Amazon Updates Fund Withholding Policy to Enhance Transparency

Amazon Updates Fund Withholding Policy to Enhance Transparency

Newly named Funds Disbursement Eligibility Policy reduces appeal timeframe

By ChannelMAX Staff Writer

Sep-2024#23


In a recent update to its Seller Central platform, Amazon announced significant changes to its Fund Withholding Policy, now renamed the Funds Disbursement Eligibility Policy, effective from October 9, 2024. Amazon says the updates aimed to improve clarity for sellers regarding fund withholding. The new policy will provide more streamlined steps for sellers to appeal Amazon’s decision on disbursements.

Key Changes to the Policy
The newly renamed Funds Disbursement Eligibility Policy has been introduced to provide greater transparency into how Amazon handles funds from deactivated seller accounts.
The changes include:
1. Policy Name Change: Amazon has renamed the Fund Withholding Policy to the more descriptive Funds Disbursement Eligibility Policy.
2. Increased Transparency: Amazon has committed to improving clarity around the policy. This includes outlining why the policy exists, what steps sellers need to take to appeal for disbursements, and detailing how Amazon evaluates these appeals.
3. Shortened Appeal Timeframe: Sellers now have a shorter timeframe to appeal for disbursements, reduced from 90 days to 60 days after account deactivation.
4. Examples of Non-Disbursement: The updated policy also provides concrete examples of activities or behaviors that could result in Amazon withholding funds in accordance with Section 2 of its Business Solutions Agreement.

Also Read: Amazon to Remove Inactive Users from Seller Central Accounts


Steps for Sellers to Follow
The update outlines a clear appeals process for sellers who wish to challenge Amazon's decision to withhold funds. By following the steps laid out in the revised policy, sellers can appeal Amazon’s withholding decisions within 60 days of deactivation. The guidelines also clarify how Amazon will evaluate appeals, improving sellers' understanding of their options.

Access to Updated Policy
Amazon has included a link to the Funds Disbursement Eligibility Policy on its Program Policies page, where sellers can easily access the full policy and understand the details. For any concerns, sellers are encouraged to reach out to Selling Partner Support.

Amazon’s recent changes to the Funds Disbursement Eligibility Policy are a move towards greater transparency and support for its sellers. By simplifying the appeal process and reducing the time within which appeals must be made, Amazon is providing clearer guidelines and reinforcing its commitment to transparent business practices. Sellers are advised to familiarize themselves with the updated policy and act swiftly within the new 60-day appeal window in the event of account deactivation.

This announcement was officially made on Amazon's Seller Central platform.

Also Read: All about Amazon's Competitive Pricing and Winning the Buy Box

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