Previously, sellers needed to open an unpaid item case when a buyer didn't pay for an item. However, from May 2021, all sellers will have the option to simply cancel orders that are not paid for within 4 calendar days of the buyer committing to buy the item. This is already available to some sellers on eBay. Any feedback left for sellers by buyers who haven't paid for items will be removed automatically with this change.
When you're ready to pay, simply go to checkout. You'll be able to select your payment method and review your order details, including your shipping address, before you pay.
Ways to pay
In most categories, sellers accept PayPal or credit cards, but they may also offer other options as well, such as Apple Pay or Google Pay. You'll find the payment methods your seller accepts by going to the Shipping and Payments section of the listing.
Checks, money orders, and bank wire transfers aren't allowed for most eBay purchases. However, you can use these payment methods to buy vehicles, capital and business equipment, real estate, and items you pick up in person. See our Payment methods policy for more details.
If you're buying a vehicle, you can also pay with Escrow.com. You can find out more in our article about buying vehicles, parts and accessories.
If you're buying a wristwatch $10,000 or above (after seller discounts but before shipping and taxes), you're required to pay with Escrow.com. For wristwatches, eBay covers any service fees charged by Escrow.com for use of its services.
Troubleshooting payment errors
If you have problems paying for your items or if you receive an error message at checkout, try the following troubleshooting tips to resolve the issue:
- Check you've entered your payment details correctly
- Make sure your billing address matches the address on your payment method
- Try checking out on another device. If you're using the eBay desktop site, try checking out on the mobile site or app, or vice versa
- Try checking out on another browser. You can also try signing out, clearing your cache and cookies, and signing in again before trying to check out again
- Make sure your payment method hasn't expired. For example, if you're paying with a credit or debit card, check the expiry date on the card
- If you're using a new credit or debit card, you may need to activate the card before you can use it. We recommend contacting your bank or card issuer for instructions
- If you're paying with PayPal, try unlinking your account and linking it to your eBay account again
If you're still having trouble paying, choose your payment method below for more information:
- Paying with PayPal
- Paying with a credit or debit card
- eBay gift cards
- Coupons and discount offers
- eBay Bucks
Timelines for paying
When you buy an item on eBay, whether you won an auction or used Buy It Now, you'll need to pay the seller within 2 days. The sooner the seller receives your payment, the sooner they'll send your item.
You'll find everything you've bought recently - including items you still need to pay for - in your Purchase History - opens in new window or tab.
Check for unpaid items - opens in new window or tabWhen you buy an item, it's important to pay as quickly as possible. If you haven't paid in 2 days, a seller may open an unpaid item case against you. If the seller has opened an unpaid item case against you, you may be able to appeal it.