How to bid in an auction

Bidding lets you compete for auction-style listings on Whatnot. During a show, the seller will set a starting price for a item, and buyers place bids in real time as a countdown timer runs.

When the timer reaches zero, the highest bidder wins and the item is automatically purchased using their saved payment method.

On this page: 

• Before you bid
  • How the auction clock works
  • How bid amounts increase
  • What currency you’ll see
• How to bid
  • Swipe to bid
  • Bid a custom amount and set a Max Bid 
  • Pre-bid before the auction
• After you bid
• Auction rules
• Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Before you bid

How the auction clock works

Sellers set the duration of the auction for each item and choose between two auction clocks: 

• Standard: Starts with a set duration (e.g. 30 seconds). Each new bid adds a few seconds so others can respond. 

• Sudden Death: No additional time is added. When the timer hits zero, the last bid wins. A skull emoji (💀) appears next to the auction clock when it’s Sudden Death.

You’ll always see a live countdown on screen, so you can follow the action in real time. 

How bid amounts increase

Each bid must go up by at least a minimum amount, called a bid increment. 

The bid increment depends on the current highest bid: 

What currency you’ll see

Prices display in USD, GBP, or EUR depending on the seller’s location. If the seller is in Canada, prices display in USD.

At checkout, Whatnot converts the total to your local currency.

How to bid

Swipe to bid 

Swipe the Bid button (or click on web) to place the next valid bid. You’ll see the amount before bidding. 

The shipping cost you’ll pay will always be shown underneath the running item's title.  

Bid a custom amount and set a Max Bid

Enter a custom bid if you want to bid higher than the next increment. Just tap the Custom button next to the bid button to start. 

When entering a custom bid, you’ll see the Max Bid option: 

• Max Bid on (default): Whatnot will automatically bid for you in increments up to your set limit.
• Max Bid off: Your full custom amount is placed immediately as a single bid.

When you use Max Bid, Whatnot automatically raises your bid only if another buyer bids higher: 

• If no one else bids, you could win below your max. 
• If bidding continues, your bid will increase in increments up to the limit you set. 
• If someone goes over your max, you can swipe to bid again or enter a new custom bid.
• Remember you’ll also pay shipping and tax if you win.

Pre-bid before the auction

If a seller lists items before their show, you can place a pre-bid. Your pre-bid functions exactly like a Max Bid and will be used automatically once the auction starts, even if you’re not watching live.

When you pre-bid:

• You set a Max Bid (the most you’re willing to pay for the item). 
• Once the auction begins, Whatnot automatically bids for you in increments up to your set limit.

Learn how to pre-bid on an item. 

After you bid 

If you’re outbid, you can choose to bid again, either by swiping or placing a custom bid. 

If you’re the highest bidder when the timer ends, you win the auction and your default payment method is charged. You can view your order details under Activity > Purchases. 

Auction rules 

To keep auctions fair and fun for everyone, buyers should follow these rules: 

• You bid, you buy. All bids are binding. If you place a bid, you’re prepared and committed to purchasing that item. Canceling or filing a chargeback may result in account actions, including a ban.

• No bidding up prices. Only bid only on items you genuinely want. Manipulating prices (known as shill bidding) will lead to an account ban.
• Clear errors or glitches. Double check your bid amount before bidding. If you accidentally enter an incorrect amount (e.g. $1,050 instead of $50), Whatnot may cancel the auction so the seller can re-run it. 

Learn more in our Community Guidelines.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Can I cancel a bid or pre-bid?

No. All bids are final once confirmed. Bids and pre-bids can’t be canceled or reduced. 

If you win an auction, you have 24 hours to request a cancellation of your purchase from the seller. The seller can choose to approve or deny the request. 

Can others see my Max Bid?

No. Your Max Bid is private. The seller and other buyers only see the current highest bid.

What if someone bids the same as my Max Bid?

Whoever placed that amount first stays in the lead. You can always swipe to bid again or set a new Max Bid to stay competitive.

Why did the auction reach my Max Bid so quickly?

If many buyers are bidding quickly (or using their own Max Bids) your Max Bid may be reached faster than expected. You won’t be charged more than your limit. If you’re outbid, you can bid again.