How to return a book on Audible
THERE’S nothing worse than purchasing something, then changing your mind – and that definitely applies to audiobooks.
So, in this guide I’ll explain how to return abook on Audiblewithout losing
Audible, £7.99 per month after 30-day trial
For anyone unfamiliar with the audiobook streaming service, Audible was launched all the way back in 1995 by Don Katz.
Its aim was to provide a better way to absorb books while you’re on the go.
Initially, Audible actually released a mobile player in 1997 that you would download audiobooks onto, and carry round with you.
While the platform clearly found some initial success, it’s likely many of us only started to notice it in 2003, when Audible and Apple signed a deal allowing the use of audiobooks on iTunes.
The next five years saw the launch of Audible services in other countries, such as Germany and France, until the retail giant Amazon finally acquired the company for $300 million in 2008.
If you’ve not heard of Audible until now, it’s probably easiest to think of it as an Amazon subscription, much like Prime Video but for audiobooks and podcasts.
You get access to thousands of audiobook original titles, podcasts and audiobooks with one credit a month to purchase, and keep whatever audiobook has caught your eye.
To find out more, it’s worth reading my how does Audible work article for a more in-depth look at the service.
It’s a separate subscription to Amazon Prime and costs £7.99 a month, but it’s worth checking out the sign-up page during big sale events like Amazon Prime Day or Black Friday since it is often on offer.
Just remember, if you’re just looking to test it out, you’ll want to cancel it to avoid being charged.
We’ve covered how to cancel an Audible subscription for anyone feeling a little lost.
Can I return audiobooks on Audible?
Yes, you’re able to return books on Audible.
If you’ve accidentally bought the wrong book or you wanted to give a new author a chance but you just didn’t feel it, you can get your monthly credit back.
There are, however, a few hoops you have to jump through in order to return the audiobook and get your credit back.
Audible states that you must ‘be an active Audible member in good standing’, which likely means that you’re not there purchasing audiobooks and returning every single one at the drop of a hat.
Like with all purchases, you have a limited amount of time to make a return, but you’ll be pleased to know that you’ve got 365 days rather than the typical 14-day period we’re accustomed to.
Lastly, the title has to be purchased with an Audible credit, so while you won’t be getting a cash refund, you’ll still get your credit back to purchase a different title.
If you’re getting a credit back through a return, there is one slight catch.
Any credits received from returning titles on Audible expire after 12 months, so ensure you spend it, or you’ll lose it.
Audible, £7.99 per month after 30-day trial
How to return a book on Audible
You can return books on Audible from your Purchase History page. Upon confirmation of your return, one credit will be given to your account.
Desktop site
- Select your username from the top navigation bar.
- Select ‘Account details’.
- Select ‘Purchase history’.
- Find the title you want to return.
- Next to the title you’re returning, select ‘Return this title’.
- Confirm you want to return the title.
- Enjoy your returned credit – remember, it expires after 12 months.
Audible app
If you tend to use Audible on your mobile phone the return process is slightly different.
- Select the main menu.
- Select your username.
- Select ‘Account’.
- Select ‘Purchase history’.
- Find the title you wish to return.
- Select ‘Return this title’.
- Enjoy your credit.
Why can’t I return a book on Audible?
Sometimes, you may find you’re unable to return a book you purchased, and this may be due to a couple of things.
Firstly, if you haven’t maintained your Audible membership in good standing, then Audible has reserved the right to revoke your return privileges, so be cautious.
Secondly, although not stated anywhere on Audible, after some quick digging, it seems that you’re actually limited to returning around three books every 3-6 months.