How to Sell Tickets on Ticketmaster: A Step-by-Step Guide

Selling tickets on Ticketmaster is a convenient way to transfer your tickets to someone else when you can no longer attend an event. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of selling tickets on Ticketmaster, ensuring a safe and hassle-free experience.

What is Ticketmaster?

Think of Ticketmaster as a giant online store specifically for event tickets. They work directly with event organizers to sell tickets for concerts, sports games, theater shows, and other live events. In some cases, they also act like a marketplace where people can resell their unwanted tickets to other interested buyers.

Can You Resell Your Ticket on Ticketmaster?

Yes, you can resell your ticket on Ticketmaster. However, you should know that not all tickets are eligible for resale on Ticketmaster. Here are some factors to consider:

• Event Organizer Approval: The event organizer ultimately decides if resale is allowed for their event. Check the event details on your Ticketmaster account to see if resale is an option.
• Ticket Source: Tickets purchased through primary ticketing channels like Ticketmaster are generally eligible for resale, while those acquired through secondary marketplaces might have restrictions.

How to Sell Tickets on Ticketmaster

If you’ve confirmed your ticket is up for grabs, here’s how to resell it on the Ticketmaster platform:

Step 1: Sign in to your Ticketmaster Account:

Head to the Ticketmaster website or app and log in to your My Account.

Step 2: Locate Your Tickets

Navigate to "My Events" and find the specific event or order for which you want to resell tickets.

Step 3: Look for the "Sell" Option

This option might be displayed directly next to your event details or require clicking on "See Details" for the specific ticket(s). If "Sell" is unavailable or grayed out, resale might not be permitted for that event.

Step 4: Select Tickets and Set Your Price

Choose the tickets you want to resell and set a fair asking price. Consider factors like the original ticket price, current market demand, and seating location when determining your price. Ticketmaster provides a helpful tool to suggest a price range based on similar listings.

Step 5: Choose Your Payout Method

Select your preferred method for receiving funds once your tickets sell. Ticketmaster offers various options, including debit card deposit or bank transfer.

Step 6: Review and Post

Double-check all the details before finalizing your listing. Once you're satisfied, post your tickets for resale on the platform.

Tips for a Successful Resale on Ticketmaster

• Accurate Information: Ensure your listing has accurate details like section, row, and seat number.
• Clear Photos (Optional): While not always required, consider adding clear photos of the ticket, especially for higher-value seats.
• Competitive Pricing: Research similar listings for the same event and price your ticket competitively to attract buyers.
• Respond Promptly: Be responsive to potential buyers’ inquiries. This builds trust and increases your chances of a successful sale.

What Happens When Your Ticket Sells on Ticketmaster?

When a buyer purchases your ticket, you’ll receive a notification and the funds will be transferred to your chosen payout method within the timeframe specified by Ticketmaster (typically within 17 days). The buyer will receive their e-ticket directly from Ticketmaster.

What if My Tickets Don't Sell on Ticketmaster?

If your tickets don't sell on Ticketmaster, here are a few options to consider:

1. Adjusting Your Price

• Re-evaluate Pricing: After a reasonable amount of time (a few days or a week, depending on the event), consider lowering your asking price. Research similar listings to see if others are selling at a lower price point.
• Ticketmaster Suggested Price: Ticketmaster's suggested pricing tool might have initially offered a higher range. If sales are stagnant, try adjusting your price closer to the suggested minimum or even slightly below to increase buyer interest.

2. Expand Your Reach (if permitted)

• Explore Other Platforms (with caution): While Ticketmaster offers a large audience, consider listing your tickets on established secondary marketplaces (with caution). Remember, some event organizers might restrict resale on other platforms entirely, so check the terms before proceeding.
• Social Media and Local Classifieds (for local events): Depending on the event and your comfort level, explore promoting your tickets on social media platforms or local classifieds websites (if it's a local event). Clearly state the event details, price, and how to contact you for purchase (be cautious about sharing personal information publicly).

How to Sell Ticketmaster Tickets Not Eligible for Resale

Unfortunately, if your Ticketmaster tickets are explicitly marked as "not eligible for resale," there's no way to resell them through the platform itself. This restriction is often put in place by the event organizer and might be due to factors like:

• Limited Availability: For events with very limited ticket releases, organizers might want to prevent scalping and ensure tickets go to genuine fans.
• Exclusive Perks: Some events offer exclusive benefits to ticket holders who purchase directly through the organizer. Resale would bypass these perks.
• Fan Verification: In some cases, events might require ID checks or other verification measures to ensure tickets end up with genuine fans.

Since resale through Ticketmaster is off the table, here are some alternative approaches, but be aware they come with risks:

1. Transferring Tickets (if permitted)

This option depends on the event organizer's policy. Check if Ticketmaster allows transferring your tickets to another person. This way, you can find someone to attend the event in your place, though you won't receive any money.

2. Social Media and Online Classifieds (with extreme caution)

Proceed with extreme caution if you consider this option. Event organizers might strictly prohibit any resale attempts, and online scams are prevalent. If you choose this route:

• Use reputable platforms: Consider established online classifieds websites (if it's a local event) but be very cautious about potential scams.
• Clear Communication: Clearly state the event details, price, and how to contact you for purchase (avoid sharing personal information publicly).
• Beware of Scams: Never give out personal information or send money upfront without meeting the buyer in person and verifying their legitimacy. It's safer to avoid online transactions altogether.

3. Gifting Tickets

If the event isn't sold out and you can't find a buyer, consider offering the tickets to friends or family who might be interested.

4. Donating Tickets (for charity events)

If it's a charity event, some charities might have programs that accept donated tickets. You can potentially claim a tax deduction while supporting a good cause.

Important Considerations:

• Breach of Terms: Attempting to resell tickets when prohibited by the event organizer might be a breach of terms and could lead to your tickets being canceled.
• Scams: If you explore online avenues, be extremely cautious about scams. There's a high risk of losing money without ever selling your tickets.

Overall:

If your tickets are not eligible for resale, your options are limited. Transferring them to someone who can attend (if allowed), gifting them, or donating them to charity (for applicable events) might be your safest option. Exploring unofficial resale channels is risky and could lead to scams or even getting your tickets canceled.

Can You Resell Tickets on Ticketmaster for a Higher Price?

Yes, you can resell an eligible ticket on Ticketmaster at a higher price, but it won't be easy. It is always recommended to offer competitive pricing because you're not the only one on the platform selling that particular ticker—there are just plenty of other sellers.

Conclusion

Selling tickets on Ticketmaster is a straightforward process that allows you to transfer your tickets to someone else when you can't attend an event. By following the step-by-step guide outlined above, you can ensure a safe and convenient selling experience. Remember to check the eligibility of your tickets, set the pricing, and choose a payout method. Ticketmaster will handle the rest, including notifying you when your tickets are sold and processing your payout.