Use this guide to choose the right complaint path in California when a demand letter deadline passes.
Pick the right agency
Different agencies handle different disputes. Use the list below to find the best fit for your issue.What to include in your complaint
A clear timeline and documentation make agencies more likely to act quickly.- Demand letter and delivery proof
- Receipts, contracts, and photos
- Any responses or refusals
What happens after you file
Agencies may request more information, contact the other party, or recommend next steps if the matter is outside their scope.Where to file complaints in California
| Dispute type | Agency |
|---|---|
| Auto Accident Claims | California Department of Insurance |
| Consumer Refunds | California Department of Consumer Affairs |
| Contractor Disputes | Contractors State License Board (CSLB) |
| Debt Collection | California DFPI / CFPB |
| Education Disputes | California Department of Education |
| Fraud & Scam Recovery | California Department of Consumer Affairs |
| HOA Disputes | California Department of Real Estate |
| Identity Theft | California Office of the Attorney General Privacy Unit |
| Insurance Claims | California Department of Insurance |
| Landlord Repairs / Habitability | California Department of Consumer Affairs |
| Medical Bills | California Department of Managed Health Care |
| Neighbor Disputes | California Courts |
| Personal Injury | State Bar of California |
| Pet Deposits | California Department of Fair Employment and Housing |
| Property Damage | California Courts |
| Security Deposit | California Department of Consumer Affairs |
| Small Business / B2B Disputes | California Secretary of State |
| Subscription Traps | California Department of Consumer Affairs |
| Telecommunications Disputes | California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) |
| Unpaid Wages | California Labor Commissioner (DLSE) |
| Utility Bill Disputes | California Public Utilities Commission |
| Warranty Claims | California Department of Consumer Affairs |
Agency names change. Confirm current filing options on the agency website.
California complaint FAQ
Where do I file a consumer complaint in California?
Start with California Department of Consumer Affairs. Include your demand letter, receipts, and any written responses.
Where do I report wage theft in California?
File with California Labor Commissioner (DLSE) after your demand letter deadline passes.
Who handles tenant or housing complaints in California?
For deposit or repair disputes, contact California Department of Consumer Affairs or your local housing authority for code enforcement.
Can I still go to small claims after filing a complaint?
Yes. Complaints can build a record, but small claims may still be the fastest way to recover money.
About FreeDemandLetter
FreeDemandLetter provides free, AI-powered demand letter generation with location-specific legal citations. Our content is reviewed by subject matter specialists and regularly updated to reflect current laws. We help thousands of people resolve disputes effectively—but we're not lawyers, and this isn't legal advice. For complex situations, consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.
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