Chargeback and chargeback: Information about bank transactions

The right to reverse a direct debit gives consumers a high level of control and security over their financial transactions. Unauthorized direct debits can be reversed free of charge. However, the process also entails potential cost risks, particularly in the case of return debits due to insufficient account funds. Erk Schaarschmidt, financial expert at the Brandenburg Consumer Center (VZB) , sheds light on the rights of consumers and the costs associated with chargebacks and direct debits.

Bank transactions

The bank account, as the linchpin of many people's everyday financial lives, is always the target of a wide variety of transactions. While some charges are based on clear and unambiguous consent, others may be made in error or fraudulently. It is all the more important for consumers to know that they are not without protection in such cases. The ability to reverse direct debits is an important security measure in electronic payment transactions.

Right of chargeback: when and how?

The chargeback right allows authorized direct debits to be reclaimed up to eight weeks after the debit date and unauthorized direct debits even up to 13 months after the debit date. The following applies: revoking or reversing a direct debit should be free of charge for consumers. This applies both to the refund of amounts debited in error or fraudulently and to the correction of direct debits that exceed the agreed amount.

Chargebacks and their costs

Another problem area are return debits that occur due to insufficient account funds. There are often costs here that, although theoretically limited, are often excessive in practice. The VZB criticizes this practice and points out that creditors' claims for damages are limited by law. Nevertheless, many affected people are billed for excessive costs without there being any valid justification for this.

Preventive measures and legal successes

In order to take action against excessive claims, the consumer advice center recommends that consumers object to unclear and excessive return debit costs. An encouraging example is the successful warning given to Deutsche Badenia Bausparkasse by the VZB, which is now no longer allowed to unjustifiably demand 12 euros in compensation for failed direct debits.

Questions and answers on the subject of chargebacks and chargebacks:

Question 1: What is the difference between an authorized and an unauthorized direct debit?
Answer 1: Authorized direct debits are based on clear consent, while unauthorized direct debits occur without such consent, often through fraud.

Question 2: How long can I reverse a direct debit?
Answer 2: Authorized direct debits can be reversed up to eight weeks after debiting, unauthorized direct debits up to 13 months after debiting.

Question 3: Are chargebacks subject to a fee?
Answer 3: No, reversing a direct debit must be free of charge for consumers.

Question 4: What can I do about excessive chargeback fees?
Answer 4: It is advisable to file an objection against unclear and excessive costs.

Question 5: How does case law limit claims for damages in return debits?
Answer 5: Personnel, work and time expenditure are generally not eligible for compensation; claims for damages are limited by law.

Conclusion

Chargeback law is an essential tool for protecting the financial integrity of consumers. It offers an effective way to take action against unauthorized debits, but also poses the challenge of defending yourself against excessive fees for return debits. Consumer advice centers play an important role in providing information and support in these cases. It remains important that consumers know their rights and actively demand them if necessary.

Source: Brandenburg Consumer Center

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