Anyone ever disputed a large transaction with bank?

[BramblyHedge]

We bought a 2nd hand car last week (£4,700) from a car supermarket (very large one) and they managed to accidently void the first attempt at taking the money. After much faffing, transferring of money between our accounts/ overdraft etc. (as their first attempt had put a temp hold on our account even though the money hadn't left it) we managed to buy the car the next day and were assured that the first payment would not and could not go through - the temp hold would drop off after 3 days. DP has a VOID receipt as well.

So fast forward to me checking the online bank account yesterday and guess what - they have taken two payments (6 days apart) making us mega mega overdrawn. DP has been talking to them all day about getting the money back and they don't dispute it but seem to be delaying somewhat and have appalling customer service and contact. I have spoken to the bank (Natwest) who say to contact them if we get no joy but I just wondered if anyone else had had a similar issue and how the bank dealt with it and if it resolved. DP is looking very depressed tonight and worries we will lose the money which is the bulk of our savings (and we have dc3 on the way which is why we needed car in first place).

I work for a bank and had this happen to a customer but for a much smaller amount. Basically the company haven't received the money from the first transaction, however Natwest had already authorised the transaction so the money had left your account. Your money is (no other way to put it) floating around through the ether, you will get it back however it will take 5-7 working days. There's no way to hurry it up, it's not still with the bank and it's not been claimed by the company so it will default back into your account but these things sadly do take their own sweet time. As long as you have the receipt showing that it is voided you will be fine. Was it an error you made or the garage made? Personally if it was their mistake then once I had the money back I'd work out my lost interest on savings and interest accrued on overdraft and ask them to refund it for me! Xxx

Thanks for that! The man doing the transaction 'pressed the wring button' whatever that means - nothing to do with us at all :-(

Yes, when we bought our car the amount processed twice, it is not uncommon. In our case HSBC released the funds twice which is why dh ended up calling me from London to say he couldn't withdraw any money. This is because HSBC had given us a unauthorised overdraft of £13,000

In our case it was Natwest that fucked up as they supplied the dealership card services and they requested the money twice.

HSBC insanely authorised both though

Well I am glad to report that it looks like a BACS transfer has taken place and we now have our money back so panic over! Thanks for the replies.