Key facts (2026): Section 75 is a statutory right under the Consumer Credit Act and applies to credit card purchases of £100–£30,000. Chargeback is a voluntary scheme offered by Visa, Mastercard, and Amex that applies to all card types including debit cards, with no minimum purchase amount. Both can recover money from failed transactions but work through different processes.

When a purchase goes wrong, UK consumers have two main routes to recover money through their card provider — Section 75 and chargeback. Many people confuse the two or do not know which to use. The right choice depends on what type of card you used, the purchase amount, and the nature of the problem.

Section 75 — Statutory Protection (Credit Cards Only)

Section 75 applies only to credit card purchases where the single item costs £100–£30,000. It gives you a legal right — the credit card company is jointly liable with the retailer. This means the card company cannot simply refuse — they are legally obligated to investigate and compensate where the retailer has breached the contract or made a misrepresentation. Section 75 is stronger than chargeback because it is backed by statute.

Chargeback — Voluntary Scheme (All Cards)

Chargeback applies to all card types — credit, debit, prepaid — with no minimum purchase amount. It works by reversing the transaction through the card network (Visa, Mastercard, or Amex). The card company raises a dispute with the merchant's bank, which has a set time (typically 45–120 days depending on the card scheme) to respond. Chargeback is not a legal right — it is a scheme rule, meaning the card company can decline to pursue it in some circumstances.

Which to Use and When

If you paid by credit card and the purchase is £100–£30,000: use Section 75 — it is stronger. If you paid by debit card or the purchase is under £100: use chargeback — it is your only card-based route. If you paid by credit card but the purchase is under £100: use chargeback as Section 75 does not apply below £100. Time limits for chargeback are typically 120 days from the transaction date — act quickly.

Our Verdict

If in doubt, claim both Section 75 and chargeback simultaneously when eligible — there is no rule against it. Section 75 is the stronger right for credit card purchases over £100, as it is backed by statute rather than scheme rules. For debit card purchases, chargeback is your main card-based route — act within 120 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Section 75 and chargeback?

Section 75 is a statutory right applying to credit card purchases of £100–£30,000. Chargeback is a voluntary card scheme applying to all card types with no minimum amount.

Is Section 75 better than chargeback?

For credit card purchases over £100, yes — Section 75 is legally enforceable. Chargeback is voluntary and the card company has more discretion.

How long do I have to claim chargeback UK?

Typically 120 days from the transaction date, though this varies by card scheme. Act as soon as the problem becomes clear.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always verify with official sources such as gov.uk or qualified professionals before making decisions.

Last updated: April 2026 · Author: Chandraketu Tripathi