Credit card refunds - when and how to ask for your money back
I'm sure most people have dealt at least once with unsatisfactory service. Quality complaints, products not up to standards or not what you would've expected. And, in the good American fashion, what did you do? You disputed the charges with the credit card company/bank, being almost sure that you won't be charged anything... right? Well, it might not have been the best decision. And here's why:
The "money back guarantee" condition only applies if you are indeed eligible to get the money back. If you just had a change of heart and decided you don't want the product you just bought, chances are you won't see a penny if the company that you bought it from and from where you request the money back now decides to dispute the case. In this case, it'll be almost as if you're going to court with that company: your bank and the company will present their arguments before a chargeback committee which will decide on whose side the truth lies. And if they rule in favor of the company, not only you will not get the money back, but you'll also pay a chargeback fee... So the entire thing might end up costing you more than expected. So here's my advice:
Don't just go and dispute just about any charges you don't like anymore... Some people do this thinking they can get the money back AND keep whatever product they have purchased. You might be in
a lot more trouble then you'd expect and it's just not worth it. First off, when you buy something, especially over the internet, read carefully the Terms & Conditions of the website. I know, it sounds boring and it's a lot of legal stuff you don't really want to know, but it could prove important should you not be satisfied with your purchase.
If, for whatever reason, you don't want the product/service anymore, contact the company you got it from. Get in touch via email, phone, regular mail or other means, but talk with them and hear what they have to say. You might get a better deal than just your money back. If the company has a "no refund" policy written in their T&C, this doesn't mean it's written in stone. Exceptions can be made if there is no other way.
Of course, if all else fails, go talk with your bank. They can advise you regarding the next steps you can take to solve the problem. But if you follow the instructions above, you shouldn't get there. Or if you do, you have great chances of getting your money back.
About the Author
Robert Mann is the co-owner of CallingCardsHome, offering prepaid calling cards and long distance service to and from 150 countries.
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