Top Consumer Complaints
Courtesy of My Neighbors
Introduction
This report outlines the five most common consumer complaint categories impacting Georgia, between 2020 and 2024. Although the Georgia Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division does not publish county-specific complaint volumes, statewide data has been analyzed to estimate the trends most likely affecting residents of Georgia.
These categories reflect a combination of financial, transactional, and housing-related concerns, with consumers frequently reporting unresolved disputes, poor customer service, or violations of state consumer protection laws. Each category below includes a title, a 100-character description, any relevant notes, and the estimated number of total complaints received across Georgia during this five-year period.
Complaint Categories (Ranked by Estimated Complaint Volume)
- Debt Issues
Description: Harassment, errors in credit reporting, and unethical lending practices.
Notes: Includes debt collectors, payday/title loan abuse, and inaccurate credit bureau data.
Total Complaints (Est. 2020–2024): 1,500
- Used Car Sales
Description: Vehicle defects, misleading claims, and broken warranty promises.
Notes: Frequent problems with “as-is” sales, odometer fraud, or failure to honor contracts.
Total Complaints (Est. 2020–2024): 1,200
- Price Gouging & Emergency Pricing
Description: Overcharging for essentials during emergencies such as COVID-19.
Notes: Focused on inflated pricing for sanitizer, masks, bottled water, and basic food items.
Total Complaints (Est. 2020–2024): 1,000
- Landlord/Tenant Disputes
Description: Lease violations, evictions, and unsafe rental conditions.
Notes: Common complaints involve withheld security deposits, repairs, and eviction threats.
Total Complaints (Est. 2020–2024): 1,000
- Automotive Repairs
Description: Faulty service, unauthorized charges, and unprofessional mechanics.
Notes: Includes overcharging, misdiagnosis, failure to fix problems, and refusal to honor quotes.
Total Complaints (Est. 2020–2024): 800
Top Consumer Complaint Categories in Georgia (2020–2024)
The following chart visually represents the estimated total number of complaints across the top five categories, based on statewide trends:
Consumer Complaint
Filing a Consumer Complaint in Georgia
If you believe you’ve been the victim of unfair or deceptive business practices, the Georgia Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division offers a formal complaint process. Here’s how to proceed:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Gather Documentation: Collect contracts, receipts, emails, or photos supporting your complaint.
- Contact the Business First: Attempt to resolve the issue directly with the business.
- Visit the Official Complaint Page:
Go to https://consumer.georgia.gov
→ Click on “Resolve Your Dispute”
→ Then select “How Do I File a Complaint” - Submit Your Complaint Online or by Mail:
- Use the Online Complaint Form.
- Or download a printable version and mail it to:
Consumer Protection Division
2 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Suite 356
Atlanta, GA 30334-9077
Contact the Division:
- Phone: (404) 651-8600
- Toll-Free (outside metro Atlanta): 1-800-869-1123
- Website: consumer.georgia.gov
Dealership Specific Complaints
In Georgia, there are specific regulatory bodies where you can lodge complaints against automobile dealerships, depending on the type of dealership involved.
Used Car Dealerships
Complaints against independent used car dealerships can be filed with the Georgia State Board of Registration of Used Motor Vehicle Dealers and Used Motor Vehicle Parts Dealers. This board oversees licensing and regulatory compliance for used car dealers in the state.
How to File a Complaint:
Online: Visit the Georgia Secretary of State’s website and follow the instructions for submitting a complaint.
By Mail: Download and complete the Official Complaint Form (PDF) and mail it to:
State Board of Registration of Used Motor Vehicle Dealers and Used Motor Vehicle Parts Dealers
237 Coliseum Drive
Macon, GA 31217
By Fax: Send the completed complaint form to 866-888-1176.
Note: The board primarily addresses issues related to licensing violations and unethical practices. They do not have the authority to resolve monetary disputes or enforce refunds. For financial restitution, you may need to pursue legal action through the court system.
New Car Dealerships (Franchise Dealers)
For complaints against franchise dealerships (those selling new vehicles), you should contact the Georgia Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division. This division handles a broad range of consumer complaints, including deceptive advertising, sales practices, and warranty issues.
How to File a Complaint:
Online: Complete the Consumer Complaint Form on the Georgia Attorney General’s website.
By Mail or Fax: Download and complete the complaint form and submit it by mail or fax to 404-651-9018. Mailing address:
Consumer Protection Division
2 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive SE
Suite 356
Atlanta, GA 30334
By Phone: or 1-800-869-1123 (toll-free in Georgia) for assistance. Call 404-651-8600 or 1-800-869-1123 (toll-free in Georgia) for assistance.
Note: The Consumer Protection Division can mediate disputes and may take legal action if a pattern of unlawful practices is identified.
Additional Resources
Better Business Bureau (BBB): You can also file a complaint with the BBB to seek resolution and inform other consumers.
Federal Trade Commission (FTC): For issues involving deceptive practices, you can file a complaint with the FTC.
Legal Assistance: If you require legal advice or representation, consider contacting the Georgia Legal Services Program or a private attorney.
Sources:
- Carr Reveals Georgia’s Top Consumer Complaints – 2020
- Georgia Price Gouging Laws During COVID-19
- Georgia Consumer Protection Division – How to File a Complaint
What are the top consumer complaints in Georgia between 2020 and 2024?
The top complaints include debt collection issues, used car sales problems, price gouging during emergencies, landlord/tenant disputes, and automotive repair concerns.
Can I file a consumer complaint directly with the Georgia Attorney General’s Office?
Yes. Consumers can file complaints online, by mail, or by phone through the Georgia Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division. Visit consumer.georgia.gov to start.
What’s the difference between filing a complaint about a used vs. a new car dealership in Georgia?
Complaints against used car dealerships go to the Georgia State Board of Registration of Used Motor Vehicle Dealers, while new car (franchise) dealership complaints should be filed with the Georgia Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.
Does filing a complaint guarantee a refund or resolution?
Not always. These agencies can investigate and mediate, but they don’t enforce monetary restitution. For unresolved disputes, consumers may need to pursue legal remedies.
Where can I find the full report or more consumer protection resources?
You can read the full report, explore filing resources, and stay updated at the My Neighbors website: www.my-neighbors.us.
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