What Should You Do When a Credit Card Company Charges You for a Non-Occurrence?

Have you ever found yourself facing a confusing and frustrating situation when a credit card statement includes a charge for a purchase you did not make? This is a common issue, often referred to as unauthorized charges. If you find yourself in this dilemma, you need to take the right steps to address the issue. Here's a comprehensive guide on what to do when your credit card company charges you for something that never happened.

Understand the Nature of Unauthorized Charges

Before taking any action, it's important to understand that unauthorized charges are not uncommon. These can occur due to various reasons, including:

Identity theft Phishing scams Incorrect billing records Software errors or mistaken entries

Recognizing the possible causes can help you better navigate the resolution process with your credit card company.

Contact Your Credit Card Company

The first step is to contact your credit card company immediately. Explain the situation as clearly as possible, providing any relevant evidence or documentation. Your credit card company will likely initiate an investigation to verify the charge. Be prepared to answer questions about your transaction history and provide any additional information that may expedite the process.

Steps to Take When Contacting Your Credit Card Company

Call the customer service line of your credit card company. Most credit card providers have customer service numbers available on their official websites. Explain that you did not authorize or purchase the item listed on your statement. Provide any transaction details, dates, and amounts involved. Request a written confirmation of the investigation. Follow up with email or a letter if necessary to ensure the communication is documented.

Your credit card company will either:

Dismiss the charge: The investigation will confirm that the charge was indeed unauthorized, and it will be removed from your account. Charge you for the item: If the company deems the charge as legitimate, they may issue a correction to your account. In this case, you can appeal the decision or seek additional assistance.

Notify Your Financial Institution

While you are working with your credit card company, it's also advisable to notify your bank. Your bank may have additional measures to protect you from unauthorized charges. By informing your bank, you make sure that it is aware of the issue and can assist you in case the credit card company does not resolve the matter.

Some banks may require you to report the unauthorized charge within a specific timeframe, often within 60 days of the transaction, to qualify for a chargeback. Make sure to check your bank's policies and adhere to their procedures.

Three Key Takeaways

Always verify the authenticity of any charge on your credit card statement. Document all communication and transactions related to the dispute. Leverage both your credit card company and bank's resources to resolve the issue.

Conclusion

Dealing with unauthorized charges can be a complex and time-consuming process, but it's crucial to take the right steps to resolve the issue. By contacting your credit card company and your bank immediately, providing clear and factual information, and following up throughout the investigation, you can minimize the impact of these unauthorized charges on your finances. Remember, your financial security is important, and staying proactive in addressing such issues is key.