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Consumer Assistance Topics

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Last Updated: August 22, 2022

The FDIC recognizes the importance of providing consumers with useful information to help them make informed decisions about their money and to protect themselves against financial frauds and scams. You’ll find information here on specific banking topics as well as links to other resources to learn more.

Credit and Loans

Protections for consumer credit vary by type. To help you find the best credit product for you, the FDIC provides information on common loans, lines of credit, credit cards, and other related credit issues.

Credit Cards
Credit cards can offer numerous benefits to consumers, including a convenient way to pay for purchases, the ability to build a credit history, and the potential for rewards.

Credit Reports
A credit report is a detailed record of how you've managed your credit over time.

Debt Collection
Most consumers never expect to fall behind on their debts and obligations. Sometimes, however, circumstances beyond a person’s control will result in them being contacted by a debt collector.

Loans
There are many types of loans, such as student loans, vehicle loans, and business loans.

Mortgages
Shopping for a mortgage is, in some ways, like shopping for a car or other large item-- the price and terms may be negotiable.


Credit Cards

Service Member Protections
Servicemen and -women can face unique financial challenges during their service.

Student Loans
Figuring out how to manage college costs may seem overwhelming, but proper planning can ease the stress. Many options are available to assist with saving and paying for college.

Deposit Services

Consumers with deposits at FDIC-Insured banks benefit from a wide range of consumer protections depending on the type of account and the related products.

Deposit Accounts
Opening a deposit account at an FDIC-insured financial institution can be one of the most important steps you take toward achieving your financial goals.

Deposit Insurance
Deposit insurance is one of the significant benefits of having an account at an FDIC-insured bank—it’s how the FDIC protects your money in the unlikely event of a bank failure.

Unclaimed Funds Search
If a financial institution is closed, by a regulatory agency, the FDIC is appointed as Receiver and is responsible for the payment of insured deposits and the liquidation of the remaining assets.


Deposit Accounts

Frauds and Scams

The benefits of faster and more convenient technology services for bank customers are clear, but risks exist. These resources will help you recognize common risks and help you protect your finances.

Cybersecurity
Consumers increasingly rely on computers, web-enabled devices, and the internet for everything from shopping and communicating to banking and bill-paying.

Financial Privacy
In the normal course of business, financial institutions you do business with will request certain personal information - such as your name, Social Security number, address, income, and details about your assets.

Mortgage Scams
A fairly new and dangerous threat has arisen for homeowners who have fallen behind on their mortgage payments and may be at risk of foreclosure – opportunistic companies.


Cybersecurity Basics

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