How to Dispute a Billing Error Under FCBA
The Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA) gives you the right to dispute billing errors on your credit card. It covers credit cards only — not debit cards.
What FCBA Covers
| Error Type | Example |
|---|---|
| Unauthorized charge | Billed after cancellation |
| Wrong amount | Charged $100 when price was $50 |
| Duplicate charge | Billed twice for same month |
| Undelivered | Paid for service never provided |
| Statement error | Wrong math, missing credits |
The 60-Day Clock
FCBA gives you 60 days from the date of the statement containing the error. The T&C cannot shorten this even if it says 30 days. Set reminders at day 30, 45, and 55.
Step 1: Try the Merchant First (Days 1-7)
Send an email to the merchant's billing department:
Subject: Billing Error — Account [number] Date of charge: [date] Amount charged: $[amount] Amount expected: $[amount] I request a full refund to my original payment method. Please confirm resolution in writing.
Step 2: Written Dispute to Card Issuer (By Day 50)
Send a physical letter to the billing inquiries address on your statement (not customer service). Include:
- Your name, address, account number
- Dollar amount of the error
- Statement date showing the error
- Why it's an error (be specific)
- Copies of receipts, T&C pages, cancellation confirmations
Step 3: What the Issuer Must Do (Days 51-90)
| Timeline | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Within 30 days | Acknowledge your complaint in writing |
| Within 90 days | Complete investigation and resolve |
| During investigation | No interest or delinquency on disputed amount |
| If they rule in your favor | Remove charge and related finance charges |
Your Key Rights
- Right to withhold payment — You do not have to pay the disputed amount during the investigation
- No credit damage — Cannot be reported as delinquent on the disputed amount
- No retaliation — Card issuer cannot close your account for exercising FCBA rights
If Denied
- Request copies of all documents they relied on
- Provide additional evidence you’ve gathered since
- File a complaint at consumerfinance.gov/complaint
- Consult a consumer protection attorney if the amount is significant