1. Introduction
If you’ve paid for an online service in the UK that didn’t deliver what was promised, you may be able to get your money back through a chargeback credit card online service UK claim. Chargeback is a consumer protection tool that lets you ask your card provider to reverse a transaction when things go wrong.
2. What Is a Chargeback?
A chargeback is a request made through your bank or credit card provider to dispute a transaction. It allows you to recover money if the online service was:
- Not delivered.
- Misrepresented.
- Faulty or of poor quality.
- Charged incorrectly or more than once.
Unlike a refund directly from the merchant, chargeback involves your bank stepping in to recover funds.
3. When Can You Use Chargeback for Online Services?
You may be able to use chargeback if:
- The service was not provided at all.
- You cancelled within the cooling-off period, but the business refused to refund.
- The online service was misrepresented (e.g., false promises, scam).
- You were charged twice or for the wrong amount.
- The business has stopped trading or disappeared.
4. Time Limits for Chargeback in the UK
- Chargeback claims should be made within 120 days of the transaction or expected delivery date.
- Some banks allow up to 540 days depending on the card scheme (Visa, Mastercard, Amex).
- The sooner you act, the stronger your case.
5. Chargeback vs. Section 75 Protection
- Chargeback – applies to any card payment, regardless of value. It is a voluntary scheme, not a legal right, but widely accepted.
- Section 75 – a legal protection under the Consumer Credit Act 1974, available only on credit card payments over £100 and up to £30,000. It makes your card provider jointly liable with the merchant.
For smaller payments or debit card transactions, chargeback is often the best option.
6. How to Start a Chargeback Claim in the UK
- Contact the merchant first and request a refund.
- If refused, contact your card provider and explain the issue.
- Provide evidence, such as receipts, emails, and screenshots.
- Your bank will submit the claim to the merchant’s bank.
- If successful, the transaction is reversed, and your money is returned.
7. Possible Outcomes of a Chargeback
- Approved: You receive your money back.
- Disputed by the merchant: The business may challenge the claim.
- Rejected: If insufficient evidence is provided, the claim may fail.
8. Risks and Considerations
- Chargeback is not guaranteed – it depends on card scheme rules.
- Merchants may ban you from future services if you use chargeback.
- Some banks are more cooperative than others, so persistence may be needed.
9. Protecting Yourself in Future Online Purchases
- Always pay with a credit card for Section 75 protection.
- Check refund policies before buying.
- Keep all receipts, emails, and screenshots as evidence.
- Avoid transferring money directly via bank transfer for online services, as protections are weaker.
10. When to Seek Extra Help
If your bank refuses to process your chargeback or you believe it was unfairly denied:
- Escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS).
- Report the business to Trading Standards if you suspect fraud.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chargeback for an online coaching service?
Yes, if the service was not delivered, misrepresented, or you cancelled within your rights.
2. Does chargeback always work?
Not always. It’s not a legal right but a scheme run by card networks like Visa and Mastercard.
3. How long does chargeback take in the UK?
It can take several weeks or even months, depending on the bank and merchant response.
4. Can I still use Section 75 instead?
Yes, if you paid more than £100 on a credit card, Section 75 may provide stronger legal protection.
5. What if the business has closed down?
You can still file a chargeback as your bank deals with the merchant’s payment provider.
6. Is chargeback available for debit cards?
Yes, most UK banks allow chargeback claims on Visa and Mastercard debit cards.
Conclusion
A chargeback credit card online service UK claim can help you recover money when an online service fails to deliver. While it’s not a legal right, it’s a valuable protection widely supported by UK banks. Always act quickly, gather evidence, and escalate if needed. For purchases over £100, Section 75 may provide even stronger protection.