consumer specialist sends the complaint to the business and asks for a response within 21 days, with a second 14-day notice if needed; the consumer can accept the response or submit a rebuttal. Average mediation takes about 90 days. Complaints are public records. The Division cannot give legal advice or sue only to recover money for an individual.

The Tennessee Consumer Protection Act of 1977 prohibits unfair or deceptive business practices, and the Attorney General's Office enforces it in the name of the State, seeking restitution for consumers who suffered ascertainable losses (though it cannot represent individual consumers). Civil penalties are typically up to $1,000 per violation, rising to up to $10,000 per violation when the victim is 60 or older.