Ohio Consumer Protections You Probably Don’t Know About (And How To Use Them)
The majority of folks don’t necessarily think about consumer protection laws until something in their life goes wrong. A company overcharges, a contractor doesn’t deliver on their promises, or a debt collector refuses to stop calling. What many Ohio residents don’t realize is that both state and federal law provide powerful rights and remedies when businesses cross the line. Those who understand these protections can recognize when their rights have been violated—and take steps to defend themselves.
The Ohio Consumer Sales Practices Act (CSPA)
Among the strongest state-level protections is the Ohio Consumer Sales Practices Act. This legislation prohibits unfair, deceptive, or unconscionable practices in consumer transactions. This means that if a business misrepresents a product, hides critical terms, or pressures you into an unfair contract, you might have a claim under the CSPA. Consumers who prevail in court can sometimes recover triple damages, plus attorney fees.
Federal protections you should know about
There are numerous key federal laws that many people aren’t aware of. These include:
- Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) – This legislation gives you the right to dispute errors on your credit report and requires credit bureaus to investigate. Incorrect credit entries can damage your ability to get loans, housing, and even employment.
- Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) – This legislation protects against harassment or abusive tactics by debt collectors. They can’t call at odd hours, issue threats, or make misleading statements. All of these could violate federal law.
- Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) – This legislation limits unwanted robocalls and telemarketing. If you receive repeated unauthorized calls or texts, you may be entitled to damages.
Real-world examples
Consumer protection laws aren’t abstract. They apply to everyday situations. These include:
- A Columbus homeowner is promised “free repairs” by a contractor, only to receive an inflated bill afterward. The CSPA might apply.
- A consumer discovers a fraudulent loan account, dragging down their credit score. The FCRA can give them the right to dispute the account and demand a correction.
- A family receives harassing phone calls from a debt collector concerning a debt they don’t even owe. The FDCPA provides a way to stop the calls and potentially sue the debt collection agency.
Using these laws to your advantage
Knowing is half the battle. So, the first step is simply being aware that these protections exist. If something feels wrong, it’s worth taking a closer look. Document everything: save your receipts, contracts, voicemails, and emails. Then, you should consult an attorney who focuses on consumer law.
Talk to a Columbus, OH, Consumer Protection Lawyer Today
Kohl & Cook Law Firm, LLC, represents the interests of Columbus residents who have been the victims of consumer fraud. Call our Columbus consumer lawyers today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin filing suit on your behalf right away.
