: eBay reviews the evidence—tracking numbers, messages, and photos—to make a decision. If they rule in your favor, they often issue a refund quickly, sometimes even directly from their own pocket if the seller is unresponsive. The Loophole: When You Aren't Protected
The most critical detail for any buyer is the . You typically have 30 days from the actual or estimated delivery date to report a problem.
While the protection is strong, it isn't universal. There are notable exclusions and "traps" that can leave you empty-handed:
: eBay's automated bots often close "Item Not Received" cases instantly if tracking shows delivery to the correct city.
: Sellers who offer free returns gain the ability to deduct up to 50% from a refund if an item is returned damaged or used. eBay Money Back Guarantee policy
: For items verified through eBay's Authenticity Guarantee , returns are often considered final sale unless the item was damaged during shipping. A Note for Sellers