Structure, tone, and legal citations for an effective demand letter. Used for billing disputes, refund requests, and contract violations. This guide is customized for San Jose residents with California-specific consumer protection information.
San Jose Local Tip: San Jose's tech economy means SaaS disputes are extremely common — California's ARL requires clear cancellation.
California law: Consumer Legal Remedies Act (CLRA) (Cal. Civ. Code § 1750) — treble damages available — private right of action
Include your full name, address, phone, and email at the top. Date the letter. Include the recipient's name, title, and company address.
Describe what happened in chronological order. Include dates, amounts, account numbers, and reference numbers. Be factual, not emotional.
Reference the specific federal and state laws that protect you. For billing disputes: FCBA, EFTA, FTC Act § 5. For subscriptions: FTC Click-to-Cancel, ROSCA. For debt: FDCPA.
Clearly state what you want: refund, cancellation, account correction, etc. Include a specific dollar amount if applicable.
Give the company 15-30 days to respond. State that you will escalate (CFPB complaint, state AG, chargeback) if they don't resolve within the deadline.
Print, sign, and send via USPS Certified Mail with Return Receipt. Keep a copy of everything. The green card proves they received it.