Connecticut Consumer Resources
If you live in Connecticut, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of state resources for you. These highlight various programs and organizations put in place in Connecticut’s state government that might prove helpful to you. If you are searching for more information on state agencies, legal information, health, educational, or financial resources, this is a great place to start.
The links below will provide you with a basic overview of what the site has to offer, along with any necessary contact information.
STATE AGENCIES
Attorney General – This is a good one stop shop for many consumer needs. You can read up on current consumer issues, as well as news and announcements for product recalls. You can fill out a form if you have had problems with a product or service. You may also view any press releases from the Attorney General’s office.
Insurance Department – Any questions you could have about any insurance provider in Connecticut can be found here. Whether you’re just looking for general information or you’re looking to verify a license, the resources are available here. You can conduct searches for almost any type of insurance, and can even report an issue on the site if necessary.
Public Utilities – Find more information about the utilities you are using in Connecticut. You can find energy efficiency information on how to make your bills lower. You can report issues with a utilities provider. You can also discover your rights and responsibilities as a utilities consumer. You can reach the department at 1-800-382-4586.
LEGAL RESOURCES
Small Claims Court – If you are looking to pursue a small claims court case, this site should prove helpful to you. You can view cost limits, as well as legal proceedings involved in the case. You can also find out different provisions that Connecticut allows for its legal system.
EDUCATION
Department of Education – If you are in search of any educational resources, the Department of Education probably has the answers. You can read about various programs and organizations, or learn about upcoming educational events put on by the department. There are special resources specifically for teachers, parents, and students.
FINANCIAL
Department of Social Services – Through this website you will find resources that provide financial assistance to those who qualify. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families is a program that is highlighted on the site. Details about other programs are highlighted, as well as requirements are listed in order to be eligible for assistance.
HEALTH
Department of Public Health – General health information can be found here. Health reform links outlining the changes are available on the site. You can view laws and regulations, as well as information provided to the public on this site. You can also do an alphabetical search for any article subject in health care you might want to know more about.
Office of the Healthcare Advocate – This site will give you resources on providers and health plans available to you. You can review the health laws and even find a plan that fits you. News release concerning health care plans and developments are highlighted on the front page. You can also call 1-866-HMO-4446 to reach the office directly.
SAFETY
Department of Public Safety – This resource serves to protect the public. Available on this site is sex offender registry, reports and records, and emergency telecommunications links. You can also explore the state police or fire marshal jobs through this website.
EMPLOYMENT
Job & Volunteer Opportunities – Get involved in the community and the workforce through resources found on this site. You can find volunteer opportunities as well as employment openings by navigating through the links. If you’re new to town, or looking for a job, this is a great website to visit.
Employment Connection – Through this resource, you can learn how to get a state job, view state examinations, and test preparation guides. State agency jobs are posted in the website. You can view employee benefits and FAQs concerning exams and jobs. You can also download and employment application through the site.
Contact Connecticut State & Local Consumer Agencies
State and local consumer protection offices mediate disputes, conduct investigations, prosecute offenders of consumer laws, license and regulate a variety of professionals, promote strong consumer protection legislation, provide educational materials and advocate in the consumer interest. To save time, call the office before sending in a written report. Ask if the office handles the type of problem you have and if forms are provided.
State Offices
Mark Shiffrin, Commissioner
Department of Consumer Protection
165 Capitol Avenue
Hartford, CT 06106
860-566-2534
Toll free in CT: 1-800-842-2649
Fax: 860-566-1531
Web site: www.state.ct.us/dcp/
Steven M. Rutstein
Assistant Attorney General
Antitrust/Consumer Protection
Office of Attorney General
110 Sherman Street
Hartford, CT 06105
860-808-5400
Fax: 860-808-5593
Web site: www.cslnet.ctstateu.edu/attygenl
City Office
Philip Cacciola, Director
Middletown Office of Consumer Protection
245 DeKoven Drive
Middletown, CT 06457
860-344-3491
TDD: 860-344-3521
Fax: 860-344-0136
State Banking Regulators
The officials listed below regulate and supervise state-chartered banks. Many of them handle or refer problems about other types of financial institutions as well. Some also answer general questions about banking and consumer credit. If you are dealing with a federally chartered bank, check the listing of Selected Federal Agencies.
John P. Burke
Banking Commissioner
Connecticut Department of Banking
260 Constitution Plaza
Hartford, CT 06103
860-240-8100
Toll free in CT: 1-800-831-7225
Fax: 860-240-8178
E-mail: john.burke@po.state.ct.us
Web site: www.state.ct.us/dob
State Insurance Regulators
Each state has its own laws and regulations for all types of insurance, including car, homeowner and health insurance. The officials listed below enforce these laws. Many of these offices can provide you with information to help you make informed insurance buying decisions.
Raymond T. Claytor
Director, Consumer Affairs, Department of Insurance
P.O. Box 816
Hartford, CT 06142-0816
860-297-3800
George M. Reider, Jr.
Commissioner, Department of Insurance
P.O. Box 816
Hartford, CT 06142-0816
860-297-3800
Toll free: 1-800-203-3447
Fax: 860-297-3872
E-mail: gail.perry@pl.state.ct.us
Web site: www.state.ct.us/cid