how to refund a game on steam

Here’s a comprehensive guide to requesting a refund on Steam, incorporating the latest policies and procedures:

Core Refund Conditions

Time Restrictions

• Request within 14 days of purchase (applies to pre-ordered games if refunded before release)
• Total playtime for the game must be under 2 hours (applies to DLCs, bundles, etc.)

Special Exceptions

• Refunds may still be granted for technical issues or significant discrepancies from advertised features, even if playtime exceeds 2 hours (requires manual review)
• Unredeemed gifts can be refunded within 14 days; redeemed gifts must be refunded by the recipient

Eligible vs. Non-Eligible Refunds

You can request a refund for any game you've purchased, but your request will only be approved if the purchase meets Steam's strict requirements regarding refunds. Here's how to make a refund request on Steam:

1. In a web browser, go to the Steam website and select log in if you're not already logged in to your account.

   

2. Once you're logged in to your account, select Support at the top of the page.

   

3. Select the product you want to return. If you don't see it under Recent Products, select Purchases > View complete purchasing history and choose the game or DLC from the list.

   

   You can even request refunds for Steam Wallet funds purchased within the past 14 days if you haven't used them.

4. Select View receipt under the game.

   

5. Select I would like a refund.

   

6. Select I'd like to request a refund.

   

7. Select Choose refund method and choose one of the options.

   

   If your original payment method isn't on the list, you'll see your refund show up in your Steam Wallet.

8. Select Submit Request. You can provide a reason, but it's completely optional.

   

   If you are outside the grace period, you can still request a refund, but you should be very specific about why you are requesting a refund.

9. You'll see a confirmation message and a reference number on the next page. You'll receive an email with the same information and another email once your request is approved or denied.

   

How to Request a Refund

Method 1: Via Purchase History

• Log into Steam (web or client) → Click your profile → Account Details → Find the game under Purchase History → Select Request a Refund → Choose reason and submit.

Method 2: Via Game Library

• In Steam client: Right-click the game in your Library → Support → It’s not what I expected → Select I’d like a refund → Choose refund method.

Note: Some interfaces may display a Refund Request button for direct access.

Processing Timeline & Refund Methods

Important Notes

• Abuse Prevention: Frequent refunds may trigger account monitoring or restrictions (recommended: ≤3 refunds/month). Repurchasing refunded games at lower prices may flag your account.
• Exceptions Over 2 Hours: Provide detailed explanations (e.g., hardware incompatibility) and attach screenshots/logs.
• Regional Pricing Issues: Cross-region purchases may require identity verification.
• Payment Methods: Refunds to credit cards may show as "pending"; Steam Wallet refunds are credited as balance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Denied Refunds: Verify eligibility, submit additional evidence (e.g., crash logs), or appeal via Steam Support.
• Delayed Refunds: Wait 7 business days post-approval. Contact your payment provider with the transaction ID if unresolved.
• Accidental Refunds: Contact Steam Support immediately to restore the purchase.

Policy Updates & Official Resources

• Latest policies: Steam Refund Page. Valve expanded DLC and hardware eligibility in April 2023.
• For complex cases, contact Steam Support via email (steamcn@valvesoftware.com) or the web form.

Over 96% of eligible refunds are processed within 48 hours. Use the policy responsibly to avoid misuse flags.