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Understanding Your Consumer Rights: Unauthorized Transactions and Charges

 

Unauthorized transactions can be a significant source of stress and financial hardship, but knowing your rights is the first step towards protecting yourself and recovering your funds. 

 

At Armas & Joseph, we are dedicated to safeguarding your financial well-being by ensuring your rights are protected.

Unauthorized Transactions

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What Are Your Rights Under Federal Law:

The Electronic Fund Transfer Act (EFTA)

The EFTA, codified at 15 U.S.C. § 1693 to 1693r, is designed to protect consumers in the event of unauthorized electronic fund transfers (EFTs). Here’s a brief overview of your rights under this act:

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  1. Liability Limitation:

    • Report Within 2 Business Days: If you report the unauthorized transaction within two business days of discovering it, your liability is limited to $50.

    • Report Within 60 Calendar Days: If you report the unauthorized transaction within 60 days of your statement being sent, your liability can be up to $500.

    • After 60 Days: Failing to report within 60 days may result in unlimited liability for unauthorized transactions that occur after the 60-day period.

  2. Investigation Requirements:

    • Your financial institution must investigate and resolve your claim within 10 business days of notification.

    • If additional time is needed, they may take up to 45 days, provided it provisionally credit your account for the disputed amount within 10 business days.

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What Are Your Rights Under California Law:

Additional Protections

California law provides additional safeguards to consumers:

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  1. California Financial Information Privacy Act:

    • Provides robust privacy protections concerning your financial information and imposes stricter requirements on how financial institutions handle your data.

  2. California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA):

    • Grants you the right to know what personal information is collected, used, shared, or sold, and the right to delete such information, which can help prevent unauthorized transactions.

 

How We Can Help!

Navigating the complexities of unauthorized transactions and charges can be daunting. Armas & Joseph, we offer comprehensive legal support to ensure your rights are protected. Our services include:

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  • Evaluate Your Case: Determine whether your rights under the EFTA have been violated.

  • Immediate Action: Assisting you in promptly reporting unauthorized transactions to minimize your liability.

  • Claim Assistance: Guiding you through the process of filing claims with your financial institution or credit card issuer.

  • Dispute Resolution: Representing you in disputes and negotiations to recover your funds.

  • Legal Representation: Providing legal representation in cases where litigation is necessary. Most often we take these cases on contingency – meaning we will only get paid if we are successful and by the business violating your right.

 

Your financial security and peace of mind are our top priorities. If you’ve experienced unauthorized transactions or charges, contact us today.

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Contact Us

If you are experiencing issues with unauthorized transactions, don’t wait to seek help. Contact Armas & Joseph today for a free consultation. Let us help you understand your rights and provide the legal support you need to protect yourself from further unwanted charges and recover the funds lost. 

 

Disclaimer: This website description is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized legal assistance, please consult with an attorney.​

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