Fraudulently using someone else’s credit card is a serious offense, with consequences that could impact your life for years to come. In some cases, credit card fraud can even result in felony charges, which carry harsh prison sentences and steep fines. Fortunately, a bail bonds service through a licensed agent can help secure your release from custody so you can wait out your trial at home.

A Guide to Credit Card Fraud Charges

What Is Credit Card Fraud?

A common example of fraud is knowingly using someone else’s card to make purchases or take out a cash advance. Taking someone’s card without permission can also be considered theft, so you might face additional charges for using someone else’s card without permission.

Even if you don’t use a stolen or lost card yourself, transferring or selling it to someone else is also a crime. Another common example of fraud is obtaining a credit card under false pretenses. For instance, lying about your income on a credit application can result in criminal charges.

What Are the Penalties for Credit Card Fraud?

Credit card fraud is typically a state crime, so penalties can vary widely between jurisdictions. In Connecticut, most examples of credit card fraud are considered class A misdemeanors, punishable by up to one year in jail and fines of up to $2,000. You might also be required to pay restitution to the cardholder, business, or financial institution that issued the card.

However, making a false credit card is a class D felony in Connecticut, which carries more serious penalties. If convicted, you may have to pay a $5,000 fine and serve between one and five years in prison.

If you’ve been charged with credit card fraud anywhere in Connecticut, trust the bail bonds services at 3-D Bail Bonds to secure your release from jail as quickly as possible. We’ve worked with jails and law enforcement agencies across the state, processing bail bonds for defendants accused of a broad range of serious offenses. Visit us online to find your nearest location. To speak to bondsmen at our Hartford office, give us a call at (860) 247-2245. You can also reach our New Britain office at (860) 229-2525 or an agent in the New Haven – New Haven - Hamden by calling (203) 562-6666.