If you’ve noticed a charge labeled Unleashed Brands on your credit card statement, you’re not alone. Many consumers have reported similar charges, leading to confusion and concern. While some of these charges are legitimate, others may be unauthorized. It’s crucial to understand what these charges mean, how to verify their legitimacy, and what steps to take if you suspect fraud.
What Is the Unleashed Brands Credit Card Charge?
Unleashed Brands is a youth enrichment platform that owns and operates several brands focused on children’s activities and education. These brands include:
- Urban Air Adventure Park: An indoor trampoline and adventure park
- The Little Gym: A children’s gym offering physical development programs
- Sylvan Learning: A tutoring service for students in grades K-12
- Snapology: STEM-based learning programs
- XP League: A youth esports league
- Premier Martial Arts: Martial arts training for kids
- Water Wings Swim School: Swimming lessons for children and adults
- Class 101: College planning services
A charge labeled “Unleashed Brands” may appear on your credit card statement if you’ve made a purchase or subscription with any of these brands. However, it’s also possible that the charge is unauthorized, especially if you don’t recall engaging with any of these services.
Common Reasons You Might See an Unleashed Brands Charge
Understanding the potential sources of these charges can help you determine their legitimacy:
1. Legitimate Purchases or Subscriptions
If you’ve recently enrolled your child in a program or service offered by one of the Unleashed Brands, the charge is likely legitimate. For instance, a parent reported that they had recently placed a deposit for their child’s birthday party at a trampoline park, which was processed under Unleashed Brands.
2. Authorized Users or Family Members
The charge might have been made by an authorized user on your account, such as a family member. It’s important to check with other cardholders to confirm any recent transactions.
3. Third-Party Billing Descriptors
Some merchants use Unleashed Brands as a billing descriptor, even if the transaction was for a different service. For example, a user discovered that a charge from UNLEASHED.BEST was related to a service they hadn’t directly engaged with.
4. Unauthorized or Fraudulent Charges
If you don’t recognize the charge and haven’t authorized any transactions with Unleashed Brands, it’s possible that your credit card information was compromised. In such cases, immediate action is necessary to protect your account.
How to Verify the Unleashed Brands Charge
To determine whether the charge is legitimate or fraudulent, follow these steps:
1. Review Your Recent Activities
Check your recent purchases, subscriptions, and any services you’ve enrolled in that might be associated with Unleashed Brands. This includes checking emails, receipts, or order confirmations related to the transaction.
2. Contact Unleashed Brands Customer Support
Reach out to Unleashed Brands directly for clarification. They can provide information about the charge and help verify its legitimacy. You can contact them at 877-729-5369 or visit their contact page for more information.
3. Check Your Credit Card Statement for Details
Examine your credit card statement for transaction details, such as the date, amount, and any associated merchant information. This can provide clues about the nature of the charge.
4. Monitor Your Account for Additional Activity
Keep an eye on your credit card account for any other unauthorized transactions. If you notice multiple unfamiliar charges, it’s crucial to take immediate action.
Steps If the Charge Is Unauthorized
If you’ve determined that the charge is unauthorized, take the following steps:
1. Report the Charge to Your Credit Card Issuer
Contact your credit card issuer immediately to report the unauthorized charge. They can assist in freezing your account and preventing further fraudulent activity.
2. Request a New Credit Card
Consider requesting a new credit card with a different number to prevent future unauthorized charges. This is especially important if your card information was compromised.
3. Dispute the Charge Under the Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA)
Under the FCBA, you have the right to dispute unauthorized charges within 60 days of the statement date. Submit a written dispute to your credit card issuer, providing details of the unauthorized charge and any supporting documentation.
4. Monitor Your Credit Reports
Regularly review your credit reports for any signs of identity theft or unauthorized activity. You can obtain free credit reports from the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
Consumer Protections in the U.S.
As a consumer, you have rights to protect yourself from unauthorized charges:
- Fair Credit Billing Act (FCBA): Allows you to dispute unauthorized charges within 60 days of the statement date.
- Truth in Lending Act: Limits your liability for fraudulent charges to $50.
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB): Provides resources and assistance if your bank fails to resolve billing issues. You can file complaints here: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/complaint/
Preventing Future Unauthorized Charges
To protect yourself from future unauthorized charges:
- Use Virtual Credit Cards for Online Purchases: Some credit card issuers offer virtual cards for online transactions, providing an added layer of security.
- Enable Real-Time Transaction Alerts: Set up notifications to monitor your account for any unauthorized activity.
- Regularly Review Credit Card Statements: Frequently check your statements to identify any unfamiliar charges promptly.
- Avoid Sharing Card Details with Unverified Merchants: Be cautious when providing your credit card information online.
- Cancel Unused Subscriptions Promptly: Ensure that you cancel any subscriptions you no longer use to prevent unexpected charges.
FAQ Section
What is Unleashed Brands on my credit card statement?
It typically represents a charge from one of Unleashed Brands’ affiliated companies, such as Urban Air Adventure Park or The Little Gym.
Is Unleashed Brands a legitimate company?
Yes, Unleashed Brands is a legitimate company that owns and operates several youth enrichment brands.
Why don’t I recognize this charge?
The charge may be from a service you or an authorized user enrolled in, or it could be an unauthorized charge.
How can I contact Unleashed Brands about the charge?
You can contact Unleashed Brands at 877-729-5369 or visit their contact page for more information.
Can I stop recurring Unleashed Brands charges?
Yes, you can cancel subscriptions directly through the service provider or request your credit card issuer to block future payments.
Will I get a refund if the charge is fraudulent?
Once confirmed by your credit card issuer, the amount will be refunded.
Conclusion
A charge labeled “Unleashed Brands” may be legitimate, but unfamiliar transactions should always be verified. Check your account activity, contact the merchant, and dispute unauthorized charges immediately. Regular monitoring of statements and careful online payment management protects your finances and prevents fraud.
Emma Rose is a U.S.-based personal finance writer and a regular contributor at Cardix.us. She focuses on topics like credit cards, credit scores, and everyday money management. Emma’s writing makes complex financial concepts simple and practical, helping readers make smarter credit and spending decisions with confidence.
