Montana Consumer Resources
Living in the Treasure State? This page can provide you with up-to-date state resource information. Whether you’re looking for content on Montana’s state agencies, legal resources, financial, health, educational, or employment specifics, our comprehensive list can provide you with answers you are looking for.
Below is a list of links to help you on your search, along with a summary of what each site has to offer. Any necessary contact information is also provided.
STATE AGENCIES
Attorney General – This website is dedicated to protecting the residents of Montana. You can read about crime prevention, legal services offered through Montana’s court system, or view the sex offender registry list. Learn the Missing Persons program and Children’s Justice Center. The Consumer Protection link, you can view common scams and news. To contact the division directly, you can call (406) 444-2026.
Securities & Insurance – This organization oversees insurance companies to ensure that they operating within the law. Here you can get more information on different insurance companies and agents. You can report an insurance problem or fraud. You can also contact the office at (406) 444-2040.
LEGAL RESOURCES
Small Claims Court – Get more insight on Montana’s legal system through this article about its small claims court. Learn more about court cost limits and where to sue. Find out attorney requirements and appeal processes. You can also read about special provisions in Montana law.
Lemon Law – If you think you’ve bought a lemon in Montana, this page will help you get the facts you need to file a claim. Discover what requirements must be met to classify a lemon. Read a short interview with the Consumer Protection department to find out what steps can be taken to get you out of your lemon. Contact information is also provided.
EDUCATIONAL
Montana Education – This site provides information on different school organizations and programs. You can follow links to visit the Board of Education. You can visit specialty school websites and take a look at different child education programs and funds. High school students can also search college campuses in the state.
FINANCIAL
Division of Banking & Financial Institutions – Get information on banking and financial institutions through this website. The division oversees that financial organizations are operating within Montana law. You can learn how to investigate mortgage brokers, and how to prevent foreclosure. A list of all licensees is also available under the Consumer Information link.
Financial Assistance – Read about financial assistance programs and projects for the agriculture industry in the state of Montana. Get information on current grants and what they provide. You can also see an overview of loans offered.
HEALTH CARE
Department of Public Health & Human Services – Get general health information through this website. The department offers news articles and advisories for up-to-date health issues. New links to child protective service background checks are available. You can also apply for food stamps, child care, and Medicaid among other things.
SAFETY
Identity Theft – This website outlines one of the most prevalent reported crimes in the United States. You can learn more about how identities can be stolen, and what you can do to protect yourself from it. Read about common scams. You can also get information on the 10 steps of how to get your identity back.
EMPLOYMENT
Department of Labor & Industry – This organization represents the Montana workforce, and their rights and responsibilities. You can read about unemployment benefits and minimum wage laws. Links to job openings are available for those looking for employment.
Employment Opportunities – This website outlines additional employment opportunities for Montana residents. Veterans can find special services. Prospective educators can follow links to find teaching opportunities. You can also navigate to find state and federal jobs available.
Contact Montana State & Local Consumer Agencies
State and local consumer protection offices mediate issues, 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 Office
Annie Bartos, Chief Legal Counsel
Consumer Affairs Unit
Department of Commerce
1424 Ninth Avenue
Box 200501
Helena, MT 59620-0501
406-444-4312
Fax: 406-444-2903
State Banking Regulators
The officials listed below regulate and supervise state-chartered banks. Many of them handle or refer problems and complaints 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.
Donald Hutchinson
Commissioner, Financial Institutions
846 Front Street
P.O. Box 200546
Helena, MT 59620-0546
406-444-2091
Fax: 406-444-4186
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.
Mark O'Keefe
Commissioner, Department of Insurance
126 North Sanders, Mitchell Bldg., Room 270
P.O. Box 4009 (59604-4009)
Helena, MT 59620
406-444-2040
Toll free in MT: 1-800-332-6148
Fax: 406-444-3497