Sometimes it is necessary for a consumer to write a credit card dispute letter to a credit card issuer in regard to a conflict that cannot be resolved. A consumer should only resort to this, however, after first speaking with the issuer. If this method doesn’t bring a solution to the discrepancy, such as a duplicate or unauthorized charge, then the consumer must write a letter within 60 days of the date on the faulty billing statement.
To write a credit card dispute letter, a consumer must have a copy of all sales receipts related to the faulty billing information. This is especially important when dealing with receipts from gas stations and restaurants, such as in cases when a waiter has misinterpreted a tip. Other information that a consumer requires to file a credit card dispute letter include the date of the faulty transaction, the name of the merchant who processed the transaction, the merchant’s address, and the disputed charge value.
Writing the actual credit card dispute letter entails explaining why the associated charge is faulty and what steps have been taken thus far to resolve the issue. It is recommended that the consumer handwrite the letter for authenticity. In addition, the consumer should try and write in an active tone, using strong words such as erroneous and unverifiable. Both taking the time to handwrite the letter, as well as using precise and strong language, may make the credit card company take the dispute more seriously.
Also required is the date and a personal signature. A consumer should also check with the credit card issuer to ensure no required information was left out, as certain companies may have additional needed items. If there are several disputes, then they each require their own separate letter.
After preparing a credit card dispute letter, a consumer should wait at least two weeks before taking further action, such as phoning the credit card company. It typically takes a credit card issuer 30 days to reply, but according to federal law, the company must resolve the issue within two billing cycles, or 90 days at the most.
A credit card company will typically resolve a credit card dispute by crediting the consumer’s account. In case the company rejects the consumer’s letter, the consumer may have to file a credit card dispute lawsuit. This option should only be pursued if the faulty value is over $250 US Dollars (USD), because otherwise associated court costs will likely be far greater than the faulty value.
