When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn moreSamir Hussein/Getty; Sacha Lecca/Rolling Stone; Matt Jelonek/GettyStubHub has become one of the most popular places to buy resale tickets for concerts, sporting events, theater shows, and other sold-out experiences. When tickets disappear from primary sellers, resale marketplaces are often the easiest way to find seats, though choosing a reputable platform is just as important as finding the right price. That's why we took a closer look at how StubHub works and whether it's a reliable place to buy tickets.Like other major resale marketplaces, StubHub connects ticket buyers with individual sellers instead of selling tickets directly. Sellers set their own prices based on demand, seat location, and proximity to the event, so listings can change quickly. That flexibility often makes it easier to find tickets for popular events, but it also means prices can climb well above face value when demand is high. Browse tickets at StubHub. A major reason StubHub is widely trusted is its FanProtect Guarantee, which ensures buyers receive valid tickets in time for the event. If there's an issue, such as invalid tickets or delivery problems, StubHub will attempt to provide replacement tickets or issue a refund. When an event is canceled and not rescheduled, buyers may receive either a full refund or a 120% credit toward a future purchase.That said, StubHub isn't without drawbacks. Service fees can be higher than those of some competing platforms, and because prices are set by sellers, availability and cost can vary significantly. It's also important to note that FanProtect does not guarantee refunds for postponed or rescheduled events unless the event is officially canceled.Below, we break down how StubHub works in 2025, including its buyer protections, refund policies, fees, and tips for avoiding scams—so you can decide whether it's the right place to buy tickets for your next event.Is StubHub legit?In short, StubHub is a trustworthy platform for buying and selling tickets to major events. Although the company itself is not the seller, it still offers safeguards for both parties in a sale to prevent potential scams. It does, however, mean that StubHub does not control the pricing of event tickets — these are set by the users selling them. The site will instead recommend price points for sellers during the listing process.StubHub offers a 100% guarantee on every order through its exclusive FanProtect Guarantee, which I've broken down below. Browse tickets at StubHub. Adam Kissick/SXSW Conference & Festivals via Getty ImagesHow StubHub protects ticket buyersBuying tickets from a reseller is sometimes the only option for sold-out, high-demand shows. StubHub is a great place to find tickets, especially with its FanProtect Guarantee to cover orders. Here's what it promises for buyers:Tickets will be delivered in time for the event.The ticket will be valid for the event.Issues will be resolved with comparable or better tickets or a refund.Event cancellations that aren't rescheduled are eligible for a 120% StubHub credit or a full refund.For even more information, you can check out StubHub's buyer terms and conditions.How StubHub protects ticket sellersWhether you've changed your mind or need to cancel a scheduled event, StubHub is a simple platform for ticket sellers. Listing is quick and easy, and pricing research isn't necessary with the site's recommendations. It also protects its sellers just as well as its buyers under the same FanProtect Guarantee.StubHub's main promise is on-time payment for tickets sold. The full seller terms and conditions explain this more thoroughly.What about StubHub fees?Of course, such protections don't come without a price. StubHub, like every other third-party, charges fees to both fans and sellers. For the latter, you don't pay anything until your tickets sell. Percentages aren't set in stone; they can differ based on ticket prices, event dates, supply, and demand.Only two costs are added to purchases: a service fee and a fulfillment fee. These can be viewed before, during, and after checkout — here's how:Before checkout: Click on the event page filters and change "Price Display Options" to "Include estimated fees."During checkout: The entire cost is broken down on the "Review and buy" page, underneath "Your order summary."After checkout: Check your order receipt to see the fee breakdown at the bottom.Head on over to StubHub to browse the latest ticket prices for concerts, live sports, comedy shows, and more.StubHub FAQsDoes StubHub have promo codes or coupons?Because its platform is reseller-based, StubHub typically does not offer discount codes, coupons, or promotional price cuts. Since each listing is offered by a third party, typically another fan, it's difficult for StubHub to give shoppers promo codes for general use without taking money
Don't miss out on breaking stories and in-depth articles.
