Banks and financial companies rely on customers not knowing where to complain or who has the authority to act. These are the official bodies with real enforcement power — not customer service departments. Every one of them is free to use, and most have the power to force a company to put things right.
Ready to complain in writing? Draft a formal dispute letter with our free letter generator.
File an official complaint against a US bank or credit card company
What: The US federal financial regulator. When you submit a complaint, banks are legally required to respond formally within 15 days. The CFPB can order refunds and take enforcement action.
When to use: If your US bank refuses to process a chargeback for fraud, applies hidden fees, or violates consumer protection law.
Want to know more? Read our full guide →Resolve a dispute with a UK bank or insurer for free
What: Free, independent UK government service that resolves disputes between consumers and financial firms. Decisions are legally binding. Can award up to £415,000.
When to use: After complaining directly to your bank and receiving no resolution or a final response you disagree with. You must give the bank 8 weeks to respond first.
Want to know more? Read our full guide →Report financial fraud or a scam to UK police
What: The UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. Reports go to the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau.
When to use: When you've been a victim of financial fraud, scam calls, or online fraud. Keep your crime reference number for insurance and bank dispute purposes.
Report a fraud or scam to the US federal government
What: Official US government portal to report fraud, scams and bad business practices. Used by law enforcement to identify patterns and prosecute.
When to use: Any consumer fraud in the US — fake products, subscription traps, identity theft, or impersonation scams.
Check if a financial firm is legally allowed to operate in the UK
What: Check whether any financial firm or individual adviser is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
When to use: Before sending money to any investment platform, financial adviser, or crypto service. If they are not on this register, do not use them.
Get your free credit report in the UK
What: All three UK credit reference agencies offer a free statutory credit report showing your full credit history and any errors or fraudulent applications.
When to use: Annually as standard, and immediately if you suspect identity theft or see an unexplained credit application on your file.