EXCEPTION: If the seller of the goods DID issue the credit card that you used to pay for those goods (for example, if you used a department-store-issued credit card to buy something from that same department store, whether in person or online) you may be able to dispute the seller's charges as long as you have first made a good faith attempt to resolve the dispute.

The minimum $50 requirement and 100-mile restrictions DO NOT apply where the seller and the card issuer are the same company.

Be aware that if you buy goods or services from a seller through a web site, there may be some legal uncertainty about where a dispute arose.

Other Reasons to Pay by Credit Card:
You may save money by using a credit card if you pay it off in full as soon as the bill arrives. Payments made by credit card allow you to keep the payment amount in your bank account, earning interest, until your credit card bill for those payments comes due.

In addition, some credit card issuers will grant you extended warranties or other advantages for purchases made with the card. It's always a good idea to read all of the small print.

Credit Card Account Protection:
To protect yourself against unauthorized use of your credit card account number, you should carefully and promptly check your credit card statements as soon as they arrive. Better yet, if you have online access to your credit card account, the experts recommend that you check your account every day – and the same holds true for your bank accounts. The theory is that you are more likely to remember the details of transactions you made in the last 2 or 3 days and notice irregularities than you would be for transactions that took place 3 to 6 weeks ago.

If you identify any irregularities, you should immediately bring these to the attention of the issuer of the credit card (or your banker) by telephone AND in writing.

Advantages of Dedicated Credit Card Use:
Consider dedicating a single credit card for online purchases. It will be easier for you to review your records. Also, should the security of this number be compromised, you'll still be able to use your other credit cards.

Credit Cards Offer More Protection than Other Payment Methods:
When it comes to other types of payment options such as debit cards, money orders, cashier's checks, certified checks, teller's checks, and cash on delivery (C.O.D.), you'll find the level of protection is generally higher with credit cards. Although there are pros and cons to any payment option, using a credit card is still your best bet for safety.