How to dispute a charge at PayPal

PayPal gives cardholders 180 days from the statement date to file a dispute. PayPal typically resolves disputes within 21 business days of filing. A complete, well-documented letter gives the investigator everything they need to decide quickly.

Dispute windows

Dispute window180 days from statement date
Chargeback window180 days from transaction date
Typical resolution21 business days

Debit card vs credit card protections

Debit card (Reg E)

PayPal uses its own Purchase Protection (180 days)

Credit card (Reg Z)

PayPal Credit: 60 days

How to file at PayPal

  • 01Online: paypal.com Resolution Center
  • 02Phone: 1-888-221-1161

CFPB complaint data

The CFPB received 9,911 complaints about PayPal in the past 12 months. 35% were closed with monetary or non-monetary relief. The most common issues:

  • Unauthorized transactions or other transaction problem1,894
  • Trouble accessing funds in your mobile or digital wallet1,734
  • Fraud or scam1,401

Data from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau complaint database. Updated daily.

Generate your PayPal dispute letter

Select your dispute type and we'll generate a personalized letter, pre-filled with PayPal-specific submission instructions and your deadline.

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