You checked your card statement and saw a charge you did not recognize. The service name looked unfamiliar, even though you recently used a free trial.
This often happens because the billing descriptor does not match the product name. Payments are processed under a parent company, payment processor, or legal entity.
A different name on your card does not automatically mean fraud or a wrong charge.
Why the Service Name Looks Different
- The charge is listed under the company’s legal entity name
- A payment processor handles billing on behalf of the service
- Regional billing entities use different descriptors
- Subscription products share a single merchant account
- Abbreviated names are used by card networks
How to Identify the Charge Correctly
- Match the charge date with your free trial timeline
- Search the descriptor text in your email receipts
- Check the billing section of the service account
- Review merchant details provided by your bank
What to Do Before Disputing
- Confirm whether the charge matches a recent trial or subscription
- Verify cancellation status and billing terms
- Contact the service before filing a card dispute
- Document all matching dates and amounts
Many free trial charges appear unfamiliar only because of naming differences. Verifying the billing source prevents unnecessary disputes.