The Money Tree, Inc., et al.; Prohibited Trade Practices, and Affirmative Corrective Actions, 62 Fed. Reg. 35,819 (July 2, 1997)

In settlement of alleged violations of federal law prohibiting unfair or deceptive acts or practices and unfair methods of competition, this consent order requires, among other things, the Georgia company and its officer to offer customers the chance to cancel the credit-life, credit-disability, or accidental death and dismemberment insurance they purchased, and to obtain cash refunds or credit which could amount to as much as $1.2 million. The consent order prohibits the respondents from requiring consumers to sign statements that such purchases are voluntary, if they are required to obtain the loan; from referring to credit-related insurance or auto club membership without telling consumers their loan applications have been approved and the amount of the approved loans; and requires the respondents to disclose to consumers that such coverage is optional and to have those consumers sign a form acknowledging that fact and the amount the extras will cost if they choose to purchase them. The consent order also prohibits violations of the Fair Credit Reporting Act provisions regarding disclosures to consumers when their credit reports influence the denial of credit.