Following up with Amazon after a reimbursement request is denied can feel frustrating, but persistence and a well-prepared approach often lead to success. Understanding the process and Amazon’s requirements can help you navigate this situation effectively. Here’s how to handle a denied reimbursement request:
1. Review the reason for the denial
Carefully examine the explanation provided by Amazon for denying your reimbursement request. Common reasons include:
- Insufficient documentation.
- Claim not aligning with the Amazon reimbursement policy.
- Filing after the allowable time frame.
Understanding why your claim was denied will help you refine your approach and provide the necessary details for reconsideration.
2. Gather additional evidence
If your request was denied due to lack of evidence, gather all relevant documentation to support your case. Examples include:
- Shipment IDs and receipts showing proof of delivery.
- Reports from Seller Central, such as the FBA Returns Reimbursement report or Inventory Adjustments report.
- Screenshots of discrepancies, like overcharged fees or unreturned items.
Ensure your evidence is clear, organized, and directly addresses the reason for denial.
3. Double-check Amazon’s policies
Revisit the Amazon reimbursement policy to confirm that your claim meets the eligibility criteria. Policies may vary for different scenarios, such as damaged inventory, lost shipments, or return discrepancies. Adjust your claim to align with Amazon’s guidelines if necessary.
4. Resubmit your claim with updated details
If you’ve identified gaps in your initial request, resubmit your claim with all missing details and supporting documentation. Be polite and professional in your communication. For example:
- Begin with a concise summary of the issue.
- State why you believe the reimbursement is valid.
- Attach all evidence to support your claim.
For example:
“Dear Amazon Seller Support,
I am writing to follow up on a denied reimbursement request (Case ID: [XXXXXX]). After reviewing the decision and Amazon’s reimbursement policies, I have provided additional documentation that demonstrates the validity of my claim. Please find attached supporting evidence for your review.”
5. Escalate the issue if needed
If your follow-up is unsuccessful, escalate your case by contacting Amazon Seller Support again. Politely request a review by a senior representative or the Account Health Team. Provide your case ID and a summary of the steps you’ve already taken.
6. Be persistent but patient
Resolving denied claims can take time. Stay consistent with your follow-ups, but remain courteous in all communications. Amazon often handles a large volume of inquiries, so patience and professionalism will improve your chances of success.
7. Consider professional assistance
If repeated efforts fail or the process feels overwhelming, consider working with a service that specializes in handling reimbursements. Professionals experienced in FBA returns reimbursement can navigate the complexities, improve your chances of approval, and save you time.
Final thoughts
When Amazon denies your reimbursement request, persistence, organization, and adherence to the Amazon reimbursement policy are key to resolving the issue. By resubmitting with additional evidence and maintaining professional communication, you can often achieve a favorable outcome. If needed, seek professional help to ensure you recover what’s rightfully owed to you.
