# How to use chargeback on a card payment

> How-to · Last reviewed 23 June 2026

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## Quick answer

Chargeback reverses a card payment when goods are not delivered, are faulty, or a subscription was not cancelled — contact your bank within 120 days of the transaction (longer for some travel and future-delivery goods).

Chargeback is a bank scheme, not a legal right like Section 75. It works on debit cards and credit cards but offers less protection. There is no minimum purchase amount, making it useful for items under £100.

## Steps

### 1. Check chargeback is appropriate for your situation

Chargeback covers non-delivery, faulty goods, duplicate charges, and fraudulent transactions. For credit card purchases over £100, check whether Section 75 gives stronger protection before choosing chargeback.

Source: https://www.gov.uk/consumer-protection-rights

### 2. Contact the retailer first

Try to get a refund directly. Many banks require evidence you attempted to resolve the issue. Keep emails, chat logs, and reference numbers.

### 3. Note the chargeback deadline

You generally have 120 days from the transaction date or expected delivery date. For future-delivery items (concert tickets, holidays), the clock may start from the event or travel date. Act quickly.

### 4. Submit a chargeback claim to your bank

Call your bank or building society and ask to raise a chargeback. Provide the transaction date, amount, merchant name, and reason code (non-delivery, not as described, fraud, etc.). Follow up in writing if asked.

Source: https://www.gov.uk/consumer-protection-rights/debit-card-chargeback

### 5. Cooperate with the bank's investigation

The bank contacts the merchant's bank, which can accept or dispute the chargeback. The merchant may provide counter-evidence. Chargeback can take up to 75 days to resolve.

### 6. Escalate to the ombudsman if rejected unfairly

If your bank refuses a valid chargeback or mishandles the claim, complain formally and refer to the Financial Ombudsman Service after receiving a final response.

Source: https://www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk/consumers/complain-against-business/complain-bank

## Common pitfalls

- Chargeback is not guaranteed — the merchant can dispute it and win
- Using chargeback on a credit card purchase over £100 may waive stronger Section 75 rights — check before proceeding
- Missing the 120-day deadline usually means the bank will not raise a chargeback at all

## Frequently asked questions

### Does chargeback work on debit cards?

Yes. Chargeback is often the main remedy for debit card problems because Section 75 only applies to credit.

### Can I chargeback a PayPal payment?

PayPal has its own buyer protection scheme. Card-funded PayPal payments may also allow chargeback through your card issuer — ask your bank.

### Is chargeback the same as a fraud refund?

Fraudulent transactions are one chargeback reason, but banks also have separate fraud refund policies. Report fraud promptly and ask which route applies.

## Sources

- [Legislation.gov.uk — Consumer Credit Act s75](https://www.gov.uk/consumer-protection-rights/debit-card-chargeback)
- [GOV.UK — Consumer protection rights](https://www.gov.uk/consumer-protection-rights)

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Independent UK money guidance from [Money Guide](https://moneyguide.org.uk). Information only — not regulated financial advice.