Steam is the largest digital distribution platform for PC games, with over 30,000 games in its library. While Steam offers an excellent selection of games, sometimes you may purchase downloadable content (DLC) or add-ons that you later decide you don’t want. Thankfully, Steam does allow users to request refunds on DLCs and add-ons within certain time frames. Here is what you need to know:
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Steam’s Refund Policy
Steam offers refunds on DLCs and add-ons if the request is made within 14 days of purchase, and the underlying game has been played for less than 2 hours since purchasing the DLC. Additionally, the DLC content must not have been consumed, modified, or transferred.
Key Points:
- 14 Day Window: You have up to 14 days from the purchase date to request a refund.
- 2 Hours of Playtime: You must have less than 2 hours of playtime in the game since purchasing the DLC.
- Content Cannot Be Consumed/Transferred: The DLC must not have been used, modified, or transferred in any way.
How to Request a Refund
Requesting a refund on Steam DLCs is easy to do through the Steam client or website. Here are the steps:
- Open the Steam client and go to the Help menu > Steam Support. Or navigate to help.steampowered.com and login.
- Click on the game the DLC belongs to.
- Find the DLC purchase and click “I would like a refund.”
- Select the reason for refund, add any notes, and submit the request.
Tip: You can also request a refund directly from your purchase history page without navigating to the game page first.
Once submitted, Steam will review your request and respond via email with the outcome. Refunds are generally credited within 7 days if approved.
Reasons for Refund
There are a few common reasons you may request a refund on unwanted DLCs:
- Accidental Purchase: You may have purchased something by accident.
- Changed Mind: You tried the DLC but changed your mind and no longer want it.
- Technical Issues: The DLC causes crashes or doesn’t function properly.
- Poor Quality: The DLC content quality is not what you expected.
As long as you meet Steam’s refund policy requirements, you can request a refund for any reason.
Tips to Avoid Unwanted DLCs
To avoid buying DLCs that you later want to refund, keep these tips in mind:
- Research first: Read reviews and forum posts to gauge the quality before buying.
- Try before you buy: If possible, try out the DLC on a friend’s account first.
- Check system requirements: Ensure your PC meets the minimum specs needed.
- Wait for sales: DLCs frequently go on sale, so consider wishlisting it and waiting.
- Stick to reputable devs: Avoid unknown or questionable developers.
Refunds on Bundles & Gifts
If you purchased a DLC as part of a bundle or received it as a gift from another user, the same refund policy applies. You need to meet the 14 day and 2 hour playtime requirements based on when the bundle was purchased or gift was redeemed to your account.
Refunds to Steam Wallet
When you request a refund on Steam, the default option is for the funds to be credited back to your Steam Wallet rather than your original payment method. This Steam Wallet credit can then be used to purchase something else in the Steam store.
If you prefer to have the refund sent back to your original payment method, you must specifically select that option when submitting the refund request.
Getting Help from Steam Support
If your refund request gets denied or you have any other issues getting a refund approved, you can open a help ticket with Steam Support for assistance. Especially if there are extenuating circumstances, Steam may be willing to make an exception to the usual refund policy rules.
In Summary
Getting a refund for unwanted Steam DLCs is straightforward, as long as you act quickly and meet the basic eligibility criteria. By researching DLCs beforehand, trying before you buy when possible, and requesting refunds promptly on unwanted purchases, you can avoid getting stuck with DLCs you regret buying. Carefully review Steam’s refund policy and understand what types of purchases qualify so that you can request your money back smoothly.
