What evidence do I need for a credit card dispute?
Core Documents
Start with the proof of purchase, such as a receipt, invoice, or order confirmation email. Include the date, amount, and item or service description. Your card statement should show the matching charge, so compare the two side by side.
Next, collect the communication trail. Save emails, chat transcripts, and screenshots of the merchant's policies or promises. If you returned the item, keep the tracking number and delivery confirmation, since they show the merchant received it.
- Receipt or order confirmation
- Card statement showing the charge
- Emails, chats, and support tickets
- Tracking and return proof
Organizing Your Case
Write a short timeline with dates, what happened, and what you asked the merchant to do. Attach documents in order so the reviewer can follow the story quickly. Keep the explanation calm and factual rather than emotional.
Submit everything before the issuer's deadline, and keep copies for your own records. Ask for a case number so you can track progress and respond to any requests for more information.
If a merchant policy supports your claim, quote the exact wording and attach a copy of the policy. Screenshots taken before a page changes can be very helpful. Clear proof that matches the card statement often carries the most weight.
Common mistakes
- Sending incomplete evidence and missing a follow-up request.
- Leaving out the merchant's replies, which show the timeline.
