Why it happens
- The wrong transaction type was selected at the terminal or in the system.
- A software error reversed the sign of the transaction.
American ExpressP03Processing error
Credit Processed as Charge
A refund meant for the card member was sent as a charge, so they were billed instead of credited.
What to send to fight it
- Records showing the transaction was a real charge and not a refund.
- Proof the correct refund was issued afterwards.
- Processor reports showing how the transaction was settled.
How to prevent it
- Check the transaction type before submitting refunds.
- Review refunds in each batch before it settles.
Summaries written by NoChurn from the networks’ public rules and processor documentation. Networks update their rules and deadlines depend on your processor: check its documentation before you respond.
Other American Express codes
- A01Charge Amount Exceeds Authorization Amount
- A02No Valid Authorization
- A08Authorization Approval Expired
- C02Credit Not Processed
- C04Goods/Services Returned or Refused
- C05Goods/Services Cancelled
- C08Goods/Services Not Received or Only Partially Received
- C14Paid by Other Means
- C18"No Show" or CARDeposit Cancelled
- C28Cancelled Recurring Billing
- C31Goods/Services Not As Described
- C32Goods/Services Damaged or Defective
- F10Missing Imprint
- F14Missing Signature
- F24No Card Member Authorization
- F29Card Not Present
- F30EMV Counterfeit
- F31EMV Lost/Stolen/Non-Received
- FR2Fraud Full Recourse Program
- FR4Immediate Chargeback Program
- FR6Partial Immediate Chargeback Program
- M01Chargeback Authorization
- M10Vehicle Rental - Capital Damages
- M49Vehicle Rental - Theft or Loss of Use
- P01Unassigned Card Number
- P04Charge Processed as Credit
- P05Incorrect Charge Amount
- P07Late Submission
- P08Duplicate Charge
- P22Non-Matching Card Number
- P23Currency Discrepancy
- R03Insufficient Reply
- R13No Reply
Sources (2)
- American Express: How to Manage and Help Prevent Disputes (US Disputes Reference Guide) · checked 2026-11-09
- Antom (Alipay) Docs: American Express dispute reason codes · checked 2026-11-09
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