Reader’s Question:

My brother found that out that his credit card has been billed in error several in the past. The latest error was made two months ago when he was charged for something he did not purchase. He sent an e-mail to the credit card company only to get a response saying the issue should have been brought to their notice sooner. What should I do in case the same thing happens to me?

Dana

Clearwater, FL

The law identifies a wide range of card problems as “billing errors.” An example of error is being charged for something you did not buy which is exactly what your brother’s case has been.

Good news is that the law is on your side so you can fight the improper charge should the same happen to you or to him again. And what gives you the right to fight rather than pay is The Fair Credit Billing Act.

The important rule to be protected under this law is to dispute any errors you find on your bill in writing. And the best thing to do is to send a dispute letter ASAP because e-mailing or faxing a letter will not protect you. And the reason why you’ll have to mail your dispute letter quickly is because the deadline for notifying your credit card company is only 60 days from the date that the bill was mailed out to you.

Your letter must include your name, address, your account number as well as a clear description of the problem and don’t forget to keep a copy for your records.

Lastly make sure you send your dispute letter to the address for “Billing Inquiries,” which should be listed at the back of your bill.

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