Block Merchant Transactions (2024)

FAQs

Can I block a merchant from charging my card? ›

Can I block a company from charging my card? Yes, you can block a company from charging your credit card. You do this by contacting your bank and either revoking authorization for the payment or requesting a stop payment order.

Call and write your bank or credit union

Tell your bank that you have “revoked authorization” for the company to take automatic payments from your account. You can use this sample letter . Some banks and credit unions may offer you an online form.

You can contact your bank and place a stop payment order on the recurring transaction. Generally, a stop payment order is only good for six months. To stop payment, you will need to notify your bank at least three business days before the next payment is scheduled to be made. Notice may be made orally or in writing.

It allows you to freeze your card or account temporarily and block further charges. Locking will typically prevent new transactions but leave automatic payments, such as bills, bank fees, and subscriptions, enabled.

To stop payment, you need to notify your bank at least three business days before the transaction is scheduled to be made and your bank may charge a fee. The notice to stop the transaction may be made orally or in writing. A bank can require written confirmation of an oral stop payment request.

You can block a merchant on a Chase credit card through your online account. Log in to your Chase checking account, and select “Edit Blocked Merchants” under “Account Management.” add the name of the merchant you want to block. Your account will be inaccessible to them.

In general, no. The Visa brand promise of “everywhere you want to be” means that you should be able to use your card anywhere Visa is accepted. An issuer is not permitted to block all transactions from a specific location or merchant type.

If you want to know how to stop paying credit cards legally, that could be tackled with debt settlement programs or filing for bankruptcy. Some of these options can help you get much-needed temporary financial relief. Still, there are drawbacks to consider, including the risk of being sued or selling assets.

Can you ask your bank to block a pending transaction? ›

You can stop a pending debit card transaction by contacting the merchant and canceling the purchase. Or you can try contacting your bank if you don't recognize the transaction, you suspect fraud is involved, or the merchant is unresponsive.

You can do this over the phone, or you can write the company stating clearly that you are revoking authorization. Then, you'll need to contact the bank or credit union that's associated with the payment and let them know that you've revoked authorization from the company.

First of all, a business can't charge your card without your permission. It would need to get your authorization first. This holds true whether you're paying with your smartphone or for any other online card-not-present transaction.

To cancel a pending transaction, call the merchant or retailer on your statement. If you suspect fraud, call your issuer or bank immediately. To avoid transaction errors and fraud, regularly review your statement and shop only with secure websites, among taking other precautions.

If you still can't find your card, or you know that it has been stolen, you can permanently block a card and order a replacement. You'll be able to continue to make digital payments while your card is temporarily blocked, or if you've ordered a replacement card until you get your new physical card.

Manage Merchants

Enable controls to allow or block merchants. You can also lock down a specific card so it can only be used at grocery stores, or limit transactions to gas stations when your kids borrow the car.