Credit card refund vs chargeback : Key differences , when to request refund and when to dispute a transaction

A credit card transaction can sometimes not go as planned because of a cancelled order, a billing error, non-delivery of a product or service, or an unauthorised payment. In all such cases, credit cardholders may seek a refund or file a chargeback. Now, it is important to note that both can help recover money; still, they differ fundamentally in who initiates the process and how the dispute is resolved. Let us discuss both concepts in detail, along with the fundamental differences between them, so that credit card users can address such issues appropriately. Note: The differences discussed above are illustrative in nature and are not exhaustive. When a purchase is cancelled, a product arrives damaged, or a service is not delivered as agreed, an individual credit card holder can request a refund. This refund can be requested directly from the merchant.