Disputing bank charges can be complicated, but it is possible to claim bank charges due to a bank error. Tips include handling the matter immediately, providing evidence, and learning about legal requirements. It is important to approach the situation with a reasonable attitude and consult a lawyer if necessary.
Disputing bank charges can be a fairly straightforward process or immensely complicated, depending on the nature of the charges and the attitude of the bank. In the United States, a 2009 Supreme Court decision made it nearly impossible to claim overcharges for actions in which the account holder is possibly at fault, but it may still be possible to claim bank charges due to a bank error. Some of the best tips for claiming bank charges include handling the matter immediately, filing written and oral complaints and requests, and learning about the legal requirements for banks in a particular region. In rare cases, courteous behavior and a comprehensive explanation may be enough to obtain a refund for some charges.
Bank charges can occur for many different reasons. In some cases, they are due to actions of the account holder, such as an overdraft, missing payments, or bad checks. In these cases, bank charges are often legal or, even if unfair, nearly impossible to recover. However, if a bank charge occurs due to a bank error, customers can get a refund quite simply. Determining who is at fault for the problem is often the first step needed to claim bank charges.
If an account holder discovers that a charge has been made in error, the first step is to call or visit the bank immediately. In general, it can be helpful to speak to a manager or supervisor, rather than the initial employee who answers the call or comes to the teller window. Junior employees may not have the authority to reissue erroneous charges, or may not be familiar with the proper procedure for handling these claims. Be sure to ask for the manager’s name and contact information when speaking with him or her, so you can be alerted should complications arise.
When disputing bank charges, it is important to bring or include evidence that the charge was made in error on behalf of the bank. Bank statements that clearly show the actual account status can be very helpful when disputing an overdraft charge or bad check. Be sure to keep copies of all necessary documents and include a digital copy with any email about the issue. If the issue is handled over the phone or in person, follow up the conversation with a written summary and a copy of all documents, so there is a clear record of the complaint.
Different regions have different laws on the recovery of bank charges. In some places, the bank is legally required to take immediate action once a charge is proven to be wrong. If a bank refuses to refund an error, consider consulting a lawyer about possible legal action. In some cases, even a simple letter from a lawyer threatening legal action can be enough to change the tune of a recalcitrant bank.
However, before moving on to threats and lawsuits, it is important to approach bank charge recovery with a reasonable attitude. On the initial phone call to the bank, customers should try to be polite and friendly, to avoid alienating workers who may be able to help them. Even in cases where the charges are the customer’s fault, a worker may be moved to issue a one-time refund if the customer provides a reasonable explanation for the error. While a good reason may not always result in a refund, an initially nice approach can occasionally save everyone involved from a lot of trouble.
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