Depop Return Policy 2025: Complete Guide for Buyers & Sellers

Buying unique, vintage, or secondhand items is exciting, but sometimes the item that arrives isn't quite what you expected. Whether it’s the wrong size, a missing button, or it simply never showed up, understanding the Depop return policy is essential for protecting your money.

Because Depop is a marketplace made up of individual sellers, the rules can feel a bit different than a standard retail store. This guide covers everything you need to know about the return window, eligibility requirements, who pays for shipping, and the difference between buying from a private seller versus a registered business.

Note: The information in this guide is based on the latest Depop policies verified as of November 2025.

Overview of Depop Return Policy

Unlike traditional retailers, Depop does not own the inventory sold on its app. Instead, it connects buyers with independent sellers. This means the Depop return policy works on two levels: Depop’s Buyer Protection rules and the individual seller’s policies.

Generally, you are protected if an item is "Significantly Not As Described" (SNAD). However, for issues like fit or changing your mind, returns are usually not accepted unless the seller agrees or is a registered business.

Quick Policy Summary

Return Window & Eligibility

Understanding the timeline is critical. If you miss the deadline to report an issue, you may lose your right to a refund.

The 30-Day Protection Rule

To be covered by Depop’s Buyer Protection, you must report the issue within 30 days of the transaction date.

• Tip: If you paid via PayPal, you may have a longer dispute window (up to 180 days), but it is always best to try to resolve it through Depop first within the 30-day window.

What qualifies for a return?

Depop guarantees a return in specific "Significantly Not As Described" (SNAD) cases. You are eligible for a full refund if:

• Wrong Item: You received a different item than what was listed.
• Fake/Counterfeit: The item was sold as authentic but is a replica.
• Damage: The item has major stains, holes, or damage not mentioned in the description.
• Missing Items: Parts of a bundle are missing.
• Undelivered: The item never arrived (and tracking confirms this or is absent).

What usually does NOT qualify?

Unless the individual seller has a specific policy stating otherwise, you generally cannot return items for:

• Fit issues: The item is the size listed on the tag, but it doesn't fit you.
• Change of mind: You decided you don't want it anymore.
• Minor issues: Small signs of wear on vintage items that were described or shown in photos.
• Smell: Subjective complaints about scent are rarely covered.

Private Sellers vs. Business Sellers

• Private Sellers: Are not legally required to accept returns for "change of mind" or fit.
• Registered Businesses: Must comply with local consumer laws (like the UK Consumer Rights Act), which often grant buyers a 14-day right to return items for any reason. Check the seller’s bio to see if they are a registered business.

How to Return Items to Depop

Since you cannot return items to a physical Depop store, all returns are handled via the app and mail.

Step 1: Communicate with the Seller

Before escalating to Depop, message the seller. Many sellers are willing to work out a solution, such as a partial refund or an exchange, to avoid a dispute on their record.

Step 2: Open a Dispute

If the seller refuses to help or doesn't reply, you must open a dispute in the app.

1. Go to Profile > Settings > Need Help?
2. Select Buying > My Purchase.
3. Tap the transaction you have an issue with.
4. Select the reason (e.g., "Item not as described").

Step 3: Provide Evidence

You will need to upload photos proving your claim.

• Take clear photos of the damage or measurement tape against the item if size is the issue.
• If the item is counterfeit, provide photos of tags and logos.

Step 4: Ship the Return

If Depop approves your return request:

1. They will provide the seller’s return address.
2. You must ship the item back using tracked shipping.
3. You generally have 7 days to ship the item after approval.
4. Upload the tracking number and photo of the postage receipt to the resolution thread.

Refund Methods & Processing Time

Once the return is in motion, here is what you can expect regarding your money.

Refund Method

Refunds are always sent back to the original payment method.

• Depop Payments: Goes back to your card or Apple/Google Pay.
• PayPal: Goes back to your PayPal account or linked bank.

Processing Time

• Timeline: Once the seller receives the item and tracking updates to "Delivered," the refund is typically processed within 5–10 business days.
• Disputes: If the seller refuses to refund after receiving the item, Depop Support may step in to force the refund, which can take an additional few days.

Exchange Policy

Depop does not have an automated exchange policy. Because items are often unique or one-of-a-kind, direct exchanges are rare.

• How to handle exchanges: The safest method is to return the original item for a refund and purchase the new item separately.
• Informal exchanges: Some users agree to "swap" items, but be careful-Depop’s protection policy does not cover swaps if the other person fails to send their item.

Non-returnable or Restricted Items

Certain categories are explicitly excluded from the standard return process for safety and hygiene reasons.

• Perishables: Food or items that can expire.
• Digital Goods: Downloadable art, tickets, or online codes.
• Gift Cards: Both physical and digital gift cards are final sale.
• Underwear/Swimwear: Often non-returnable for hygiene reasons if tags or hygiene strips are removed (check seller policy).

Fees, Deductions & Exceptions

Money is often the biggest friction point in returns. Here is who pays for what.

Return Shipping Costs

• If the item is SNAD (Faulty/Wrong): Depop or the seller is responsible. Depop may reimburse reasonable shipping costs up to £20/$20 if you provide a receipt.
• If it's a "Change of Mind" return: The buyer is usually responsible for paying the return shipping costs.

Restocking Fees

Depop does not allow sellers to charge official restocking fees through the app. However, sellers are not obligated to refund the original shipping cost for "change of mind" returns unless required by law (e.g., UK business sellers).

Holiday & Extended Return Policies

Depop does not enforce a platform-wide holiday return extension. The standard 30-day reporting window applies year-round, including after Christmas and Black Friday.

• Tip: If buying a gift, ask the seller beforehand if they would be willing to extend the return time for the recipient, but get this agreement in writing within the app chat.

Customer Support & Contact Information

If you cannot resolve an issue with a seller, you will need to contact Depop directly.

• In-App Support: Go to Profile > Need Help? > Buying > My Purchase. This is the fastest way to link your issue to a specific order.
• Help Centre: Visit the Depop Help Centre to submit a request via email form.
• Email Response Time: Support typically responds within 1–3 business days.
• Social Media: You can sometimes get help by DMing @AskDepop on Twitter (X), but they will usually direct you back to the app.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return items to Depop without a receipt?

Since all transactions are digital, your "receipt" is the record in your "Purchased Items" tab. You do not need a paper receipt, but you must have the transaction record in the app to start a dispute.

How long does a refund from Depop take?

Once the seller receives your returned package, the refund is usually processed within 5 to 10 business days. If there is a delay, check the tracking number to ensure the package was delivered.

Can I return an item if it doesn't fit?

Generally, no. Private sellers are not required to accept returns for fit issues. However, if the seller listed the wrong measurements (e.g., listed as 32" waist but measures 28"), you can open a "Not As Described" dispute.

Who pays return shipping on Depop?

If the return is because the item was damaged, fake, or wrong, Depop or the seller should cover the return shipping. If the seller accepts a return for a change of mind, the buyer usually pays for shipping.

What happens if the seller refuses my return?

If you have a valid claim (SNAD) and the seller refuses, escalate the dispute to Depop. Depop has the final say and can force a refund if you provide proof the item was misdescribed.

Does Depop charge a restocking fee?

No, Depop does not have a system for restocking fees. You should receive a refund for the item price. Original shipping fees may or may not be refunded depending on the reason for the return.

Can I return a digital item?

No, digital items and goods that are intangible are considered non-returnable items on Depop.

How do I return a damaged or wrong item?

Take photos immediately. Go to the "Purchased Items" section in the app, select the order, and tap "I have an issue." Upload your photos and wait for Depop to review your case.

Disclaimer: Return policies may change at any time and can vary by seller and location. Always confirm details on the official Depop website or with the individual seller. Information verified November 2025.

Found this helpful? Bookmark this page for the latest Depop return policy updates and check our other guides before your next purchase.