Keep the Information Flowing
Small contributions go a long way. Your donation to Consumer Action, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, can help us cover the cost of research, writing, and translation of our materials. To keep our services free for those who need them. Select an amount to give.
Released: May 27, 2011
Help Desk FAQ
Credit Cards
What is my financial liability if someone uses my credit card without my permission?
You will not have to pay for any unauthorized charges (purchases you didn’t make or permit someone else to make) made using your credit card after you have notified the card issuer. And, under federal law, the most you would have to pay for unauthorized charges made before you reported your card missing is $50. However, many card issuers have a “zero liability” policy, which means their cardholders don’t have to pay anything for unauthorized charges.
If your credit card is lost or stolen, contact the card issuer immediately—you can find the number on your monthly statement. Check your account statements when you receive them—or more often online—to catch any charges you didn’t make and report them right away.
Learn more by reading our Recognizing Credit Card Fraud publication.
Quick Menu
Support Consumer Action
Join Our Email List
Consumer Help Desk
- Help Desk
- Submit Your Complaints
- Presente su queja
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Links to Consumer Resources
- Consumer Service Guide (CSG)
- Alerts
- Consumer Booknotes