How to dispute a charge on BMO Harris debit card? If you ever notice an unfamiliar charge on your BMO Harris debit card, it can be concerning. Maybe it’s an amount you don’t recognize, or perhaps you didn’t authorize the transaction at all. Whatever the reason, disputing a charge is an important step to protect your finances.
How to Dispute a Charge on BMO Harris Debit Card?
1. Check Your Transaction History
Before you take any action, it’s important to check your transaction history. Log into your BMO Harris (Now BMO) online banking account or use the mobile app. Look at the charge carefully. Sometimes, the name of the merchant might look different from what you expect. For example, if you made a purchase online, the company name on your statement might not match the website’s name.
Table of Contents
2. Confirm the Charge is Incorrect
If you still believe the charge is wrong, take a moment to confirm. Think about your recent purchases. Did you forget about a subscription or a small purchase? Did someone in your family use the card? Once you’re sure the charge is incorrect, you can move forward with the dispute.
3. Contact the Merchant
One of the first steps you should take is to contact the merchant directly. If you recognize the merchant but believe the charge is wrong, give them a call or send an email. Explain the situation and ask them to correct the mistake. Many disputes are resolved quickly at this stage. The merchant might refund your money or explain why the charge occurred.
4. Gather Your Information
If contacting the merchant doesn’t resolve the issue, it’s time to gather information for the dispute. Keep a record of the charge, including the date, amount, and merchant name. If you contacted the merchant, note the details of your conversation, such as who you spoke to and what they said. This information will help BMO Harris handle your dispute efficiently.
5. Contact BMO Harris (Now BMO)
Once you’ve gathered all the information, it’s time to contact BMO Harris (now BMO). You can do this in several ways:
- By Phone: Call BMO Harris customer service. The number is usually found on the back of your debit card or on the bank’s website.
- Online: Log in to your BMO Harris online banking account and look for the option to dispute a charge. This may be found under the “Help” or “Support” section.
- In Person: Visit your local BMO Harris branch. A representative can assist you in person.
When you contact BMO Harris, be ready to explain the situation. Provide all the details about the charge and why you believe it is incorrect. The bank will open a dispute for you and start investigating.
6. Wait for the Investigation
After you’ve submitted your dispute, BMO Harris will investigate the charge. This can take some time, usually up to 10 business days, but it might take longer depending on the situation. During this time, the bank might temporarily credit your account for the disputed amount. This is called a provisional credit.
7. Monitor Your Account
While you’re waiting for the dispute to be resolved, keep an eye on your account. Watch for any updates from BMO Harris. They might contact you for more information. If the dispute is resolved in your favor, the provisional credit will become permanent. If not, the charge will remain on your account.
8. Understand Your Rights
It’s important to know your rights when disputing a charge. Under federal law, you’re protected against unauthorized charges on your debit card. If you report the unauthorized charge within 60 days of the statement date, you shouldn’t be held responsible for it. However, if you delay, you could be liable for a portion of the loss.
9. Follow Up
If you haven’t heard back from BMO Harris after a reasonable time, follow up. Contact the bank again to check the status of your dispute. Sometimes, disputes can take longer to resolve, especially if the merchant challenges the claim. Don’t hesitate to reach out for an update.
Conclusion
Disputing a charge on BMO Harris debit card doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these steps, you can protect your finances and resolve the issue quickly. Remember to stay calm, gather all the necessary information, and contact the bank promptly. Most disputes are resolved without too much trouble, giving you peace of mind.
FAQs
Q1. How long does it take to dispute a charge on BMO Harris debit card?
A1. It usually takes up to 10 business days, but it can take longer depending on the situation.
Q2. Can I dispute a charge online with BMO Harris (Now BMO)?
A2. Yes, you can dispute a charge online by logging into your BMO Harris online banking account.
Q3. What if I recognize the merchant but think the charge is wrong?
A3. You should contact the merchant directly first. They might be able to resolve the issue faster.
About The Author
