Regulation E — Debit Card Dispute Procedures

Regulation E (12 CFR Part 1005) governs electronic fund transfers (EFTs), including debit card transactions, ATM transfers, and direct deposits. It establishes the error-resolution process that banks must follow when you dispute a debit card charge.

Key Provisions

Section 1005.11 — Error Resolution

This is the core section for debit card disputes. It requires financial institutions to:

1. Investigate errors reported by consumers
2. Provide provisional credit within 10 business days if the investigation isn't complete
3. Complete the investigation within 45 calendar days (90 days for certain transactions)
4. Report results to the consumer within 3 business days of completing the investigation

What Counts as an "Error"

• Unauthorized electronic fund transfers
• Incorrect electronic fund transfers
• Omission of a transfer from a periodic statement
• Computational or bookkeeping errors by the financial institution
• Receipt of an incorrect amount from an ATM

Your Liability Limits

How to File

1. Notify your bank orally or in writing
2. Bank may require written confirmation within 10 business days
3. Provide: your name, account number, the error type and amount, and the date

Official References

• 12 CFR § 1005.11 — Procedures for Resolving Errors
• 12 CFR Part 1005 — Full Regulation E Text