How the chargeback period is counted
Each dispute reason has its own time limit. In the Visa Core Rules of 18 April 2026, the issuer has 120 calendar days from the transaction processing date for fraud and most consumer disputes, and 75 for authorisation disputes. Mastercard's Chargeback Guide of 13 May 2025 gives 120 calendar days for fraud and cardholder disputes, and 90 for authorisation-related chargebacks.
Where the cardholder paid for something due later, such as a flight, a ticket or a subscription, the 120 days can run from the date the goods or services were expected. Visa caps this at 540 calendar days from the transaction processing date. Mastercard sets a 540-day maximum where ongoing services were interrupted.
What the chargeback period does not cover
The chargeback period binds the issuer towards the scheme. How long a cardholder has to complain to the bank comes from the card's terms and from national law, and may differ.
After the chargeback, each further stage has a shorter limit of its own, counted in days from the stage before.
Why the chargeback period matters to a merchant or a PSP
A sale is not final for months. Businesses that sell in advance, such as travel, events and annual plans, carry exposure for the whole delivery period plus the chargeback period, which is why acquirers ask them for reserves. Transaction records and proof of delivery are kept at least as long as a chargeback can still arrive.
Where the chargeback period shows up in a platform
Modules that do the work
- Card acquiringCard acceptance on the phone, in store and online, through the acquirer you choose.
- LedgerThe double-entry book of record behind every balance, fee and transfer.
- Merchant onboardingBusiness sign-up, verification and underwriting, from application to first payment.
Platforms that need it
Where it is written
The laws and standards this page's facts come from.
- Visa Core Rules and Visa Product and Service Rules, 18 April 2026 (Visa)
- Mastercard Chargeback Guide, Merchant Edition, 13 May 2025 (Mastercard)
General information, not legal advice: what applies to you depends on your services and your market.