How to Use Square Trade for eBay Dispute Resolution

Square Trade is an online mediating service that helps people to resolve problems involving online purchases. The service is free and the process can be initiated by either the buyer or the seller. Although Square Trade will assist in any online sale, they are most commonly used to resolve disputes that occur on eBay.

Instructions

1. Go to the Square Trade website and click on the link that says "File a Case."

2. Fill out a form identifying the nature of the problem and how you would like to see it be resolved.

3. Provide the other person's name and email address. Square Trade will contact the other party and inform them that a case has been filed. They will request that they click on a link and respond to the case.

4. Participate in direct negotiation with the other party through Square Trade's automated Internet communication tool.

5. Request the assistance of a Square Trade mediator if the problem can not be resolved. The mediator's role is to facilitate communication between the parties and to help them reach their own solution. The mediator will only suggest a possible resolution if the parties request it.

Tips & Warnings

• Using Square Trade mediation can cut the number of negative feedback ratings you receive on eBay. If you are an eBay seller, you can sign up for a paid service offered at Square Trade that lets you put the Square Trade logo on each of your auction pages. This encourages your customers to contact Square Trade rather than leaving negative feedback.

• Square Trade is a mediation and dispute resolution assistance program only. They do not have authority to enforce the law. If you feel that you were victim of a scam on eBay or paid for goods that you did not receive, arrange a PayPal charge back if you paid with PayPal or notify your credit card company if you used a credit card.

Resources

• File a case at Square Trade.