 TITLE: How Do Credit Card Refunds Work? CONTENT: How Long Does a Credit Card Refund Take?\n----------------------------------------\nThe time it takes to process a credit card refund depends on a number of factors. In general, though, you shouldn't expect to get your money back right away.\nThe retailer's return policy also affects how long you'll wait for your credit card refund. Many retailers promise refund times of three to five business days, while others take longer. The best way to get an idea of how long you'll wait is to check the retailer's website.\nOnline returns mailed back to a retailer generally take the longest to process. Depending on the shipping method and distance, it can take a week or more for the package to arrive and be processed before the refund process is set in motion. If you're in a rush to get a refund for an online purchase, paying for expedited shipping to speed its progress might be worth the cost. Some online retailers insist you get authorization from them before sending back a return, so be sure to check the merchant's policy before you put your package in the mail—otherwise, your refund could take even longer.\nItching to speed up the refund process? Returning your item in person will get you your refund faster, because the retailer will issue your refund immediately (although you'll still have to wait for the credit to appear on your credit card statement).\nDepending on your credit card's billing cycle, it can take even longer for a refund to appear on your monthly statement. For example, suppose your credit card's closing date is the 15th of the month, and you return an item on the 16th for a refund. Because the return occurred after the closing date, the refund won't appear on that month's statement. Your statement balance often differs from your current balance, so if you're eager to see whether a credit has been issued, check your account online or use the card issuer's mobile app to keep tabs on it.\nWhat if you don't want to wait for your credit card company to issue a refund? You can ask for your refund in the form of store credit, which can be issued immediately. Just be aware that store credit won't erase the purchase amount from your credit card. You'll still owe the credit card issuer the money for the item, even though you returned it. END