Bid on an item during a show

Bidding lets you join live, auction-style listings on Whatnot. During a show, the seller sets a starting price for an item, and buyers place bids in real time while the countdown 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 choose the length of each auction and can use one of two auction clocks:

• Standard timer: Starts with a set duration, like 30 seconds. Each new bid adds a few extra seconds so other shoppers have time to respond.
• Sudden Death timer: No extra time is added. When the timer reaches zero, the highest bid placed before time runs out wins. A 💀 appears next to the timer during Sudden Death auctions.

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

How bid amounts increase

Bids increase by a minimum increment based on the current price. As the price goes up, the minimum increment may increase too.

You’ll always see the next valid bid amount before placing a bid.

What currency you’ll see

Prices are displayed in the seller’s currency. At checkout, your total is converted to your local currency.

How to bid

Swipe to bid 

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

Shipping costs appear underneath the item's title before you place a bid or make a purchase.

Bid a custom amount and set a Max Bid

Want to bid higher than the next increment? Tap Custom next to the Bid button to enter your own amount.

When entering a custom bid, you’ll see two options:

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

With Max Bid turned on:

• If no one else bids, you could win for less than your maximum.
• If bidding continues, your bid increases automatically in increments up to your limit.
• If another shopper bids above your Max Bid, you can bid again or enter a new maximum.
• Remember, shipping and taxes are added if you win.

Pre-bid before the auction

If a seller lists items before going live, you can place a pre-bid ahead of time. 

Pre-bids work the same way as Max Bids and are used automatically once the auction begins, even if you’re not watching live.

When you pre-bid:

• You set the maximum amount you’re willing to pay (your Max Bid).
• Whatnot automatically places bids in increments up to your limit once the auction starts.

Learn how to pre-bid on an item. 

After you bid 

If another buyer outbids you, you can bid again by swiping or placing a custom bid.

If you’re the highest bidder when the timer ends, you win the item and your default payment method is charged. 

You can view your order details under Activity > Purchases. 

Auction rules 

To help keep shows fair and enjoyable for everyone, please follow these rules:

• You bid, you buy. All bids are binding. If you place a bid, you’re committing to purchase the item if you win. Canceling purchases or filing chargebacks may result in account actions, including a ban.
• Bid responsibly. Only bid on items you genuinely want to purchase. Attempts to artificially increase prices, also known as shill bidding, may result in account suspension or removal.
• Clear errors or technical issues. Review your bid amount carefully before confirming. If there’s a clear error, like accidentally entering a much higher bid than intended, Whatnot may cancel the auction so the seller can relist the item fairly.

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.