How to dispute a double charge with your bank or card issuer
Short answer
Open your bank or card app, tap the duplicate charge, and choose "Dispute" or "Report a problem." Or call the number on the back of your card. Say you were charged twice for one purchase. Do it within 60 days of the statement that shows the charge.
Skip the hassle next time. Scan your receipt with Dupe Detective before you leave the store. It takes a few seconds, and a double charge caught at the register is fixed on the spot.
Step 1: Make sure it's a real duplicate
If one of the charges is still pending, wait a few days. It's probably a hold that will drop off. How to tell a hold from a duplicate.
Step 2: Ask the merchant (optional, but often fastest)
The store can reverse a duplicate payment directly, often on the spot. If they won't, or you don't want to deal with them, go straight to your bank.
Step 3: Open a dispute
In your banking app or website
- Log in and find the duplicate charge in your transactions.
- Tap it and look for Dispute, Report a problem or Help with this transaction.
- Choose the reason that matches: usually "Charged more than once" or "Duplicate charge."
- Add a photo of your receipt if the app asks for one.
- Save a screenshot of the confirmation or case number.
By phone
Call the number on the back of your card. Tell them: "I was charged twice for one purchase at [store] on [date] and I'd like to dispute the duplicate." Write down the case number and the name of the person you spoke with.
What to have ready
- The date, store name and amount of both charges
- Your receipt, or a photo of it
- Any notes from talking to the store
Deadlines to know
- Credit cards: dispute within 60 days of the statement that first shows the charge. The issuer must resolve it within two billing cycles, and no more than 90 days. You don't have to pay the disputed amount while it's being investigated, but keep paying the rest of your bill.
- Debit cards: also report within 60 days of the statement. Banks generally have 10 business days to investigate, or longer if they give you a temporary credit. More on debit card timelines.
Most banks put a temporary credit on your account while they look into it, so you often see the money back within days.
If your dispute is denied
Call back and ask why, and whether you can send more proof, like the receipt. If you still think it's wrong, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau at consumerfinance.gov/complaint.