Short answer. When Amazon deactivates a seller account, it usually holds the balance while the appeal is open. If the account is reinstated, disbursements resume. If it is not, the remaining balance is handled under the Amazon Services Business Solutions Agreement, subject to refunds, chargebacks and any claims. Plan the appeal and the disbursement request together, because they depend on the same evidence.
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Two goals, one evidence base
Reinstatement and fund release are different outcomes. Some accounts will not come back, but the funds still have a route. Fulfillment proof, supplier invoices and resolved customer claims support both.
What to prepare now
- A reconciliation of the held balance by settlement period
- Proof of delivery for recent orders
- Status of open A-to-z claims and chargebacks
- Supplier invoices for any items under authenticity review
What not to do
Do not open a new account to keep selling. Related-account findings can end the original case and complicate the fund release.
FAQs
Can Amazon keep my money permanently?
The Business Solutions Agreement sets out when Amazon may withhold amounts, for example to cover claims or in cases of fraud or policy violations. Where the balance is significant and the decision appears wrong, take legal advice on your options.
Official sources