How to Recover Credit Card Charges

Consumers are allowed to dispute charges on their credit card statements and request that the funds be returned. Requests may be made to the credit card company to return charges, such an unauthorized charge, miscalculated charges or any other errors. The Fair Credit Billing Act states that consumers must notify the credit card company within 60 days of the first bill that contains the error.

Instructions

1. Review your credit card statement. Retrieve the information for the transaction that you are attempting to recover. You will need the date, amount of transaction and the name of the merchant.

2. Contact the credit card company. Call the number on your credit card statement. Provide the details of the transaction. Be prepared to explain the reason that you are requesting the charges be refunded to you. If your card has been lost or stolen, request the company cancel the card and issue a new one with a different account number.

3. Submit your request in writing. In addition to calling the credit card agency, you may make a written request. Indicate in your letter that you are disputing a charge and list the date, amount and other information regarding the charge. Send your letter certified. Request a return receipt. This provides you with documentation that the company has received your request. If you are disputing a charge that is incorrect, submit a copy of the sales receipt that shows the correct amount.

4. Allow 60 days for the credit card company to review your case. Don't pay the amount that is in question while the company is investigating your case.

5. Create an online account at the credit card company's website, which will allow you to check the status of your claim. You may also call the credit card company to get the status.

6. Contact the Federal Trade Commission if your request is denied. Visit the FTC's website and complete an online complaint form. The FTC will review your claim and decide if the credit card company used fair business practices in denying your claim.

7. Request a copy of your credit report. If your credit card has been stolen, report this to a credit reporting agency, such as Transunion, and you may be entitled to a free copy of your report. Review your report to ensure that no unauthorized credit accounts have been opened in your name.

References

• FTC: Fair Credit Billing
• Federal Trade Commission: Complaints