Final answer:
You have 60 days to dispute a billing error or credit card charge from the time the first statement with the error was mailed, under the Fair Credit Billing Act. Addressing errors promptly, as Noel did, is crucial in the dispute process.
Step-by-step explanation:
The time limit for disputing a billing error or credit card charge is typically within 60 days after the first statement containing the error was mailed to you. This is a part of the Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA), which protects consumers from billing errors on their credit card accounts. When noticing a billing error like Noel did with the equipment overpayment, it is imperative to act quickly.
Noel's prompt action in contacting the accounting department, sending messages, and emailing superiors exemplified the urgency required in these situations. By law, your credit card issuer is required to acknowledge your complaint in writing within 30 days and resolve the dispute within two billing cycles (but not more than 90 days) after receiving your letter.