What is the CFPB?
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is a U.S. government agency created in 2011 after the 2008 financial crisis. It's dedicated solely to protecting consumers in the financial marketplace.
Unlike other regulators that focus on the safety of financial institutions, the CFPB focuses on you—making sure companies treat you fairly and follow the law.
💡 By the Numbers
The CFPB has handled over 4 million consumer complaints since 2011 and returned over $17.5 billion to consumers harmed by illegal practices.
What the CFPB Does for You
1. Writes and Enforces Rules
The CFPB creates regulations for mortgages, credit cards, student loans, and other financial products. Companies must follow these rules or face penalties.
2. Supervises Financial Companies
The CFPB examines banks, credit unions, payday lenders, debt collectors, and mortgage servicers to ensure compliance with consumer protection laws.
3. Handles Complaints
This is the big one! When you file a complaint, the CFPB forwards it to the company, which must respond within 15 days. Most complaints get a response within 2 weeks.
4. Provides Free Education
The CFPB offers free tools and resources on topics like mortgages, student loans, and avoiding scams.
How to File a Complaint
The CFPB complaint process is one of the most effective tools consumers have. Here's how it works:
Go to the CFPB Complaint Portal
Visit consumerfinance.gov/complaint
Select the Product Type
Credit card, bank account, mortgage, student loan, debt collection, etc.
Describe What Happened
Be specific about dates, amounts, and what you've already tried
Name the Company
The CFPB will forward your complaint directly to them
State What You Want
A refund? An explanation? Your desired resolution helps the company respond
📝 File a Complaint Now
Having an issue with a bank, credit card, loan, or other financial product?
File CFPB Complaint →What Happens After You Complain
Companies take CFPB complaints seriously because:
- They must respond — Usually within 15 days
- The CFPB tracks everything — Too many complaints can trigger an investigation
- Complaints are public — You can search the complaint database and see how companies respond
📊 Success Rate
About 98% of complaints get a response from the company. Many result in refunds, fee waivers, or account corrections that customers couldn't get on their own.
Free CFPB Resources
Beyond complaints, the CFPB offers excellent free resources:
- Ask CFPB — Answers to common financial questions
- Mortgage Tools — Calculators and guides for homebuyers
- Student Loan Tools — Repayment calculators and advice
- Complaint Database — Search complaints about specific companies