How to File a Dispute for an Unauthorized Transaction (and Meet the 60-Day Deadline)

Unauthorized transactions on your bank or credit card statement require swift action to recover your funds. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau rules require you to notify your bank within 60 days after it sends the statement showing the transaction. That notification launches their investigation, which must start within 10 business days, with resolution generally due in 45 days.

For accounts at major banks like Wells Fargo, Bank of America, or Chase, the process follows these same timelines. Quick reporting activates protections that provisionally credit your account while they review the case, shielding you from permanent losses due to debit or credit card fraud.

This guide outlines the process, deadlines, and key differences to help you get your money back efficiently in 2026.

Your 60-Day Window to Notify the Bank

Your 60-day deadline begins when your bank sends the statement that displays the unauthorized transaction. This Consumer Financial Protection Bureau rule sets a clear period for spotting and reporting fraud or errors.

Major banks adhere to this standard. Wells Fargo requires disputes within 60 days. Bank of America sets the same limit from the statement date for both accounts and credit cards. Chase demands submission within 60 days of the transaction's first appearance on your statement.

Slight differences in wording--like "after the statement is sent" versus "of the statement date"--exist, but the 60-day window stays consistent. Miss it, and you could forfeit federal protections. Reviewing monthly statements online or through your app as soon as they arrive keeps you on track. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau sets this timeline to balance effective bank investigations with consumer rights under federal law.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filing the Dispute

These steps, drawn from Consumer Financial Protection Bureau guidelines and bank practices, help you notify and submit your dispute effectively.

1. Review your statement immediately: Spot the unauthorized transaction, and note its date, amount, and merchant. Cross-check against your own records to verify it wasn't yours. Gathering these details strengthens your report.

2. Contact your bank right away: Use the number on the back of your card or statement, or log into their app or online portal. Bank of America and Chase, for instance, have dedicated online dispute tools. Share specifics like the transaction date and amount. This step notifies the bank and safeguards your rights under the 60-day rule.

3. Submit the formal dispute within 60 days: File through the bank's online form, app, or by mailing a written notice. Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and Chase all enforce this 60-day limit from the statement. Add supporting evidence like affidavits if you have them, though your initial notice already protects you. Federal law backs this for debit and credit accounts alike.

4. Track your claim: Record the reference number they provide. Banks must confirm receipt quickly. Monitor progress through your online account portal to ensure they meet required timelines.

The process works for both debit and credit accounts. Once notified, federal law offers protections, often including provisional credit during the investigation.

What Happens After You File: Investigation and Resolution Timelines

Banks must respond promptly once you notify them. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau rules mandate an investigation within 10 business days. They aim for full resolution in 45 days, with exceptions for foreign transactions, new accounts, or point-of-sale debit.

In those first 10 business days, the bank examines records and might reach out for more information. Provisional credit frequently restores funds temporarily after this period for eligible disputes, easing financial strain. By day 45, you should receive a final decision--funds returned if the transaction was unauthorized, or an explanation otherwise.

Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and Chase follow these federal timelines. Use your account portal to track updates, and follow up if things drag beyond the limits. Knowing these stages sets realistic expectations.

Credit Card vs. Debit Account: Key Differences in Protection and Process

Federal protections extend to both credit cards and debit accounts, triggered by the 60-day notification from the statement. Resolution timelines and exceptions vary slightly, however.

Experian points out that credit card disputes must come within 60 days of receiving the bill with the error, with strong liability limits--often zero for unauthorized use. Provisional credit applies during review, with fewer exceptions. Since no funds leave your account right away, this creates a natural buffer.

Debit accounts share the 60-day rule but pose higher risk because funds depart immediately. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau guidelines call for 45-day resolution, though foreign merchants, new accounts (opened within 30 days), or POS debit can extend it. Provisional credit comes with stricter rules, capped at certain amounts after 10 business days.

Tailor your approach to the account type: credit provides more leeway; debit calls for even quicker moves to dodge overdrafts. Always use the statement date to start your clock. These nuances clarify the protections under U.S. federal rules.

FAQ

How soon must I notify my bank of an unauthorized transaction?

Notify within 60 days after the bank sends the statement showing the transaction, per Consumer Financial Protection Bureau rules. Banks like Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and Chase align with this deadline.

What is the bank's timeline to investigate my dispute?

Banks have 10 business days to investigate after notification, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Does the 60-day rule apply to both credit cards and debit accounts?

Yes, the 60-day notification period from the statement applies to both, with federal protections for unauthorized transactions.

What happens if my unauthorized transaction was from a foreign merchant?

Resolution may extend beyond 45 days due to exceptions noted by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau for foreign transactions.

Can I dispute a transaction after 60 days?

Disputing after 60 days risks losing federal protections, though some banks may review on a case-by-case basis.

Is there a difference in timelines for new accounts or POS debit?

Yes, exceptions for new accounts or point-of-sale debit can extend the 45-day resolution period, per Consumer Financial Protection Bureau guidelines.

Review your latest statement today and contact your bank if you spot anything suspicious. Keep records of all communications to support your claim through resolution.