Credit Card Refunds: Things You Need To Know

What is a Credit Card Refund?

Merchants issue refunds based on their return policy. If you paid with a credit card and the merchant allows refunds to the original payment method, you will receive a refund to your credit card account 

Can You Get a Refund on a Credit Card?

If the merchant allows it, you will get a refund on the same credit card you used to pay. Some credit cards, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, offer return protection even if the merchant doesn't.

How Do Credit Card Refunds Work?

When you buy with a credit card, the company pays the merchant and you repay them later. When you return an item, the money goes back to the credit card company and your balance is adjusted. 

How Long Does a Credit Card Refund Take?

Credit card refunds can take varying amounts of time, depending on the specific merchant and your credit card company. The process can range from a day to a few weeks.

What Happens to Credit Card Rewards During a Refund?

Regrettably, returning a purchase results in the loss of rewards earned on that transaction. Your rewards balance, in addition to your account balance, will be adjusted accordingly upon processing the return.

Can I get a credit card refund if the merchant does not allow it?

The merchant's refund policy dictates the refund issuance, but certain credit cards offer return protection, enabling credit card refunds even if not allowed by the merchant. 

Will a refund affect my credit card balance?

Yes, when you receive a credit card refund, the purchase amount is subtracted from your credit card balance. However, if your payment is due before the refund is processed, you are responsible for making the payment.