Reason code

American Express reason code FR5 is part of the Immediate Chargeback Program and applies specifically to digital goods and services. Under this program, Amex can initiate chargebacks without a cardholder dispute if a transaction raises fraud or service-related concerns—especially in high-risk merchant segments.

FR5 typically impacts merchants offering digital downloads, subscriptions, or virtual access. Because these goods are intangible and quickly consumed, Amex imposes stricter standards, and the merchant bears full responsibility for verifying authorization and delivering what was promised.

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If the digital transaction was valid and fulfilled, provide compelling evidence of delivery and cardholder authorization:

• Include IP logs, user account activity, and confirmation of digital access or downloads
  
  
• Submit AVS/CVV match data and fraud screening results
  
  

Digital merchants in the Immediate Chargeback Program should follow strict fraud controls:

• Require customer logins, verification steps, and robust order tracking
  
  
• Document every fulfillment step to help defend legitimate transactions