The Guide to Amazon Reimbursements (2025 Update)

Key Highlights

• Amazon FBA reimbursements aim to compensate sellers for discrepancies, such as lost or damaged inventory, within fulfillment center operations.
• Sellers can file reimbursement claims for errors related to shipment, fees, or customer returns through Amazon Seller Central.
• The reimbursement process involves identifying discrepancies, gathering evidence, submitting claims, and tracking their progress.
• Common issues include FBA discrepancies, incorrect refunds, and removal claims during inventory handling.
• Recent updates to the Amazon reimbursement policy include shorter claim deadlines and manufacturing cost-based reimbursements starting in March 2025.
• Leveraging tools for FBA auditing can maximize reimbursement opportunities and recover lost funds efficiently.
• Streamline FBA operations with beBOLD Digital, securing reimbursements and resolving inventory issues, so you can focus on growing your brand.

If you're an Amazon seller, navigating Amazon FBA reimbursements can be a daunting task. However, claiming the reimbursements you're entitled to is crucial for boosting your profits. In this 2025 update, we break down the process step by step, helping you understand eligibility, how to spot discrepancies, and the best strategies to claim what’s rightfully yours. With this blog, you’ll be equipped to handle your reimbursements like a pro, ensuring that you're not leaving money on the table.

What Are Amazon FBA Reimbursements?

Amazon FBA reimbursements are payments that Amazon makes to sellers for inventory that is lost, damaged, overcharged, or incorrectly returned when utilizing Amazon’s fulfillment services. Sellers are eligible for reimbursement when Amazon is responsible for these errors in storage or fulfillment.

These reimbursements ensure that sellers are compensated for the actual cost of goods mistakes outside their control, helping to maintain profitability.

Why Amazon Doesn’t Automatically Reimburse Everything?

Amazon doesn’t automatically reimburse all claims because:

• Its system has limitations and sometimes requires a manual review to confirm the issue.
• There are time limits on when you can file a claim, and certain policies only allow reimbursements under specific conditions.
• This means sellers must actively check for problems and submit eligible claims within the specified timeframe.

Amazon’s Reimbursement Process (Step-by-Step)

Navigating Amazon’s reimbursement process can be tricky, but with the proper steps and additional information, you can ensure you're reimbursed for lost, damaged, or incorrectly handled inventory. Here’s how to tackle it, step by step:

Step 1: Identify Eligible Issues

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Begin by reviewing Amazon’s reports, including FBA Inventory Adjustments, Returns, and Shipment Reports. These reports help you spot discrepancies in your inventory, including lost or damaged items. Keep an eye out for missing stock or returned goods that Amazon mishandled.

Step 2: Gather Evidence

Gather all relevant evidence to support your claim. This includes screenshots, shipment IDs, and return tracking numbers. Clear documentation strengthens your case and helps Amazon process your claim faster.

Step 3: Submit a Claim via Seller Central

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Head over to Amazon Seller Central to file your claim. Navigate to the “Performance” tab and select “Account Health.” From there, you’ll find the “FBA Reimbursement” section. Use the provided template to create your support message, detailing the issue and attaching relevant evidence.

Step 4: Track, Escalate, and Follow-Up

Once your claim is submitted, track its progress in Seller Central. If your claim is delayed or denied, escalate it with Amazon’s support team, providing additional evidence if needed. Follow up regularly to ensure it gets the attention it deserves.

By following these steps, you can streamline the reimbursement process and avoid leaving money on the table.

Preparing the Proper Documentation for Easy Amazon Reimbursement

Having the below documentation is essential when submitting an Amazon reimbursement claim. 

Types of Amazon FBA Reimbursement Scenarios

Understanding the different reimbursement scenarios is key to claiming what you're owed. Here's a breakdown of the most common FBA reimbursement scenarios and how to identify them.

Key Timelines & Claim Deadlines You Need to Know

Submitting claims within the correct timelines is key to ensuring you receive your reimbursement. Here's a quick breakdown:

• 9-Month Window for Lost/Damaged Items: Claims for lost or damaged inventory must be submitted within 9 months of the incident. After this period, Amazon generally won't accept claims.
• 18 Months for Certain Issues: For specific reimbursement issues, such as overcharged FBA fees or missing inbound shipments, you have up to 18 months to file a claim.
• Best Practices for Keeping Records: Keep thorough records of shipments, inventory reports, and communication with Amazon. Regularly download and review your FBA reports to catch any issues early.

How to Audit Your Amazon Reimbursement Reports?

Auditing your Amazon FBA reimbursement reports is essential to ensure that you are reimbursed for any issues, such as lost, damaged, or mishandled Amazon FBA transactions involving inventory. Here's how to perform a detailed information audit:

Where to Find Reports?

To begin your audit, you must access the necessary reports in Amazon Seller Central. These reports provide a detailed breakdown of your inventory, shipments, and reimbursements.

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2. Navigate to Reports > Fulfillment.

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3. Look for these key reports:

• • FBA Inventory Adjustments: Tracks changes to your inventory, including items that are lost or damaged.
  • FBA Returns Report: This shows how customer returns are handled and processed.
  • FBA Reimbursement Report: Lists all reimbursements Amazon has issued for lost or damaged inventory.

How to Read Adjustments, Dispositions, and Resolved Claims?

Once you have the reports, it's crucial to understand how to read them. Each section provides you with different information about your reimbursement status.

• Adjustments: These indicate inventory changes that Amazon has made due to issues such as lost or damaged items in its warehouses.
• Dispositions: This refers to how returned items are handled, whether they are disposed of, sent back to the customer, or refunded.
• Resolved Claims: Shows the status of your claims, whether they've been approved, denied, or resolved with a reimbursement.

Also Read: Amazon Inventory Management Explained

Tools That Simplify Amazon FBA Reimbursement

If manual auditing feels overwhelming, there are tools available to help streamline the process. These tools can save you time and ensure you don’t miss any reimbursements.

• Helium 10: Offers tools that track reimbursements and help identify discrepancies in FBA reports.
• Fetcher: Automates the analysis of FBA reports, providing clear insights into your reimbursements.
• AMZReimburse: Scans your FBA reports for discrepancies and allows you to submit reimbursement claims automatically.

Regular SEO audits with these tools help ensure you're fully compensated for any mistakes made by Amazon.

Common Mistakes That Cost Sellers Money

Avoid these mistakes to ensure you're not losing out on valuable reimbursements:

1. Not Tracking Removals or Shipments

Failing to monitor removals and shipments can result in missed reimbursements. Regularly check FBA Inventory Adjustments and Inbound Shipments reports to identify discrepancies and address issues quickly.

2. Missing Reimbursement Deadlines

Reimbursement claims, including manual claims, must be filed within specific deadlines, typically 9 to 18 months. Missing these windows means you won’t get reimbursed for lost, damaged, or overcharged inventory. Always stay on track with these deadlines.

3. Ignoring Partial Reimbursements or Short-Pays

Partial reimbursements or short-pays might seem insignificant, but they add up over time. Always review your reports carefully and follow up to ensure you're fully reimbursed for all discrepancies.

Bonus Practice Tips to follow:

Here are some best practices to maximize your Amazon Reimbursement. 

1. Stay Organized & Audit Regularly

Maintain detailed records of inventory, shipments, and returns. Regularly compare your records with Amazon’s to catch discrepancies early. Use reports like Refund Reports, Inventory Adjustments, and Manage Order Reports to stay on top of errors and ensure fee accuracy.

2. Prepare & Submit Accurate Claims

Document all discrepancies clearly, verify eligibility before filing, and give Amazon 30-45 days to resolve issues. When submitting claims, make sure your information is complete and detailed to avoid delays.

3. Leverage Tools for Efficiency

Utilize Amazon’s reporting tools and consider automation services to streamline the process. These tools help you gather necessary data and track claim progress, ensuring a smoother, faster reimbursement experience.

Amazon Reimbursement Policy Changes to Watch (2025)

Amazon's 2025 FBA reimbursement policy brings key changes. This includes:

• Claim windows have been reduced to 60-120 days, depending on the issue, and documentation requirements are now stricter, requiring invoices, tracking information, and proof of purchase.
• Plus, category-specific rules are now in place, especially for high-value and multi-channel fulfillment items.
• Keep up with these updates to ensure you’re not missing out on reimbursements.

Maximize Your FBA Reimbursements Without the Headache

Amazon FBA reimbursements can be a maze. Lost inventory, fulfillment errors, and warehouse mishaps quietly eat into your profits. That’s where beBOLD Digital steps in. We don’t just fix issues; we partner with you to optimize your entire FBA operation. Our expert reimbursement services help secure what you’re owed while we manage your inventory, listings, and ads so you can focus on growth.

A clear understanding of the FBA inventory reimbursement policy, along with how Amazon warehouses, Amazon Fulfillment Center, and removal processes work, is key to avoiding missed payouts. We guide you to stay on top of proof of delivery, estimated sale prices, and tracking so nothing slips through the cracks. With tailored strategies and hands-on support, beBOLD Digital ensures your FBA operations run efficiently and profitably. Contact us today to optimize your Amazon growth and streamline your operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take Amazon to approve a reimbursement?

Amazon typically takes 4-5 days to approve a reimbursement. Resolution time depends on the complexity of the claim and any additional information required.

Can I still get reimbursed for shipments from 2 years ago?

No, claims must be filed within specific deadlines. For inbound shipments, you have 60 days to submit your claim under the new 2025 rules.

Does Amazon reimburse shipping costs?

No, Amazon doesn’t reimburse shipping costs. FBA reimbursements cover product-related issues but exclude expenses like shipping and labeling.

What if Amazon rejects my claim?

If Amazon rejects your claim, escalate to Amazon support with additional proof. Follow Amazon’s policy guidelines and ensure eligibility to improve the chances of approval.

Let’s work together to get your reimbursements back on track. Get in touch with us now!