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News Release

DFR Warns Consumers About Growing Payment App Scams (Photo) - 09/02/26

Salem – Mobile payment apps provide a convenient way to send, receive, and manage money using a smartphone. However, consumers should be aware that scammers are using these services to steal money and gain access to financial accounts. Popular payment apps include Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, and PayPal. Many mobile payment apps are connected to a consumer’s bank account, debit card, or credit card, making consumers’ accounts a target for fraudsters.

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is reminding consumers to be cautious when receiving unexpected payments or when someone contacts them claiming there is a problem with their account.

Beware of “payment sent by mistake” scams

In this scam, a stranger sends money to a consumer through a payment app and then contacts the consumer claiming the payment was sent by mistake. The scammer asks the consumer to send the money back as a new payment. Cybercriminals may use stolen credit card or financial account information to make the initial payment appear legitimate. If the consumer sends the money back, the original fraudulent payment may later be reversed, leaving the consumer responsible for the money they sent to the scammer.

DFR advises consumers:

Never exchange payments with people you do not know.
If you receive a payment from someone you do not know, directly contact the payment app’s customer support. Customer support can help determine whether the payment is legitimate and explain how to properly reverse or address the transaction.
Do not communicate with the person who sent the unexpected payment. Scammers may use emotional stories or pressure tactics to convince consumers to send money.

Watch out for fake payment app representatives

Scammers may also impersonate customer service representatives from payment apps. They may call or text consumers claiming that an unauthorized transaction has occurred or that someone is attempting to access their account. The scammer may say they need to “secure” the account and ask for sensitive information, including a password or a verification code sent to the consumer’s phone.

If you receive a call or message like this:

Never provide a verification code sent to your phone to anyone.
Never share your password or other account credentials with someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
Do not click on links or use phone numbers provided in unsolicited messages.
Contact the payment app directly using the official app or website to verify whether there is actually a problem with your account.

Legitimate customer service representatives will never ask for a verification code that was sent to the consumer’s phone to authenticate an account. Taking a moment to stop and verify an unexpected payment, phone call, or text can help prevent consumers from losing money to fraud.

Imposter scams

Fraudsters try to replicate a profile picture on a fake account to impersonate your friend, co-worker, potential new employer, landlord, or even a love interest. They pretend to be someone in your social circle and request money.

What to do if this happens to you:

Contact the real person outside of the payment app to make sure it came from them or call them on the phone number you have. The fraudster may provide you with a new number, but don’t fall for it.
If you don’t know the person, never give money to someone you haven’t met in person.
Check the creation date and transaction history. If it’s a brand new account with no transaction history, it might be a scam.

“Payment apps make it easier than ever to move money, but that convenience can also make it easier for scammers to target consumers,” said DFR Administrator TK Keen. “Scammers know how to create a sense of urgency and trust, whether they claim a payment was sent by mistake, pretend to be a customer service representative, or impersonate someone you know. The best protection is to stop, verify who you are dealing with, and never send money until you are certain the request is legitimate.”

If you believe you have been a target of a financial scam, contact DFR’s consumer advocates at 1-888-877-4894 or dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.

###

About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

Attached Media Files: DFR-logo-blue.jpg,

DFR Warns Consumers About Growing Payment App Scams (Photo) - 09/02/26

Salem – Mobile payment apps provide a convenient way to send, receive, and manage money using a smartphone. However, consumers should be aware that scammers are using these services to steal money and gain access to financial accounts. Popular payment apps include Venmo, Cash App, Zelle, and PayPal. Many mobile payment apps are connected to a consumer’s bank account, debit card, or credit card, making consumers’ accounts a target for fraudsters.

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is reminding consumers to be cautious when receiving unexpected payments or when someone contacts them claiming there is a problem with their account.

Beware of “payment sent by mistake” scams

In this scam, a stranger sends money to a consumer through a payment app and then contacts the consumer claiming the payment was sent by mistake. The scammer asks the consumer to send the money back as a new payment. Cybercriminals may use stolen credit card or financial account information to make the initial payment appear legitimate. If the consumer sends the money back, the original fraudulent payment may later be reversed, leaving the consumer responsible for the money they sent to the scammer.

DFR advises consumers:

Never exchange payments with people you do not know.
If you receive a payment from someone you do not know, directly contact the payment app’s customer support. Customer support can help determine whether the payment is legitimate and explain how to properly reverse or address the transaction.
Do not communicate with the person who sent the unexpected payment. Scammers may use emotional stories or pressure tactics to convince consumers to send money.

Watch out for fake payment app representatives

Scammers may also impersonate customer service representatives from payment apps. They may call or text consumers claiming that an unauthorized transaction has occurred or that someone is attempting to access their account. The scammer may say they need to “secure” the account and ask for sensitive information, including a password or a verification code sent to the consumer’s phone.

If you receive a call or message like this:

Never provide a verification code sent to your phone to anyone.
Never share your password or other account credentials with someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
Do not click on links or use phone numbers provided in unsolicited messages.
Contact the payment app directly using the official app or website to verify whether there is actually a problem with your account.

Legitimate customer service representatives will never ask for a verification code that was sent to the consumer’s phone to authenticate an account. Taking a moment to stop and verify an unexpected payment, phone call, or text can help prevent consumers from losing money to fraud.

Imposter scams

Fraudsters try to replicate a profile picture on a fake account to impersonate your friend, co-worker, potential new employer, landlord, or even a love interest. They pretend to be someone in your social circle and request money.

What to do if this happens to you:

Contact the real person outside of the payment app to make sure it came from them or call them on the phone number you have. The fraudster may provide you with a new number, but don’t fall for it.
If you don’t know the person, never give money to someone you haven’t met in person.
Check the creation date and transaction history. If it’s a brand new account with no transaction history, it might be a scam.

“Payment apps make it easier than ever to move money, but that convenience can also make it easier for scammers to target consumers,” said DFR Administrator TK Keen. “Scammers know how to create a sense of urgency and trust, whether they claim a payment was sent by mistake, pretend to be a customer service representative, or impersonate someone you know. The best protection is to stop, verify who you are dealing with, and never send money until you are certain the request is legitimate.”

If you believe you have been a target of a financial scam, contact DFR’s consumer advocates at 1-888-877-4894 or dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov.

###

About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

Attached Media Files: DFR-logo-blue.jpg,

Southern Oregon Event Offers Resources To Employers, Workers To Prevent On-the-job Injury, Illness (Photo) - 09/01/26

Workplace safety and health will take the spotlight in southern Oregon in October thanks to a three-day event offering employers and workers workshops and presentations designed to strengthen their safety and health programs. The Southern Oregon Occupational Safety & Health Conference – to be held Oct. 13-15 at Ashland Hills Hotel & Suites – will address everything from fall protection basics and hearing conservation to safety committees and the underpinnings of effective safety leadership.

In addition to addressing many safety and health topics, the event offers preconference certification and professional development workshops. The safety and health topics include first aid, CPR, and automated external defibrillator certification. A special guest of the conference, Ron Havniear, CEO of Advance Security and Leadership, will lead the first part of a Tuesday, Oct. 13, workshop on how managers, supervisors, and safety professionals can elevate their leadership approach to effective safety and security programs.

On Wednesday, Oct. 14, Jeff Crapo of Ethos Academy will present the keynote, “On the Brink: Recognizing Disaster Before You Step Off the Cliff.” His presentation will use real-world events to explore how organizations can recognize the warning signs before a disaster and help people make sound decisions before it is too late.

The conference is a collaborative effort by the Southern Oregon Chapter of the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) and the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA).

Southern Oregon Event Offers Resources To Employers, Workers To Prevent On-the-job Injury, Illness (Photo) - 09/01/26

Workplace safety and health will take the spotlight in southern Oregon in October thanks to a three-day event offering employers and workers workshops and presentations designed to strengthen their safety and health programs. The Southern Oregon Occupational Safety & Health Conference – to be held Oct. 13-15 at Ashland Hills Hotel & Suites – will address everything from fall protection basics and hearing conservation to safety committees and the underpinnings of effective safety leadership.

In addition to addressing many safety and health topics, the event offers preconference certification and professional development workshops. The safety and health topics include first aid, CPR, and automated external defibrillator certification. A special guest of the conference, Ron Havniear, CEO of Advance Security and Leadership, will lead the first part of a Tuesday, Oct. 13, workshop on how managers, supervisors, and safety professionals can elevate their leadership approach to effective safety and security programs.

On Wednesday, Oct. 14, Jeff Crapo of Ethos Academy will present the keynote, “On the Brink: Recognizing Disaster Before You Step Off the Cliff.” His presentation will use real-world events to explore how organizations can recognize the warning signs before a disaster and help people make sound decisions before it is too late.

The conference is a collaborative effort by the Southern Oregon Chapter of the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) and the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division (Oregon OSHA).

Oregon Division Of Financial Regulation Extends Wildfire Emergency Order 30 Days, Keeping Pause On Cancellations In Place (Photo) - 08/28/26

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) issued a wildfire emergency order and bulletin in late July for people affected by the state’s wildfire situation. That order was to expire this weekend. However, DFR extended it today for another 30 days to Sept. 29. The ZIP codes listed in the bulletin remain covered.

“Wildfire season is not over, and the last thing consumers should be worried about is receiving a cancellation or nonrenewal notice right now,” said Oregon Insurance Commissioner TK Keen. “Extending this order gives consumers breathing room to focus on their families and recovery while making sure coverage stays in place.”

As a reminder, this order requires all property and casualty insurance companies to take proactive measures to protect people in wildfire affected areas. The order:

Suspends cancellations and nonrenewals
Establishes a grace period for premium payments for all insurance policies issued, delivered, or covering a risk in the affected areas
Extends deadlines for policyholders to report claims or submit other claims-related communications
Requires all insurers to take all practicable steps to provide opportunities for policyholders to report claims

If your home or property was damaged by the wildfires, contact your insurance company as soon as possible to discuss your situation and learn next steps. If you still have concerns, the division’s consumer advocates are here to help. Call 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email dfr.insurancehelp@oregon.gov.

Visit the DFR’s wildfire insurance resource page to view the order, bulletin, and more insurance information.

###

About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

Attached Media Files: DFR-logo-blue.jpg,

Oregon Division Of Financial Regulation Extends Wildfire Emergency Order 30 Days, Keeping Pause On Cancellations In Place (Photo) - 08/28/26

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) issued a wildfire emergency order and bulletin in late July for people affected by the state’s wildfire situation. That order was to expire this weekend. However, DFR extended it today for another 30 days to Sept. 29. The ZIP codes listed in the bulletin remain covered.

“Wildfire season is not over, and the last thing consumers should be worried about is receiving a cancellation or nonrenewal notice right now,” said Oregon Insurance Commissioner TK Keen. “Extending this order gives consumers breathing room to focus on their families and recovery while making sure coverage stays in place.”

As a reminder, this order requires all property and casualty insurance companies to take proactive measures to protect people in wildfire affected areas. The order:

Suspends cancellations and nonrenewals
Establishes a grace period for premium payments for all insurance policies issued, delivered, or covering a risk in the affected areas
Extends deadlines for policyholders to report claims or submit other claims-related communications
Requires all insurers to take all practicable steps to provide opportunities for policyholders to report claims

If your home or property was damaged by the wildfires, contact your insurance company as soon as possible to discuss your situation and learn next steps. If you still have concerns, the division’s consumer advocates are here to help. Call 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email dfr.insurancehelp@oregon.gov.

Visit the DFR’s wildfire insurance resource page to view the order, bulletin, and more insurance information.

###

About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

Attached Media Files: DFR-logo-blue.jpg,

Oregon Division Of Financial Regulation Consumer Advocates Recovered Almost $4 Million In The First Half Of 2026 (Photo) - 08/25/26

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR), through its consumer advocates, recovered $3,889,996 through the first six months of 2026, including $2,440,687 in the second quarter (April to June) alone.

“My administration continues to focus on driving down costs for Oregonians, and ensuring families get their hard-earned money back in their pocket is a top priority,” said Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek. “DFR’s consumer advocates are putting in the work to get families what they’re owed.”

DFR’s consumer advocates field calls every day from Oregonians who are concerned and confused over insurance and financial issues from institutions and licensed professionals that are regulated by the division. These advocates have extensive industry knowledge, allowing them to analyze often complex issues.

Insurance continues to produce the majority of complaints filed with more than 1,000 complaints in each of the first two quarters, and 2,023 total over the first six months of 2026.

“Complaints continue to rise, and some are extremely complex, but we have a dedicated team of industry experts helping Oregonians with their issues,” said Oregon Insurance Commissioner TK Keen. “Our advocates, and DFR as a whole, continue to work for Oregonians, protecting them and helping them navigate the complex world of insurance and other industries.”

Below are a few examples of the work of DFR advocates during the first six months of 2026:

A consumer bought a policy for his commercial truck in June 2024. There were many errors made when this policy was taken out, resulting in the correct truck not being listed appropriately on the policy. The consumer’s truck was totaled, and the resulting claim was denied because the vehicle was not properly listed on the policy. The consumer filed a complaint to address the issue. The error was determined and the consumer advocate pressed the managing general agent (MGA) and the insurance agent to file claims with their errors and omissions (E&O) insurance policies. Because of the consumer advocate’s actions, the E&O insurers for the agent and the MGA agreed to a 50/50 split of damages and sent the consumer a release for his $52,952 in damages.
A borrower contacted the student loan ombuds in January 2025 looking for clarity on a refund she was due. Because the borrower made more than the required 120 payments toward Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), $1,017 was due back to her. The loans had been discharged in November 2024. After several communications with the servicer, and no explanation provided, the borrower received her refund in early 2026. Without the ombuds’ intervention, it is likely the refund would have gone unprocessed.
A consumer suffered hail damage to their roof. The company denied there was any hail damage and closed the claim without payment. This caused the consumer to file a complaint. The consumer advocate discussed the situation extensively with the insurer and convinced the company to have an engineer inspect the roof. The results revealed there was one slope of the roof with definite hail damage, while other areas were noted as deteriorated due to wear and tear. As a result of the engineer inspection, the insurer issued payment of $15,306.21 for the replacement of one slope of the roof.
A complaint was submitted as the consumer who had recently moved to Oregon believed they had contacted the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace to enroll in a health insurance plan to begin Feb. 1, 2026. The consumer later learned they had been enrolled in a health share plan they believe was misrepresented as health insurance, and that coverage began in December 2025 without their consent. The company first denied a request to refund February premiums to the consumer. The consumer then filed a complaint for help. Because of the investigation and formal complaint, the company agreed to refund the requested $854.

“I am proud of the work DFR does in protecting consumers and helping them get back some of their hard-earned money,” said Sean O’Day, director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services. “Their tireless efforts help families when it seems like the cost of everything continues to go up. Every penny helps, and to see nearly $4 million go back into the pockets of Oregonians is gratifying.”

Anyone who may need a consumer advocate can call 1-888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov for insurance questions and dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov for financial services questions.

Here is the list of the consumer advocacy complaints for the first two quarters of 2026

	Quarter 1 (January to March)	Quarter 2 (April to June)	Total
Banking	10	15	25
Check cashing	0	1	1
Collection agency	2	1	3
Consumer finance	20	20	40
Credit services	0	0	0
Credit union	58	62	120
Data broker	0	1	1
Debt management service provider	3	1	4
Insurance	1,020	1,003	2,023
Manufactured structure dealer	0	1	1
Money transmitter	29	14	43
Mortgage banker/broker	16	20	36
Mortgage servicer	43	44	87
Pawn broker	1	0	1
Payday loans	1	0	1
Pre-need provider	1	0	1
Securities	22	25	47
Student loan	24	32	56
Title loan	0	0	0
Virtual currency	3	2	5
Not regulated by DFR: All Other	64	67	131
Not regulated by DFR: Banking	20	36	56
Not regulated by DFR: Credit unions	6	9	15
Not regulated by DFR: Insurance	289	226	515
Total:	1,632	1,580	3,212
Recoveries:	$1,449,309	$2,440,687	$3,889,996

###

About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

Attached Media Files: DFR-logo-blue.jpg,

Oregon Division Of Financial Regulation Consumer Advocates Recovered Almost $4 Million In The First Half Of 2026 (Photo) - 08/25/26

Salem – The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR), through its consumer advocates, recovered $3,889,996 through the first six months of 2026, including $2,440,687 in the second quarter (April to June) alone.

“My administration continues to focus on driving down costs for Oregonians, and ensuring families get their hard-earned money back in their pocket is a top priority,” said Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek. “DFR’s consumer advocates are putting in the work to get families what they’re owed.”

DFR’s consumer advocates field calls every day from Oregonians who are concerned and confused over insurance and financial issues from institutions and licensed professionals that are regulated by the division. These advocates have extensive industry knowledge, allowing them to analyze often complex issues.

Insurance continues to produce the majority of complaints filed with more than 1,000 complaints in each of the first two quarters, and 2,023 total over the first six months of 2026.

“Complaints continue to rise, and some are extremely complex, but we have a dedicated team of industry experts helping Oregonians with their issues,” said Oregon Insurance Commissioner TK Keen. “Our advocates, and DFR as a whole, continue to work for Oregonians, protecting them and helping them navigate the complex world of insurance and other industries.”

Below are a few examples of the work of DFR advocates during the first six months of 2026:

A consumer bought a policy for his commercial truck in June 2024. There were many errors made when this policy was taken out, resulting in the correct truck not being listed appropriately on the policy. The consumer’s truck was totaled, and the resulting claim was denied because the vehicle was not properly listed on the policy. The consumer filed a complaint to address the issue. The error was determined and the consumer advocate pressed the managing general agent (MGA) and the insurance agent to file claims with their errors and omissions (E&O) insurance policies. Because of the consumer advocate’s actions, the E&O insurers for the agent and the MGA agreed to a 50/50 split of damages and sent the consumer a release for his $52,952 in damages.
A borrower contacted the student loan ombuds in January 2025 looking for clarity on a refund she was due. Because the borrower made more than the required 120 payments toward Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), $1,017 was due back to her. The loans had been discharged in November 2024. After several communications with the servicer, and no explanation provided, the borrower received her refund in early 2026. Without the ombuds’ intervention, it is likely the refund would have gone unprocessed.
A consumer suffered hail damage to their roof. The company denied there was any hail damage and closed the claim without payment. This caused the consumer to file a complaint. The consumer advocate discussed the situation extensively with the insurer and convinced the company to have an engineer inspect the roof. The results revealed there was one slope of the roof with definite hail damage, while other areas were noted as deteriorated due to wear and tear. As a result of the engineer inspection, the insurer issued payment of $15,306.21 for the replacement of one slope of the roof.
A complaint was submitted as the consumer who had recently moved to Oregon believed they had contacted the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace to enroll in a health insurance plan to begin Feb. 1, 2026. The consumer later learned they had been enrolled in a health share plan they believe was misrepresented as health insurance, and that coverage began in December 2025 without their consent. The company first denied a request to refund February premiums to the consumer. The consumer then filed a complaint for help. Because of the investigation and formal complaint, the company agreed to refund the requested $854.

“I am proud of the work DFR does in protecting consumers and helping them get back some of their hard-earned money,” said Sean O’Day, director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services. “Their tireless efforts help families when it seems like the cost of everything continues to go up. Every penny helps, and to see nearly $4 million go back into the pockets of Oregonians is gratifying.”

Anyone who may need a consumer advocate can call 1-888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov for insurance questions and dfr.financialserviceshelp@dcbs.oregon.gov for financial services questions.

Here is the list of the consumer advocacy complaints for the first two quarters of 2026

	Quarter 1 (January to March)	Quarter 2 (April to June)	Total
Banking	10	15	25
Check cashing	0	1	1
Collection agency	2	1	3
Consumer finance	20	20	40
Credit services	0	0	0
Credit union	58	62	120
Data broker	0	1	1
Debt management service provider	3	1	4
Insurance	1,020	1,003	2,023
Manufactured structure dealer	0	1	1
Money transmitter	29	14	43
Mortgage banker/broker	16	20	36
Mortgage servicer	43	44	87
Pawn broker	1	0	1
Payday loans	1	0	1
Pre-need provider	1	0	1
Securities	22	25	47
Student loan	24	32	56
Title loan	0	0	0
Virtual currency	3	2	5
Not regulated by DFR: All Other	64	67	131
Not regulated by DFR: Banking	20	36	56
Not regulated by DFR: Credit unions	6	9	15
Not regulated by DFR: Insurance	289	226	515
Total:	1,632	1,580	3,212
Recoveries:	$1,449,309	$2,440,687	$3,889,996

###

About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

Attached Media Files: DFR-logo-blue.jpg,

Back To School Is A Good Time To Review Your Insurance Policies, Look Into Renters Insurance (Photo) - 08/19/26

Salem – As students head off to college and many teens begin driving daily with the start of school coming up, this is a good time to review your insurance policies to protect your family from unexpected costs.

“Back-to-school season brings a lot of changes for families, including a student moving into a dorm and a new teenage driver in the house,” said Oregon Insurance Commissioner TK Keen. “A quick call to your agent or insurance company now can prevent an expensive surprise later.”

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) reminds Oregonians that having proper insurance coverage can provide greater peace of mind and protect your family. Here are some insurance tips to help your back-to-school season go smoothly.

Homeowners and renters insurance

If your student is moving into a dorm room, your homeowners policy will likely cover their personal property in case of a loss. Ask your child to tell you if they buy a new computer or other pricey items and have them keep receipts. Check with your agent or insurance company to make sure these items are covered.

Students living off campus should consider renters insurance. This coverage will protect students’ personal property and provide liability coverage if someone is injured on the property. Renters insurance is typically inexpensive and provides valuable protection. A home inventory is always a good idea, whether they live on or off campus. This list of items will make a future insurance claim much quicker and easier to settle. You can learn more about home inventories on DFR’s website.

Auto insurance

Oregon requires every vehicle on the road to have auto liability coverage. Auto liability insurance pays – up to your policy's limits – for property damage and bodily injury to someone else if you are found responsible for an accident. If the title to the vehicle is in your student's name, they will generally need their own policy. If your college student is driving a vehicle you own, your child can likely stay on your policy and be listed as a driver.

Tell your insurance agent or company where the vehicle will be stored if the address differs from what is on your policy.

Health insurance

Students have several options for health insurance coverage while away at college. If your children are now covered under your insurance, they will still be covered while at school. Any insurance plan that offers dependent coverage must make that available until the dependent is 26 years old. If you are currently enrolled in a health maintenance organization (HMO), your child may need to return to your home area for routine care and may have emergency care only while at school.

Many colleges and universities also offer their own student health insurance plans. The premiums and features vary widely by school. Check with your student's school health center to see available coverage options.

Denied insurance claims

If your family experiences a claim denial or settlement disagreement, and you are unable to resolve the issue with your insurance company, you can file a complaint on the DFR website. The division's advocates are also available to help answer general questions. Call 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov. DFR’s website also has resources available at dfr.oregon.gov.

###

About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

Attached Media Files: DFR-logo-blue.jpg,

Back To School Is A Good Time To Review Your Insurance Policies, Look Into Renters Insurance (Photo) - 08/19/26

Salem – As students head off to college and many teens begin driving daily with the start of school coming up, this is a good time to review your insurance policies to protect your family from unexpected costs.

“Back-to-school season brings a lot of changes for families, including a student moving into a dorm and a new teenage driver in the house,” said Oregon Insurance Commissioner TK Keen. “A quick call to your agent or insurance company now can prevent an expensive surprise later.”

The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) reminds Oregonians that having proper insurance coverage can provide greater peace of mind and protect your family. Here are some insurance tips to help your back-to-school season go smoothly.

Homeowners and renters insurance

If your student is moving into a dorm room, your homeowners policy will likely cover their personal property in case of a loss. Ask your child to tell you if they buy a new computer or other pricey items and have them keep receipts. Check with your agent or insurance company to make sure these items are covered.

Students living off campus should consider renters insurance. This coverage will protect students’ personal property and provide liability coverage if someone is injured on the property. Renters insurance is typically inexpensive and provides valuable protection. A home inventory is always a good idea, whether they live on or off campus. This list of items will make a future insurance claim much quicker and easier to settle. You can learn more about home inventories on DFR’s website.

Auto insurance

Oregon requires every vehicle on the road to have auto liability coverage. Auto liability insurance pays – up to your policy's limits – for property damage and bodily injury to someone else if you are found responsible for an accident. If the title to the vehicle is in your student's name, they will generally need their own policy. If your college student is driving a vehicle you own, your child can likely stay on your policy and be listed as a driver.

Tell your insurance agent or company where the vehicle will be stored if the address differs from what is on your policy.

Health insurance

Students have several options for health insurance coverage while away at college. If your children are now covered under your insurance, they will still be covered while at school. Any insurance plan that offers dependent coverage must make that available until the dependent is 26 years old. If you are currently enrolled in a health maintenance organization (HMO), your child may need to return to your home area for routine care and may have emergency care only while at school.

Many colleges and universities also offer their own student health insurance plans. The premiums and features vary widely by school. Check with your student's school health center to see available coverage options.

Denied insurance claims

If your family experiences a claim denial or settlement disagreement, and you are unable to resolve the issue with your insurance company, you can file a complaint on the DFR website. The division's advocates are also available to help answer general questions. Call 888-877-4894 (toll-free) or email dfr.insurancehelp@dcbs.oregon.gov. DFR’s website also has resources available at dfr.oregon.gov.

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About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

Attached Media Files: DFR-logo-blue.jpg,

Division Of Financial Regulation Finalizes 2027 Health Insurance Rates, Acts To Preserve Coverage Choices Statewide - 08/18/26

Salem – The Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) has issued final 2027 rate orders for Oregon’s individual and small group health insurance markets. As the trend continues to show decreased enrollment of the individual market and greater than expected financial losses in recent months, DFR is taking action to stymie even higher rates by using available state dollars for the state’s reinsurance program.

In the individual market, DFR approved individual market increases that averaged 21.6 percent based on the new data and updated rate requests. DFR scrutinized the rate requests under actuarial standards to ensure that the rates were actuarially sound and justified based on additional market changes.

In the small group market, final orders reflected DFR’s 1.5 percent reduction of insurer’s proposed average rates of 17 percent to 15.5 percent, including some reductions of up to 8 percent.

The finalization of rate orders comes as carriers gained more experience in the market and re-evaluated their market presence. Continued marketplace uncertainty with the loss of the enhanced federal Affordable Care Act subsidies, heightened medical costs, tariff pressures on durable medical equipment and pharmaceuticals all caused greater cost pressures that were reflected in the rates. Statewide, in the individual market, two carriers are available statewide, seven counties will see four choices, 23 counties will see three choices, and six counties will have two choices. A table of county participation and final rate decisions for both the individual and small group markets can be found on our website.

To help stabilize the market in 2027, DFR is budgeting for an additional $15 million in reinsurance funds from the Oregon Reinsurance Program to offset anticipated higher-than-usual claims costs. DFR will also explore enrollment caps to certain plans to balance consumer choice with marketwide financial stability.

The Oregon Reinsurance Program is one of the tools Oregon uses to hold down health insurance premiums. The state helps insurers absorb the cost of the most expensive medical claims, which reduces their risk and means lower premiums for people who buy insurance on their own. The reinsurance program lowered rates by an average of 10.7 percent, including 1 percent reduction due to the additional budgeting of $15 million for the 2027 plan year. Reinsurance minimizes the price increases felt by consumers and operates to lowered rates for the ninth straight year. Oregon has resubmitted a renewal request to the federal government to maintain this program. The Oregon Legislature adopted Gov. Kotek’s 2025-27 funding plan, which continued revenue streams that keep the reinsurance program stable.

Consumers seeking information and assistance with individual market plans can reach out to the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace at OregonHealthCare.gov or by phone at 855‑268‑3767 (toll‑free).

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About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.

Division Of Financial Regulation Finalizes 2027 Health Insurance Rates, Acts To Preserve Coverage Choices Statewide - 08/18/26

Salem – The Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) has issued final 2027 rate orders for Oregon’s individual and small group health insurance markets. As the trend continues to show decreased enrollment of the individual market and greater than expected financial losses in recent months, DFR is taking action to stymie even higher rates by using available state dollars for the state’s reinsurance program.

In the individual market, DFR approved individual market increases that averaged 21.6 percent based on the new data and updated rate requests. DFR scrutinized the rate requests under actuarial standards to ensure that the rates were actuarially sound and justified based on additional market changes.

In the small group market, final orders reflected DFR’s 1.5 percent reduction of insurer’s proposed average rates of 17 percent to 15.5 percent, including some reductions of up to 8 percent.

The finalization of rate orders comes as carriers gained more experience in the market and re-evaluated their market presence. Continued marketplace uncertainty with the loss of the enhanced federal Affordable Care Act subsidies, heightened medical costs, tariff pressures on durable medical equipment and pharmaceuticals all caused greater cost pressures that were reflected in the rates. Statewide, in the individual market, two carriers are available statewide, seven counties will see four choices, 23 counties will see three choices, and six counties will have two choices. A table of county participation and final rate decisions for both the individual and small group markets can be found on our website.

To help stabilize the market in 2027, DFR is budgeting for an additional $15 million in reinsurance funds from the Oregon Reinsurance Program to offset anticipated higher-than-usual claims costs. DFR will also explore enrollment caps to certain plans to balance consumer choice with marketwide financial stability.

The Oregon Reinsurance Program is one of the tools Oregon uses to hold down health insurance premiums. The state helps insurers absorb the cost of the most expensive medical claims, which reduces their risk and means lower premiums for people who buy insurance on their own. The reinsurance program lowered rates by an average of 10.7 percent, including 1 percent reduction due to the additional budgeting of $15 million for the 2027 plan year. Reinsurance minimizes the price increases felt by consumers and operates to lowered rates for the ninth straight year. Oregon has resubmitted a renewal request to the federal government to maintain this program. The Oregon Legislature adopted Gov. Kotek’s 2025-27 funding plan, which continued revenue streams that keep the reinsurance program stable.

Consumers seeking information and assistance with individual market plans can reach out to the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace at OregonHealthCare.gov or by phone at 855‑268‑3767 (toll‑free).

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About Oregon DFR: The Division of Financial Regulation protects consumers and regulates insurance, depository institutions, trust companies, securities, and consumer financial products and services. The division is part of the Department of Consumer and Business Services, Oregon’s largest consumer protection and business regulatory agency. Visit dfr.oregon.gov and dcbs.oregon.gov.