Understanding Section 75 Claims: How and Why You Can Get Your Money Back
Have you ever bought something with your credit card, only to find that the goods were faulty, never arrived, or the company went bust? If so, you might be protected by something called Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974—a powerful piece of consumer protection that many people don’t even know exists.
What is Section 75?
Section 75 is a UK law that makes your credit card provider jointly responsible with the retailer or supplier if something goes wrong with a purchase. This means if you buy something costing between £100 and £30,000 (even if you only paid a deposit on your credit card), you can claim your money back from your credit card company if:
- The goods or services are faulty, not delivered, or not as described
- The company you bought from goes out of business
- The seller refuses to refund you
Why Does Section 75 Exist?
Section 75 was created to give consumers extra protection when buying goods and services. It recognises that sometimes, retailers or service providers might not be able to resolve your issue—especially if they’ve gone bust or are refusing to cooperate. By making the credit card company equally responsible, you have another route to get your money back.
When Can You Make a Section 75 Claim?
You can make a Section 75 claim if:
- You used a credit card (not a debit card or charge card) for all or part of the purchase
- The item or service cost between £100 and £30,000
- There’s a breach of contract or misrepresentation (for example, the item wasn’t delivered, was faulty, or wasn’t as described)
Common Examples of Section 75 Claims:
- You booked a holiday with a travel company that later went out of business
- You bought a laptop online that never arrived
- You paid for concert tickets that turned out to be fake
- You purchased a sofa that arrived damaged and the retailer won’t help
Why Use Section 75?
Section 75 gives you peace of mind when shopping, especially for big purchases or when buying from companies you’re not familiar with. It’s a legal right, and credit card companies are generally quick to investigate and resolve valid claims.
Final Tips
- Always keep records of your purchases and any communication with the seller.
- Remember, Section 75 only applies to credit cards—not debit cards or PayPal (though PayPal has its own buyer protection).
- Even if you only paid a deposit on your credit card (and the rest by another method), you’re still covered for the full amount.
In Summary
Section 75 is a valuable safety net for UK consumers, offering protection when things go wrong with credit card purchases. If you think you’re eligible for a Section 75 claim, don’t hesitate to contact your credit card provider—you could get your money back and avoid unnecessary stress.
Need help with a Section 75 claim?
If you’re unsure about your rights or need assistance making a claim, get in touch with us today. We’re here to help you get the protection you deserve.