What is a Chargeback on Shopify and How Does It Work?

Operating an online shop with Shopify has limitless possibilities—but it also has risks, particularly when chargebacks issued by Shopify are at stake. A chargeback is what happens when a buyer contests a transaction via his or her bank or card issuer, and the bank takes back the money. For Shopify sellers, this could mean lost sales, extra charges, and a hassle-filled process that diverts time from tending your store. Knowing Shopify Chargeback Fundamentals If a customer initiates a chargeback, their bank will investigate the transaction. The funds are withdrawn from your account immediately and held pending the decision of the bank. You're alerted to the chargeback and have the opportunity to respond with proof. This may be shipping confirmations, receipts, tracking information, or any communication with the customer that indicates the transaction was legitimate. Chargeback reasons differ. They may be for fraud (unauthorized transactions), product not received, item not as descri...