# How do I get a refund?

> Zip is the payment processor but only the merchant can approve and initiate your refund  Please contact the merchant directly regarding a return or refund   

Source: https://help.us.zip.co/en_us/how-do-i-get-a-refund-S1Cd2li3xe

Last updated: 2026-01-20T20:18:46.659Z

Zip is the servicer of your loan, but refunds and returns must be approved and initiated by the merchant. For next steps, please reach out to the merchant directly.

Once the merchant processes your refund and notifies Zip, we will update your payment plan accordingly. Refunds can take up to 13 days to process, but may be completed sooner. The exact timing depends on how quickly the merchant submits the refund and your financial institution's processing times.

#### Full Refunds

*   If you have **unpaid installments**, they will be canceled.
*   If you have **already made payments**, the refunded amount will be returned to your original payment method.

#### Partial Refunds

*   The refund will first be applied to any remaining unpaid installments.
*   If the refund exceeds the balance of unpaid installments, the remaining amount will be returned to your original payment method.

#### Example:

You purchased an item for $200 and paid $50 at the time of purchase. If you return $175 worth of merchandise:

1.  The merchant approves and processes the refund.
2.  The merchant notifies Zip of the refund and Zip begins processing the refund.
3.  Zip cancels your remaining three $50 installments (totaling $150).
4.  The remaining $25 is refunded to your original payment method.

#### Need Help?

If the merchant has confirmed your refund, but you haven’t received it within **13 days**, please reach out to [Zip Support](https://help.us.zip.co/contact/zip-support-BJwJbWtsll) with proof of your return so we can assist you.