2012 Consumer Action Handbook

This everyday guide to being a smart shopper is full of helpful tips about preventing identity theft, understanding credit, filing a consumer complaint, and more. Use the margins to make notes, write questions, or record other useful information. The information and resources you’ll need are arranged as follows:

Part I—Be A Savvy Consumer
Read this section for advice before you make a purchase. To quickly locate specific topics and information, look in the Table of Contents and Index (p. 147).

Part II—Filing a Complaint
Turn to this section for suggestions on resolving consumer problems. The sample complaint letter on page 57 will help you present your case.

Part III—Key Information Resources
Look here for a list of public resources and contact information.

Part IV—Consumer Assistance Directory
Here you’ll find contact information for corporate offices, consumer organizations, trade groups, government agencies, and more.