You can file a complaint about businesses in New York City that buy or sell used items except for books and pianos. 

Some complaint types include:

  • Overcharge
  • Prices not posted
  • Receipt or pawn ticket incorrect or not given
  • Receipts that don’t state the item is used
  • Damaged or defective items
  • Refusing an exchange, return, or refund
  • Required signs not posted (complaint, contact information, credit card limit)

What Happens Next

If you don't include your address or email with your Service Request, you won't receive follow up. The Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) will consider your complaint a tip.

If you include your address, DCWP will mail you a complaint form. You must complete and return it to DCWP. If you provide your email address, you'll get the form by email instead. Check your spam folder if you don't see it in your inbox.

Before buying catalytic converters, secondhand dealers must get this information from the seller:

  • Year, make, model, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of the vehicle from which the converter was removed
  • Copy of the Certificate of Title from the previous owner of the converter
  • Determination that the converter matches the manufacturer’s specifications

Secondhand dealers must keep an electronic record of this information for six years.

You can file a complaint about a secondhand dealer that does not follow these legal requirements.

By Email

Email your complaint to consumers@dcwp.nyc.gov. Please be as specific as possible.

By Phone

Call 311 or 212-NEW-YORK (212-639-9675) to report the problem.

The Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) does not accept reports of rude employees. Report this type of complaint to the business.

For reports of discrimination, go to the Discrimination page.

The New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) can help you with complaints about businesses in New York City. For complaints about businesses elsewhere, contact the local consumer affairs office or the State Attorney General.

Online

Learn how to file a complaint about a business outside of NYC.

By Phone

  • Agency: Nassau County Consumer Affairs
  • Phone Number: (516) 571-2600
  • Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 9 AM - 5 PM

  • Agency: Suffolk County Consumer Affairs
  • Phone Number: (631) 853-4600
  • Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 9 AM - 5 PM

  • Agency: Westchester County Department of Consumer Protection
  • Phone Number: (914) 995-2155
  • Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 9 AM - 5 PM

  • Agency: New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs
  • Phone Number: (973) 504-6200
  • Business Hours: Monday - Friday: 9 AM - 5 PM

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