What to Do Before You Dispute a Charge

You found a charge you did not expect. Before you call your bank, take a few minutes to get ready. It can make the whole thing go faster.

Make sure it is not yours

The name on a bill is not always the name on the shop sign. Ask anyone who shares the card, too.

Wait until the charge has posted.

Try the company

Write to the company that charged you. Plenty of billing slips get fixed with one email.

Save their reply. It shows you tried.

Gather your proof

Pull together what shows your side:

• the receipt or order email
• photos of what you got
• messages you sent the company, with dates
• a note of each call, with the date

File in writing, and keep copies

Start with a credit card. Regulation Z gives the cardholder 60 days to get a written notice to the card issuer. Regulation Z starts the 60 days when the card issuer sends the first statement that shows the error. Do not wait for the company if that clock is running out.

A debit card or bank account has its own rule. Regulation E says your bank must get your error notice within 60 days after it sends the statement showing the error.

Keep a copy of everything you send. Then read what happens after you dispute a charge so you know what comes next.