Rights questions, answered.

Background reading

You generally have the right to remain silent. Say clearly that you are choosing to stay silent.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Ask whether you are free to leave. If the officer says yes, leave calmly. If not, do not try to force your way past.

Note what the officer said once it is safe. This answer does not decide whether the stop was lawful.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Pull over safely. Keep your hands visible.

Once safely stopped, explain before moving your hands to retrieve documents. This is general orientation for a driver, not a passenger, border inspection or immigration checkpoint.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

As the driver, be ready to provide driving documents when requested.

Driving-document requests commonly include a license, registration and insurance. This card does not determine your state’s stop-and-identify rule or immigration-document obligations.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Virginia law

For this situationYou are the driver during a stop on a Virginia highway.

In Virginia, carry your driver’s license or qualifying permit and the vehicle’s physical registration card. Show the requested documents to the officer.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

You can say that you do not consent to a search.

Permission is only one possible basis for a search. Its legality depends on the facts and applicable law. Keep your account of what was said for later review.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with what was said and when; agency, badge, or vehicle details if known; witnesses and original recordings.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Most employees covered by federal overtime rules who are not exempt must receive at least 1½ times their regular pay rate for hours worked over 40 in a workweek.

Compare your hours for each workweek with your pay statement. A two-week total can hide a week of unpaid overtime.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

You can contact the US Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division. Its complaint page explains how to contact an office and what information to gather.

Have your employer’s name, work location, dates, hours and pay details ready. Keep copies of your records.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Federal wage law prohibits retaliation for protected complaints or participation in an investigation. Keep a record of threats, changed hours or other treatment after you raise the issue.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn ordinary short rest break offered by an employer to an employee covered by federal minimum-wage and overtime rules.

For covered, nonexempt employees, employer-provided short rest breaks, usually 5 to 20 minutes, generally count as paid work time and toward overtime.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA covered, nonexempt employee who actually performed compensable overtime, including work the employer knew or had reason to know about.

A rule requiring advance approval does not erase pay owed for compensable overtime the employer required or permitted. Coverage, exemption status, and actual hours still matter.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationEmployee tips at a workplace covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act, including shared jars and mandatory tip pools.

A manager or supervisor who meets the federal duties test cannot keep other employees’ tips or receive money from their tip pool, even if the employer pays everyone the full minimum wage.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA uniform required by the employer, the nature of the work, or law, where federal wage requirements cover the employee.

For a covered employee, employer-required uniform costs cannot reduce pay below the federal minimum wage or cut into required overtime compensation. Requiring cash reimbursement does not avoid those limits.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn employee protected by federal pumping-break requirements during the first year after the child’s birth, including eligible employees working remotely.

For employees protected by the PUMP Act, the employer must provide a functional pumping space other than a bathroom, shielded from view and free from intrusion, for one year after childbirth.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn FMLA-eligible employee whose covered employer requested certification for the employee’s or a qualifying family member’s serious health condition.

An employer generally must allow at least 15 calendar days for requested medical certification. If diligent, good-faith efforts cannot meet that deadline, the employee is entitled to additional time.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA worker using qualifying FMLA leave for part of a scheduled day, rather than an entire workweek.

An employer generally may count only FMLA leave actually taken. It must use the smallest leave increment it allows for other leave, and that increment cannot exceed one hour.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn eligible employee of a covered employer who cannot work because of a chronic condition meeting the federal FMLA serious-health-condition rules.

A qualifying chronic serious health condition can support FMLA leave for an episode of incapacity even when the absence is shorter than three days and no provider visit occurs during that episode.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationWorkers or their representatives reporting hazards at workplaces covered by federal OSHA or an OSHA-approved state plan.

You can request that OSHA keep your name confidential when filing a workplace safety or health complaint. Describe the serious hazard and the workplace precisely.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA worker covered by federal OSH Act retaliation protection who experienced adverse action for protected workplace safety activity.

A retaliation complaint under section 11(c) of the federal Occupational Safety and Health Act generally must be filed within 30 days after you learn of the adverse action.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA currently pregnant employee or applicant seeking these simple adjustments from an employer covered by the PWFA, generally with at least 15 employees.

Under the PWFA regulation, an employer cannot require supporting documentation when a currently pregnant worker requests water, food or restroom breaks, carrying drinking water, or sitting or standing as needed.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA private-sector or state/local government worker considering an EEOC charge while another process investigates the same discrimination concern.

Generally, no. An internal grievance, union process, arbitration, or mediation does not extend the EEOC charge deadline, usually 180 days or 300 days where qualifying state or local law applies.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose California to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

California law

For this situationA directly employed California private-sector office worker who is fired, outside special industry rules.

For an ordinary covered employee who is discharged, earned wages, including accrued unused vacation, are due immediately.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose California to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

California law

For this situationA California private-sector employee who quits an ordinary job without a fixed-term written employment contract.

For a covered employee without a written contract for a definite term, final wages and earned unused vacation are due within 72 hours after quitting without at least 72 hours’ notice.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose California to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

California law

For this situationAn ordinary California private-sector employee who works at least 30 days for the same employer within a year and is outside a statutory exemption.

The annual use allowance must generally be at least 40 hours or five days, whichever is greater, once the leave has been earned or provided upfront.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose New York to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

New York law

For this situationA New York private-sector employee receiving covered pregnancy-related healthcare, regardless of employer size.

Yes. Covered private-sector employees have 20 hours of paid prenatal leave in a 52-week period, including new and part-time employees. This leave does not need to accrue first.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose New York to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

New York law

For this situationAn ordinary private-sector employee seeking earned wages for work performed in New York, rather than a sales-commission or independent-contractor dispute.

New York Department of Labor uses Labor Standards Complaint Form LS223 for covered unpaid-wage complaints. Its intake rules exclude some workers and disputes.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose Maryland to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Maryland law

For this situationA Maryland employee seeking earned wages after quitting or being discharged.

Earned wages are due by the regular payday on which they would have been paid if you had stayed employed.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose Maryland to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Maryland law

For this situationAn employee paid for work in Maryland, including a worker receiving an electronic pay statement.

Yes. For each payday, a covered employer must provide a written or online statement showing the pay period, rates, gross and net pay, itemized deductions and required employer details.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose the District of Columbia to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

District of Columbia law

For this situationA non-student adult employee working entirely in DC for a small private office, rather than an independent contractor or another excluded worker.

A covered employee at an employer with 24 or fewer employees earns at least one hour of paid sick and safe leave per 87 hours worked, up to three days per calendar year.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose the District of Columbia to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

District of Columbia law

For this situationA directly employed DC private-sector worker who was discharged, rather than a worker resigning or pursuing a temporary-agency joint-employer claim.

A covered discharged employee must generally receive earned wages no later than the following working day.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with hours and pay statements; relevant messages and policies; a timeline of the treatment.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose Virginia to read this guide. We have not researched this question for other states.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Virginia law

For this situationAn employee seeking earned wages for work in Virginia. Contractor disputes and some types of pay need a different review.

For Virginia work, final earned wages are due by the payday that would have applied if employment continued. You can make a wage claim with the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI).

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Use a licensed attorney or a representative accredited by the Department of Justice who works through a recognized organization.

Check the person’s credentials before paying. A person who only prepares forms cannot necessarily choose a legal strategy for you.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

No. In the United States, being a notary or calling yourself a notario does not make someone an immigration attorney.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Be cautious of anyone promising a guaranteed result or special access to immigration officials. Verify their credentials and the process through official sources before paying.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA case in the US immigration court system, not a USCIS benefits application.

Use EOIR’s official case-information system, then compare it with your hearing notice. Court notices are the official source; an online result is not permission to miss a hearing.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA person with a pending immigration court case who needs to update contact information.

Submit Form EOIR-33/IC to your immigration court within five working days of a contact-information change. File a separate form for each person with an affected pending case.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA non-lawyer offering services as a DOJ-accredited representative.

No. Partial accreditation covers DHS matters. A DOJ-accredited representative needs full accreditation to represent you before immigration court or the Board of Immigration Appeals.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationProfessional misconduct by an attorney or accredited representative in EOIR proceedings.

For misconduct before EOIR, use Form EOIR-44 and its instructions to report an attorney or accredited representative. Include specific events and supporting copies.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with notices and case numbers; the agency involved; dates and relevant documents.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Public streets, sidewalks and parks have strong free-speech protections. Government can still set lawful limits on time, place and how an event is carried out.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Not always. Some events, especially marches that block traffic or large gatherings, may need a permit. Check the rules for the specific location and event.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Yes. Counterprotesters also have free-speech rights. Disagreement does not remove someone’s right to express their view.

Avoid physical confrontation. Document threats or interference from a safe place.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA First Amendment demonstration on National Mall and Memorial Parks land managed by NPS.

NPS generally requires a permit for demonstrations with more than 25 people on the parkland it manages there. Smaller groups must still meet the permit exception’s conditions.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with location and any posted restrictions; your account and witnesses; original photos or recordings.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Use the provider’s official recovery process. If you can sign in, change your password and check account recovery and forwarding settings.

Secure the email account first if other services send password-reset links there. Let contacts know if someone sent messages pretending to be you.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Turn on two-step sign-in in your account settings. It adds a second check, so a stolen password alone is less useful to someone trying to get in.

Start with email, banking and other sensitive accounts. Keep recovery codes somewhere safe and separate.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA parent of a child under 13 using a commercial app or site directed to children, or an operator with actual knowledge it collects children’s information.

Yes, when COPPA covers the operator. Parents can review their child’s collected personal information, ask for deletion and refuse further collection or use.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationCredit-report information caused by identity theft, rather than an ordinary disagreement over a debt you incurred.

Yes. A qualifying identity-theft block request requires the reporting company to block fraudulent information within four business days after receiving the required material.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationSomeone who is, or reasonably suspects they may be, affected by identity theft and wants an initial fraud alert.

No. Contact one nationwide credit bureau for a free initial fraud alert; it must notify the other two. The alert lasts one year and can be renewed.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationEmail whose primary purpose is commercial advertising or promotion, covered by the federal CAN-SPAM Act.

Under CAN-SPAM, a covered commercial sender must honor an opt-out request within 10 business days. It cannot charge a fee or require personal information beyond your email address to process the request.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA US citizen or lawful permanent resident seeking correction of their own DOJ record in a covered Privacy Act system of records.

The Privacy Act permits requests to amend covered DOJ records about yourself, subject to exemptions. Identify the record, the correction you want and why it is inaccurate, irrelevant, outdated or incomplete.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA breach of unsecured protected health information for which a HIPAA-covered provider or health plan owes individual notice.

For a reportable HIPAA breach, the covered organization generally must notify affected individuals without unreasonable delay and no later than 60 days after discovery.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with full message context and timestamps; profile URLs and report references; original screenshots.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

No. The Americans with Disabilities Act can cover physical or mental disabilities, including ones other people cannot see.

Coverage depends on the legal definition and the setting. You do not apply for an ADA membership or card.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA trained service dog at a US restaurant or shop covered by the ADA. Housing, employment and airline rules are different.

A restaurant covered by the ADA generally must let your trained service dog accompany you in customer areas, even with a no-pets rule.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

The ADA does not require service-dog certification or a special vest. When the need is not obvious, staff may ask whether the dog is needed because of a disability and what work or task it is trained to do.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Comfort alone does not qualify an animal as a service animal under the ADA’s public-access rules. A service dog must be trained to do disability-related work or tasks.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA patient with a communication disability receiving care from a provider covered by ADA Title II or Title III.

An ADA-covered provider cannot require you to bring your own interpreter. Reliance on a minor child is limited to an imminent-threat emergency when a qualified interpreter is unavailable.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA business or nonprofit serving the public that charges a person with a disability for an accommodation required by ADA Title III.

A public accommodation cannot add a disability surcharge to cover measures it must provide under the ADA, including required auxiliary aids and services.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationReservations made through a covered US hotel’s reservation service for an accessible guest room and specified accessibility features.

For covered hotel reservations, the ADA requires reservable accessible features and a specific accessible room to be blocked and held for the customer once reserved under the rule.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA person using a device other than a conventional wheelchair because of a mobility disability at an ADA-covered public facility.

Covered facilities generally must consider other power-driven mobility devices used because of a mobility disability, unless the device type cannot be accommodated under legitimate safety requirements.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA patient with a mobility disability seeking an examination from a medical provider covered by the ADA.

An ADA-covered medical provider cannot require you to bring a friend or family member for assistance. The provider must offer reasonable help needed to receive care, which can include safe transfer assistance.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with what access or accommodation was requested; responses and dates; the service or organization involved.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

The Fair Housing Act prohibits covered housing discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability or having children in the household.

The law can apply to renting, buying, mortgages and other housing services.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Report it through HUD’s housing discrimination page or call 1-800-669-9777. Include what happened, when, the property and who was involved.

HUD also explains accessible reporting options and protections against retaliation on the linked page.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA resident with a disability seeking an exception to an unassigned-parking policy at housing covered by the Fair Housing Act.

Yes. In housing covered by the Fair Housing Act, reserving an available accessible space can be a required reasonable accommodation when disability makes it necessary to use and enjoy your home.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA disability-related structural change, such as bathroom grab bars, in a rental home covered by the Fair Housing Act.

A landlord covered by the Fair Housing Act generally must permit a reasonable modification needed because of a disability. In ordinary private housing, the tenant usually pays for that modification.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA rental decision based at least partly on a consumer or tenant screening report, under the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

You are entitled to the screening company’s contact information and notice of your dispute rights. Request a free copy of the report from that company within 60 days of the adverse action.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationSurvivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault or stalking in a VAWA-covered housing program, regardless of sex.

Generally no. In a covered housing program, a survivor may choose from permitted documentation, including HUD’s self-certification form. A provider normally cannot insist on a police report.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationSexual demands or other unlawful sexual harassment connected to obtaining or keeping housing, repairs or housing services.

Conditioning repairs on sexual conduct is a form of sexual harassment in housing that can violate the Fair Housing Act. You can report conduct by maintenance workers, managers or landlords to DOJ or HUD.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose California to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

California law

For this situationA tenant moving out of a California residential rental.

Within 21 days after you move out, the landlord must return the remaining deposit and provide an itemized statement of deductions.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose California to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

California law

For this situationA California residential tenant preparing for an ordinary move-out, rather than an eviction covered by a statutory inspection exception.

Yes. You can request an initial inspection during the last two weeks of the tenancy, attend it, and receive an itemized list of proposed deductions so you can address them before leaving.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose New York to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

New York law

For this situationA New York residential tenant moving out of a rental that is not subject to rent stabilization or rent control.

Within 14 days after you vacate, the landlord must provide an itemized statement of deductions and return the remaining deposit. Missing that deadline forfeits the right to retain any of it.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose New York to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

New York law

For this situationA prospective residential tenant applying to a New York landlord, outside the cooperative-apartment exception.

For a covered rental application, a landlord’s background or credit-check fee is limited to the actual cost or $20, whichever is less.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose New York to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

New York law

For this situationA New York residential tenant with a lease of at least one year but less than two years, occupancy under two years, and a proposed increase of at least 5%, outside rent regulation.

For a covered tenant with a one-year lease who has occupied the unit for less than two years, the landlord must give at least 60 days’ written notice of a renewal increase of 5% or more.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose Maryland to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Maryland law

For this situationA Maryland residential tenant whose tenancy has ended normally, with possession returned to the landlord.

Within 45 days after the tenancy ends, the landlord must return the deposit with applicable interest, less lawful deductions, and mail a written itemization of claimed damage costs.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose Maryland to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Maryland law

For this situationA Maryland residential tenant facing a serious hazard, such as dangerous wiring or lack of required heat, rather than a minor cosmetic defect.

Maryland rent escrow can address serious conditions threatening life, health or safety after the landlord has notice and a reasonable opportunity to repair. The court can direct rent into escrow and order relief.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose the District of Columbia to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

District of Columbia law

For this situationA DC residential tenant disputing a replacement charge for normal deterioration, age or ordinary use.

DC law does not allow a landlord to charge the tenant or deduct from the deposit for replacement value caused by ordinary wear and tear.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose the District of Columbia to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

District of Columbia law

For this situationA DC residential tenant receiving a landlord’s notice of a rent increase.

No. The increase can take effect on the first normal rent due date more than 60 calendar days after notice, subject to any longer required notice period.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with repair requests and responses; photos with dates; lease, notice, or relevant correspondence.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose Virginia to read this guide. We have not researched this question for other states.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Virginia law

For this situationA residential tenancy covered by Virginia’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. Check separately for hotels, institutional or employment-linked housing.

For a covered Virginia tenancy, you can ask General District Court to restore access or essential services when the landlord acted willfully and without court authority. The initial hearing must be within five calendar days of filing.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose Virginia to read this guide. We have not researched this question for other states.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Virginia law

For this situationA security deposit for a residential tenancy covered by Virginia’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

For a covered Virginia tenancy, the landlord generally must provide a written itemized accounting and refund the balance within 45 days after the tenancy ends or you move out, whichever is later.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Yes. You can ask for accessible equipment and help. A person helping you vote cannot be your employer or union representative.

Contact your election office about the accommodation you need. Poll workers can help with accessible equipment.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Yes. Ask your local election office what language support is available, such as translated materials or someone to help interpret.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Your state sets its voter ID rules. Check your state election office before you go; there is no single nationwide list of acceptable IDs.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Ask a poll worker to check your registration and polling place. In most states, you can request a provisional ballot in a federal election if you say you are registered and eligible.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationSuspected intimidation or interference with voting in a US election.

You can report suspected voter intimidation to DOJ’s Voting Section at 800-253-3931 or through its civil-rights reporting form.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose California to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

California law

For this situationA person eligible to register and vote in California who missed the regular registration deadline or needs to update registration.

Eligible voters can use Same Day Voter Registration during the 14 days before an election and on Election Day at an available county elections office, polling place or vote center.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose the District of Columbia to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

District of Columbia law

For this situationA US citizen who will be at least 18 for the general election, has lived in DC at least 30 days before the election, and meets the Board of Elections’ other registration requirements.

Yes. Eligible residents can register in person during early voting or on Election Day by providing accepted proof of residence showing their name and current DC address.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with polling place and date; notices or official communications; your account of the issue.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

At schools covered by FERPA, parents can inspect education records within 45 days of a request. These rights usually move to the student at age 18 or when they enter college.

Send a dated request to the school’s records office and keep a copy.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Yes. FERPA lets parents, or students who hold these rights, ask to change inaccurate education records.

Identify the entry and the correction you want. This is not a general right to overturn a grade or disciplinary judgment.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Yes. Students have free-speech rights, but schools can impose some restrictions. The setting and whether expression disrupts school can matter.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA child suspected of needing special education under IDEA Part B, through the responsible public school district.

Yes. A parent can request an initial evaluation under IDEA. If the school agrees, the usual federal evaluation period is 60 days after parental consent, unless your state sets a different period.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA public school district’s refusal to initiate or change an evaluation under IDEA.

Ask for the school’s prior written notice. It must explain the refusal, the information used, other options considered and how to find help understanding your procedural rights.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA parent taking part in a child’s individualized education program meeting under IDEA.

The public agency must take steps to make sure you understand the IEP meeting, including arranging an interpreter when your native language is not English or you are deaf.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA parent or eligible student responding to a FERPA-covered school’s directory-information notice.

At a school covered by FERPA, you can restrict disclosure of designated directory information by following the school’s notice and its opt-out deadline.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with school communications; policies and relevant dates; requests and responses.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

The Supreme Court held in Bostock that firing someone because they are gay or transgender violates Title VII’s ban on sex discrimination.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with relevant communications; where and when it happened; what outcome you want.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Yes. Tell your employer about the conflict and the change you need, such as a shift swap or schedule adjustment. Covered employers must reasonably accommodate sincere religious practices unless the burden is substantial in the context of the business.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Yes. Religious dress and grooming can be part of a workplace accommodation request. Explain the religious need and discuss possible adjustments.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Under Title VII, participating in, or refusing to participate in, religious activity cannot be made a condition of employment by a covered employer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA private or state/local employer covered by Title VII, generally with at least 15 employees, assigning work because of religious appearance.

A covered employer cannot assign you to a non-customer-facing job because of actual or feared customer prejudice about religious dress or grooming. Customer preference is not a defense to religious discrimination.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with the request or restriction; relevant policies; written responses and dates.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

A collector generally must provide information identifying the creditor, the amount and how to dispute it. The notice should show the end of your 30-day dispute period.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA personal, family or household debt handled by a collector covered by federal debt-collection law. A bill from the original creditor may follow different rules.

Send a written dispute within the 30-day period on the debt validation notice. A covered collector must pause collection of the disputed amount until it provides verification.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

No. Placing and lifting a credit freeze is free. Contact each of the three nationwide credit bureaus to freeze your reports.

A freeze makes it harder to open new credit in your name. It does not stop every kind of identity theft.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Go to IdentityTheft.gov to report the theft and get a recovery plan. For other fraud or scams, the FTC uses ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Use the official sites yourself. REYETS does not submit a report when you read this answer.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA billing error on a consumer credit card, such as the same purchase charged twice. Debit-card rules differ.

Make sure the card issuer receives your written billing-error notice at its billing-dispute address within 60 days after it sent the first statement showing the error. Calling alone may not preserve these protections.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA lost or stolen debit card linked to a consumer bank or credit-union account and transfers you did not authorize.

Report it immediately. Reporting within two business days after discovering the loss generally limits your liability for unauthorized transfers to the smaller of $50 or the unauthorized amount.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA recurring electronic debit from a consumer deposit account. This is not a credit-card cancellation rule.

You can stop a preauthorized electronic transfer by notifying your bank at least three business days before the scheduled payment. Also tell the gym that you revoke its debit authorization.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationInaccurate or incomplete information in a consumer credit report, including payment history reported by a lender.

Dispute the specific entry with both the credit reporting company and the lender that supplied it. Include copies of payment evidence and explain exactly what should change.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA credit application denied based on information in a consumer report under federal credit-reporting rules.

Yes. Request it from the reporting company identified in the adverse action notice within 60 days. This free report is separate from your regular free annual report.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationYour own reports from the three nationwide credit bureaus. Other specialty reports have separate request routes.

Use AnnualCreditReport.com, the authorized route for free annual reports from Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. The bureaus also currently offer free weekly online reports there.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationCovered merchandise ordered online, by telephone or by mail from a seller subject to the FTC’s shipment rule.

A seller that cannot ship on time must tell you about the delay and let you choose between agreeing to wait and cancelling for a full refund. Without a promised time, the usual shipping deadline is 30 days.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA collector covered by federal debt-collection law collecting a personal, family or household debt.

Tell the collector that your employer does not allow those calls. Once a covered collector knows you cannot receive its calls at work, it may not keep calling you there.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose Maryland to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Maryland law

For this situationA Maryland consumer buying covered retail goods for personal use, including a covered online purchase.

For covered consumer goods, the merchant must disclose the refund or exchange policy in writing before purchase, including a policy that allows no refunds.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with transaction references; messages and receipts; report numbers, without passwords or full account numbers.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Eligible workers at covered employers can take job-protected leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act for qualifying family and medical needs.

The usual entitlement is up to 12 workweeks in a 12-month period. Different rules apply to military caregiver leave.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Federal FMLA leave is unpaid. It protects the job and continuation of group health benefits on the same terms; paid leave may come from another law or an employer benefit.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Generally, you need 12 months with the employer, 1,250 hours worked in the previous 12 months, and a worksite with 50 employees within 75 miles. Your employer must also be covered.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with relevant notices and correspondence; important dates; questions for an adviser.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

It depends on the state, who is speaking and whether the conversation is private. Some laws require everyone’s permission; others allow one participant to consent.

Select a state to see any local answer we have added. Calls across state lines, hidden cameras and sharing recordings raise additional questions.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Virginia law

For this situationA private person recording a conversation they participate in in Virginia. This is an audio-consent guide, not a guide to every police encounter.

Virginia’s interception law permits recording a conversation you participate in, or one for which a participant gave prior consent.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

New York law

For this situationA private person recording a conversation they participate in in New York. This is an audio-consent guide, not a guide to every police encounter.

New York’s eavesdropping definitions generally allow you to record a conversation you participate in without every other participant’s consent.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

District of Columbia law

For this situationA private person recording a conversation they participate in in the District of Columbia. This is an audio-consent guide, not a guide to every police encounter.

DC’s private-person exception generally permits recording when you participate or a participant gave prior consent.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

When you are lawfully in a public place, photographing things in plain view generally has constitutional protection, including officials doing their jobs.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Keep space between you and the encounter. Do not interfere.

Recording government officials working in public has constitutional protection. Restrictions and circumstances still matter; this card cannot decide whether a particular position or recording is lawful.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Check the setting and audio rules, not just the state’s consent label.

Recording a private conversation and documenting officials in public can involve different rules. The conversation-recording question in this directory has limited state additions; none is a blanket permission to record.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

State your lack of consent calmly. Do not struggle over the device.

Seizing a phone and searching its contents are different questions. Warrants and exceptions require case-specific assessment. Preserve your recollection afterward; this card does not promise protection from seizure.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with the original recording or file; what you observed directly; context and any later edits.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

HIPAA generally lets you access health information held in designated records by covered providers and health plans. This can include medical, billing, lab and X-ray records.

Ask the provider’s records office how to request your information and the format you need.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

No. Separately kept psychotherapy notes are excluded from HIPAA’s access right. Other mental-health records can still be accessible.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

HIPAA gives you the right to request corrections from covered organizations. Point out the entry, explain what is wrong and ask about their amendment process.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA person not using health insurance to pay for planned US health care who asks the provider or facility for expected charges.

Usually, an uninsured or self-pay patient can request a good faith estimate of expected charges before scheduling. The provider or facility generally must supply it within three business days of that request.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn uninsured or self-pay patient who informed the provider before care, has the required advance good faith estimate, and received care on or after January 1, 2022.

You may qualify for patient-provider dispute resolution when one provider or facility bills at least $400 more than its good faith estimate and the other eligibility conditions are met.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationSomeone seeking emergency evaluation at a hospital emergency department subject to EMTALA, including most US hospital emergency departments.

A Medicare-participating hospital emergency department must offer an appropriate medical screening examination regardless of insurance or ability to pay. Payment inquiries must not delay required emergency screening or treatment.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA patient requesting their own accessible health information from a HIPAA-covered provider, rather than a third party demanding records.

A HIPAA-covered provider cannot deny your right of access to your health information because you owe money for medical treatment. A permissible copying fee is a separate issue.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn individual requesting access to their protected health information held by a HIPAA-covered provider or health plan.

Under HIPAA, a covered entity must act within 30 calendar days after receiving an access request. It may take one additional period of up to 30 days with a timely written explanation and completion date.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA suspected HIPAA Privacy, Security, or Breach Notification Rule violation by a covered entity or a business associate subject to those rules.

An HHS OCR complaint generally must be filed within 180 days of when you knew or should have known about the alleged violation. OCR can extend that period for good cause.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA patient whose request to amend health or billing information was denied by a provider or health plan covered by HIPAA.

If a HIPAA-covered provider or plan denies your amendment request, you can submit a statement of disagreement that must be added to the record under the amendment process.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with requests and written responses; organization and date; only the sensitive details needed for your chosen route.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

First check whether the records are already online. If not, send a written FOIA request to the agency that holds them, clearly describing what you want.

FOIA.gov has agency contacts and request routes. Federal FOIA does not cover every state or local records request.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

No. FOIA is for existing agency records. It does not require an agency to create a new report, do research or answer a questionnaire.

Ask for a specific document, period or type of record, and say what format you prefer. Some information can be withheld under legal exemptions.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA request to a federal executive-branch agency under FOIA.

Yes. Put a maximum fee amount in your FOIA request and ask the agency to contact you before exceeding it. Submitting a request has no initial filing fee.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn initial FOIA response from a federal executive-branch agency.

Follow the administrative-appeal instructions in the agency’s response. Identify the request and explain which withholding or search decision you want reviewed.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose California to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

California law

For this situationA California Public Records Act request directed to the California Department of Justice.

No. The ten-day period is generally for deciding whether the request seeks disclosable records and notifying you. Actual production follows within a reasonable period.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose New York to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

New York law

For this situationA request for existing records of a New York state or local agency covered by the Freedom of Information Law.

Within five business days, the agency must grant access, deny access in writing, or acknowledge the request and give an approximate date for granting or denying it.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose Maryland to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Maryland law

For this situationAn ordinary Maryland Public Information Act request for existing records, such as agency budgets or contracts, outside special statutory timelines.

The usual outside limit is 30 days after receipt to grant or deny access. If production will take more than ten working days, the custodian must send an explanation, time estimate and estimated fee range within ten working days.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose the District of Columbia to read this local rule and its limits.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

District of Columbia law

For this situationA request for existing records held by a DC public body, excluding Metropolitan Police Department body-camera recordings.

For ordinary records, the agency generally has 15 business days after receiving the request to make records accessible or give a written denial with reasons.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with your goals and questions; public information from the organizer; consent before including someone else’s account.

Keep your own observations separate from what someone told you. These are preparation steps, not a finding about your rights or eligibility.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Choose Virginia to read this guide. We have not researched this question for other states.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Virginia law

For this situationAn ordinary Virginia acquittal, dismissal or nolle prosequi, without a guilty plea or deferred finding. Confirm the exact outcome and your prior record.

Start with the final court disposition. An eligible acquittal, dismissal or charge dropped by the prosecutor (nolle prosequi) can support an expungement petition in the circuit court where the case was disposed of. A dismissal alone does not establish eligibility.

Applies only to the setting described in this guide. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA flight to, from or within the US, bought directly from the airline. This guide covers cancellation, not a change of mind.

No. If you decline the replacement flight and other compensation, you are entitled to a refund. A nonrefundable ticket does not remove this right when the airline cancels.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Background reading

A nonrefundable ticket usually is not refundable just because you change your mind when the flight operates as scheduled. Check the ticket terms and any applicable cancellation window.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

If you travel in the lower cabin, US rules entitle you to the difference in fare. That is different from a refund of the entire trip.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Background reading

Start with the airline’s consumer-relations contact and keep your booking, receipts and correspondence. You can also send a complaint through the US Department of Transportation’s aviation consumer site.

Use the complaint link in the DOT guide below. Submitting a complaint does not guarantee compensation.

This is background information, not a state-specific answer. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA ticket booked directly with an airline for covered US air travel, at least seven days before scheduled departure.

For bookings made at least seven days before departure, airlines must offer either a 24-hour unpaid hold or cancellation within 24 hours with a full refund. They do not have to offer both.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationInvoluntary denied boarding caused by oversales on a flight covered by DOT’s bumping rules, departing a US airport.

Possibly. On covered departures from a US airport, involuntary bumping can require payment when you have a confirmed reservation, meet check-in and gate deadlines, and cannot be rerouted to arrive within one hour of your original arrival time.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA ground delay at a US airport when passengers cannot get off, on an airline covered by DOT’s tarmac-delay rule.

During a covered tarmac delay at a US airport, the airline must provide drinking water and a snack no later than two hours after the delay starts, unless safety or security prevents service.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationNecessary incidental expenses while checked baggage is delayed in covered domestic or international air travel.

Airlines must reimburse reasonable, documented, actual incidental expenses caused by delayed baggage, subject to applicable liability limits. They cannot impose an arbitrary daily reimbursement cap.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationA disability-related airline accommodation or service problem on air travel covered by the Air Carrier Access Act.

Ask for the airline’s Complaint Resolution Official, or CRO. This person is trained in disability air-travel rules and can resolve complaints for the airline; access may be by telephone.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.

Federal rule · specific setting

For this situationAn optional airline service purchased for a flight to, from or within the US, such as paid in-flight Wi-Fi.

Yes, if the paid service was unavailable through no fault of yours. DOT rules require a refund of the fee for an airline’s optional service that was not provided.

Federal rule. State or local protections may add to it. Legal review pending.