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With the ever-evolving landscape of online payments, staying updated with PayPal’s chargeback reason codes is crucial for merchants aiming to protect their revenues. These codes not only explain why a chargeback was filed but also dictate the specific evidence required to contest it effectively.
Chargeback reason codes are critical in determining the appropriate response strategy. These codes provide clear insights into the reasons behind customers' disputes, whether it’s 'Item Not Received,' 'Unauthorized Transaction,' or 'Significantly Not as Described.' For each code, PayPal has defined prerequisites for evidence submission to successfully counter a claim.
Mastering the specifics of each reason code and aligning your evidence accordingly is the backbone of winning disputes. With PayPal, the precision in matching evidence with the reason code can make or break your case. This section delves into the practical steps to gather and prepare the right evidence, ensuring you meet PayPal's stringent guidelines.
Quick, effective response strategies coupled with Safe App’s automated monitoring and evidence collection can drastically reduce the stress and financial burden of chargebacks.
Chargebacks are a silent profit killer.
One false claim can cost you the sale, the product, and a hefty fee. But here’s the good news: most PayPal chargebacks are winnable—if you know the reason code and respond with the right evidence.
In 2025, PayPal’s chargeback process is more automated, but the rules are stricter. The card networks (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) set the standards, and PayPal enforces them. If you don’t submit the correct evidence for the reason code, your dispute is dead on arrival.
Every chargeback comes with a reason code. This code tells you why the buyer is disputing the charge. It also tells you exactly what evidence PayPal and the card network need to overturn the chargeback.
Example:
Mismatch the code and evidence? You lose.
| Reason Code | What It Means | What Evidence You Need |
|---|---|---|
| Item Not Received | Buyer claims they never got the product. | Tracking number, delivery confirmation, signature (if over $750), proof of shipping to the correct address. |
| Significantly Not as Described (SNAD) | Product was materially different from what was advertised. | Original product description, photos, proof of what was shipped, any customization requests, delivery proof. |
| Unauthorized Transaction | Buyer claims they didn’t authorize the purchase. | Proof of previous authorized purchases, device ID, geolocation, IP address, AVS match, signed order form. |
| Duplicate Transaction | Buyer claims they were charged twice. | Transaction receipt, proof of refund, transaction history. |
| Recurring Billing Dispute | Buyer claims they didn’t authorize recurring charges. | Proof of previous undisputed transactions, cancellation policy, proof of service rendered. |
| Credit Not Processed | Buyer claims they were promised a refund but didn’t get it. | Proof of refund issued, refund ID, transaction receipt. |
Note:
For Physical Goods:
For Digital Goods/Services:
Pro Tip:
Safe App automates your chargeback defense.
Win more disputes. Lose less.