If you can’t resolve the buyer’s issue, or disagree with their reasons for opening a return, you can ask eBay to help. We’ll review the details and get back to you and the buyer with a resolution within 48 hours.
If asked to step in to help, we may ask the buyer to return the item to you if any of the following apply:
- We can't determine that the item received by the buyer matches the listing description.
- You offer returns and your stated return window applies.
- You already offered to accept a return.
If we're asked to step in and help and the item is returned used or damaged, you will not be able to deduct an amount from the buyer's refund to cover the loss in the item's value. If you do not respond, the amount will be deducted from the total of your Available, Processing and On hold funds without requiring the buyer to ship the item back. If the total of your Available, Processing, and On hold funds are insufficient to cover the outstanding amounts you owe, eBay will charge your on-file payment method for the remaining amounts owed. Learn more about Refunding buyers - opens in new window or tab or how to Choose your payment method for selling costs- opens in new window or tab.
Whenever possible, we recommend resolving your buyer’s issue directly and not asking us to step in. If we close the case on behalf of the buyer, you could receive a defect.
How do I ask eBay to step in?
You can ask us to step in and help through the Returns - opens in new window or tab or the Requests and disputes - opens in new window or tab tab in Seller Hub - opens in new window or tab, or next to the order in My eBay Sold - opens in new window or tab. See the instructions below to find out how:
Tip
Whenever possible, we recommend resolving your buyer’s issue and not asking us to step in. If we close the case on behalf of the buyer, you could receive a defect.
When can you ask eBay to step in?
Once the buyer has let you know that they have an issue, you have 3 business days to make things right. After that, if the matter hasn't been resolved, either of you can ask us to step in and help out.
You don't have to ask us to step in immediately after the 3 business days though – if you're still working things through with the buyer, you generally have up to 30 days after the request was opened to ask us for help.
If any issues come up after an item is returned to you, you'll be able to report the problem and ask us to step in and help by following the instructions above.
What happens after you ask eBay to step in?
Once we’ve made a decision, which will normally be within 48 hours, we’ll let you and the buyer know.
- If we close the case in your favor, the case will be closed immediately and you won’t need to do anything else.
- If we close the case in the buyer’s favor, we’ll issue them a full refund and then seek reimbursement from you. You won’t receive a final value fee credit if this happens and you may also receive a defect.
- If you don’t agree with our decision, you can appeal by providing new information within 30 days of the case being closed.