If you notice an incorrect charge, an unauthorized purchase, or a problem with a product or service, you can dispute a transaction on Bank of America directly through the mobile app. The process is straightforward, but there are a few important requirements to know before you begin.
This guide explains how to dispute a transaction on Bank of America step by step and what to expect during the claims process.
Open the Transaction You Want to Dispute
To get started, open the Bank of America app and navigate to your main account screen.
- Tap the account where the transaction occurred.
- Review the list of recent transactions.
- Scroll down until you find the transaction in question.
- Tap the transaction to view its details.
You’ll see information such as:
- Transaction amount
- Transaction date
- Merchant name
- Transaction type
Scroll to the bottom of the transaction details page and look for the Dispute Transaction button.
Before You Dispute a Transaction on Bank of America
Before you tap the dispute button, make sure your transaction meets the necessary requirements.
The Charge Must Be Posted
One of the most common mistakes people make is trying to dispute a pending transaction.
A charge must be fully posted before Bank of America allows you to file a dispute. Pending transactions are still being processed, and the amount could change or disappear altogether.
If the transaction is still pending:
- Wait a day or two for it to post.
- Contact the merchant directly if the situation is urgent.
You Need a Valid Reason
You can dispute a transaction on Bank of America for legitimate issues such as:
- Unauthorized charges
- Products that never arrived
- Services that were not provided
- Incorrect billing amounts
Simply regretting a purchase is generally not considered a valid reason for filing a dispute.
How to Start a Dispute Claim
Once you’ve confirmed the transaction is eligible:
- Tap Dispute Transaction.
- Review the merchant information displayed.
- You’ll see details such as the merchant’s name, location, and phone number.
At this point, Bank of America may suggest contacting the merchant first. In some cases, the issue can be resolved more quickly by speaking directly with the business.
If you prefer to continue with the bank’s dispute process, tap Proceed.
The next screen provides information about the dispute process and recommends having supporting documents available, such as:
- Receipts
- Invoices
- Order confirmations
- Delivery records
When you’re ready, tap Continue.
Choose the Correct Dispute Type
The app will ask whether you recognize the transaction.
You Recognize the Transaction but There Is a Problem
Select this option if:
- The product was defective
- The service was unsatisfactory
- The merchant charged the wrong amount
- The item never arrived
This is the most common reason people dispute a transaction on Bank of America.
You Do Not Recognize the Transaction
If you do not remember providing your card or account information to the merchant, the issue may involve fraud.
In this situation:
- Contact Bank of America’s fraud department immediately.
- Lock your debit card through the app.
- Report the suspicious activity as soon as possible.
Bank of America debit cards include a $0 Liability Guarantee for eligible fraudulent transactions when reported promptly.
How to Dispute a Product or Service Problem
If you’re reporting a product or service issue, the app will ask additional questions to determine the nature of the problem.
For example, you may be asked:
- Were you billed incorrectly?
- Was there an issue with merchandise or services?
- Did you receive any of the merchandise or services?
Answer each question accurately based on your situation.
The system uses your responses to determine whether your claim qualifies under the bank’s dispute guidelines.
How to Verify Your Dispute Reason
Before submitting the claim, you’ll see a confirmation screen outlining valid dispute scenarios.
Examples may include:
- Merchandise never arrived
- Services were not provided
- Delivery deadlines passed
- The merchant could not fulfill the order
Review the information carefully and make sure it accurately reflects your circumstances.
If everything looks correct, tap Continue.
How to Submit a Dispute Claim
The final step is submitting your claim.
After reviewing your information:
- Confirm the details.
- Submit the dispute.
Once submitted, Bank of America begins investigating the claim with the merchant and the merchant’s financial institution.
When you dispute a transaction on Bank of America, the bank handles the investigation process on your behalf.
How to Track Your Dispute Status
After your claim is filed, you can monitor its progress through the Bank of America communication inbox.
You’ll be able to:
- View status updates
- Respond to requests for additional information
- Follow the progress of the investigation
In many cases, you will not be charged fees or interest on the disputed amount while the claim is under review.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to dispute a transaction on Bank of America can help you resolve billing errors, missing merchandise, and unauthorized charges quickly. The most important things to remember are that the transaction must be posted rather than pending, and you must have a legitimate reason for the dispute.
If you follow the steps correctly, you can dispute a transaction on Bank of America directly from the mobile app and track the entire process until a decision is reached.
