Did you purchase additional content for a game but did not like it? You can refund it by availing of Steam’s convenient refund policy to all its users. However, there are some conditions to meet.
While you can refund DLC on Steam, you must ensure that the total time for which the DLC was used is less than two hours. Moreover, you can only request a refund if your DLC was purchased in the last 14 days and the payment was made through a card or bank transfer, not through a gift card.
This article will give you a step-by-step guide on how to request a refund, avoid refunds, and the eligibility criteria for requesting a refund.
DLC
DLC stands for “Downloadable Content,” which can be used as add-ons for different games, specifically video games. The DLC includes content not added to the game’s original version at the time of its release.
This can be new levels, characters, weapons, game modes, and other features that improve the gaming experience by making it more appealing and challenging.
DLC is a great way to extend the life of a game and provide players with new content to enjoy. Game developers sometimes purposely withhold content in the initial release so that users would buy DLC and the game can profit. However, some DLC is free of cost and is released as updates in the game.
DLC can be purchased individually or as part of a season pass, granting access to multiple DLC releases at a discounted price.
Refund Policy For DLC At Steam
Steam has a refund policy that allows users to request a refund for any purchase made on the platform as long as certain conditions are met. Below we look at some things that you must consider before you put in the request.
- Time Limit – There are two-time limits that users need to be mindful of when asking for a refund. The first one is that your DLC must be used for less than two hours. Moreover, you can only request a refund within 14 days of purchasing the DLC.
- Valid Reason – Steam requires all users who request a refund to provide the company with a valid reason which justifies the refund. Hence, it is important to give them the exact reason concisely and accurately for the process to go smoothly. Some issues considered valid are technical, bugs, or compatibility issues.
- Refund History – Once a refund request has been made, Steam reviews your account and your history of purchases and refunds. If your account has a history of frequent refund requests, the company may not give you a refund as you may be seen abusing the system.
- Payment Method – You must understand that all refunds are added to the account you paid from. For example, if you use your credit card, the money will be refunded to it.
- Gifts – Gifts are not eligible for refunds.
Guide To Refunding DLC On The Steam Website
Following through the refund process can be confusing and challenging. To help you out, we have curated a step-by-step guide to make the process easier.
- Open the Steam application and log in to your account.
- Look at the top right corner of your desktop screen and look for your username.
- Click on this, and a dropdown will appear.
- From the dropdown menu, select “Account Details.”
- In the Account Details section, click on “View Purchase History.”
- This will open up a dashboard showing you a list of all the games and DLCs you purchased on Steam.
- Find the DLC you want to refund and click “View Details” next to it.
- This will open up a new page; look for “Request A Refund” and click on this option.
- If you cannot see this option, you are ineligible for it.
- Now select a reason for the refund and submit your request.
- Once the refund is processed, you can no longer see the DLC in your dashboard.
Is Refunding DLC On Steam A Good Idea?
Refunds are great, and the Steam refund policy is very user-friendly. However, deciding whether to proceed with a refund request can be difficult. Below are some potential drawbacks and points to consider before you explore the options of refunds in Steam.
- Play Time – there is a time restraint on how long you can use DLC before you are ineligible to ask for a refund. This time limit is two hours. For some users, this may not be enough time to fully test out the product.
- Refund Options – Refunds only apply to DLC bought through a bank, credit card, or credit. If you paid via a gift card or other modes of payment, you will not be able to get the money back.
- Access – Refunding a DLC means it is completely removed from your account. You will not be able to access it or use it in your games anymore. To access the DLC again, you would have to purchase it again.
- Availability – Some DLC is introduced as a limited edition product; this means that the DLC might not be available a few weeks from when you purchased it. Hence, if you make the refund request and change your mind later, you may not be able to purchase it back again.
How To Avoid Refunds?
Here are some tips to help you make better decisions and avoid refunds on Steam.
- Read DLC Descriptions – People often overlook important information mentioned in the description of most DLC before buying it. This helps users fully understand what is being offered and make an informed decision, reducing the need to get a refund.
- Read Reviews – If you are on edge about a product, it is best to look at what people say about it. You can look for reviews on the internet, in Reddit communities, or on Youtube videos to know if the DLC suits you.
- Look For Sales – If you have all the information you need about DLC but are still unsure whether spending the money on it is worth it, wait for sales. Steam has sales throughout the year, and users can get considerable discounts.
- Research The Developer – If you buy any Steam product, look at the developer. You must look for more information about their product, the reputation they hold, and the reviews that they have received.
- Check Computer Compatibility – Before buying DLC, check if your computer meets the system requirements for the content to avoid future hassles.
- Take Your Time – It is crucial not to rush into big purchases. You must consider all your options, think them through, and decide.
Final Thoughts
Most people waste their money because they do not ask for refunds for things they do not enjoy. Do not hesitate to ask for refunds on Steam; the company is very user-oriented and believes in making the process easier for you.
