Bank Charges: How to Dispute Unauthorized Debits
Original Article Date: 2024-12-17 16:21
Original Article Source: economie.gouv.fr
Overview
Unauthorized bank debits can be a frustrating and costly problem. In France, however, consumers have the right to dispute such debits and seek a refund. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to file a dispute with your bank.
Steps to Dispute Unauthorized Bank Charges in France
- Contact Your Bank Immediately:
As soon as you notice an unauthorized debit, contact your bank by phone, email, or in person.
- Provide Details of the Transaction:
State the amount, date, and reference number of the disputed transaction. Also, specify the merchant’s name if known.
- File a Written Dispute:
Within 13 months of the unauthorized debit, submit a written dispute to your bank. Include the following information:
- Your name, address, and account number
- Details of the disputed transaction
-
A copy of any supporting documentation, such as proof of purchase or bank statements
-
Submit Supporting Evidence:
Gather any evidence that supports your claim, such as receipts, invoices, or correspondence with the merchant.
- Follow Up Regularly:
Contact your bank regularly to inquire about the status of your dispute. Typically, banks have 15 days to investigate and respond.
Legal Protection
In France, consumers are protected by the following laws:
- Sepa Regulation: Prohibits unauthorized direct debits and allows consumers to request a refund within 8 weeks.
- Consumer Code (Article L133-19): Gives consumers the right to oppose unauthorized bank charges within 13 months of the debit.
Consequences for Banks
If your bank fails to resolve your dispute fairly, you may consider the following actions:
- Contact the Banking Mediator: A free and independent service that helps resolve disputes between banks and customers.
- File a Complaint with the Prudential Supervision and Resolution Authority (ACPR): The regulatory body responsible for overseeing banks in France.
Conclusion
Disputing unauthorized bank charges in France can be a straightforward process. By following the steps outlined above and gathering supporting evidence, consumers can increase their chances of obtaining a refund and preventing future unauthorized debits.
Prélèvements bancaires : comment vous opposer à des prélèvements indus ?
The AI has provided us with the news.
I’ve asked Google Gemini the following question, and here’s its response.
economie.gouv.fr a new article on 2024-12-17 16:21 titled “Prélèvements bancaires : comment vous opposer à des prélèvements indus ?”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
51