DisputeKit / North Carolina
What to do when a company in North Carolina won't give you a refund
Send a written demand for a refund with a clear deadline. If you paid by credit card, you may also be able to dispute the charge: Under the Fair Credit Billing Act, a billing-error dispute must reach the card issuer in writing within 60 days after the first statement showing the charge.
The law that may apply
If your order never arrived: Under the FTC Mail, Internet, or Telephone Order Merchandise Rule, a seller that cannot ship within the promised time (or within 30 days if no time was stated) must offer the buyer the option to cancel and receive a prompt refund.
North Carolina General Statutes § 75-1.1 declares unfair or deceptive acts or practices in or affecting commerce unlawful.
How to escalate
If the seller doesn't respond, you can dispute the charge with your card issuer, file a complaint with the North Carolina Department of Justice, Consumer Protection Division, or file in small claims court (limit $10,000 maximum; some counties set a lower limit (from $5,000), so check with your county clerk).
Steps
- Gather your receipt and order details
- Send a written refund demand with a deadline
- Dispute the charge with your card issuer if needed
- File a consumer complaint or small claims case
Common questions
How long do I have to dispute a credit card charge?
If you paid by credit card: Under the Fair Credit Billing Act, a billing-error dispute must reach the card issuer in writing within 60 days after the first statement showing the charge. Debit cards, bank transfers and payment apps have their own rules; ask your bank or provider.
Should I send a letter before disputing the charge?
A written demand helps, because card issuers and courts look for proof you tried to resolve it. Don't let the letter delay a card dispute if your window is closing.
Can I cite the FTC click-to-cancel rule?
No. The FTC's 2024 click-to-cancel rule was vacated in court. DisputeKit only cites laws currently in force.