How to Dispute a Fraudulent Business Transaction

File fraud disputes fast with your bank using documentation, timelines, and follow-up to recover stolen funds.

1. Document the fraudulent transaction immediately. Screenshot or print the transaction from your business banking portal. Record the date, amount, merchant name, and transaction ID. Note when you first discovered the fraud — banks measure liability windows from discovery date, not transaction date.
2. Contact your bank within 2 business days. Call the fraud hotline on your debit card or log into business banking to file a dispute. Business accounts have different liability rules than personal accounts — you're liable for up to $50 if reported within 2 days, up to $500 if reported within 60 days.
3. Submit required documentation in writing. File a written dispute within 60 days even if you called. Include transaction details, fraud affidavit, and any supporting evidence like receipts or correspondence. Banks require written disputes for provisional credit on amounts over $1,000.
4. Track provisional credit and investigation timeline. Banks must provide provisional credit within 10 business days for most disputes. The investigation takes up to 90 days for complex cases. Document all communication and follow up every 2 weeks until resolution.
5. Escalate through proper channels if denied. If the bank denies your dispute, request written explanation of their decision. File complaints with your state banking regulator or CFPB within 60 days. Consider involving your business attorney for disputes over $10,000.