Need a construction loan? Over the past few years, many states have enacted legislation prohibiting loan brokers from charging an advance fee. For example, in Florida, assessing or collecting such a fee is a felony. There are some businesses such as banks and credit unions which are exempt from this prohibition. In Florida, contact the Department of Banking and Finance to determine if the company you are dealing with is acting legally. In other states, you may want to contact consumer agencies such as the Attorney General's Office, and local consumer agencies in the county where the company is located to determine if there are complaints or legal actions pending against the company. Do not rely on Chambers of Commerce or other business associations where membership is the based solely on payment of a fee.