A bid or Buy It Now purchase on eBay is considered a contract and you are obligated to purchase the item.

However, mistakes sometimes happen, and many sellers are willing to work with you if you communicate with them openly and honestly. If you have not done so already, you may want to request the seller's contact information and give the seller a call. Let the seller know your situation, and see if you can work things out to everyone's satisfaction.

If the seller does not respond in the way you hope, keep in mind that failing to purchase an item you have won may result in negative feedback, as well as an unpaid item strike against your account. Too many unpaid item strikes in too short a period may result in permanent suspension of your eBay account.

Request a seller's contact information.