DCWP - Price Gouging Is Illegal

Consumer and Worker Protection


Price Gouging is Illegal


Price Gouging Is ILLEGAL

During a State of Emergency in the City of New York, it is illegal for businesses to charge excessive prices for goods or services that are essential to health, safety or welfare. An excessive price means a price 10% or more above what a buyer in the City could pay for the same or similar good or service 30-60 days prior to the declaration of a state of emergency.

Overcharge Complaints

Consumers who believe they were victimized by price gouging should keep their receipts and any information about the store where the transaction occured and file a complaint with DCWP.

File a complaint online, by mail or by fax.

COVID-19 State of Emergency

Throughout the COVID-19 State of Emergency, DCWP addressed complaints about excessive prices on the following products:

Cleaning products

Diagnostic products and services

Disinfectants (wipes, liquids, sprays)

Face masks

Gloves

Hand sanitizer

Medicines

Paper towels

Rubbing alcohol

Soap

Tissues

Exception:
If a business raises the price of a good or service because it costs the business more to supply or provide it, the business must present proof to DCWP. Any increase must be comparable. For example, if the business paid $2 more per item, it cannot charge customers $50 more.