Steam offers a straightforward refund system for games and software, allowing you to get your money back for purchases that don’t meet your expectations. Whether your PC can’t handle a game’s graphics, you accidentally bought the wrong title, or simply didn’t enjoy a game after playing it for a bit, Steam’s refund policy has you covered.
Valve understands that sometimes a purchase just doesn’t work out. That’s why they’ve implemented a user-friendly refund system accessible through their help website: help.steampowered.com. Generally, refunds are granted if you request them within a specific timeframe and if your game playtime is below a certain limit.
Keep reading to understand the ins and outs of refunding a game on Steam, including eligibility, the refund process, and what types of purchases are covered.
Understanding Steam’s Game Refund Policy: Key Criteria
The core of Steam’s refund policy revolves around two primary conditions:
- Time Limit: You must request the refund within two weeks of the game purchase date.
- Playtime Limit: For games, you must have played the title for less than two hours.
These rules are designed to allow you to try out a game and decide if it’s right for you. Even if you fall outside these standard conditions, Steam encourages you to still submit a refund request. They state they will review each case individually. It’s also important to note that consumer protection laws in some regions might provide additional refund rights if a game is faulty.
Upon approval, you’ll receive a full refund within approximately one week. The refund will typically be issued back to your original payment method or as Steam Wallet funds. If the original payment method cannot be used for the refund, the full amount will be credited to your Steam Wallet. You can check if your payment method is supported for refunds on Steam’s Refund Methods list.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Request a Steam Game Refund
Getting a refund on Steam is a simple process. Here’s how to do it:
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Go to Steam Support: Open your web browser and navigate to help.steampowered.com. Log in to your Steam account if you’re not already logged in.
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Select “Purchases”: After logging in, you’ll see various support options. Click on “Purchases.”
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Choose the Game: You’ll see a list of your recent purchases. Select the game you wish to refund. If you can’t find it in the recent list, you can use the “View purchase history” link to find older transactions.
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Select “I would like a refund”: Once you’ve selected the game, you’ll be presented with several options. Choose “I would like a refund.”
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Choose a Reason: You’ll be asked to specify why you’re requesting a refund. Select the reason that best fits your situation. Common reasons include “It’s not fun,” “Accidental Purchase,” or “Doesn’t run on my computer.”
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Submit Your Request: After choosing a reason, you’ll have a chance to add more details in a text box. Briefly explain your refund request if needed. Then, click “Submit request.”
After submitting your request, Steam will review it. You can check the status of your request on the Steam Support website under “Purchases.” Steam will notify you via email and through your Steam account once a decision has been made.
What Types of Purchases Can You Refund on Steam?
Steam’s refund policy extends beyond just games. Here’s a breakdown of what else you can typically refund:
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Downloadable Content (DLC): DLC is refundable within 14 days of purchase and if the base game playtime since the DLC purchase is less than two hours, provided the DLC hasn’t been consumed, modified, or transferred. Some third-party DLC might be non-refundable, which will be clearly marked on the store page.
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In-Game Purchases (Within Valve Games): For in-game purchases within Valve-developed games, refunds are available within 48 hours of purchase, as long as the item hasn’t been consumed, modified, or transferred. Third-party developers can also enable this for their games, and Steam will notify you at the time of purchase if in-game refunds are offered. Otherwise, in-game purchases in non-Valve games are generally non-refundable through Steam.
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Pre-Purchased Titles: When you pre-purchase a game, the two-hour playtime limit still applies (excluding beta playtime), but the 14-day refund period starts on the game’s release date. You can request a refund at any time before the release.
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Steam Wallet Funds: You can refund Steam Wallet funds within 14 days of purchase if they were bought on Steam and remain unused.
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Renewable Subscriptions: For subscriptions, you can request a refund within 48 hours of an initial purchase or automatic renewal if the subscription hasn’t been used during the current billing cycle. Usage includes playing games included in the subscription or using any benefits. You can manage and cancel subscriptions in your account details.
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Bundles: Bundles are fully refundable as long as no items have been transferred and the total playtime of all items in the bundle is under two hours. If a bundle contains non-refundable items, Steam will inform you during checkout if the entire bundle is non-refundable.
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Gifts: Unredeemed gifts can be refunded within the standard 14-day/two-hour window. Redeemed gifts can be refunded if initiated by the recipient, with the refund going back to the original purchaser.
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Steam Hardware: Refunds for Steam Hardware are subject to the Hardware Refund Policy.
Exceptions and Important Considerations for Steam Refunds
While Steam’s refund policy is generous, there are some exceptions and important points to keep in mind:
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Purchases Outside of Steam: Refunds are not available for purchases made outside of Steam, such as CD keys or Steam Wallet cards bought from third-party retailers.
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VAC Bans: If you receive a VAC (Valve Anti-Cheat) ban in a game, you lose your refund eligibility for that game.
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Video Content: Video content like movies, series, or tutorials are generally non-refundable unless they are part of a bundle with other refundable (non-video) content.
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Abuse of the Refund System: Steam’s refunds are meant to reduce purchase risk, not to provide free game trials. If Steam detects abuse of the refund system, they may revoke your ability to get refunds in the future. However, requesting a refund and repurchasing a game immediately at a sale price is explicitly stated not to be considered abuse.
Final Thoughts on Steam Refunds
Steam’s refund policy is a valuable tool for gamers, offering flexibility and peace of mind when purchasing new titles. Understanding the conditions and process ensures you can confidently explore the vast Steam library, knowing that you have options if a game doesn’t meet your expectations. Remember to always check the Steam Support website for the most up-to-date information and to initiate any refund requests.
Last updated: April 23, 2024.
