In most states you typically have 60 days from the billing statement date to dispute any charges. It still amazes me how many people wait until the account has reached collections to dispute charges or ask for validation. However, it’s still a very good way to stall if you need time. Below are the steps you need to take in order to dispute charges and a template for your letter.
First and foremost, all disputes have to be in writing. You will need to be clear on the following billing errors when writing your letter and be able to provide sufficient support to back them up.
What are the billing errors?
- Mathematical errors.
- Payments that were not credited to your account.
- Purchases made that you did not authorize.
- Goods and services provided that you refused.
Here is a template for your letter: Dispute Letter
Make sure to send your letter certified mail. If you are disputing interest, late fees or anything technical you need to provide proof. If you are protesting a 21.84% APR, good luck. The creditor has 30 days to acknowledge your request and 90 days to investigate. However, this does not mean you can skip payments; you must still pay the other charges that you owe.
In the end, if you still think that you don’t owe the disputed charges and stop paying, understand that the result will be the same as someone who doesn’t pay their bill without cause. You are guaranteed collection calls, letters and all the fun that entails, up to and potentially including a civil lawsuit. Any questions?
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