Creating your return policy
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Buyers are more comfortable shopping from sellers who offer return policies, even though most buyers will never return an item. We've found that items with clear return policies typically sell better than items that don't.
All sellers on eBay are required to specify a return policy, whether your policy is to accept returns or not. We encourage you to accept returns and to offer a buyer-friendly return policy. This can help you achieve Top-rated seller status and attract more buyers. Accepting returns can also provide your buyers with a way to resolve concerns without filing a Buyer Protection case.
Note: Even if you specify "no returns accepted," the item could still be returned if it doesn't match the item description. Learn more about Buyer Protection for sellers.
How to create a return policy
To create a return policy:In the Other things you'd like buyers to know section of the listing form, select Returns Accepted or No returns accepted from the Return policy drop-down menu. If you don't see a drop-down menu, click the Change your return policy link, and then select Returns Accepted or No returns accepted.
If you accept returns:
Select the number of days a buyer has to notify you of wanting to return an item after receiving it.
Select the type of refund you'll give if the item is returned.
Select who will pay for return shipping.
Enter additional return policy details in the text box. Don't include return policy details in the item description.
Recommendations
The more clear and buyer-friendly your return policy, the more secure your buyers will feel shopping with you. The following recommendations can help increase buyer satisfaction, improve the likelihood your item will sell, and earn you higher detailed seller ratings (DSRs). For more information on what is and isn't allowed in listings, see the selling practices policy.
Offer a buyer-friendly policy.
Offering a 14-day or longer return window with a money back refund option can help you achieve Top-rated seller benefits.
If you accept returns, this means you should accept returns for any reason, including buyer's remorse.
Offer to pay for return shipping costs and to refund original shipping when the item is being returned because it was defective, wasn't as described, or because it was damaged in shipping.
Don't charge a restocking fee. If you do charge a restocking fee, be sure to select a reasonable amount and limit it to instances where the item isn't being returned in original condition.
Be specific.
Provide clear, easy-to-follow instructions for returns in the Additional return policy details section of the listing form. Don't include this information in your item description where buyers may not see it.
Set a reasonable expectation for when a return will be processed and the money refunded back into the buyer's account. Depending on the payment method, the time frame for a return to be issued should normally not exceed 5 business days.
Be clear about your terms and specify item conditions required for return:
You can specify that items may only be returned if they're in the same condition as when they were received.
If you sell items that are new and sealed, such as media or electronics, you can specify the item can't be returned if opened. For new, unworn clothing, shoes, and accessories you may specify that worn items or items with the tags removed (if they were sold with tags) can't be returned.
Keep a valid return address on file.
To update your return address:Go to My eBay and then click the Account tab. (You may be asked to sign in.)
Click Addresses on the left side of the page.
Next to Primary return address, click the Change link.
Buyers who misuse returns
To help protect yourself from poor buyer practices, wait until you've received a returned item before issuing a refund.
In situations where the item has been returned in a different condition or the item is not within your stated item conditions, be sure to work with your buyer to find a solution that you can both agree on. If you encounter a buyer who is unwilling to follow your return policies, you can report the buyer to us.
