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American Museum of Natural History - Rose Center, Manhattan. Photo Credit: Digial Vision CD

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The New York City Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA) empowers consumers and businesses to ensure a fair and vibrant marketplace.


DCA licenses more than 78,000 businesses in 55 industries. Using DCA’s Business Toolbox, you can: Live Chat with a DCA Representative Visit the Licensing Center Print Forms and Signs Read Our Inspection Checklists Avoid Fines and Complaints Get Financial Counseling and Other City Services	Use Instant License Check to see if a business has a DCA license. Having a problem with a business? File a complaint with DCA. DCA’s Office of Financial Empowerment works with a variety of partners to provide free programs and services to help you manage your money and build for your family’s future: Financial Empowerment Centers (free one-on-one professional financial counseling) Financial Education Network Directory (free or low-cost financial education classes, workshops, hotlines, and counseling services) NYC SafeStart Account (safe starter bank account) Free Tax Preparation Services (free tax filing for qualified individuals and families) NYC Direct Deposit (free checking account for workers who directly deposit their pay)
Download DCA brochure in English Español 中文 Kreyòl Ayisyen 한국어 Русский In 1968, the City consolidated the Department of Markets and its Weights and Measures division with the Department of Licensing, creating DCA. DCA's authority grew significantly with passage of New York City's landmark Consumer Protection Law in 1969, making it the first municipal agency of its kind in the country.
In 2009, DCA commemorated 40 years of service to New York City consumers and businesses by mounting a permanent exhibition of agency artifacts that is accessible to all New Yorkers in an online slideshow. Learn more




Click here to view a video of Commissioner Mintz’ presentation to the Australian National Consumer Congress, held in Sydney, Australia on March 16, 2010. Commissioner Mintz addressed the gathering by this pre-recorded video message and then participated in a live question and answer session by telephone. The video describes the innovative work of DCA.

NYC Department of Consumer Affairs Office of Financial Empowerment:A Progress Report on the First Three Years, 2006–2009 This progress report describes the multitude of financial empowerment innovations, strategies, and approaches DCA’s OFE has implemented thus far—and the national implications for its work.
To view DCA's 2007 annual report online, click here. Slide shows will appear on your screen in a new window. Enjoy!

New York City employees are not allowed to ask for or accept anything of value, such as money, gifts, or tips for doing their job. To report corruption, contact the NYC Department of Investigation by visiting DOI online.