Chargebacks

What Works

• Document fulfillment at the time of service: photos, signatures, delivery confirmation
• Use clear business names on statements (customers dispute what they don't recognize)
• Send dispute responses before the deadline — usually 7–20 days depending on processor
• Build a fast-response template: order ID, delivery proof, customer communication log

Watch Out For

• Chargeback ratio above 1% triggers processor reviews and potential account termination
• Friendly fraud (buyer's remorse filed as fraud) is common — fight it with documentation
• Never ignore a chargeback — no response = automatic loss

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a chargeback?

A chargeback is when a cardholder asks their bank to reverse a charge. The bank pulls the funds from you while the dispute is reviewed. You can win by submitting evidence.

How do I respond to a chargeback?

Log into your processor dashboard, find the dispute, gather your evidence (order confirmation, delivery proof, communication), and submit before the response deadline.

How do I prevent chargebacks?

Clear refund policies, recognizable billing descriptors, prompt customer service responses, and documented delivery reduce chargeback rates significantly.