Money & billingPractical guide · updated for 2026
How to Claim a Chargeback When a Service Was Not Delivered
A chargeback is the card network's dispute process, opened through your issuer. It works when you can show the agreement, the payment and the failure, plus a written attempt to resolve it.
Have this ready
- Contract, booking or order confirmation
- Proof of payment
- Your written complaint and the merchant's reply
Step by step
- 1Save the contract or booking confirmation and the payment receipt.
- 2Write to the merchant once, describe what was promised and what was not delivered, and set a deadline.
- 3Open the dispute with your card issuer and choose the reason that matches, such as services not received.
- 4Attach the evidence in one PDF so the reviewer sees the full story in order.
- 5Keep the case reference and reply to every request before its deadline.
- 6Do not accept a partial refund as settlement unless you agree it is the full amount you want.
- 7If refused, ask for the written reason and consider the regulator or ombudsman for the merchant's sector.
Want it done with you?
I can walk you through it in a Magic Box, show you the exact clicks, or do it with you and keep the recording. You log in yourself; I never see your password.
Common questions
Can the merchant block my account after a chargeback?+
They may close the account, so download your data and any credits first if you still need them.
How long does a chargeback take?+
Typically several weeks and sometimes up to a few months if the merchant contests it. Ask your issuer for the expected timeline.
What if I paid by bank transfer?+
Card chargeback rules do not apply. Ask your bank about a recall and report it as fraud if you were deceived.