StubHub Refund Guide: Are StubHub Tickets Refundable and How to Get One

 stubHub has become one of the go-to platforms for buying and selling event tickets, offering fans a chance to attend concerts, sports events, and theater shows even after tickets are sold out. However, one of the biggest concerns buyers have is: What happens if plans change or an event gets canceled? This blog explores everything you need to know about StubHub refund policies, including answers to the common question — are StubHub tickets refundable?

Table of Contents:

1. Understanding StubHub’s Business Model

2. Are StubHub Tickets Refundable?

3. StubHub Refund Policy for Canceled Events

4. StubHub Refund Policy for Rescheduled Events

5. Can You Get a Refund if You Can’t Attend the Event?

6. StubHub FanProtect Guarantee Explained

7. How to Request a StubHub Ticket Refund

8. StubHub Credit vs. Cash Refund

9. StubHub’s COVID-19 Refund Changes

10. Tips to Avoid Refund Issues on StubHub

11. StubHub Alternatives with Better Refund Policies

12. Final Thoughts on StubHub Refunds

1. Understanding StubHub’s Business Model

StubHub is a ticket resale platform, meaning it connects buyers with sellers who already own tickets. This is different from platforms like Ticketmaster that often sell tickets directly for the first time. Because StubHub is a secondary marketplace, their refund policies are often stricter and may vary based on event circumstances.

2. Are StubHub Tickets Refundable?

The straightforward answer is no, StubHub tickets are not refundable under normal circumstances. Once a purchase is made, it is generally considered final. However, there are exceptions, such as event cancellations or major disruptions that prevent ticket delivery.

3. StubHub Refund Policy for Canceled Events

If an event is officially canceled, StubHub’s policy is to issue a full refund or a 120% credit of the purchase price to the buyer. This policy is part of their FanProtect Guarantee, ensuring customers are protected if the event cannot happen at all.

Example: If you bought tickets to a concert that gets called off completely, StubHub will either send your money back or offer credit worth 120% of what you paid.

4. StubHub Refund Policy for Rescheduled Events

Rescheduled events are not eligible for automatic refunds. Your tickets will typically remain valid for the new date. If you can’t make it, StubHub encourages users to resell the tickets through their platform.

Tip: Check your event page for specific details. Some rescheduled events may have unique refund rules depending on the organizer. 

5. Can You Get a Refund if You Can’t Attend the Event?

Unfortunately, personal reasons, including illness, schedule conflicts, or travel problems, do not qualify for refunds on StubHub. StubHub is very clear that all sales are final unless the event is canceled or StubHub fails to deliver valid tickets.

6. StubHub FanProtect Guarantee Explained

StubHub’s FanProtect Guarantee offers a layer of security for both buyers and sellers. It guarantees:

• Valid tickets delivered in time for the event.

• Comparable or better replacements if an issue arises.

• A full refund if StubHub cannot fulfill your order.

This guarantee provides peace of mind, especially when buying high-demand event tickets.

7. How to Request a StubHub Ticket Refund

If your event is canceled or you believe you’re eligible for a refund, follow these steps:

1. Log into your StubHub account.

2. Go to “My Tickets” and find the canceled event.

3. Click on the refund option or contact StubHub support.

4. Choose whether to receive cash refund or StubHub credit (if offered).

5. Submit your request and wait for confirmation.

StubHub typically processes refunds within 5–10 business days, but credit is usually available faster.

8. StubHub Credit vs. Cash Refund

If your event is canceled, StubHub may give you a choice:

• Cash Refund: You get back the exact amount you paid.

• StubHub Credit: You receive 120% of the ticket value as credit to be used on a future purchase.

While the credit may sound appealing, keep in mind:

• It has an expiration date (typically 12 months).

• It's only usable on StubHub.

• StubHub’s service fees still apply on your next purchase.

9. StubHub’s COVID-19 Refund Changes

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, StubHub faced criticism for changing its refund policy from cash refunds to credits. Many users reported frustration when cash refunds were no longer an option for canceled events. However, as of 2021, StubHub restored the cash refund option for canceled events after regulatory scrutiny and user backlash.

Always check the most recent policy on StubHub’s website, especially during times of widespread event disruptions.

10. Tips to Avoid Refund Issues on StubHub

If you're planning to buy tickets on StubHub and want to reduce the risk of losing money, consider these tips:

• Double-check event dates and your availability.

• Buy tickets closer to the event when your plans are more certain.

• Choose instant download or mobile transfer tickets for reliability.

• Keep track of any event changes or announcements.

• Use a credit card to buy tickets for an added layer of buyer protection.

11. StubHub Alternatives with Better Refund Policies

While StubHub is a popular marketplace, some platforms offer more flexible refund policies, such as:

• Ticketmaster: Offers refunds for canceled and sometimes rescheduled events.

• SeatGeek: Has a buyer guarantee similar to StubHub’s, with easier refund request processing.

• Eventbrite: Refund policies depend on the organizer, but they often allow requests under specific conditions.

• TickPick: Offers a no-fee policy and has decent buyer protection.

If refund flexibility is a top priority, consider these alternatives.

12. Final Thoughts on StubHub Refunds

Understanding StubHub’s refund policies is essential before making a purchase. While StubHub does not offer refunds for personal issues or event reschedules, you are protected under the FanProtect Guarantee if your event is canceled or if there's an issue with ticket delivery.

So, are StubHub tickets refundable? Yes, but only in specific cases — mainly event cancellations. For all other situations, consider using the resale feature or choosing platforms with more generous return policies.

Being informed is your best defense. Whether you're buying Taylor Swift tickets or passes to the next big NFL game, know your rights — and your risks — before you buy.