Consumer protection enforcement can influence businesses operating across multiple industries, including construction suppliers and retailers that offer financing options for equipment, tools, and household products. The District of Columbia Office of the Attorney General has reached a $4 million settlement with Acima Digital, LLC and Acima Holdings, LLC to resolve allegations involving deceptive rent-to-own lease agreements.
Under the agreement, Acima will provide approximately $3.7 million in consumer relief, including $900,000 in refunds, $2.7 million in debt forgiveness, and $100,000 in account vouchers for eligible District residents. More than 10,000 consumers are expected to benefit from the settlement.
In addition, Acima will pay $300,000 in civil penalties to the District of Columbia.
The Attorney General's investigation alleged that the company used misleading advertising, failed to clearly disclose pricing and lease terms, charged undisclosed markups, and maintained a return process that created challenges for customers.
As part of the settlement, Acima must revise its business practices by improving disclosure of lease costs and contract terms, eliminating misleading advertising related to lease agreements, providing additional training for partner retail staff, and enhancing customer service procedures for returns, damaged merchandise, and delivery issues.
Eligible consumers will be notified regarding refunds, debt forgiveness, or account credits over the coming months.
Although the settlement is not directly related to construction activity, it highlights the growing regulatory focus on transparent financing and leasing practices. Construction owners, contractors, suppliers, and equipment vendors that offer lease or financing programs can benefit from maintaining clear contract disclosures and compliant consumer business practices to reduce legal and regulatory risks.
Source: Office Of The Attorney General.
