A long legal analysis is, IMHO, beyond what we need in FT. So, I won't provide one. If you want to know more check the FTC web site or go to your local law school library and take a look at the National Consumer Law Center's book on Truth in Lending. http://www.consumerlaw.org/publicati...ng_truth.shtml Or take a look at "What Every Credit Card User Needs to Know" (out of print, but probably at your local library). http://www.amazon.com/What-Every-Cre...1160760&sr=8-1

Basically, the Truth in Lending Act incorporates some weird and complex rules about how billing error disputed amounts are allocated depending on whether paid or not paid when disputed.

Best thing, do not pay before disputing in writing. If you already paid, no reason not to go ahead and dispute, if you see a problem.