How to dispute a debit card charge in 4 steps

So much of our spending happens online now that it’s easy to miss a charge or make a mistake. With kids, it happens even faster. It could be an accidental in-app purchase or a subscription they didn’t realize would renew every month. Other times, it’s not on them at all. Incorrect charges can be caused by fraud or a store accidentally billing you twice.

That’s where debit card disputes come in. Filing a dispute is simply asking your bank or card provider to investigate a charge that doesn’t look right.

What counts as a disputable charge?

Not every charge can be undone, but there are a few situations that are clearly disputable:

• Unauthorized transactions. If the card was lost or stolen, and someone else used it.

• Billing errors. A duplicate charge or the wrong amount was posted.

• Canceled services that keep going. Subscriptions or memberships that keep billing after you’ve ended them.

#1 family finance and safety app.

#1 family finance and safety app.

Teach your kids and teens to earn, save, and invest with Greenlight.

Use code GLBLOG for one month, on us.*

Try Greenlight today

Some charges don’t fall under disputes (even if we really wish they did!). Buyer’s remorse is one of them. If your teen spends $40 on sneakers and changes their mind the next day, the bank won’t cover that (but it’s a great time to talk to kids about mindful spending!).

4 steps to dispute a debit card charge

So, you noticed a charge on your debit card that you know is an error. Here’s what to do next:

1. Reach out to the seller. If you contact the business directly, many will reverse an incorrect charge right away.

2. Collect the evidence. This may be receipts, screenshots, or emails that show details (like a canceled subscription).

3. Contact your bank or debit card provider. Report the problem directly through their official app or website. If that’s not an option, pick up the phone and call. Important: Don't click on links from emails or texts, since scammers often try to impersonate your bank.

4. Monitor and follow up. Investigations take time, so stay on top of your account transactions and alerts for updates or temporary credits.

Banks typically review disputes within 10 to 45 days. Some issue a provisional credit while they investigate, so you have the money in the meantime. 

💳 Debit card tip: You don’t have to wait for a paper statement to see mistakes anymore. Most debit card and banking apps allow you to view transactions immediately, making it easier to catch any issues quickly. Some apps, like Greenlight, even provide real-time alerts, spending limits, and built-in protections against unauthorized charges. 

How to use disputes as money lessons

Debit card disputes can be a hassle, but for parents, they may also present an opportunity to teach kids about responsibility, mistakes, and sometimes, consequences.

Apps like Greenlight can help there, too. 

• Spending notifications inform parents precisely when and where a purchase is made. 

• Category and store limits give kids boundaries. 

• When overspending happens, it opens the door for a conversation about “needs vs wants.”

Of course, the best outcome is avoiding disputes altogether. A few small habits can make a big difference: 

• Encourage kids to think twice before making a purchase. 

• Use Greenlight’s parental controls to set limits.

• Keep the money talks going (not just when something goes wrong!).

The more kids understand how their debit card works, the fewer surprises families will face. 

Set kids up for success. Teach them smart financial lessons for life with Greenlight’s award-winning educational money app. Try Greenlight, one month, risk-free.† 

FAQs

Can I dispute a debit card charge my child made by mistake?

You can ask for a refund, but banks typically don’t consider accidental purchases to be fraudulent. Greenlight helps parents prevent these slip-ups with spend controls.

How long does it take to get money back after disputing a charge?

Most cases resolve within 10-45 days. Some banks issue a temporary credit so you’re not left waiting.

What if my dispute is denied?

You can usually appeal with more documentation. If it’s still denied, you’ll likely be responsible for the charge.

Does Greenlight help with disputes?

Yes. Greenlight’s debit card for kids and families offers protection* against unauthorized charges. Plus, real-time alerts and controls make it easier to spot issues before they turn into disputes.

*Insurance offered by Acrisure, LLC is provided by ACE American Insurance Company and its U.S.-based Chubb underwriting company affiliates. www.chubb.com. Additional details can be viewed here. See link for policy information. Insurance Products are not insured by the FDIC or any federal government agency and are not a deposit or other obligation of, or guaranteed by, any bank or bank affiliate.