Chargeback Reason Code Lookup

Search the common Visa, Mastercard, Amex and Discover chargeback reason codes — with the category and a plain-English meaning, so you know what evidence to fight it with. Free, nothing stored.

Good to know: card networks update their reason codes periodically. Treat this as a quick reference and confirm the current code and evidence requirements with your processor or the network’s latest dispute guide before you respond.

More PAYATE tools

User-Agent ParserBrowser, OS & device from a UA IP Address LookupCountry & ISP for any IP Twitter / X DownloaderSave public tweet videos in HD Signature PadDraw & download a signature

Frequently asked questions

What is a chargeback reason code?

A reason code is a short identifier the card network attaches to a chargeback to say why the cardholder is disputing the charge — for example Visa 10.4 (fraud, card absent) or Mastercard 4853 (cardholder dispute). It tells the merchant what evidence is needed to fight it.

What are the four Visa chargeback categories?

Since Visa Claims Resolution the codes group into four families: 10.x Fraud, 11.x Authorization, 12.x Processing Errors, and 13.x Consumer Disputes. The number after the dot is the specific reason.

How do I respond to a chargeback?

Find the reason code, gather the exact evidence it calls for (authorization records, proof of delivery, a signed receipt, your refund policy, AVS/CVV results), and submit a clear representment before the deadline. The right evidence depends entirely on the code — which is why looking it up first matters.

Are Mastercard and Visa codes the same?

No. Each network has its own scheme: Visa uses category.reason like 13.1, Mastercard uses 4-digit codes like 4853, American Express uses letter-number codes like C08, and Discover uses codes like UA02. This tool covers the common ones for all four.

Does this tool store what I search?

No. The whole reference runs in your browser and nothing you type is sent anywhere.