Call Citi's Dispute Line at 1-888-248-4226
To report a fraudulent or incorrect charge on your Citi credit card, call 1-888-248-4226. This is the dedicated disputes number for Citi cardholders. Have your card number, the transaction date, and the merchant name ready when you call. The line is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
When you reach a representative, tell them you want to dispute a charge. They will ask you to describe what happened — whether the charge is fraudulent, you were overcharged, the merchant never delivered what you paid for, or another reason. Be specific about the amount and the date. The representative will document your dispute and explain what happens next.
You do not need to have already filed a dispute online or in writing to call. The phone line is the fastest way to start the process, and the representative can answer questions about your specific situation in real time.
Key Takeaways
- Citi's dispute phone number is 1-888-248-4226, available 24 hours a day.
- Have your card number, the transaction date, and the merchant name ready before you call.
- You can also file a dispute through your Citi online account or mobile app if you prefer not to call.
- Citi will investigate your dispute and typically respond within 30 to 60 days.
- While a dispute is under review, you are not responsible for the disputed amount if the charge is fraudulent or unauthorized.
What Information You Need Before Calling
Gather these details before you pick up the phone. Have your Citi card number available — the representative will need it to pull up your account. Write down the date of the transaction you want to dispute, the name of the merchant or business, and the exact amount charged.
If the charge is fraudulent, note whether you recognize the merchant at all or if the charge is completely unfamiliar. If you received a product or service but it was not what you ordered or was damaged, have any relevant receipts, emails, or photos ready. The representative may ask you to describe what you expected versus what you received.
If you have already contacted the merchant to resolve the issue, note the date you contacted them and what they said. This helps Citi understand whether you tried to resolve it directly first.
What Happens After You Report the Dispute
After you call, Citi will send you a written confirmation of your dispute within a few business days. This letter will include a reference number, the amount in dispute, and the merchant name. Keep this letter — you may need the reference number if you call back with questions.
Citi then contacts the merchant's bank to request documentation of the transaction. The merchant has a set time to respond with proof that the charge was legitimate. This process typically takes 30 to 60 days. During this time, the disputed amount remains on your account, but you are not required to pay it while the investigation is ongoing.
Once Citi completes its investigation, they will send you a letter with the outcome. If they find in your favor, the charge will be removed and you will receive a credit. If the merchant provides proof that the charge was valid, Citi will close the dispute and you will owe the amount.
Disputing a Charge Online or Through the Mobile App
If you prefer not to call, you can file a dispute through your Citi account online. Log in to your Citi credit card account, go to the Transactions or Activity section, and find the charge you want to dispute. Select the option to report a problem or dispute the transaction. You will be asked to choose a reason — fraudulent, unauthorized, not received, not as described, or other — and to describe what happened.
The Citi mobile app also has a dispute option. Open the app, navigate to your recent transactions, select the charge, and choose "Report a Problem." The process is the same as online: select your reason and provide details. Submitting online creates the same investigation as calling, and you will receive the same written confirmation.
Some people prefer calling because they can ask questions and get when ready clarification. Others prefer online because they have time to write out exactly what happened without being on the phone. Both methods are equally valid.
Disputes for Unauthorized or Fraudulent Charges
If someone used your card number without your permission, report it when ready by calling 1-888-248-4226. Tell the representative that the charge is unauthorized or fraudulent. Citi will typically cancel your current card and issue a replacement within 7 to 10 business days.
Under federal law, you are not responsible for unauthorized charges on your credit card. Citi will credit your account once they confirm the charge was not made by you. This protection applies whether the fraud happened online, over the phone, or in person.
If you notice multiple fraudulent charges, report all of them in one call. The representative can flag your account for fraud monitoring, which may help prevent future unauthorized use.
What to Do If You Cannot Reach a Representative
Citi's dispute line is staffed 24 hours a day, but wait times can be long during business hours. If you are on hold for more than 15 minutes, you can hang up and try again later, or file your dispute online instead. The outcome will be the same regardless of when you report it.
If you have a hearing or speech disability and need to use a relay service, Citi accommodates TTY and video relay calls. Tell the representative when you call that you are using a relay service, and they will work with you through the relay operator.
If you are disputing a charge on a Citi business credit card, the number may be different. Check the back of your business card or your business account statement for the correct disputes number.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a dispute investigation take?
Citi typically investigates disputes within 30 to 60 days. You will receive a written decision by mail once the investigation is complete. If Citi needs more information from you, they will contact you during this period.
Do I have to pay the disputed amount while Citi investigates?
No. While a dispute is under review, you are not required to pay the disputed amount. However, the charge will still appear on your account and may affect your credit utilization. Once the dispute is resolved, you will either receive a credit or be required to pay the full amount.
What if the merchant says I authorized the charge?
If you did not authorize it, tell Citi that during your dispute. Citi will ask the merchant for proof of authorization — such as a signed receipt or a recorded phone call. If the merchant cannot provide proof, Citi will rule in your favor. If they can, Citi will close the dispute and you will owe the amount.
Can I dispute a charge after several months?
You have up to 60 days from the date the charge appeared on your statement to report it. If more than 60 days have passed, Citi may not be able to investigate. Check your statement date to confirm you are within the window before calling.
What if Citi rules against me?
If Citi determines the charge was valid, you will owe the amount and it will remain on your account. You can ask the representative to explain Citi's decision in detail. If you believe Citi made an error, you can contact the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to file a complaint about how Citi handled your dispute.