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  • Question

    What steps for Section 75 protection on purchases?

    • Answer

    • Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974 makes your credit card provider equally liable with the retailer if a purchase between £100 and £30,000 goes wrong. Whether your item is faulty, not delivered, or misrepresented, Section 75 can help you reclaim your money.

      🛡️What Is Section 75 Protection?

      Section 75 holds your credit card company jointly responsible with the retailer when things go wrong. You don’t need to have paid the full balance—any part of the transaction by credit card qualifies.

      ✅Key Legal Criteria

      You must use a UK-issued credit card (not debit or prepaid).

      The purchase amount must be between £100 and £30,000.

      You paid the retailer directly (excludes some third-party processors).

      The retailer has a UK base or presence.

      🧾Examples of Covered Purchases

      Scenario Covered by Section 75? Notes
      £500 washing machine bought online and never arrives ✅ Yes Claim from your card provider.
      £200 deposit for a £1,500 holiday; travel firm collapses ✅ Yes Covers the full holiday cost.
      £90 concert ticket paid by credit card ❌ No Below the £100 threshold.
      £120 jacket via PayPal ❌ Possibly not Depends if PayPal was merchant or intermediary.

      📝Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Section 75 Claim

      1. Try the Retailer First

      Resolve directly if you can. It’s faster and shows good faith.

      Ask for a refund or replacement.

      Keep emails, receipts, delivery notes.

      2. Contact Your Credit Card Provider

      Write in, detailing:

      What you bought, when, and how you paid.

      What went wrong and resolution sought.

      Attach receipts, statements, and retailer correspondence.

      3. Use the Right Terminology

      Mention “Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974” in your claim.

      I am making a claim under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974 for a purchase made on [date] from [retailer]…

      4. Escalate If Needed

      If your provider rejects or stalls:

      Request a final response letter.

      Take your case to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS).

      ⏱️How Long Does It Take?

      Most providers resolve Section 75 claims within eight weeks. If it drags on, escalate to the FOS.

      🔁Section 75 vs Chargeback

      Chargeback is a voluntary scheme, not a legal right. Use Section 75 first if eligible—it’s legally binding.

      🧠Common Misunderstandings

      Myth Reality
      You must pay the full amount on your credit card ❌ Part-payments qualify you for full protection.
      It only applies to physical goods ❌ Services (holidays, flights, software) are covered.
      No cover if the retailer is overseas ❌ You may be protected if they have a UK presence.
      PayPal purchases are always covered ❌ Only if PayPal acts as merchant, not intermediary.

      📌Tips to Maximise Protection

      Always use a credit card for purchases over £100.

      Pay deposits by credit card even if balance is paid elsewhere.

      Keep screenshots of product/service descriptions.

      Avoid uncertain third-party processors.

      section class="section75-article claim-template-section">

      🧾Sample Claim Template

      Subject: Section 75 Claim – [Retailer Name] Purchase on [Date] Dear [Credit Card Provider], I am writing to make a claim under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974. On [date], I used my credit card ending in [last 4 digits] to purchase [item/service] from [retailer name] for £[amount]. The transaction appears on my statement dated [date]. Unfortunately, [describe issue – e.g. the item was never delivered / the service was not provided / the item was faulty]. I have attempted to resolve this with the retailer, but [state outcome – e.g. they have not responded / they have refused a refund / they have gone into administration]. Please find attached: – Credit card statement showing the transaction – Receipt/invoice – Correspondence with the retailer I am requesting a full refund of £[amount] under Section 75. Yours sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Contact Details]

      🧭Where to Get Help

      MoneyHelper guide to Section 75

      MoneySavingExpert’s Section 75 refund guide

      Financial Ombudsman Service

      🧮Final Thoughts

      Section 75 is your legal safety net for major credit-card purchases in the UK. From holidays to electronics, it ensures you’re not left out of pocket if something goes wrong.

      Next time you book or buy, remember: a credit card isn’t just a payment tool—it’s your statutory backup.


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    • This article was generated for general information only and does not constitute legal or any other form of advice.
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