What Happens If a Seller Doesnt Respond to a PayPal Dispute?
What happens if a PayPal seller ignores your dispute? Get clear insights into the process and how PayPal resolves cases for buyers.
PayPal disputes offer a structured method for buyers to address concerns regarding purchases. This system addresses issues like unreceived items or product discrepancies. The process is designed to facilitate communication and resolution, especially when a seller doesn’t respond to a buyer’s initial concerns.
The Initial Dispute Period
The resolution process begins when a buyer opens a dispute through PayPal’s Resolution Center. This initial phase serves as a direct communication channel between the buyer and seller. During this period, which lasts up to 20 days, both parties work collaboratively toward a resolution. A seller’s response can involve actions, such as initiating a full or partial refund, arranging for the shipment of the item, or providing updated tracking information. If no agreement is reached or the seller fails to respond within this timeframe, the buyer can advance the process.
Escalating the Dispute to a Claim
If a seller does not provide a satisfactory resolution or fails to respond during the initial dispute period, the buyer must take the next step by escalating the dispute to a formal claim. This action requests PayPal to investigate the issue and make a decision. A dispute must be escalated to a claim within 20 days of its opening date; otherwise, it will automatically close and cannot be reopened. While escalation can occur at any point after the dispute is opened, it is often recommended that at least seven days have passed since the payment date before doing so. Buyers can typically find the option to escalate within the PayPal Resolution Center, where they initially filed the dispute.
PayPal’s Resolution Process for Unresponsive Sellers
Once a dispute escalates to a claim, especially when the seller is unresponsive, PayPal’s review process begins. The seller is given an additional 10 days to respond to the escalated claim and provide information. If the seller fails to respond, PayPal generally rules in favor of the buyer; for “Item Not Received” claims where no proof of delivery is provided, the buyer receives a full refund. PayPal aims to decide on claims within approximately 14 days, though complex cases may take up to 30 days. The decision is communicated to the buyer, and funds are returned to their original payment method.