Know your rights
Purchasing goods with your credit card offers valuable protection if something goes wrong.
You have a number of options when it comes to purchasing products with your credit card.
If the item is faulty, not what you ordered, or just does not arrive, knowing your rights can put you in a stronger negotiating position.
Your rights
You can complain to your credit card company about faulty goods that have been paid for on your card. However, this only applies to items that are £100 and over. You are also protected if you buy goods from overseas for delivery to the UK by telephone, mail order or on the internet.
Under section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, your credit card company is equally responsible along with the retailer/seller for the goods or service provided. This means you can contact your credit card company to help sort out the problem.
You also have the right to cancel an order for goods bought on the internet under the Consumer Protection (Distance Selling) Regulations 2002. The cancellation period is usually up to 7 days from the date you received the goods but in some instances, it can be longer.
Common excuses used by sellers
- It's the manufacturer's fault - Whether it is the manufacturer's fault or not, the seller is still obliged to sort out your complaint.
- The goods were reduced - Reduced or not, when it comes to faulty goods you have exactly the same rights as full priced goods.
- You do not have a receipt - You still have rights as long as you can produce proof of purchase.
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