What's the first step if I was charged by mistake?
Confirming the charge
Look at the statement line, the date and the merchant name, since some charges use a parent company or a payment processor name. Check your email for receipts and compare the amount. Duplicate charges often happen when a payment is retried after a slow connection.
If the line still does not match anything you bought, search your inbox for the merchant name before assuming fraud.
Contacting the company
Use the company's website or app support form when possible, so the request is recorded. Include the amount, date and last four digits of the card, but never share your full card number or password. Ask for a refund and a reference number in writing.
Avoid replying to unexpected messages that ask for verification codes or remote access to your device. Legitimate companies will not need those details to refund you.
When to escalate
If the company does not respond within a reasonable time, your bank can help with a dispute. Describe the charge plainly and share the documents you collected. Early action usually makes the whole process easier.
Note the full timeline so you can explain it clearly if you ever need to dispute.
Common mistakes
- Sending a password or full card number to someone who contacts you about a charge.
- Waiting weeks before saying anything to the merchant.
