What is the difference between chargeback and Section 75?

Section 75 is a statutory right under the Consumer Credit Act 1974 that applies only to credit cards for purchases between £100.01 and £30,000, making the card company jointly liable. Chargeback is a voluntary card network scheme (Visa/Mastercard) that applies to both debit and credit cards with no minimum amount. Section 75 is generally stronger as it is a legal right; chargeback can be challenged by the merchant through representment. If eligible, try Section 75 first for credit card purchases over £100.

How long do I have to request a chargeback?

Time limits vary by card network and reason for the dispute. Generally, Visa and Mastercard allow 120 days from the transaction date or the expected delivery date. For recurring payments, the clock may start from the date of the disputed charge. It is always best to act quickly — contact your bank as soon as you become aware of the problem.

Can the merchant dispute a chargeback?

Yes. The merchant has the right to challenge a chargeback through a process called representment. The merchant provides evidence to their bank that the transaction was legitimate and the goods or services were provided as agreed. If the merchant's evidence is compelling, the chargeback may be reversed. Your bank will notify you if this happens, and you may have the option to escalate the dispute further.

Does chargeback apply to debit cards?

Yes. This is one of the key advantages of chargeback over Section 75 — chargeback applies to debit cards, credit cards, and prepaid cards. For debit card users, chargeback is often the only formal dispute resolution mechanism available through the bank. There is no minimum transaction amount, making it suitable for purchases under £100 as well.

What evidence do I need for a chargeback claim?

You should provide: a bank statement showing the disputed transaction, copies of any correspondence with the merchant, evidence of what was ordered or agreed (e.g., order confirmation, screenshots of the product listing), proof of non-delivery or the fault, and evidence that you attempted to resolve the matter with the merchant directly. The stronger your evidence, the more likely the chargeback will succeed.

What if my bank refuses to process a chargeback?

If your bank refuses to initiate a chargeback or the outcome is unsatisfactory, you have the right to make a formal complaint to the bank. If the bank does not resolve your complaint within 8 weeks, or you are dissatisfied with their response, you can refer the matter to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS). The FOS can order the bank to process the chargeback or pay compensation.

Free Chargeback Request Letter Template

A chargeback request letter is a formal written request to your bank or card issuer asking them to reverse a card transaction and return the funds to your account.

FreePDF & Word

Your data stays on your device — nothing is sent to any server.

Your Details

Your Full Name (as on bank account)*

Your Address*

Your Email Address

Company Details

Bank / Card Issuer Name*

Bank / Card Issuer Address*

Details

Date of This Letter*

Account Number (last 4 digits) or Sort Code*

Card Type*

Card Network*

Transaction Date*

Merchant / Company Name*

Transaction Amount*

Options

Reason for Dispute*

Full Details of Dispute*

Include all relevant dates, amounts, correspondence, and evidence of the issue.

I have already contacted the merchant to resolve this

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[senderName] [senderAddress] I have been unable to resolve this with the merchant directly{{#if disputeReason === 'merchant-ceased'}} as they have ceased trading. {{/if}} I understand that chargeback is a process governed by the rules of the [cardNetwork] card scheme, and I am requesting that you initiate a chargeback on my behalf for the amount of [transactionAmount]. I am happy to provide any additional information or evidence you may require to support this claim. I enclose copies of the following: — Transaction record / bank statement showing the charge — Correspondence with the merchant (if applicable) — Evidence of non-delivery, fault, or cancellation (if applicable) Please confirm receipt of this request and keep me informed of the progress. If this chargeback request is not upheld, please provide full reasons in writing so that I may consider my options, including referral to the Financial Ombudsman Service. Yours faithfully, ___________________________ [senderName]

Important Notes

Legal Disclaimer

Chargeback is not a statutory right but a voluntary dispute resolution scheme operated by the card payment networks (Visa, Mastercard, American Express). Each network has its own rules and time limits. Visa generally allows chargeback claims to be filed within 120 days of the transaction date or the expected delivery date. Mastercard has similar timeframes, varying by reason code. Unlike Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974, chargeback applies to both debit and credit cards and has no minimum transaction amount. However, chargeback does not create joint and several liability — the bank simply reverses the transaction and the merchant can dispute it (representment). The Financial Conduct Authority's Principles for Businesses require card issuers to treat customers fairly when handling chargeback requests. If a bank refuses to process a chargeback or the outcome is unsatisfactory, the consumer can complain to the Financial Ombudsman Service. For credit card purchases over £100, a Section 75 claim may be more appropriate as it provides a stronger statutory right.

This template is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For complex legal matters, we recommend consulting a qualified solicitor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Templates

Section 75 Credit Card Claim Letter Refund Request Letter Faulty Goods Complaint Letter Cancellation Letter