Credit/Debit Card Disputes & Protection
In all European Countries the law protects you when you use your charge or debit card to pay for purchases whether electronically, by phone, mail or in the store.
The Law should allow you to challenge a billing error (whether for an incorrect amount or for an item you didn’t purchase) without paying the charge during the dispute period. To maximize your protection, you should write to the creditor at the address indicated on the monthly statement for billing inquiries. We recommend you to include your name, address and credit card number, and describe the billing error with a copy of your statement. It is recommended that your letter should be sent to the creditor as soon as you receive the first bill containing the error. In good practises if not by national law, the creditor must acknowledge your complaint in writing within 30 days after receiving it, unless the problem has been resolved.
The creditor must resolve the dispute in a reasonable time. In general, good practices or law stipulate not more than 90 days after receiving your letter (it’s always recommended that you send it via certified mail, return receipt requested).
Under national law, your liability for unauthorized use of your debit card is defined with your bank or card provider, depending on when you report the loss or theft.
Make sure you are informed and aware of these provisions and rules, when using your cards. To be certain of your rights, ask your bank about its liability limits.
