International refunds

How do they work?

I recently was incorrectly charged in USD twice in 1 day for about $60 AUD each time by a particuliar game market place which I havent purchased anything from in at least 6 months. It seems they charged me then refunded the money in USD on the same day. Has anyone had an experience like this? The problem with it is then my bank converted the charges and refunds with slightly different FX rates and also charged a fee each time (4 times) so I end up a small amount out of pocket for no reason it seems.

The amount is too small for me to be bothered going through that company's customer support however I am interested what the standard practice in this case should be. Also the company is based in the US if that makes any difference law wise.

Comments

  • +2

    In my view, this is just a hazard of doing international purchases / subscriptions.
    As far as the seller is concerned, they refunded in full.
    As far as the bank is concerned, they processed each transaction correctly.

    You could ask the seller for a credit (for the inconvenience caused), but I don't like your chances.

    • Thanks. Also I assume this couldnt happen for really large amounts due to the banks due diligence in not letting them charge above x amount without confirmation. So dont really have to worry about being too out of pocket but it is annoying that you can be out of pocket for someone elses mistake.

  • Your bank may adjust the difference and the fees as a "goodwill gesture" if you ask them.

    To avoid international fees see OzBargain guide - Cards with No Overseas Transaction Fees

    I have a Citibank Plus account and also I can place a block on overseas transactions on my CBA credit card.

  • yes this happened to me as well, I just put up with it, did you do anything about it? any update
    Also sometime I thought an Australian company but I was charged overseas transaction fee.

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