Dispute Resolution

If you notice an error on your account or need to dispute a transaction, we're here to help. Follow our simple process to resolve the issue quickly.

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How to Dispute a Transaction

Follow these simple steps to file a dispute. Most disputes are resolved within 10 business days.

1

Review Your Account

Identify the transaction you believe is incorrect and gather relevant details like date, amount, and merchant.

2

Contact the Merchant

For many issues, contacting the merchant directly can resolve the problem faster. Try this first if possible.

3

File Your Dispute

Submit a dispute through online banking, our mobile app, or by calling customer service.

4

Track Progress

Monitor your dispute status through online banking. We'll notify you of updates and resolution.

Common Reasons to Dispute

Incorrect Amount

  • Wrong transaction amount
  • Duplicate charge
  • Incorrect fee or interest

Unauthorized Transaction

  • Transaction you didn't make
  • Card not present fraud
  • Identity theft related

Goods/Services Issues

  • Item never received
  • Defective or misrepresented
  • Subscription not cancelled

Dispute Timeline

Understanding the timeline helps you know what to expect during the dispute process.

Stage Timeframe
Dispute Filed Day 1
Provisional Credit* Within 10 days
Investigation Complete Up to 45 days (90 days for certain transactions)
Final Resolution Within 2 days of investigation

*Provisional credit may be applied while we investigate. If the dispute is resolved in the merchant's favor, the credit may be reversed.

Required Documents

Having these documents ready will help speed up your dispute.

  • Statement showing the transaction Required
  • Receipt or proof of purchase Helpful
  • Communications with merchant If applicable
  • Signed affidavit (for fraud cases) Required for fraud
  • Police report (if applicable) For identity theft

Ways to File a Dispute

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a dispute?

For most errors and unauthorized transactions, you have up to 60 days from the date of your statement showing the problem. For certain issues like goods not received, timeframes may vary. File your dispute as soon as possible to protect your rights.

Will I get a temporary credit?

For most disputes involving unauthorized transactions or billing errors, we'll issue a provisional credit within 10 business days while we investigate. This credit may be reversed if the investigation finds the transaction was valid.

What happens after I file a dispute?

We'll investigate the transaction, which may include contacting the merchant or reviewing documentation. We'll notify you of the outcome in writing. You can track the status of your dispute through online banking.

What if I disagree with the investigation result?

If you disagree with our decision, you have the right to request additional review. Contact our dispute resolution department within 60 days of receiving the decision to discuss your options.

Do I need to contact the merchant first?

For issues like duplicate charges, wrong amounts, or goods/services problems, contacting the merchant first can often resolve the issue faster. For unauthorized transactions, contact us immediately without contacting the merchant.

Need Help with Your Dispute?

Our dispute resolution specialists are available to guide you through the process.

Phone

1-800-555-BANK
24/7 Support

Email

disputes@citadeltrust.com
Response within 24h

Branch

Visit any location
Mon-Fri 9am-5pm

📋 Important Information

Your rights under the Electronic Fund Transfer Act and Truth in Lending Act protect you when disputing errors. For more information about your rights, visit our FAQs or contact customer service.

Last updated: February 2026