AliExpress buyer protection, disputes and refunds

Last updated October 31, 2026

If an order never arrives, arrives damaged or isn't what the listing described, AliExpress Buyer Protection lets you get your money back. The key is opening a dispute inside the right window. Each rule below links to the AliExpress page it comes from.

What is covered

Item not received within the protection period.
Item not as described, damaged or short: report it within 15 days of receiving it.
Change of mind returns are possible on many items, but you pay the return shipping.

Source: AliExpress Buyer Protection.

When you can open a dispute

A dispute can be opened from the 11th day after the seller ships the order until 15 days after the delivery time runs out, or after you confirm receipt. Open it from the order page in your account and add photos or a video of the problem.

Don't confirm receipt of an order until you have checked the item: it starts the 15-day clock.

Source: when to open a dispute.

What happens next

The seller has 5 days to respond. If they don't, the dispute closes in your favour and the refund is issued.
If you and the seller don't agree, you can ask AliExpress to step in; it says it decides within 48 hours.

Source: dispute process.

How refunds are paid

Once AliExpress processes a refund, the money goes back to your original payment method within 3 to 20 business days, depending on your bank or card. Some refunds can be taken as AliExpress refund credit instead.

Sources: refund timing, Buyer Protection.

Tips

Film or photograph the parcel when you open it, especially for expensive items.
Keep all messages with the seller inside AliExpress, not in other apps.
Note the dispute deadline when you place an order with a long delivery estimate.

For delivery times and import charges, see shipping to the US.