How to get a refund from a business that won’t pay
Every state has a consumer protection law against unfair and deceptive business practices. The sale itself came with contract obligations, and if you paid by credit card, federal law adds billing dispute rights on top. A business that sees you know this has a reason to settle, and the letters put it in writing.
- A short, factual request (day 1). Say what you bought, what went wrong, how much you paid, and a deadline. A reasonable business can fix things at this stage.
- A follow-up that cites the law (about day 10). This one cites your state’s consumer protection act, your contract and warranty rights, and, if you paid by card, your federal billing dispute rights. It tells the business you know what the next steps are.
- The formal demand (about day 21). It goes by certified mail, gives the business 10 business days, and says small claims court comes next. In court, many state consumer protection laws let a judge award more than the refund itself.
When to use a credit card chargeback
If you paid by credit card, you can open a billing dispute with your card issuer while the letters run. Watch the deadline: generally 60 days from the statement that showed the charge, though many issuers accept disputes later than the legal minimum. The playbook explains when to file a chargeback, when to rely on the letters, and what order to do them in.
If they still won’t pay
Small claims court hears refund disputes all the time. Filing fees are typically $30–$100, most states don’t require a lawyer, and copies of the letters the business ignored are useful evidence. Your kit includes your state’s claim limit.
Refund Demand Letters provides self-help document templates and general information. It is not legal advice, and it is not a substitute for the advice of an attorney. Kits For That is not a law firm. Consumer protection laws, billing dispute rules and small claims limits change and depend on the circumstances, so check your state’s current rules before you rely on them.