Economic and Consumer Rights Issues

*As of June 2022, a new option has been release from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) for individuals who are dealing with consumer rights issues as a result of trafficking. Find out more information about it on their website. If interested in pursuing this option, we recommend that survivors reach out to a local, trusted advocate for assistance. Please note that since this option is new, it may be subject to changes and adjustments. 

The economic impact of human trafficking can devastate long-term stability for survivors. Additionally, economic and consumer rights issues such as credit repair and identity theft can oftentimes be de-prioritized when working with social service organizations in favor of more short-term or urgent needs. In 2022, CAST partnered with the Center for Survivor Agency and Justice (CSAJ) to create a three-part Economic Self-Assessment Toolkit to help survivors and advocates navigate and access economic and consumer rights systems and resources. 

Please note, this toolkit was designed to be self-guiding as there may be a number of survivors who have economic and consumer rights issues but are no longer, or were never engaged, with service providers or advocates.

Part 1 - Getting Started

Part 2 - The Basics of Budgeting, Banking, Credit & Safety

Part 3 - Assessing & Addressing Credit & Debt

 

Please submit all questions, feedback, and comments here.

 

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