What are my rights when disputing a credit card charge?

If the purchase you made with a credit card was unsatisfactory or if merchandise was misrepresented to you in any way, you may have the right to dispute the charge with your credit card company. In Washington, consumers have specific rights when disputing a credit card charge as outlined in the Credit Card Dispute Resolution Law. Under this law, consumers have the right to demand an investigation into an incorrect charge on a credit card. You can also dispute the charge if you feel the item you received was misrepresented to you in any way or if the merchant refuses to accept the return of an item. Your credit card company must investigate the dispute and respond to you within 30 days. During the dispute process, you have the right to a full refund of the amount in dispute if the credit card company determines that the merchant is at fault. Additionally, you have the right to receive any finance charges, late fees, and over-the-limit fees associated with the disputed amount. The law also requires credit card companies to provide consumers with periodic statements listing the activity on their account and to provide a toll-free telephone number for you to call to dispute a charge. By understanding your rights, you will be equipped to successfully dispute a charge on your credit card. If the Credit Card Dispute Resolution Law has been violated, you may be able to resolve the dispute and claim damages from the offending party.

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