Demand letters
How do I demand a refund from a business in writing?
Updated · By the Certified Letter Online team
Write to the company's customer-relations or legal address with the order details, what went wrong, the refund you want and a deadline, and say what you'll do if it isn't resolved (card dispute, state attorney general complaint, small claims). Send it by Certified Mail with return receipt and attach receipts as extra pages.
| Option | When it fits | Proof that helps |
|---|---|---|
| Written refund demand | First step in every case | Certified receipt and return receipt |
| Credit card billing dispute | Paid by credit card, within the dispute window | Your demand letter and the merchant's reply |
| State AG or consumer office complaint | Business ignores you | Copies of everything |
| State pre-suit notice (CLRA, 93A, DTPA) | California, Massachusetts, Texas consumer claims | Notice sent as the statute says |
| Small claims court | Amount within the court's limit | The whole paper trail |
State-specific notices
In California, Massachusetts and Texas, a consumer refund demand can double as the notice those states require before suing: see CLRA, 93A and DTPA.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. For your specific situation, a legal aid office or a licensed attorney in your state can tell you what applies.
Quick answers
Who should I address a refund demand to?
The company's customer relations or legal department, or its registered agent. See where to send a certified letter to a company.
Should I also dispute the charge with my card?
If you paid by credit card and are within the window, yes. See dispute a charge.
How do I send a letter to a hospital billing department with proof?
Same way: a dated letter with your account number, sent Certified with return receipt to the billing address on your statement.
What to do next
Fill in the refund demand and we'll mail it Certified with return receipt for $17.99.
Demand my refundSources
- USA.gov: State consumer protection offices
- FTC: Using credit cards and disputing charges
- NAAG: Find my state attorney general
Checked: . General information, not legal advice. Fees and rules change: confirm current values at the official links above.