Chargeback time limit UK: key dates and next steps

How long do you have to request a chargeback?

Many card-scheme chargebacks use a 120-day window. Depending on what happened, that period may run from the transaction date, expected delivery date, service date or the date you became aware of the problem. Some situations have different outer limits or exceptions, so contact your bank or card provider promptly and ask which deadline applies.

Is the UK chargeback time limit always 120 days?

No. Chargeback is a card-scheme process rather than one single UK legal deadline. The applicable time limit can vary by card network, dispute reason and circumstances. Treat 120 days as a prompt to act quickly, not a guarantee that every claim has exactly the same deadline.

List every key date

Start with purchase date, expected delivery or service date, problem date, first retailer contact, refusal date and any return date.

Explain why the request is being made now

If there was a delay, show the messages, attempted resolution and any promises the retailer made along the way.

Prepare the evidence before calling

Banks often ask for proof quickly. Keep the order confirmation, statement, messages, tracking, photos and complaint history ready.

Keep Section 75 separate from chargeback

If you paid by credit card, your provider may discuss different routes. Refund Kit helps you organise the facts without pretending one route is guaranteed.

Copy-paste starting wording

I am writing about order/reference [REFERENCE]. I paid [AMOUNT] on [DATE]. The issue is: [SHORT FACTUAL SUMMARY]. I have attached the evidence I hold, including [EVIDENCE LIST]. Please confirm by [DATE] how this will be resolved.

Only use wording that is true for your situation. Refund Kit helps turn your own facts into a fuller complaint pack.