StubHub Refunds: Are StubHub Tickets Refundable and How to Get Your Money Back

When you purchase tickets to a concert, sports event, or theater show, the last thing you want is for plans to fall through. But life is unpredictable—shows get canceled, personal plans change, and sometimes ticket delivery goes wrong. If you’ve bought tickets from StubHub, you might find yourself wondering: Does StubHub offer refunds? Are StubHub tickets refundable? This comprehensive guide answers these questions in detail, helping you understand how StubHub’s refund policies work, what scenarios qualify for a refund, and how to successfully request one. StubHub Refunds

What Is StubHub and How Does It Work?

StubHub is a popular ticket resale marketplace where users can buy and sell tickets to live events. Whether you’re searching for last-minute tickets to a sold-out concert or trying to offload tickets you can’t use, StubHub serves as an intermediary between buyers and sellers.

Importantly, StubHub itself does not usually own the tickets. Instead, it facilitates transactions between individual sellers and buyers, much like an online marketplace. Because of this, its refund policies are quite different from primary ticket sellers like Ticketmaster or Live Nation.

Are StubHub Tickets Refundable?

The short answer is: usually no—unless specific conditions are met.

StubHub operates under a policy known as the FanProtect Guarantee. While this guarantee ensures that buyers receive valid tickets in time for the event, it does not automatically entitle buyers to a refund if they change their minds or can’t attend. Stubhub ticket refund

However, there are certain exceptions where refunds are granted:

1. Event Cancellation

If an event is canceled and not rescheduled, StubHub offers a full refund or credit.

• Full Refund: Typically processed automatically if the event is canceled.
• Credit Option: In some regions, you may be offered a 120% credit toward a future StubHub purchase instead of a refund.

2. Ticket Not Delivered or Invalid

If your tickets are not delivered, or if they’re delivered but are invalid at the venue (e.g., they’ve already been scanned), StubHub will issue a refund.

• This is part of the FanProtect Guarantee.
• StubHub may investigate the issue before releasing funds.

3. Venue Capacity Restrictions or Changes

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other unforeseen circumstances, some venues reduce capacity or make changes that prevent ticket holders from attending.

• In these cases, refunds may be offered depending on the event organizer’s policies and your location.

Situations Where StubHub Won’t Offer Refunds

Knowing what doesn’t qualify for a refund is just as important as understanding what does:

1. Changed Plans

StubHub is a marketplace for fan-to-fan ticket sales, which means there are no refunds if:

• You can no longer attend the event.
• You bought the wrong tickets.
• You changed your mind after the purchase.

2. Rescheduled Events

If an event is postponed or rescheduled, your tickets are typically still valid for the new date. StubHub does not offer automatic refunds for rescheduled events.

• You will be expected to use the tickets for the new date.
• If you can’t attend, your only option may be to resell the tickets on StubHub.

3. Mistakes in Ticket Purchase

StubHub doesn’t offer refunds for errors you make during the ticket buying process, such as:

• Buying tickets for the wrong date or time.
• Purchasing tickets for the wrong section.

How to Get a Refund from StubHub: Step-by-Step

If your situation qualifies for a refund, here’s how you can initiate the process:

Step 1: Log in to Your StubHub Account

Go to StubHub.com and log in using the credentials you used to buy the tickets.

Step 2: Find Your Order

Navigate to “My Tickets” and locate the order in question. You’ll see options related to your ticket delivery, event status, and contact support.

Step 3: Check Event Status

If the event is canceled, it will be indicated in the order details.

• Look for a note saying “Event Canceled” or “Refund Initiated.”

Step 4: Contact StubHub Customer Service

If your tickets weren’t delivered or were invalid, contact StubHub directly:

• Live Chat: Available via the website.
• Phone Support: Access varies by country.
• Social Media: StubHub is active on Twitter/X and Facebook.

Be sure to have the following ready:

• Your order number.
• A brief explanation of the issue.
• Screenshots (if applicable).

Step 5: Wait for Investigation

StubHub may launch an internal investigation, especially if you claim the tickets were invalid or not received. Once verified, your refund will be processed.

Does StubHub Refund Service Fees?

Typically, if you qualify for a full refund due to cancellation or invalid tickets, StubHub refunds the ticket price and service fees.

However, if you’re reselling or canceling your listing voluntarily, service fees are not refunded.

What If StubHub Offers You a Credit Instead?

In some cases—especially during widespread cancellations—StubHub may offer a credit worth 120% of your original purchase price. This can be used for future StubHub events.

• If you’d prefer a cash refund, you may need to request it specifically.
• Not all users are eligible for the credit option.

Refund Timeline: How Long Does It Take?

StubHub refunds usually take between 5–10 business days to show up in your account, depending on your payment method.

• Credit card refunds: Appear faster.
• PayPal or bank transfers: May take longer.
• StubHub will send an email confirmation once your refund is issued.

How to Protect Yourself as a Buyer on StubHub

To minimize refund-related issues, follow these tips when using StubHub:

1. Buy from Reputable Sellers

Look for sellers with high ratings and positive reviews.

2. Double-Check Details

Always verify:

• Event date and time
• Seat location
• Delivery method

3. Save All Communication

Keep email confirmations, order numbers, and screenshots in case you need to support a refund claim.

4. Know the Policy

Read the FanProtect Guarantee before purchasing to understand what’s covered.

StubHub Refund FAQ

Q: Are StubHub tickets refundable if I can’t attend the event?

A: No. StubHub doesn’t refund tickets due to changed personal plans.

Q: How do I know if an event is canceled?

A: StubHub will update your order status and notify you via email if an event is canceled.

Q: Can I get a refund if the tickets I bought were fake or already used?

A: Yes. StubHub’s FanProtect Guarantee covers invalid tickets.

Q: What if the seller doesn’t deliver my tickets?

A: StubHub will attempt to provide a comparable replacement or issue a refund.

Q: Can I sell my tickets instead of requesting a refund?

A: Yes. If your event is rescheduled and you’re unable to attend, you can list your tickets for resale on StubHub.

Final Thoughts

StubHub provides a relatively secure platform for buying and selling tickets, but it’s important to understand that refunds are not always guaranteed unless certain conditions are met. If your event is canceled, you’re protected by the FanProtect Guarantee, and you should receive a refund or account credit. However, if your circumstances change or you make an error in purchase, refunds are unlikely.

To get the best experience on StubHub, always read the fine print, confirm ticket details, and be proactive in checking event status. Should anything go wrong, knowing how to request a StubHub refund—and whether you’re eligible—can save you time, stress, and money.