opening dispute for non business transaction

[lcw1]

hi

I bought an item from a business advertised on facebook. I ordered and paid through paypal in September and was told the item will be delivered in November. It hasnt arrived, so I contacted the seller who told me that it was stuck on a shipment  being searched and it wasnt coming and to contact paypal for a refund. 

I have tried to do this, but it wont allow me to open a dispute as its not a business transaction. I was unaware of the difference of marking it as a business transaction or friends and family. 

Is there anything I can do or do I need to just put it down to experience and loose the money?

kind regards

Lee

[kernowlass]

@lcw1

A “gift” (or personal payment) is intended as a transfer of funds from family or friends to one another. For this reason, there is no processing fee when payment is made with bank or PayPal balance.
On the other hand, as it is a “personal” payment, there is also no Buyer protection as no goods or services should have been exchanged.

If he was not a close mate or family member you should never use that option as it enables the seller to evade his paypal fees and negates your buyer protection at the same time. You also risk having your account limited for using this option when you are purchasing goods as its against paypal rules.

Your only hope is if you funded your paypal payment via a credit card then contact your card issuer and see if they will help you.