You paid a deposit, the work has not happened as agreed and the contractor is not responding. Records of the agreement, payments and work can help you explain what happened. Possible next steps depend on your contract, payment method, location and circumstances; a refund is not automatic.
Information to gather
- Keep your records. Save the contract or quote, dated messages, receipts and photos of any work. Keep originals and make copies for submissions.
- Check the payment details. Note the payment method, recipient, amount, payment date and relevant statement dates.
- Check the business details. Note the legal name, contact information and any license number. Verify licensing requirements with the relevant state or local authority.
If you paid by credit card
Undelivered services may qualify for a billing-error dispute. The FTC describes a written-notice process with a 60-day period measured from when the first bill containing the error was sent. Contact your issuer promptly to check the applicable procedure and timing; paying by credit card does not guarantee a refund. See FTC: Using credit cards and disputing charges (with sample letter).
If you paid by debit card
Debit-card protections differ from credit-card protections. Ask your bank whether a dispute process covers your transaction, what documents it requires and when it must receive them. See the FTC’s explanation of credit- and debit-card disputes.
If you paid by Zelle, cash or check
Zelle says it does not offer purchase protection; ask your bank about any protections it offers. See Zelle: Purchase protection and paying someone you do not know. For a check, ask the bank about its status and any available options before taking action. A payment dispute or stop-payment request does not decide your contractual obligations. For cash payments, receipts and messages may help document the transaction.
Consider a factual written request
A written request can record the issue and the resolution you are asking for. Include the agreement, payments, relevant events and requested response. Keep statements factual and avoid unsupported accusations or threats. A reply-by date you choose is not necessarily a legal deadline, and a letter does not guarantee a response or payment. Notice requirements and delivery methods vary: for example, California Courts: Demand letters (California example) describes that state's process and exceptions. Check the rules that apply to you before relying on a template.
Check licensing and consumer complaint channels
The relevant licensing authority can explain what complaints it accepts and whether it handles unlicensed work. A complaint is not a promise of disciplinary action or reimbursement. Recovery funds exist in some states, but eligibility, limits and procedures differ. For example, the Florida DBPR: Homeowners’ Construction Recovery Fund is described as a last resort after civil remedies have been exhausted. You can also locate your USA.gov: Find your state consumer protection office.
Research local court procedures
Small claims may be an option for an eligible dispute. Your court's self-help service can explain claim limits, filing deadlines, fees, service requirements and representation rules. A court judgment does not ensure that you will collect payment; see California Courts: Collecting a judgment (California example) for one state's explanation. A licensed attorney can advise on your contract and whether a claim is appropriate.