We're currently testing extending auction durations by 2 minutes when a bid is placed in the last 2 minutes of an auction. This test will apply to select items in the Trading Cards category. Please make sure you're on the latest version of the app to see this feature.
In an auction-style listing, sellers name a starting price and you bid against other buyers. You can keep track of your bidding from the Bids/Offers - opens in new window or tab section of My eBay. When the listing ends, the highest bidder wins the auction and pays for the item.
You may be asked to provide a payment method and shipping address when making a bid. In this case, if you win the auction, payment will be taken automatically after 1 hour, or you can choose to manually check out immediately. The one hour autopayment delay gives buyers time to update details such as their payment method or shipping address, add coupons or giftcards, or opt-in to optional services such as PSA Vault or Authenticity Guarantee.
Tip
Remember, a bid is a binding contract. When you bid on an item in an auction, you're committing to buy it if you win.
Our articles below will help answer any questions you have about auctions and tell you everything you need to know about how to bid on items.
Automatic biddingStay ahead of the competition by setting up automatic bidding.
Retracting a bidFind out how and when you can retract a bid if you make a mistake while bidding.
How reserve prices workDiscover how reserve prices on auctions work.
Responding to Second Chance OffersIf you aren't the winning bidder on an auction the seller may still send you a Second Chance Offer. Find out how these offers work, and how to respond.
Tips for winning auctionsImprove your chances of being the top bidder with our tips for winning auctions.