The Process for Disputing a Credit Card Charge

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Editor’s note: Lantern by SoFi seeks to provide content that is objective, independent and accurate. Writers are separate from our business operation and do not receive direct compensation from advertisers or partners. Read more about our Editorial Guidelines and How We Make Money.
What Does It Mean to Dispute a Credit Card Charge?
When Can You Dispute a Credit Card Charge?
Unauthorized credit charges Charges listing the wrong date or amount Charges for goods or services you didn’t accept or that weren’t delivered as agreed Math errors Failure to post payments or other credits, such as returns Failure to send bills to your current address Charges for which you ask for an explanation or written proof of purchase, along with a claimed error or request for clarification
Unauthorized Credit Card Charges
Billing Errors
Unauthorized charges Charges that list the wrong date or amount Charges for goods and services you didn’t accept or that weren’t delivered as agreed Math errors Failure to post payments and other credits Failure to send bills to your current address Charges for which you ask for an explanation or written proof of purchase along with a claimed error or request for clarification
Wrong Date
Wrong Amount
Issue With Goods and Services
Math Error
Improperly Posted Payment
Incorrect Mailing Address Used
Written Proof of Purchase
Can I Dispute a Credit Card Charge That I Willingly Paid For?
When Should You Dispute a Charge on a Credit Card?
Disputing a Credit Card Charge
1. Contact the Creditor
2. Wait for the Charges To Be Investigated
3. Receive a Refund or a Written Letter of Explanation
4. Continue to Monitor Your Credit
Dispute a Credit Card Charge Sample Letter
How Much Does It Cost to Dispute a Credit Card Charge?
Will I Get My Money Back If I Dispute a Charge?
Does Disputing a Charge Impact Credit Score?
Contacting Major Card Issuers
Should You Get Another Credit Card If Disputing the Charge Fails?
The Takeaway
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Author
Jason Steele has been writing about credit cards and award travel since 2008. One of the nation's leading experts in this field, he has contributed to dozens of personal finance and travel outlets and has been widely quoted in the mainstream media.
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