The process used to file consumer complaint against a business or individual can be a positive alternative to immediately filing a small claims lawsuit. To file a consumer complaint, a consumer should have first, obviously, experienced some sort of violation. In the United States, common violations of consumer law include not honoring a warranty, failure to provide safe products, improper lending, or discrimination in providing services or sales. At a national level, which is most needed for non0individaual, pressing complaints, consumers can file with the Federal Trade Commission Bureau of Consumer Protection using an online form or complaint hotline. For individual complaints, such as an issue with a local merchant, consumers are better served by filing a complaint with their state or local consumer protection office, which is linked with the attorney general and district attorney. After the complaint is filed, investigation may take place and further actions may be taken to seek resolution.