Credit Dispute Tips

Paying with a credit card gives you a number of protections that checks, debit cards and cash cannot provide. One of these protections is the ability to dispute an item on your credit card if the goods or services you paid for did not live up to their expectations. But while the dispute process provides important protections, it is still important to back up your assertions with the proper paperwork and documentation.

Check Your Recent Charges Frequently

In order to be considered, your dispute must be filed promptly, so it is important to review your recent charges frequently. Contact your credit card issuer if you spot a charge you do not recognize, or if you see a legitimate charge for more than the agreed upon cost. The best way to keep track of your credit card charges is to log on to your account online at least once a week. This will allow you to reconcile the charges you find there with the list you keep as you buy the goods and services you need.

Keep Copies of Your Paperwork

Keeping copies of all backup paperwork is essential when filing a dispute with your credit card company. If the dispute originated with a shoddy product, be sure to keep copies of any letters you sent to the merchant requesting a refund or replacement product. If the credit dispute is the result of shoddy service, keep copies of all communication with the merchant, as well as copies of the original contract listing the responsibilities of the service provider.

Follow Up

It is important to follow up on the dispute you have filed to make sure it has been resolved to your satisfaction. When you file a dispute with the credit card company, the merchant has an opportunity to respond to your claim. If the merchant does respond, you might be asked for additional information to substantiate your claim, so it is important to check your account frequently for new questions and inquiries.

Pay the Amount in Dispute

Even though you are not legally obligated to pay any amounts you are disputing, it is a good idea to pay those disputed claims if you can. That is because if the dispute is ultimately denied, you could owe interest on those reinstated charges. If the dispute is decided in your favor, you will receive a check for the credit balance, or a credit against other charges on the card.