In short: a chargeback is a reversal of a card payment that your card issuer makes after you dispute the charge. Try the merchant first, then contact your issuer quickly, because card networks and some laws set time limits.
When can you use a chargeback?
Common reasons:
- Goods or services weren't delivered.
- An item was significantly not as described.
- You were charged twice or charged the wrong amount.
- A subscription kept charging you after you cancelled.
- A refund the merchant promised never arrived.
Extra legal protection
| Where | Protection | Key point |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Fair Credit Billing Act (credit cards) | Write to your card issuer within 60 days of the statement showing the error being sent to you |
| United Kingdom | Section 75, Consumer Credit Act 1974 | Your credit card provider is jointly liable for purchases over £100 and up to £30,000 |
| Most countries | Card scheme chargeback rules | Available on debit and credit cards, with network time limits |
How to dispute
- Contact the merchant and ask for a refund in writing. Keep the reply, or note that there wasn't one.
- Contact your card issuer through its app, website or phone line and say you want to dispute the transaction.
- Provide evidence: receipts, screenshots and your messages with the merchant.
- Keep an eye on your statements. The merchant can respond, and the issuer will decide.
What about bank transfers, PayPal and UPI?
- Bank transfers and instant payments are hard to reverse. Contact your bank immediately if you were scammed.
- PayPal has its own dispute process.
- UPI failed transactions are covered by Reserve Bank of India turnaround rules.