What should I do if the charge amount has been changed?

Question

Thanks to online banking, I looked at my statement and saw that a transaction posted but it was more than what I actually signed for. I'm guessing the tip amount was altered after I signed and since credit card receipts have the tip amount handwritten, I doubt I could really prove my case to anyone. Is there anything I can do about this and maybe to prevent it in the future?

Answer 1

Something to keep in mind...oftentimes, the bank will hold a larger amount than the final authorized total as the transaction is pending.  Particularly if you paid a portion of a "split check" between you and another member/s of your party.  Also the bank may hold a certain amount based on expected tip percentage and this may differ from what you agree to on the receipt.  If the payment has already posted through your bank for a different amount than for what you authorized on the credit card receipt then you definitely should notify the restaurant.  If you still have your receipt and/or the management of the restaurant can access your signed slip, there is recourse for a refund or other form of reimbursement.

Answer 2

Call the restaurant and have them check the receipt, they have to keep a copy of the transaction.  Let them know the amount that you put down for a tip before they even look up the ticket.  If it doesn't agree talk to the manager.  In the future make sure you put something in the space for tip, even if it is something like $2.00. Make sure that the dollar sign is right next to the first number.  We have gotten where we tip only in cash (wait staff really prefer this anyway) and make sure that we write the word "NONE" on the space where tip goes.  If it is a large ticket or one for business we make sure that we tip using the $ sign method.

Answer 3

You can call the place. They usually have a record of all credit card transactions and they are supposed to keep all credit card receipts. Let them know what happened to see if they can fix it.