Money Tips: Should I contest charges on my credit card account?

Posted On: January 19, 2007

Guest: JaneiR36
Credit Expert (100+ Posts)
Post subject: Should I contest charges on my credit card account?
Posted: Fri Jan 19, 2007 10:12 am

Okay, well they’re bogus but I’m not sure how bogus. Basically I signed up for one of these product test companies that we should all know NOT to sign up for, because they baited me with an iPOD. Upon signing up for the first two low cost “offers” that would place me on my way to obtaining said iPOD, I realized that the “prime” or was it “premium” offers went for $499 at the very minimum. At that point I decided this is junk, I’m only out $10 and so I’ve learned my lesson.

I was just looking through my Chase online statement and noticed they’d put more charges on the account from the two offers I signed up for. One was $49.99, and the other was $69.99. The offer said, “Pay only shipping!!”, but it turns out they’d also sign you up for a “free trial” that you’d have to call and cancel after ten days, with no additional activation of said offer required.

As far as I’m concerned, before giving them my CC # I didn’t see anything about $49.99 or $69.99. That’s a given when you swipe your card, that they tell you how much you’re going to charge, you nod your head, and your dear merchant swipes the card. As far as I know, that didn’t take place, so they need to take their two charges and shove it.

What are my chances here? The letter from Chase will arrive in a few days and I’ll have to provide a narration for the dispute. What’s the best thing to write here that will ensure that I’ll get this money back?

Guest: angelo21
Posted: Fri Jan 19, 2007 10:59 am

Is there an inferred contact here? Meaning, does the fine print say that acceptance of the merchandise constitutes your approval of their terms and conditions. Also, what’s the return policy? Have you received the other two offers?

You may be in for some long letter writing but do it in writing and not only over the phone. Reference your conversation.