How to refund a game on Steam
Steam offers a straightforward refund policy for most games and software purchased through their platform. If you've bought a game that isn't quite what you expected, or if it simply doesn't run well on your system, you can usually get your money back without hassle.
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Steam's refund policy is a direct agreement between you and Valve (Steam's parent company). It allows you to request a refund for nearly any title for any reason, provided you meet two key conditions: the request is made within 14 days of purchase, and you have played the game for less than two hours. Even if you fall outside these parameters, Steam may still consider a refund on a case-by-case basis, particularly if there are technical issues. This policy often exceeds baseline consumer protection laws for digital goods in many regions.
Step by step
- 1Log into your Steam account via the Steam client or a web browser and navigate to the Steam Support page.
- 2Under 'Purchases', find the game you wish to refund. If it's not immediately visible, you may need to click 'View complete purchasing history'.
- 3Select the game, then choose the option 'I would like a refund'. You'll be asked to provide a brief reason for the refund request.
- 4Choose your preferred refund method (Steam Wallet or original payment method) and submit your request. You'll typically receive an email confirmation, and the refund process usually takes up to 7 days.
What they'll say, and your comeback
“You have played this game for more than 2 hours.”
Comeback, I understand the standard policy, but I am requesting a review due to [state specific reason, e.g., severe technical issues, misleading product description, or an exceptional circumstance].
“It has been more than 14 days since you purchased this game.”
Comeback, I am aware of the 14-day window, but I request a special consideration for a refund because [state specific reason, e.g., I was unable to play it until now due to travel, or a major bug was only recently discovered].
FAQ
Can I refund a game if I've been banned from it?
No, Steam's policy explicitly states that games from which you have been VAC banned (Valve Anti-Cheat) or otherwise banned are not eligible for a refund.
What if I bought the game as a gift?
The original purchaser can refund a gifted game, provided it meets the standard 14-day/2-hour criteria. The gift recipient cannot initiate the refund themselves.
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Reclaim it now, free →More money you might be owed
- UKHow to get a refund for a faulty product (even 'out of policy')
- UK / EUHow to get a refund when your order never arrived
- EUResolve a cross-border online purchase dispute (ECC-Net)
- SpainCómo reclamar la devolución por un producto defectuoso en España
- PortugalDevolução de produto com defeito em Portugal
- FranceProduit défectueux : garantie légale de conformité en France
A self-serve tool, not a law firm. General information, not legal advice.