Q: How long does Amazon have to credit me after a return is physically received?

Amazon typically processes the return and issues the seller credit within **30–45 days** of the item being received at the fulfillment center. If 45 days have passed without a credit, you have grounds to file a reimbursement request through Seller Support.

Q: What is Amazon's lookback window for reimbursement claims?

Amazon allows reimbursement claims for events that occurred within the **past 18 months**. After that window closes, the claim is permanently ineligible regardless of how clear the discrepancy is. This is why regular auditing — ideally monthly — is so critically important.

Q: Can I get reimbursed if a buyer was refunded but the return wasn't sent back?

Yes. Under Amazon's Safe-T Claim and FBA Reimbursement policies, if a buyer received a full refund but the item was never physically returned within 45 days, you are eligible to claim reimbursement for the item's value. Document the case with the Order ID and the absence of a receipt record in your FBA Customer Returns Report.

Q: How many return discrepancies should I expect per 1,000 orders?

Industry data suggests an average of **8–15 discrepancies per 1,000 orders** for FBA sellers, though this varies heavily by product category. High-return categories like electronics and apparel can see 20–30 discrepancies per 1,000 orders.

Q: Is returns reconciliation worth doing if I'm a small seller?

Absolutely. Even a seller doing ₹5 lakh per month in revenue can expect **₹5,000–₹15,000 per month** in recoverable return discrepancies once you start auditing. The fixed time cost of manual auditing is the main barrier — which is why using a tool like Ecombox pays for itself quickly. Check [Ecombox pricing](/blogs/ecombox-pricing) to see the cost breakdown. ---

All articles

Amazon Returns Costing You Profit? How to Audit Missing Refunds and Recover Hidden Losses

Ecombox · August 17, 2026 · 11 min read

Amazon Returns Costing You Profit? How to Audit Missing Refunds and Recover Hidden Losses

Ready to get started with Ecombox?