Contacting the New York Department of Financial Services (DFS)

The New York Department of Financial Services (DFS) is the state agency responsible for regulating and supervising financial services and products in New York. If you have a question, complaint, or need to contact DFS regarding a financial matter, there are several avenues available to you.

General Inquiries and Information

For general information and to find answers to frequently asked questions, the DFS website (www.dfs.ny.gov) is an excellent resource. It offers a wealth of information about various financial topics, including banking, insurance, mortgages, student loans, and more. The website also features search functionality and comprehensive guides to help you navigate complex issues.

Filing a Complaint

If you have a complaint against a financial institution or company operating in New York, DFS provides a formal complaint process. You can file a complaint online through the DFS website. Be sure to provide as much detail as possible, including the name of the company, the nature of the complaint, relevant dates, and any supporting documentation. This will help DFS investigate your complaint effectively. Alternatively, you can download a complaint form from the website and mail it to the address provided.

Contacting by Phone

For immediate assistance or to speak with a representative, you can contact DFS by phone. The main DFS hotline number is (800) 342-3736. This number is generally available during regular business hours. Be prepared to clearly explain your reason for calling and have any relevant information readily available.

Contacting by Mail

You can also contact DFS by mail. The mailing address for the New York Department of Financial Services is:

When contacting DFS by mail, clearly state your reason for writing and include your contact information so that they can respond to your inquiry.

Specific Divisions and Contact Information

DFS is organized into various divisions, each responsible for overseeing specific areas of the financial industry. Depending on your issue, you may need to contact a specific division directly. The DFS website provides a directory of divisions and their respective contact information. For example, if your issue relates to insurance, you may need to contact the Insurance Division. If it concerns banking, the Banking Division might be the appropriate contact. The website will provide the most up-to-date contact information for each division.

Before You Contact DFS

Before contacting DFS, gather all relevant information and documentation related to your issue. This will help DFS understand your situation and provide a more effective response. Also, be prepared to clearly and concisely explain your problem or question. Being organized and prepared will make the process smoother and more efficient.

Remember to be polite and respectful when communicating with DFS representatives. They are there to assist you and help resolve your financial concerns.