What happens after I make a purchase?

After you make a purchase via StartHere.com.au, the transaction passes through a few stages and is then available as a cash refund in your account.

The specific stages, and how long the process takes, is very dependent on the individual store. But in general, each transaction will go through this process:
  • Tracking - This is the first stage and should usually occur within 24 hours although it can take longer in some circumstances. The transaction has been recorded by the store and will appear in your account. At this point we will credit the transaction towards your next Member Level.
  • Approved - The store has indentified and approved the transaction. This is good news, it means that your cash refund will become available shortly. Note that some stores don't go through this stage so it'll be in Tracking for longer. It doesn't mean there is a problem.
  • Paid - Great news! The store has confirmed payment of your refund to StartHere.com.au. Next, we'll drop the cash into your account.
  • To account - This is the final stage. You will now find your cash refund in your account and it is available to you. Well done.
  • Cancelled - This is a problem! It means the store has an issue with your purchase and has cancelled any cash refund. You will not be paid for this transaction. This is very rare and obviously occurs in situations where you've returned an item, for example.

Related Questions:

What if I don't see my purchase appear at all after 48 hours?
Click Here for more information on transaction queries and what to do if you think a purchase is missing.

How long will it take to get paid?
When your purchase is in the Tracking or Approved stage, we provide an Estimated Payment Date. This is the date we estimate the transaction will move into the Paid stage. It is based on the history of payments and our experience, so keep in mind it is only an estimate.

Why don't I just get paid immediately? Different stores pay at different speeds. There are two main reasons for the delay. Firstly, there is an administration overhead and it just takes time to process. Secondly, many stores will deliberately place a short delay on the process to account for customers that return goods (it's hard for a store to get back a cash refund once it's paid out, even if goods are returned!) Rest assured, as soon as we receive payment from the stores, we pass it on to you immediately.

My purchase is staying in Tracking for ages. What should I do?
Be patient, some stores take a lot longer than others. If more than 4 weeks has passed, you might want to query the transaction. Click Here for more information on transaction queries.

When and how can I access the cash in my account?
Click Here for more information transferring your cash refund.