[NY] What legal options do I have if a customer charged back $100,000 in payments for fleet maintenance and truck repairs completed over six months?

Lexi, Chatbot

I understand how concerning it can be to deal with a large chargeback. Can you tell me what the nature of the invoices was for?

Lexi, Chatbot

Have you already contacted your payment processor regarding the chargeback?

Lexi, Chatbot

Is there anything else the lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they’ll be able to help with your chargeback issue.

Jon

Hello, and thank you for reaching out! I’m Jon, a licensed attorney with over 13 years of experience, here to help.

I understand legal matters can feel overwhelming, but you’re in good hands. My goal is to explain things clearly and guide you toward the best possible solution for your situation.

Just a quick note: our conversation is for general legal information only and does not create an attorney-client relationship.

What state are you located in, as this can affect your legal options and next steps?

Jon

Thanks for letting me know you’re in New York. Did you have a written contract or agreement with the customer for the maintenance and repair work on their fleet?

Jon

I understand how frustrating this must be, especially after all the work and expenses you’ve covered. Have you had any direct communication with the customer since they initiated the chargebacks? If so, what was discussed?

Jon

Understood! I believe I have all the information I need. Is there anything else you’d like to add before I start working on your answer? If not, I’ll get started right away.

Jon

Got it! I just need a few minutes to put together a complete response for you. It shouldn’t take longer than about 4–5 minutes, and I want to make sure it’s clear and comprehensive. Thanks so much for waiting—I really appreciate your patience.

Jon

This is a very serious situation, and it’s completely understandable why you feel this is theft and why you’re thinking about suing, especially since your business operations are being affected. Given the amount involved, the fact that this is happening in New York, the complexity of the services you provided, and the impact on your business, this goes beyond general advice. You need to speak with a New York attorney experienced in commercial litigation and chargeback disputes as soon as possible.

The first issue is the chargeback dispute itself. Because the customer is claiming “fraudulent charges” but not disputing the work, your focus is proving they actually authorized the payments. Evidence is critical here:

• Payment records showing the same person called in, used the same card multiple times, and covered invoices for services they requested are strong proof of authorization.
• Gather all communication logs—emails, texts, or call records—showing the person requesting services.
• If you have call recordings where the person clearly authorizes payment, that’s your strongest evidence.
• Link each payment to its corresponding invoice.

When responding to the payment processor or bank, argue that legitimate fraud requires the cardholder to be unaware of the charges. Since this person repeatedly authorized and made payments, their claim of fraud looks like an attempt to avoid paying for services they received.

Beyond the chargeback, you may have grounds for legal action. Even without a written contract, their repeated requests and your performance create an implied-in-fact contract. The chargeback may be a breach of that agreement. You could also claim unjust enrichment, since they benefited from your services. If their actions were deliberate, you might also have potential claims for theft of services or conversion.

For damages, seek:

• The $100,000 principal amount charged back.
• Consequential damages — lost profits, business interruption, and expenses caused by your payment processor freezing your account.

Next steps:

1. Gather all evidence (invoices, receipts, communications, chargeback notices, processor correspondence).
2. Contact a New York business or commercial litigation attorney immediately for a formal demand letter and possible lawsuit.
3. Talk to your payment processor about what documentation might unfreeze your ability to take payments—your attorney can help with this communication.

Jon

I just wanted to check in and see if you have any additional questions about the legal aspects of this issue. I’m here to help if you need clarification or further guidance.

Jon

As I haven’t heard back yet, I’ll pause here for now—but please feel free to reach out anytime with more details or follow-up questions. I’m always happy to help and would be glad to continue the conversation whenever you’re ready.

I hope the information I provided was helpful. If there’s anything else you need, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Wishing you a fantastic day ahead!