Chargeback time limit UK: is it 120 days?

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.

How long does a chargeback take after you apply?

There is no fixed result time for every bank or card scheme. Your card provider may need to check the transaction, collect supporting evidence and send the claim through the card scheme. The merchant can respond or challenge it, which can extend the process.

If the bank places a temporary credit on your account, keep in mind that it may be reversed if the merchant successfully challenges the chargeback. Watch for messages from the bank and reply quickly to requests for more information.

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.

Check current official guidance

See MoneyHelper's card-payment protection guidance and the Financial Ombudsman Service guidance on chargeback time limits.

Last reviewed: 13 August 2026. Confirm the deadline and expected processing time with your own card provider.

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.