Synchrony handles reported fraudulent charges--transactions you did not authorize--by opening a claim and assigning an investigator to your account, per its official fraud protection policy. This targets unauthorized transactions. Chargebacks address non-fraud billing disputes, such as undelivered goods or services not as described, and follow general U.S. credit card dispute processes. Synchrony official evidence details its fraud workflow but does not directly compare it to chargeback handling. Merchant refunds or other payment methods like ACH do not control credit card disputes. Report fraud to Synchrony immediately and keep transaction records.
What Controls Synchrony Fraud Claims
Synchrony's fraud protection policy governs reports of unauthorized transactions on its credit cards. If you report fraudulent charges, Synchrony opens a claim and assigns an investigator to your account. The company maintains a dedicated team to protect customers and educate on safe use of credit cards and online accounts.
The process involves working with your card issuer (Synchrony), local law enforcement, the Federal Trade Commission, state and local agencies, and credit bureaus. This workflow applies specifically to fraud claims under Synchrony's policy. No official Synchrony evidence confirms how this differs from non-fraud chargeback handling.
What does not control: Merchant refund policies, ACH/debit disputes, or buy-now-pay-later terms.
Chargebacks vs. Fraud Claims: Key Differences
A fraud claim with Synchrony targets unauthorized transactions you did not make or approve. Synchrony responds by launching an investigation.
Chargebacks cover billing disputes unrelated to fraud, such as goods not received or services not as described. These follow standard U.S. credit card processes, where you notify the issuer about inaccurate charges and retain receipts or records, per FTC guidance. Synchrony's official policy does not directly address chargebacks.
| Dispute Type | What It Covers | Synchrony Policy Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Fraud Claim | Unauthorized transactions | Claim opened; investigator assigned (Synchrony Fraud Protection) |
| Chargeback | Non-fraud billing errors (e.g., non-delivery) | Not detailed in official Synchrony sources; follows general credit card dispute workflow |
Practical Next Steps for Disputes
For a suspected fraud claim, contact Synchrony right away to report unauthorized charges. A claim opens with an investigator assigned. The process includes working with Synchrony, local law enforcement, the FTC, relevant agencies, and credit bureaus, as outlined in Synchrony's policy. Gather evidence like account statements and transaction details.
For a non-fraud chargeback, notify Synchrony of the billing dispute and provide supporting records, such as receipts or merchant communications.
Evidence Checklist:
- Account statements showing disputed charges
- Receipts or confirmations for legitimate transactions
- Police/FTC report for fraud (if filed)
- Merchant correspondence for chargebacks
FAQ
What happens when I report fraud to Synchrony?
Synchrony opens a claim and assigns an investigator to your account.
How do I start a chargeback with Synchrony for a bad purchase?
Contact Synchrony to dispute the billing error and provide transaction records.
Does Synchrony policy differ from Visa/Mastercard rules?
Synchrony evidence covers fraud claims but not chargebacks; card network rules may apply where Synchrony policy is silent.
What evidence does Synchrony need for fraud claims?
Official policy does not specify; retain statements and reports for the investigation process.