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Disputing Charges on your Credit Card or Credit Report
The Fair Credit Billing Act applies to credit cards. It can be used for:
- Billing errors;
- Unauthorized use of your account;
- Goods or services charged to your account but not received or not provided as promised; and
- Charges for which you request an explanation or written proof of purchase.
When handling a dispute, whether it be with your card issuer, a credit bureau or a merchant, follow these rules of thumb:
- Write to the creditor or card issuer within 60 days after the first bill containing the disputed charge is mailed to you. Even if more than 60 days have passed since you were billed for the item, you still might be able to dispute the charge if you only recently found out about the problem.
- Document everything in writing including dates of inquiry or conversation, name of person with whom you spoke, and other important details. Always follow up with a letter confirming the details of any phone conversation, if desired, send via certified mail. In your letter, give your name and account number, the date and amount of the charge disputed, and a complete explanation of why you are disputing the charge.
- When sending a letter, include your name, address, phone number, account number, transaction number, amount, date and an explanation of why you believe that there is an error.
- Keep copies of all correspondence, statements and receipts. To be sure your letter is received, and so you will have a record, you might wish to send it by certified mail, with a return receipt requested.
Remember: You must put the issue in writing to be legally protected.
If you follow these requirements, the creditor or card issuer must acknowledge your letter in writing within 30 days after it is received and conduct an investigation within 90 days. While the bill is being disputed and investigated, you need not pay the amount in dispute. The creditor or card issuer may not take action to collect the disputed amount, including reporting the amount as delinquent, and may not close or restrict your account. If there was an error or you do not owe the amount, the creditor or card issuer must credit your account and remove any Finance Charges or late fees relating to the amount not owed. For any amount still owed, you have the right to an explanation and copies of documents proving you owe the money. If the bill is correct, you must be told in writing what you owe and why. You will owe the amount disputed plus any Finance Charges. You may ask for copies of relevant documents.
