How to get a refund from the Google Play Store

Whether it's a game that doesn't run properly or an app that doesn't fit your needs, you'll want a refund for your purchase. Google makes requesting a refund a relatively painless process. If you picked up one of the latest and greatest Android tablets and went a bit overboard downloading the best Android apps, here's how to request a refund on Google Play.

This guide shows you how to request a refund on Google Play and the restrictions involved. The refund policy is the same for all apps, games, and microtransactions. We also show you how to get a refund for e-books, audiobooks, TV shows, and movies.

The easiest way to get a refund from the Google Play Store is on mobile

According to the Google Play Store refund policy, you can request a refund for apps and in-app purchases within 48 hours of your purchase. E-books, audiobooks, movies, and TV shows can be refunded within seven days as long as you haven't downloaded or started watching the content.

Refunds are usually processed within one business day, and the funds are automatically returned to your payment method. If Google denies your request or you're outside the 48-hour window for an app, contact the app developer for a refund.

If you refund a purchase and then purchase it again later, you won't receive an automatic refund. In this situation, you must contact Google Play support or the app developer to request a refund.

How to request a Google Play Store refund on mobile

Follow the steps below to get a refund with no problem if you are covered by Google Play's refund policy.

Before you start, make sure you're using the Play Store while signed in to the same account you purchased from.

Method 1: Best for refunding an app purchase

Go to the Play Store page of your purchased app and tap Refund.
Click Request refund in the pop-up window.
After confirming the refund, you'll receive an email confirming that your refund request was processed and the funds will be refunded.

Method 2: For refunding an app or in-app purchase

This method can be used to refund any purchase.

Open the Play Store and tap your profile picture in the upper-right corner of your screen.
Tap Payments & subscriptions from the pop-up window.
Tap Budget & history.
Tap your purchase and tap Refund.
Confirm your refund by tapping Yes in the pop-up window.

Requesting a refund is relatively hassle-free, but check your bank statement to ensure the funds arrived. Contact the Google Play Store support team if there are issues with the refund request.

How to request a refund using a desktop

You can request a refund through a desktop web browser. One method uses Google's digital support assistant. The other is similar to the method described above but useful if you'd rather use your computer.

Method 1: Refund through the digital support agent

Google's automated support agent can guide you through the Google Play refund request process. This works for whole app refunds, not in-app purchases.

Go to the Google Play Help topic about requesting a refund.
Click Request a refund. This opens a help guide on the right.
Confirm that the listed email address matches the one you used when making the purchase. If so, click Yes.
Select the purchase you want to be refunded. If you don't see it in the first list, select the Load button to see additional orders.
Select the reason for your refund request.
Select Yes, request refund to confirm.
You'll receive an email confirming your refund request.

That's it! You've processed your refund. You'll receive another email from Google within the next four days to confirm whether the refund will go through.

Method 2: Request a refund through Google Play

You can also request a refund through the Google Play website. Follow these steps if you didn't see the purchase via the digital assistant method. This method can refund in-app purchases, movies, and other items.

Open your Google Play order history page. You're asked to log in if you're not already.
Select Report a problem next to the item for which you want a refund.
Choose a reason from the list.
Use the text box to explain the reason you deserve a refund.
Select Submit to request a refund. You'll hear back over email within the next four days.

Things don't always go smoothly. Here's how to address common problems when requesting a refund.

How to request a refund for a purchase older than 48 hours

If the refund button does not appear in the transactions list, the 48-hour refund period has lapsed. Contact Google Support or the app developer to request a refund of a purchase for which the refund period expired.

To contact the app developer, go to the app's Play Store page and tap App support to expand the developer's contact information. When you see the email address in the drop-down menu, tap the email to draft a message to the developer about your refund. Include as much relevant information as possible. More information always helps get your money back.

Google Play store app with developer contact information highlighted

Check the status or history of a refund

Google's online refund system has a refund progress checker built into it. If you requested a refund and didn't notice the money being refunded or if the refund hasn't been reflected in your bank account, check the status of your refund. Here's how:

Open the Google Play refund status checker.
Confirm the email address associated with the account that made the purchase. If you're logged in to the Google account you used for the purchase and refund, Google asks you to confirm or change the account. Select Yes, continue, then click Continue.
After choosing the correct account, select Under review or Review complete.
Click Continue to see a list of the refunds that match the category.

Get that money back

Google's refund system is automatic, so it may not make the correct decision. Contact Google's customer support if you can't figure out why your refund was denied. When you get that cash back, try one of the best Google Play Store alternatives to find all the best apps available in other stores.