TARA protects consumers by ensuring utility rate changes are reasonable, resolving consumer utility service complaints, and addressing unfair predatory lending practices by monitoring and enforcing the City of Austin Credit Access Business (CAB) Ordinance.

Utility Complaint Services:
TARA assists electric utility customers (other than Austin Energy) and gas customers with complaints, questions, and concerns. The City’s role is to facilitate communications between subscribers and service providers. Consumers may call (512) 974-2999 or tarainfo@austintexas.gov to file a complaint.

Learn more about this service.

Financial Advocacy Resources (FAR) Program:
The FAR team monitors and enforces the City of Austin’s CAB Ordinance. Credit access businesses include payday lenders and auto title lenders. The ordinance places restrictions on CABs, such as limiting extensions of consumer credit, to reduce predatory lending practices within city limits. The team conducts audits, investigates consumer complaints, and provides community outreach to educate consumers.

Learn more about FAR and financial resources.