StubHub is one of the biggest names in ticket resale, with listings for concerts, sporting events, theater, comedy, festivals, and other live events. It can be especially useful when tickets are hard to find through the original seller, but prices can vary widely. We took a closer look at how StubHub works and what to know before buying tickets.
The platform operates as a marketplace that connects buyers with ticket sellers rather than setting ticket prices itself. Sellers generally choose their own asking prices, which can fluctuate based on demand, seat location, available inventory, and how close the event is. That means you may occasionally find tickets below face value, while seats for especially popular events can cost considerably more.
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.
How StubHub protects ticket buyers
Buying 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 sellers
Whether 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 FAQs
Does 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 from the seller.
Are StubHub tickets guaranteed?
StubHub tickets are as guaranteed as your concert or sporting event is. Your reservation is locked in upon purchase, but if the ticketed event is canceled or rescheduled, your tickets will be updated as well. It often varies, but rescheduled acts often change the valid ticket date, while cancellations get you a refund or 120% of the value in StubHub credit.
Does StubHub sell gift cards?
If you have a friend or family member who loves going to concerts and sporting events, StubHub offers gift cards in $25, $50, $100, and $200 increments. These can be redeemed anytime on the StubHub website to buy tickets for their next big show, complete with the StubHub FanProtect Guarantee.
How do I contact StubHub customer support?
StubHub's support page includes a library of resources, including frequently asked questions, seller information, and more. If you'd like to contact the company for customized assistance, check out their online chat.
Does StubHub give refunds?
If you change your mind or encounter a scheduling conflict, StubHub sales are final. That means no refunds in the traditional sense; however, you can become a ticket seller on the platform instead.
This doesn't work for last-minute cancellations, but with enough lead time, you can list your tickets on StubHub and hope for another attendee to purchase them. This can help make your money back, or even help you profit a little in the process.
Who is touring or performing on StubHub now?
Who you should see depends on your taste in music, sports, and entertainment — but there are some pretty big names hitting the stage in 2026. Here are some highlights:
- BTS - April through September
- Ella Langley - April through October
- Zara Larsson - July through September
- Ed Sheeran - June through November
- Hilary Duff - June 2026 through February 2027
- AC/DC - July through September
- Zac Brown Band - July through November
- Harry Styles - August through December
- The Eagles - September through December
Browse more live music, sporting, and comedy events near you on StubHub.
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Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at reviews@jkmperu.com.
