StubHub Exchange Policy: A Complete Guide for Buyers and Sellers. How long does it take to get a refund from StubHub?

StubHub is one of the largest online ticket marketplaces, offering a platform for buying and selling tickets to sports, concerts, theater, and other live events. One of the key features that sets StubHub apart is its FanProtect Guarantee, which ensures buyers receive valid tickets on time or get a refund. But what happens if you need to exchange your tickets?

In this guide, we’ll break down StubHub’s exchange policy, including how it works for buyers and sellers, eligibility requirements, and alternative solutions if an exchange isn’t possible.

Does StubHub Allow Ticket Exchanges?

StubHub does not have a direct ticket exchange policy where buyers can swap their tickets for different ones. However, there are alternative options available depending on your situation:

  1. For Buyers: If you need different tickets, you may have to resell your current ones and purchase new ones.
  2. For Sellers: You can relist your tickets if they haven’t sold yet or update pricing/seat details.
  3. Cancellation & Refund Cases: If an event is canceled or rescheduled, StubHub may offer refunds or credits.

Since StubHub operates as a peer-to-peer marketplace, exchanges are not standard. Instead, buyers and sellers must follow specific processes to change tickets.

StubHub Exchange Policy for Buyers

If you’ve purchased tickets on StubHub but need different ones, here’s what you can do:

1. Resell Your Tickets & Buy New Ones

Since StubHub doesn’t facilitate direct exchanges, your best option is to:

  • Resell your tickets on StubHub (if allowed by the seller’s terms).
  • Once sold, use the funds to purchase the tickets you want.

Important Notes:

  • You must list the tickets at a competitive price to sell them quickly.
  • StubHub charges a seller fee (typically 10-15% of the sale price).
2. Contact StubHub Customer Support

In rare cases, if there’s an issue with your tickets (wrong seats, invalid barcodes, or event changes), StubHub’s FanProtect Guarantee may help. They might:

  • Provide a refund or credit.
  • Help you find replacement tickets (subject to availability).
3. Event Cancellations or Postponements

If an event is canceled, StubHub usually issues a full refund (in original payment method or StubHub credit).
If an event is rescheduled, your tickets may still be valid, or you could receive a refund.

StubHub Exchange Policy for Sellers

Sellers on StubHub have more flexibility in managing their listings. Here’s how you can adjust your tickets: 

1. Edit or Relist Tickets

If your tickets haven’t sold, you can:

  • Lower the price to attract buyers.
  • Update seat details if there was an error.
  • Remove the listing and repost if needed.
2. Cancel a Sale (If Necessary)

StubHub discourages cancellations, but if you must cancel:

  • You may face a fee (up to 100% of the sale price).
  • Your account could be penalized (restrictions or suspension).
3. Transferring Tickets to a Buyer

Once sold, sellers must transfer tickets on time via:

  • Email transfer (Ticketmaster, AXS, etc.).
  • PDF tickets (uploaded securely).
  • Mobile transfer (Apple Wallet, Google Pay).

Alternatives If StubHub Doesn’t Allow Exchanges

Since StubHub doesn’t offer direct ticket swaps, consider these alternatives:

1. Sell on Another Platform

If StubHub doesn’t work, try:

  • Vivid Seats
  • SeatGeek
  • Ticketmaster Resale
2. Trade Privately (With Caution)

Some fans trade tickets via:

  • Facebook groups
  • Reddit (r/ConcertTickets)
  • Twitter/X (using secure payment methods)

⚠️ Warning: Avoid scams—only trade with trusted buyers/sellers.

3. Use Ticket Insurance (If Purchased)

Some tickets come with insurance (via Allianz or other providers), allowing cancellations for covered reasons (illness, travel issues).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I exchange my StubHub tickets for a different date?

No, StubHub doesn’t offer direct exchanges. You’ll need to resell your tickets and buy new ones.

2. What if I bought tickets by mistake?

StubHub’s policy is all sales are final, but you can try reselling them.

3. Does StubHub offer refunds if I can’t attend?

Only if the event is canceled. Otherwise, reselling is your best option.

4. Can I change the name on my StubHub tickets?

Most electronic tickets are transferable, but paper tickets may have restrictions.

5. How long does it take to get a refund from StubHub?

For canceled events, refunds take 5-7 business days.

Final Thoughts

While StubHub doesn’t have a traditional Stubhub ticket exchange policy, buyers and sellers have options like reselling, relisting, or seeking refunds for canceled events. Always check StubHub’s FanProtect Guarantee for buyer protections and read seller terms carefully.

If you need flexibility, consider purchasing tickets from primary sellers (like Ticketmaster), which sometimes allow exchanges. Otherwise, StubHub remains a reliable marketplace—just plan ahead to avoid last-minute hassles!