Returning video games for a refund has always been problematic since publishers want to prevent buyers from playing the game and simply returning it. This is why many retailers will only take returns if the game is still sealed.
However, with digital distribution platforms like Steam, the policies around game refunds have improved thanks to consumer demands for more flexibility.
In this guide, you‘ll learn everything you need to know to get a refund for Steam game purchases, including step-by-step instructions with visual examples.
Steam‘s Refund Policy
For years, Steam did not offer refunds on any game purchases. This changed on June 2nd, 2015 when Steam introduced an official refund policy for the first time.
This policy change came largely in response to competing platforms like Origin implementing their own refund programs. It was part of Steam‘s ongoing efforts to improve the customer experience.
Here are the key details of Steam‘s current refund policy:
- Refunds can be requested within 14 days of purchase, and on pre-ordered games, that window starts at the release date
- Games played for less than 2 hours can be refunded for any reason
- DLC follows the same guidelines; in-game purchases within 48 hours
So as long as your request meets this criteria, Steam will provide a no questions asked refund on eligible purchases.
The process is straightforward, fully automated, and handled by Steam – no need to deal with outside support teams.
Now let‘s walk through exactly how to request a Steam refund start to finish.
Step 1: Launch Steam
Begin by opening the Steam application on your computer and logging into your account. You can also start the refund process through the Steam website, but the app is best to locate purchases.
Once logged in, your entire Steam game library and account details will load.
Step 2: Access Support
Click on the Help menu link at the very top of the Steam window. This will open a dropdown – click on Steam Support.
This page provides access to all your purchase histories and is where refunds are handled.
Step 3: Locate Purchase
If purchased recently, your game should be visible near the top with an option to refund instantly. If not there, click View Complete Purchase History.
Locate the game you wish to refund and select Request Refund beneath the title.
Step 4: Confirm Selection
On the request refund page, confirm the correct game is selected from transaction details. Click the button to confirm you definitely want a refund.
Step 5: Select Reason
Choose a refund reason from the dropdown menu that best represents why you‘re requesting the refund. Add any extra details in the text box.
No reason is considered invalid if within policy guidelines. Be honest to improve chances.
Step 6: Double Check
One last chance on the verification screen to ensure you have the right game/DLC and want to proceed with refund request.
If everything looks accurate, click Submit Request.
Step 7: Wait for Review
That‘s it! You‘ll receive an email when your refund request has finished processing. Funds are returned to the original payment method automatically.
The game will also vanish from your Steam library. Allow up to a week depending on volume. You can still play while awaiting decision but time counts towards limit.
And remember, even if outside the standard policy, it never hurts to submit a refund request explaining your situation. Steam is known to make exceptions on a case-by-case basis.
Refunding Steam Hardware
The process follows the same steps for refunding physical items purchased through Steam, like the Steam Deck. Simply select the hardware from your purchase history.
Refunds are still fully-automatic but will take longer as Steam provides return shipping procedures to send back the device. You‘ll get a refund once tracking shows the unit in transit.
Getting Your Money Back
Hopefully this guide has made the entire Steam refund process crystal clear. Let us know if you have any other questions in the comments!