Credit card disputes are a normal part of managing your finances and you can perform them even when you’ve willingly made the credit card purchase. However, it’s not always obvious where to start when you’ve run into a problem. Here’s how to get started with your dispute and how to best navigate the process.
Steps to resolve a dispute with your bank
Here are four simple tips you can use to resolve a problem with the bank that’s issued your credit card.
Get in touch with your bank
Ask staff members or the manager of the credit department at your local branch to review your problem. You can contact the head office if this situation has not been resolved at the branch. You will probably be asked which branch representatives served you so make sure to take down names.
For most types of disputes, including those classified as “billing errors” by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), you’ll need to file your dispute within 60 days from when the charge appearance on your bank statement.
State your problem clearly
Communicate exactly what the problem is so they can fully understand the issue and resolve it effectively. Stay calm, state the facts and let them know how you would like this resolved.
Do not stop making payments
You should always make at least the minimum payment to your credit card when you are in dispute with the company. Otherwise, you may have to pay penalty fees and interest will continue to add onto your balance.
Wait for results
According to the FTC, creditors are required to respond to complaints considered “billing errors” within 30 days and resolve the issue within two billing cycles. Other types of disputes may take longer to resolve and can depend on your state laws as well as the policies of your creditor.
What to do when all else fails
When you have not received any results from the head office, you can contact The Federal Reserve and make a complaint via their consumer complaint form. Go to the website at https://www.federalreserve.gov and fill out a dispute form by clicking contact and then consumer assistance.
While it can be a somewhat lengthy process to resolve a dispute with your credit card issuer, you should be able to get closure on the matter by using these two methods. A lot of people get into trouble by losing their temper. Don’t let this happen to you — stay calm and the issue will get resolved.
When should you dispute a credit card charge?
Generally, the following circumstances listed under the Fair Credit Billing Act are considered “billing errors” indicate an opportunity for a successful dispute:
Charges list the wrong date or monetary amount
Charges on items you didn’t accept or weren’t delivered as promised
Math errors
Failure to post returns or other similar payments
Failure to send bills to your current address
Charges for which you ask for an explanation or written proof of purchase
You can also dispute charges you’re not satisfied with. You’ll need to file this claim within 60 days of when the charge shows up on your statement. Though, you’ll first need to work out your issue with the merchant you purchased from. Other requisites for this type of dispute include:
The purchase must exceed $50
The purchase must occur within the same state as your address or within 100 miles of your address
Your attempt of resolution must be in “good faith” and for a fair settlement
Bottom line
Credit card disputes are an important and normal part of maintaining healthy finances, particularly as credit card fraud remains a growing problem.
Stick to these guidelines to improve your chances of a successful dispute and learn more about how credit card security works.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. However, you’ll need to have an eligible reason for the dispute as laid out under the Fair Credit Billing Act.
No. Disputing a charge will not harm your credit score.
No. You should refrain from paying the charge you’re disputing until the dispute process is resolved.
Kyle Morgan is a writer and editor for Finder who has worked for the USA Today network and Relix magazine, among other publications. He can be found writing about everything from the latest car loan stats to tips on saving money when traveling overseas. He lives in Asbury Park, where he loves exploring new places and sipping on hoppy beer. Oh, and he doesn't discriminate against buffalo wings — grilled or fried are just fine.
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