How Credit Card Chargebacks Work in the Philippines
A chargeback is a formal dispute raised with your bank to reverse a card transaction. This usually happens when a charge looks incorrect, duplicated, or unauthorized.
Chargebacks follow a structured review process involving the issuing bank, card network, and merchant. Because multiple parties are involved, timelines are longer than regular refunds.
Common Reasons Credit Card Chargebacks Are Filed
Chargebacks are often triggered by duplicate charges, billing errors, cancelled services that were still billed, or transactions you do not recognize.
In many cases, banks advise cardholders to contact the merchant first. If the issue is unresolved, a formal chargeback may be opened.
Credit Card Chargeback Timeline in the Philippines
| Stage | What Happens | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Dispute filing | Cardholder submits dispute to issuing bank | Within 30 to 60 days from transaction |
| Provisional review | Bank evaluates claim and may issue temporary credit | 5 to 10 banking days |
| Merchant response | Merchant submits proof or accepts reversal | 20 to 45 days |
| Final decision | Bank confirms refund or reinstates charge | 45 to 90 days |
Why Chargebacks Take Longer Than Refunds
Chargebacks go through card networks like Visa or Mastercard, not just the bank and merchant. Each step requires validation and documentation.
This is why chargebacks move slower than direct refunds. For simpler reversal timelines, see the Bank Refund Processing Timeline.
Temporary Credits During Chargeback Review
Some banks issue a temporary credit while the case is under review. This amount may be reversed if the dispute is decided in favor of the merchant.
Temporary credits are not guaranteed and depend on bank policy and the type of dispute filed.
What Can Delay a Chargeback Case
Incomplete documents, late dispute filing, or unclear transaction details can slow the process.
Disputes filed near weekends or holidays may also take longer since banks follow banking days for processing.
What To Do While Waiting for a Chargeback Result
Keep all receipts, emails, and proof of cancellation. Avoid using the disputed merchant again until the case is resolved.
If the chargeback exceeds expected timelines, customer support can confirm the current review stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do chargebacks usually take in the Philippines?
A: Most cases are resolved within one to three months.
Q: Is a chargeback guaranteed to succeed?
A: No. The final outcome depends on evidence from both sides.
Q: Can I still pay my credit card bill during a dispute?
A: Yes. You should continue paying undisputed balances to avoid penalties.
Q: Will interest continue during a chargeback?
A: Banks may pause interest on the disputed amount, but policies vary.
Q: Can merchants block chargeback requests?
A: No. Merchants can respond with proof, but the bank decides the outcome.
Philippine Holidays