In addition, any consumer could act as a representative and file a class action lawsuit against a business committing unfair competition.

Without showing proof of purchases, consumers can file a claim for up to $100 in vouchers.

Under Mr. Clinton's proposal, consumers who believe they have been improperly denied medical services or payments could file a protest with a "complaint review office."

They also said that too many consumers casually file for bankruptcy as a financial planning tool.

If the calls continue, consumers can file a complaint with the state or with the federal Do Not Call registry.

Debt-ridden consumers can file under either Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 of the law.

During 1994, the latest year for which figures are available, consumers filed 3,041 complaints against the industry, compared with 2,290 in 1989.

From January 1999 to September 2000, consumers filed nearly 8,200 appeals with their health plans.

It has partnered with tax preparation firms to help underbanked consumers file their taxes.

Insurance officials in several states said that they received many inquiries about coverage for wind-damaged trees, but that consumers rarely sued or filed formal complaints.