How to dispute a charge on your Chase credit card
You can dispute a charge on your Chase credit card by contacting Chase directly through their dispute process, which typically takes 30 to 60 days to resolve. Chase will investigate whether the charge was unauthorized, fraudulent, or made in error. You do not need to wait for a statement to arrive — you can start a dispute as soon as you notice the problem, even if the charge is still pending.
The fastest way to report a dispute is to call the number on the back of your card or log into your Chase account online. Chase will walk you through what happened, document your claim, and either reverse the charge temporarily while they investigate or deny the dispute if they find the charge was valid. You may be asked to provide documentation like receipts, emails, or proof that you contacted the merchant.
Key Takeaways
- Call the number on the back of your Chase card or use the Chase mobile app to report a dispute within 60 days of the charge appearing on your statement.
- Chase will place a temporary credit on your account while they investigate, though this is not may provide and depends on the type of dispute.
- You will need to describe what happened — whether the charge was unauthorized, the merchant did not deliver, or the amount was wrong — because different disputes follow different rules.
- Keep all documentation you have: receipts, emails from the merchant, shipping confirmations, or proof you tried to resolve it with the merchant first.
- If Chase denies your dispute, you can request they reconsider, but the outcome depends on the evidence you provide and the type of transaction.
When you can dispute a charge
You have up to 60 days from the date the charge appears on your statement to report it to Chase. This is a federal requirement under the Fair Credit Billing Act, and Chase follows this timeline. If you notice a charge before your statement closes, you can still report it — you do not have to wait for the official statement date.
Some charges take longer to post than others. A pending charge may not appear on your statement for several days, and some merchants (hotels, rental car companies, gas stations) place a hold that later adjusts. If you see a pending charge you do not recognize, you can report it when ready rather than waiting for it to settle.
How to start a dispute through Chase
The easiest method is to log into your Chase account online or through the mobile app. Look for the transaction you want to dispute, select it, and choose "Dispute this charge" or "Report as fraud." Chase will ask you to describe what happened and select the reason — unauthorized charge, fraudulent transaction, merchant error, or item not received.
If you prefer to speak with someone, call the number on the back of your card. A representative will ask you to describe the charge, verify your identity, and explain why you are disputing it. They will create a case number and tell you what happens next. Keep this number for your records.
You can also mail a written dispute to Chase, though this is slower. The address will be on your statement or available through their website. Write a clear description of the charge, why you dispute it, and include copies (not originals) of any supporting documents. Send it certified mail so you have proof of delivery.
What Chase does while investigating
Chase will contact the merchant and ask them to provide proof that the charge was valid — a signed receipt, delivery confirmation, or other documentation. If the merchant cannot provide proof, Chase will typically reverse the charge. If the merchant does provide proof, Chase will review it and decide whether to uphold or overturn the dispute.
During the investigation, Chase may place a temporary credit on your account. This is not a final decision — it is a provisional credit while they gather information. The temporary credit usually appears within 5 to 10 business days, though it is not may provide. Chase will notify you in writing when the investigation is complete, usually within 30 to 60 days.
If Chase finds in your favor, the charge is removed permanently and any temporary credit becomes final. If Chase finds against you, they will remove the temporary credit and the charge will remain on your account. You will receive a written explanation of their decision.
Disputes for unauthorized or fraudulent charges
If someone else used your card without permission, report it as an unauthorized or fraudulent charge. Chase will investigate whether the charge matches your spending patterns and whether you reported it quickly. Unauthorized charges often reverse faster because the burden is on the merchant to prove you authorized the transaction.
If your card was lost or stolen, report that separately to Chase in addition to disputing individual charges. Chase can cancel the card and issue a replacement. Any fraudulent charges that appear after you report the card missing are typically reversed without question, as long as you reported the loss promptly.
Disputes for items not received or damaged
If you paid for something that never arrived or arrived damaged, you will need to show that you tried to resolve it with the merchant first. Contact the seller, ask for a refund or replacement, and keep records of those communications. If the merchant refuses or does not respond within a reasonable time, then dispute the charge with Chase.
When you dispute with Chase, provide proof of the purchase, proof of delivery (or lack of delivery), and copies of your messages to the merchant. If the item was supposed to arrive and the tracking shows it was not delivered, that strengthens your case. If it was delivered but damaged, photos of the damage and your communication with the merchant about the damage matter.
Disputes for billing errors or wrong amounts
If you were charged the wrong amount — the merchant charged $150 instead of $50, or charged you twice for the same item — report this as a billing error. These disputes often resolve quickly because the error is clear and the merchant usually corrects it without argument.
Provide the receipt or confirmation showing what you were supposed to be charged, and explain the difference. If you have an email from the merchant confirming the correct price, include that. Billing error disputes typically reverse within 30 days.
What to do if Chase denies your dispute
If Chase investigates and decides against you, they will send you a written explanation. Read it carefully — they will tell you what evidence the merchant provided and why they found it persuasive. You can request that Chase reconsider if you have new evidence or believe they made an error in their review.
To request reconsideration, contact Chase with the case number and explain what additional information you have. This is not a formal appeal process, but Chase will review your request. If they still deny it, your options are limited — you can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) or pursue the matter in small claims court if the amount is small enough.
Some disputes are harder to win than others. If you authorized the charge but later changed your mind, or if you received the item but are unhappy with it, Chase will likely deny the dispute. Disputes work best for unauthorized charges, clear fraud, items that never arrived, or obvious billing errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Chase dispute take?
Chase has up to 60 days to investigate, though many disputes resolve faster. A temporary credit usually appears within 5 to 10 business days if Chase thinks you have a case. You will receive written notice of the final decision within 30 to 60 days of reporting the dispute.
Will I get my money back while Chase investigates?
Chase may place a temporary credit on your account, but this is not may provide. It depends on the type of dispute and how strong your case appears. The temporary credit is provisional — if Chase later finds against you, they will remove it and you will owe the charge again.
What if the merchant says I authorized the charge?
If you dispute an unauthorized charge and the merchant provides a signed receipt or other proof you authorized it, Chase will likely deny your dispute. This is why it matters whether you actually authorized the transaction. If someone forged your signature or used your card without permission, tell Chase that and provide any evidence you have.
Can I dispute a charge after 60 days?
No, the 60-day window is a federal requirement and Chase cannot extend it. If you miss this important date, you lose the right to dispute through Chase. You would have to pursue the matter directly with the merchant or through small claims court.
Do I have to pay the disputed charge while Chase investigates?
No, you do not have to pay a disputed charge while the investigation is ongoing. If Chase placed a temporary credit, that amount is not due. If they did not place a temporary credit, you still do not have to pay it — but it will appear on your account and may affect your credit score until the dispute is resolved.