One of the great advantages to having a credit card is that when every other option has failed to get your money back on a problem purchase, you have one more resource to fall back on.

You can file a credit card dispute when a merchant refuses to give you your money back due to poor quality or damaged merchandise. First, however, you have to try to get the merchant to take the item back and replace it or refund your money. You cannot simply go and dispute it right away on your credit card.

Theoretically, this is only for purchases over $50 and bought within 100 miles of your home; however, in many cases the credit card company will help you even if you do not meet that criteria. With the popularity of online purchases, it is certainly to be hoped for that some time in the near future the 100 mile radius would be extended, of course.

Always keep written records of what steps you have taken prior to taking it to the credit card company. This will make it easier for them to help you. Patience in these matters also helps tremendously. Send a certified letter to the merchant if you can’t get the refund accomplished on the store level. Keep a copy for your records.

If that doesn’t work it may be time to call your credit card company and let them know you will be disputing that charge. Find out where you need to send your dispute letter. Your dispute letter should include all the information you have about the purchase and what you have done to try and resolve the situation. Send this letter by certified mail.

All of this should be done as soon as possible after the purchase. You have up to 60 days after the bill is sent to get this done, but that time can just fly by, so don’t delay.

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