How to Write a Dispute Letter in Canada

A well-written dispute letter can quickly resolve issues with telecom providers, banks, credit cards, landlords, retailers, and insurance companies. This guide shows you exactly what to include, when to send a dispute letter, and provides three examples you can adapt today.

If you want a fully customized letter, you can use the free AI Dispute Letter Generator after reading this guide.

When Should You Write a Dispute Letter?

Use a written dispute letter when:

Customer service is not solving your issue
You were billed incorrectly or unfairly
A company is refusing a refund or credit
A landlord is ignoring repair obligations
You were charged fees you did not authorize
A product or service was not delivered as promised

In many sectors—especially telecom and banking—regulators expect you to first attempt resolving your issue directly with the business in writing.

Key Components of a Strong Dispute Letter

Your dispute letter should be:

Clear — State the problem in plain language
Specific — Include dates, amounts, and steps you already tried
Solution-focused — Tell the business what you want them to do
Documented — Attach copies of relevant evidence

A simple structure that works in most cases:

Your information (name, address, account/phone number)
A short summary of the issue
A timeline (what happened and when)
Impact on you (charges, inconvenience, loss)
Your requested resolution
A deadline for response (usually 10–14 days)

For a customizable version, use the AI generator or review the sample dispute letter.

Dispute Letter Examples

Below are three short example letters tailored to common Canadian disputes. You can adapt these or generate a personalized version using the tool.

1. Telecom / Internet Billing Dispute (Example)

Subject: Incorrect Billing - Request for Review and Credit

Hello,

I am writing to dispute charges on my account for the period of [dates]. On [date], I was billed an additional amount of $[amount] for [describe the issue: overage, service not provided, cancellation fee, etc.].

I contacted customer service on [date] but the issue remains unresolved.

I am requesting:
1. A full review of the charges; and
2. A credit for the incorrect amount.

Please confirm in writing within 10 days. I can provide supporting documents if needed.

Thank you,
[Your Name]

2. Bank / Credit Card Fee Dispute (Example)

Subject: Dispute of Unauthorized or Incorrect Bank Fee

Hello,

I am writing to dispute a fee of $[amount] applied to my account on [date]. I did not authorize this charge, and based on my conversation with your representative on [date], the fee appears to be an error.

I request that the fee be reversed and that my account reflect the correct balance. Please confirm in writing once the correction is made.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

3. Landlord / Repair Issue (Example)

Subject: Request for Required Repairs

Hello,

I am writing regarding ongoing repair issues at [your address]. The problem (describe issue: heat not working, plumbing leak, etc.) has been present since [date] and has not been resolved despite previous notifications.

Under provincial residential tenancy laws, landlords are required to maintain the unit in a good state of repair.

I am requesting that repairs be completed within 7 days. If this matter cannot be resolved promptly, I may need to pursue next steps with the residential tenancy authority.

Thank you,
[Your Name]

Tips for Getting Faster Responses

Keep your letter factual and concise—avoid emotional language
Attach screenshots, statements, or photos where relevant
Send the letter to the company's official complaints or escalation channel
Use email or an online complaints form to create proof of submission
Give a firm but reasonable deadline (10–14 days)

Generate a Personalized Dispute Letter

If you want a fully structured letter tailored to your exact situation, try the AI Dispute Letter Generator. It builds a clean, professional dispute letter step-by-step.