West Virginia Consumer Resources
West Virginians – if you are looking for state resources, we can help you. We have compiled a list of helpful links that will aide in your inquiry. Whether 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 –Read about different programs implemented in West Virginia designed to protect consumers and families. You can read more about the senior citizens help programs. Get information on recalls. You can also visit the consumer links to report problems. You can contact the office at 1-800-368-8808.
Public Service Commission – This commission is dedicated to protecting utilities consumers, and ensuring that companies are providing safe and affordable services and operating within West Virginia law. Read about cases, or news developments from the commissioners. Request assistance or report an issue. You can contact the office at 1-800-344-5113.
LEGAL RESOURCES
Small Claims Court – Looking for small claims court information? We’ve provided all the basics through this article. You can read statutes and find out court cost limits. Learn about appeal processes and attorney requirements. Discover special provisions in West Virginia’s law.
Lemon Law – Get information on WV’s lemon laws here. You can get an overview on the qualities needed to deem a vehicle a lemon. Our article also includes a step-by-step process of what to do if your vehicle is a lemon. Numbers to the Consumer Protection Hotline are available.
EDUCATION
Department of Education & the Arts – Get information on the educational system of West Virginia through this website. You can view upcoming events or developing news. Read about grants and programs the State is funding. You can contact the office at (304) 558-2440.
HEALTH
Children's Health Program – Read about the specialized care West Virginia is dedicating to its little residents. You can find out which services are covered under the program. Learn about co-payments and eligibility. Find out what programs you can apply for.
SAFETY
Identity Theft – If you suspect you are a victim of identity theft, or know someone who is, this website is a helpful tool. You can get tips on how to protect yourself from identity theft. Learn about what actions you can take if you are a victim. You can also report identity theft through this website.
EMPLOYMENT
West Virginia Workforce – Learn about employment opportunities through this website. Job seekers can conduct a general inquiry for jobs through the database. Employers can post openings on the website. You can also visit additional links to find out about opportunities to further your education through here.
Contact West Virginia 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
Jill Miles
Deputy Attorney General
Consumer Protection Division
Office of the Attorney General
812 Quarrier Street, 6th Floor
P.O. Box 1789
Charleston, WV 25326-1789
304-558-8986
Toll free in WV: 1-800-368-8808
Fax: 304-558-0184
Karl Angell, Jr., Director
Division of Weights and Measures
570 MacCorkle Avenue
St. Albans, WV 25177
304 722-0602
Fax: 304-722-0605
City Office
Nemo Nearman, Director
City of Charleston
Department of Consumer Protection
P.O. Box 2749
Charleston, WV 25330
304-348-6439
Fax: 304-348-8157
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.
Sharon Bias
Commissioner of Banking, State Capitol Complex
Building 3, Room 311
1900 Kanawha Blvd. East
Charleston, WV 25305-0240
304-558-2294
Toll free in WV: 1-800-642-9056
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.
Hanley C. Clark
Commissioner, Department of Insurance
1124 Smith St. (25301)
P.O.Box 50540
Charleston, WV 25305-0540
304-558-3354
Toll free in WV: 1-800-642-9004
Fax: 304-558-0412
Sources include the Consumer's Resource Handbook, U.S. General Services Administration. We welcome updates and corrections. Please address the Webmaster.