The audiobook industry has experienced explosive growth in recent years, with sales increasing by 42% in 2020 alone according to industry reports. As the dominant player in this market, Audible’s policies on refunds and exchanges have significant implications for both consumers and content creators. This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about Audible’s refund and exchange policies, including recent controversies and how they affect authors and listeners alike.
- Audible’s current policy allows returns within 7 days of purchase (reduced from 365 days after author protests)
- Returns directly impact author royalties, with some reporting 15-50% of sales being returned
- The company controls 90% of the audiobook market, giving authors limited alternatives
- 12,228 authors protested the original policy through the #Audiblegate movement
- Understanding these policies helps both listeners and content creators navigate the platform effectively
- Audiobook Market Growth: 42% – Increase in sales during 2020
- Author Protest: 12,228 – Authors signed letter against Audible’s return policy
- Market Dominance: 90% – Audible’s estimated share of audiobook sales
- Return Rates: 15-50% – Reported by affected authors
Understanding Audible’s Refund and Exchange Policy
Audible’s refund policy has evolved significantly due to author protests. Originally, the platform allowed returns and exchanges within 365 days of purchase, with the cost deducted from authors’ royalties. After the #Audiblegate controversy, this was reduced to 7 days, though many authors argue this still doesn’t go far enough to protect their earnings.
The current policy works as follows:
- Returns are allowed within 7 days of purchase (previously 365 days)
- Refunds are given in the original payment method (credits or cash)
- Exchanges are permitted for titles purchased with credits
- Audible monitors return patterns and may restrict accounts with excessive returns
The Author Perspective: #Audiblegate Controversy
The controversy began when authors discovered Audible was deducting royalties for returned books up to a year after purchase. As reported by The Guardian, 12,228 authors signed a protest letter organized by the Authors Guild and Society of Authors. They argued:
- The policy created a “de facto subscription program” that wasn’t in their contracts
- Some customers were abusing the system to essentially rent books
- Authors had no transparency about return rates affecting their income
- Return rates of 15-50% were devastating author earnings
While Audible reduced the return window to 7 days, authors continue to push for:
- Full transparency on return data
- Shorter return windows (48 hours suggested)
- Royalty deductions only for accidental purchases
- Clear limits on how much can be listened to before returning
How This Affects Listeners
For Audible subscribers, understanding these policies helps make informed decisions:
- Return books you genuinely didn’t enjoy within 7 days
- Avoid using returns as a way to “sample” content
- Be aware excessive returns may flag your account
- Consider keeping books you might want to revisit
- Use samples and reviews to make informed purchases
Technical Aspects of Audible Returns
Returning an Audible book involves specific steps depending on your device:
Desktop Process:
- Visit audible.com and sign in
- Go to Account Details > Purchase History
- Find the book and select “Return”
- Follow prompts to complete return
Mobile Process:
- Access Audible via mobile browser (not app)
- Follow same steps as desktop process
- Returns cannot be processed in the mobile app
Q: How many books can I return on Audible?
A: Audible doesn’t specify a strict limit but monitors return patterns. Some users report returning 20+ books, while others get restricted after fewer returns. The key is to use returns responsibly for genuinely unsatisfactory purchases.
Q: Do authors lose money when I return a book?
A: Yes. Audible deducts the royalty payment from the author when you return a book, which is why the #Audiblegate controversy emerged. This differs from most digital media retailers where the platform absorbs return costs.
Q: Can I return a book after listening to the whole thing?
A: Technically yes within the 7-day window, but this directly impacts the author’s income. The Authors Guild recommends returns should only be allowed if the book hasn’t been “listened to substantially.”
Future of Audiobook Royalties
The audiobook industry continues to grow, but the royalty payment structure remains contentious. Key developments to watch include:
- Potential legal challenges to Audible’s policies
- New platforms emerging to compete with Audible’s dominance
- Possible regulatory intervention regarding transparency
- Author collectives negotiating better terms
For listeners interested in supporting authors directly, consider purchasing audiobooks through alternative platforms or the author’s website when available.
For more information on managing your Audible account, visit our guide to Audible account management which covers all aspects of membership administration.
