Step-by-step process to dispute subscription charges you didn't authorize, including chargebacks, FCBA rights, and when to involve your bank. This guide applies specifically to Microsoft 365 ($6.99-$12.99/mo) subscribers in Chicago, Illinois. Illinois's Automatic Contract Renewal Act protects you.
Illinois's Automatic Contract Renewal Act (815 ILCS 601) gives Chicago residents specific protections when dealing with Microsoft 365:
Penalties: Renewal is void if notice requirements not met
Applied to Microsoft 365 (Microsoft account website) for Chicago residents
Identify the charge source
Find the exact merchant name on your statement. Subscription companies often bill under different names (e.g., 'AMZN Digital' for Amazon Prime). Search the billing descriptor online if unfamiliar.
Contact the company first
Call or email the subscription company and state you are disputing the charge. Get their response in writing. Many will refund rather than face a chargeback, which costs them $20–50 in fees.
File a chargeback with your card issuer
Call the number on the back of your card. Say: 'I want to dispute a recurring charge under the Fair Credit Billing Act. The charge was unauthorized / continued after cancellation.' They are required to investigate.
Submit your evidence
Provide your cancellation confirmation, the unauthorized charge dates, and any communication from the company. The card issuer will request a response from the merchant.
Request merchant blocking
Ask your card issuer to add the merchant to a block list. This prevents future charges from that specific merchant ID, even if they try to re-bill.
Method: Microsoft account website · Difficulty: medium
Microsoft 365-specific tips
Full refund within 30 days of renewal. Prorated after.
Under 815 ILCS 601, Chicago residents may be entitled to a full refund if Microsoft 365 didn't properly disclose auto-renewal terms.
SubScrub auto-cites 815 ILCS 601 for Chicago residents