Vermont Consumer Resources

Vermont residents, are you looking for resources on local information? Our webpage can help you. We have compiled a comprehensive list of state resources that will point you in the direction of answers to your inquiry. If you’re looking for state agencies, legal resources, educational, financial, health, or employment-related sites, you can find links on them here.

Below is a summary of what each link has to offer. Any necessary contact information is also provided.

STATE AGENCIES

Attorney General – The Attorney General is dedicated to protecting consumers and residents of Vermont. You can register on the Do Not Call list. Get information on fundraisers and charity events. You can visit the debt adjuster links or report an issue. You can also reach the office at (802) 828-3171.

Department of Public Service – This department oversees public utilities companies to ensure they are providing consumers with safe and affordable services, and operating within Vermont law. You can get information on industries and companies. Read about ways to increase energy efficiency to save money. Consumers can also report problems through the website.

LEGAL RESOURCES

Small Claims Court – Are you wanting to pursue a small claims court case in Vermont? Our article will help provide you with basic information you will need to get started. Read statutes and find out where you can sue. Learn court cost limits and attorney requirements. You can also read special provisions in Vermont law here.

Lemon Law – Is your newly purchased vehicle acting up? You may have a lemon. Read about Vermont’s lemon laws without ever having to leave our website. You can get an overview of the statute. Our interview with a Department of Motor Vehicles advisor will also provide you a step-by-step process to get you out of your lemon.

EDUCATION

Department of Education – Get information on Vermont’s educational system through this website. You can read about news developments with the Board. Get school data and reports. Students can view higher learning institutions and learn about high school graduation requirements. You can contact the office at (802) 828-3135.

HEALTH

Health Care Reform – Read about Vermont’s Health Care Reform program here. You can learn what all the law includes. Read about cost changes since it was passed and how it affects Vermont’s residents. Get Medicaid information and learn about other health incentives.

Department of Health - Get general health information from this website. You can find out about immunizations and health workshops going on around the area. Learn more about health insurance programs, and disease prevention. You can reach the department at 800-464-4343.

EMPLOYMENT

Department of Labor – You can look for Vermont jobs through this department. Post your resume or conduct a general search. Employers can find potential employees and post a job. Unemployed residents can file for insurance. You can reach the office at 802-828-4000.

Contact Vermont 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
John Hasen
Assistant Attorney General and Chief
Public Protection Division
Office of the Attorney General
109 State Street
Montpelier, VT 05609-1001
802-828-5507
Fax: 802-828-2154
E-mail: jhasen@ag10.atg.state.vt.us

Bruce Martell, Supervisor
Consumer Assurance Section
Department of Agriculture, Food and Market
116 State Street
Montpelier, VT 05602
802-828-2436
Fax: 802-828-2361

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.

Elizabeth R. Costle
Commissioner, Banking, Insurance, Securities and Health Care Administration
89 Main Street
Drawer 20
Montpelier, VT 05620-3101
802-828-3301
Fax: 802-828-3306
Web site: www.state.vt.us/bis

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.

Elizabeth R. Costle
Commissioner, Department of Banking, Insurance, Securities and Health Care Administration
89 Main Street
Drawer 20
Montpelier, VT 05620-3101
802-828-3302
Fax: 802-828-3301
Web site: www.state.vt.us/bis

Sources include the Consumer's Resource Handbook, U.S. General Services Administration. We welcome updates and corrections. Please address the Webmaster.