If you’re in Ireland and use a credit card for purchases, you might have heard of Section 75 protection. It's a law that can help you get your money back if something goes wrong with a purchase. Knowing how this protection works in 2026 could save you a lot of money. Whether you’re buying electronics, booking a holiday, or paying for services, Section 75 gives you a safety net against faulty goods, undelivered items, or companies that go bust.
What Is Ireland Credit Card Section 75 Protection?
Section 75 protection is a part of consumer law that comes from the UK Consumer Credit Act 1974 but applies to credit card purchases made by Irish consumers with credit card providers who operate under UK law. In simple terms, when you buy goods or services costing between €100 and €30,000 using your credit card, your credit card company shares the responsibility with the seller. This means if something goes wrong with your purchase, you can hold the credit card company accountable for a refund.
It doesn’t matter if you pay the full amount on your credit card or just part of it. For instance, if you put down a deposit on a big purchase, that part paid on the credit card is still covered. This protection is automatic and doesn’t cost anything extra. You don’t have to sign up or pay fees.
Section 75 acts like a safety net if the seller doesn't deliver what they promised. Maybe you bought concert tickets online and the event was canceled with no refund.
Or you ordered a laptop that turns out to be faulty and the store refuses to return it. In such cases, you can claim your money back directly from your credit card provider.
This law covers many types of purchases, including electronics, holidays, furniture, and services. But it only applies when you use a credit card — debit cards, charge cards, or cash payments don’t get this protection. Also, it only applies for purchases between €100 and €30,000. If your purchase is below €100 or above €30,000, you won’t be covered under Section 75.
How Does Section 75 Protection Work?
Here’s how it plays out in real life. When you make a purchase with your credit card, you have two relationships: one with the seller and one with the credit card company. Section 75 makes the credit card company just as responsible as the seller for delivering what you paid for.
First, try to sort things out with the seller. If that doesn’t work — say they ignore your emails or refuse a refund — you contact your credit card issuer. You file a claim explaining what went wrong and provide proof like receipts, emails, or contracts.
The credit card company then investigates your claim. They look at the evidence and decide whether the seller breached the contract, sold faulty goods, or failed to deliver.
For example, imagine you booked a holiday costing €2,000 with your credit card. The travel company cancels your trip at the last minute and refuses to refund you. Thanks to Section 75, you can claim your €2,000 back from your credit card provider, who must then refund you if your claim is valid.
Claims under Section 75 might take weeks or even months since the credit card company needs to investigate carefully. But it’s a strong consumer right that often leads to a full refund.
Also, if the seller goes bankrupt, Section 75 is even more important because it gives you a way to get your money back when other options are gone.
Why Section 75 Protection Matters in 2026
Online shopping and upfront payments are more common now, so Section 75 protection is really important. Around 70% of Irish consumers use credit cards for online shopping, making this law a vital safety net against scams, faulty goods, or service failures.
This protection covers many purchases — from booking flights and holidays to buying electronics like smartphones or laptops, even services such as gym memberships or home repairs.
It’s especially useful because many sellers now require deposits or full payments before delivery. Even if you only pay part of the price on your credit card — say a €500 down payment on a €2,000 item — Section 75 still helps protect that portion.
People still worry about scams and dishonest sellers. In 2025, Irish consumer watchdogs reported a 15% rise in complaints about online shopping fraud. Section 75 gives consumers a way to fight back and recover lost money.
Also, with the cost of living rising, losing hundreds or thousands of euros can be a big blow. With Section 75, your credit card provider can help protect you from losing money, which is crucial these days.
How to Get Started with a Section 75 Claim
Start by keeping all your purchase records — receipts, emails, contracts, and any communication with the seller. These documents are your proof if you need to claim.
If something goes wrong, first contact the seller directly to ask for a refund or replacement. Put your request in writing — email works best so you have a record.
If the seller refuses or doesn’t respond within a reasonable time (usually 30 days), contact your credit card provider. Explain your situation clearly and provide copies of your evidence.
Most credit card companies have dedicated Section 75 claim departments. They’ll send you forms to fill out and guide you through the process. Make sure you respond promptly and keep copies of all correspondence.
The credit card company then investigates your claim. If they find in your favor, you’ll get your money back, usually credited to your account within a few weeks.
If your claim is rejected, you can escalate the matter to the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman (FSPO) in Ireland. The FSPO handles disputes between consumers and financial service providers and can offer an independent decision.
Remember, you must make your claim within six years of the purchase date. Waiting too long could mean losing your right to a refund.
Common Questions About Section 75 Protection
Does Section 75 apply to debit cards?
No, it only applies to credit cards. Debit card purchases don’t have this legal protection.
What if I paid only part of the purchase on my credit card?
Section 75 covers the part you paid with your credit card. For example, if you paid a €500 deposit on a €2,000 purchase, the €500 is protected.
Can I claim if the company goes bankrupt?
Yes. If the seller becomes insolvent and can’t refund you, Section 75 lets you claim from your credit card issuer.
Is there a minimum or maximum purchase amount?
Yes. The purchase must be between €100 and €30,000 to qualify for Section 75 protection.
What types of purchases are covered?
Goods, services, and even holiday bookings paid on credit cards between €100 and €30,000 are covered. But cash advances or payments made with debit cards are excluded.
How long does the claim process take?
Usually a few weeks to a few months, depending on the complexity and the credit card provider’s investigation.
Section 75 protection is a powerful safeguard for credit card users in Ireland in 2026. It covers purchases between €100 and €30,000, giving you a way to claim refunds when things go wrong. Keep your receipts, try to resolve issues with the seller first, then contact your credit card company if needed. Acting quickly and keeping good records can help you get your money back if a purchase falls through.
This article was created with AI assistance.
