What is the INTERSTATE charge on my credit card?

What this charge usually is

An INTERSTATE descriptor is most commonly linked to Interstate Batteries, including purchases made through an Interstate dealer or an Interstate All Battery Center. Statement descriptors are often shortened by banks, so the line may show only INTERSTATE instead of a full business name, store city, or product details. In many cases, this appears after buying an automotive battery, marine/RV battery, replacement service, or related store item.

You may also see an INTERSTATE-related amount when a location applies a battery core deposit or another service-related fee at pickup or installation. Core deposits are refundable when an eligible old battery is returned under the store’s process. Because store fulfillment and returns can vary by location, the descriptor can look generic even when the transaction is legitimate.

Why it appeared on your statement

Most INTERSTATE charges are one-time point-of-sale transactions. Common examples include a battery purchase, installation labor, taxes/fees, or a core-related amount handled at the store level. It can also appear after a delayed settlement: you swiped earlier, but the final posted charge showed up a day or two later with a shortened descriptor.

• You purchased a battery or accessory from an Interstate location or dealer.
• A family member used your card at an automotive parts or battery store.
• A pending authorization later posted with the descriptor INTERSTATE.
• A core deposit or service fee was added at pickup/install.
• The merchant name on receipts differs from the bank descriptor.

How to verify the charge

Start by checking your receipt, email confirmations, and the transaction date/time. Match the posted amount to any battery purchase, install ticket, or in-store invoice. If the amount is close but not exact, compare line items such as tax, installation, and deposit treatment.

Then contact Interstate support and ask them to trace the charge using the card date, amount, and last four digits (never share full card details over email). Interstate lists phone support for SLI/lithium products at 888.772.3600 and other battery types at 866.884.4635 via its support page.

How to cancel future charges

INTERSTATE transactions are usually not subscriptions, so there may be nothing to "cancel" in the recurring-billing sense. Instead, prevent repeats by asking the store to remove any saved card, close open work orders, and provide written confirmation that no additional charges are pending. If your card was used without permission, ask your issuer to replace the card and block merchant-level rebills.

If you are comparing descriptors while reviewing your statement, these pages may help: Patreon and Cash App.

How to dispute if it looks wrong

If you do not recognize the charge after verification, contact your card issuer immediately and file a dispute. Ask the bank to classify it as an unrecognized card-present/card-not-present transaction or services not received, depending on what happened. Provide supporting documents: screenshots, receipts, merchant contact attempts, and a timeline.

• Report quickly so you stay within issuer dispute deadlines.
• Request a provisional credit if your issuer offers one.
• Keep copies of every call/chat reference number.
• If needed, follow up in writing through your bank’s secure message center.

In short: INTERSTATE is often legitimate and tied to a battery-related purchase, but the descriptor is broad enough that mistaken or unauthorized charges can happen. Verification first, then formal dispute, is the fastest path to resolution.