[FL] How do I collect from a client who disputed their credit card charges after I had been paid?
However, he disputed the charge when he received his credit card statement. The bank asked for proof of his purchase but they denied us. I’d like to send a letter. Do you have any templates that would help me? Or do you have any suggestions?
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Since the bank chargeback process didn’t resolve it in your favor, you need to pursue payment directly from the client. Sending a formal letter is a good first step.
Next Steps and Suggestions:
-
Send a Demand Letter:
This is a formal communication requesting payment. It should be professional, clear, and state the facts. I’ll give you a sample letter in just a moment. -
Keep Records:
Document everything – copies of the original invoice, any contracts or agreements, proof of delivery (even if informal), communication with the client, details of the chargeback attempt, and a copy of the letter you send. -
Follow Up:
If you don’t hear back after sending the letter within the timeframe you specify (e.g., 10–15 business days), consider a polite follow-up phone call. -
Small Claims Court:
You can sue the client in small claims court to recover the amount owed. I think the limit in Florida is $8,000.You could also turn the debt over to a collection agency. They will pursue the client for payment, but they take a significant percentage of any amount recovered.
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Hello, I have a small photography business. I have a client that picked up his portraits/our product, gave us his credit card number, we ran it, it went through.
I understand the situation with your photography business. Can you tell me if there has been any issue with the payment from the client’s credit card?
However, he disputed the charge when he received his credit card statement. The bank asked for proof of his purchase, but they denied us. I’d like to send a letter. Do you have any templates that would help me? Or do you have any suggestions?
Have there been any disputes or concerns raised by the client regarding the portraits or products they received?
The client will not return any of my calls. I have left plenty of messages and text messages. However, no response. The bank told me if I wanted, I could call or get advice from a lawyer.
Is there anything else the Lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured, they’ll be able to help with the chargeback issue.
Well, only that they have my products. I did tell them if they didn’t want to settle with me, then I want my products/portraits back. There has been no response from him.
Hello, welcome to AskaLawyer. My name is DJ. I've been a lawyer for over 20 years.
To better understand the legal issues in your message, I would like to ask a couple of questions if that’s ok with you.
OK
What state are you in?
Also, are you asking about sending a letter to the client or to the credit card people?
Florida.
Only to the client. The bank sent me an email saying it was no longer their responsibility.
Thanks for the info. I will do my best to help today.
(Please note this discussion is for general info only and does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. I am not your personal lawyer.)
OK
Okay, this sounds incredibly frustrating for you. It’s tough when you’ve delivered your work and then face a payment dispute like this...
Yes, it is very upsetting.
Since the bank chargeback process didn’t resolve it in your favor, you need to pursue payment directly from the client. Sending a formal letter is a good first step.
Next Steps and Suggestions:
-
Send a Demand Letter:
This is a formal communication requesting payment. It should be professional, clear, and state the facts. I’ll give you a sample letter in just a moment. -
Keep Records:
Document everything – copies of the original invoice, any contracts or agreements, proof of delivery (even if informal), communication with the client, details of the chargeback attempt, and a copy of the letter you send. -
Follow Up:
If you don’t hear back after sending the letter within the timeframe you specify (e.g., 10–15 business days), consider a polite follow-up phone call. -
Small Claims Court:
You can sue the client in small claims court to recover the amount owed. I think the limit in Florida is $8,000.You could also turn the debt over to a collection agency. They will pursue the client for payment, but they take a significant percentage of any amount recovered.
OK. Do I send the letter certified? He owes me $596.00.
Yes, send it certified.
OK, got it. Can I receive a downloadable of this letter so that I can fill in the blanks?
I'll see if I can. Just a moment.
It’s pretty rough, but you can format it to look nice.
Thank you so much! I appreciate your help with this matter. Wish me luck!
Thanks. Good luck to you!
