Can refunds be issued if a dispute is still open?

[JWILLO]

Hi Everyone, 

I purchased an item and did not receive it so I opened a dispute. The seller contacted me saying he would issue the refund but wanted me to close the dispute first because Paypal will not allow him to issue the refund until I close the dispute. I know that if I close a dispute I cannot reopen it. My gut tells me that he is trying to scam me.  Has anyone ever heard about what he is saying that a dispute has to be closed first before a refund can be issued?

[kernowlass · Accepted solution]

@JWILLO 

If you had to close a case to get a refund then it would be pointless opening one.
NEVER close a dispute / claim until you have a refund.
If the seller issued a refund then that would close the dispute automatically.
If he doesn't escalate to a claim.
Do not close it or he can ignore you and you can't open a second dispute OR re-open a closed one.

[JWILLO]

Thank you. That's exactly what my common sense told me to do. I escalated to a claim. Let's see what happens. Thank you so much @kernowlass