How to Audit Your Amazon FBA Account: Step-by-Step Guide

Amazon FBA audits are now more important than ever. With Amazon reducing the reimbursement claim window from 18 months to just 60 days, staying proactive can save you money. Regular audits help you recover lost revenue from issues like inventory discrepancies, incorrect fees, and return errors.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Key Audit Areas: Focus on inventory mismatches, fee miscalculations, return processing errors, and shipping discrepancies.

• Reports to Gather: Download Inventory Health, Reimbursements, Customer Returns, and Fee Preview reports from Seller Central.

• Tools to Simplify Audits: Use software like Refunzo or GETIDA for automated checks and claims assistance.

• Claim Filing: Submit evidence-backed claims within 60 days for lost inventory, fee errors, or return mishandling.

Quick Tip: Combine manual reviews with audit tools to maximize reimbursements and streamline your process.

This guide walks you through setting up your audit, identifying errors, filing claims, and using tools to save time and recover funds.

Setting Up Your FBA Audit

Getting Reports from Seller Central

Start by logging into your Amazon Seller Central account and heading to the Reports section. You'll need to download a few key reports to get started:

| Report Type | Purpose | Location in Seller Central |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Inventory Health | Check stock levels and movements | Inventory > Inventory Planning |
| Reimbursements | Review compensation history | Payments > Transaction View |
| Customer Returns | Track return statuses and issues | Returns > Return Reports |
| Fee Preview | Understand storage and fulfillment costs | Payments > Fee Preview

Make sure to download these reports in CSV format, covering the past 60 days. This aligns with Amazon's reimbursement window. Also, review inventory adjustment and reconciliation reports to spot any discrepancies.

Once you have these reports, organize the data for smooth analysis in your audit workspace.

Organizing Your Audit Workspace

A well-structured workspace is key to an effective audit. Create a dedicated folder for all audit-related files and use consistent naming conventions. For example: FBA_Audit_ReportType_Date.

Here are a few tips for managing your data:

• Use a master spreadsheet to combine and cross-check data from different reports.

• Apply data filters and conditional formatting to easily spot errors or inconsistencies.

• Add tracking columns for details like claim numbers, status updates, and follow-up dates.

Staying on top of your seller account and addressing issues quickly can help you recover any financial losses. To save time and reduce manual errors, consider using tools like Refunzo to automate importing and categorizing your reports.

How to File Claims on Seller Central for Different Amazon FBA Discrepancies

Finding FBA Account Errors

Once your workspace is set up, it’s time to dive into your FBA data to identify errors and uncover missed reimbursements.

Checking Inbound Shipping Records

Start by reviewing the FBA Shipping Queue to compare the number of units shipped versus the number received. To do this, go to "Manage FBA Shipments" in Seller Central and examine discrepancies between "Shipped" and "Received" quantities. Here’s what to look for:

| Discrepancy Type | What to Check | Action Required |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Unit Count Mismatch | Difference in shipped and received units | Use shipping manifests to document discrepancies |
| Receiving Delays | Items stuck in transit for too long | Follow up with your carrier |
| Wrong Item Reception | Items logged under incorrect SKUs | Provide clear product photos and labels

Afterward, check your inventory status to identify any losses or damages.

Spotting Missing or Damaged Items

Use your FBA Inventory Report to track any losses or damages to your inventory. Pay special attention to items marked as "damaged" or "missing", as these may qualify for Amazon’s reimbursement program, which covers claims up to $5,000 per item. Focus on these key points:

• Items flagged as "damaged" during warehouse handling

• Products listed as "missing" after inventory reconciliation

Finding Fee Mistakes and Return Errors

Once shipping and inventory data are reviewed, shift your attention to fee calculations and return processes to spot potential errors.

Fee Calculation Issues:

• Overcharges caused by incorrect weight or dimension data

• Duplicate storage fees

• Misclassified product categories leading to higher fulfillment costs

Return Processing Problems:

• Customer returns that are mishandled

• Returned items missing from inventory

• Excess fees charged during the return process

When reviewing return reports, ensure returned items are either properly added back to your inventory or correctly disposed of. Also, double-check that refund amounts match your policies to prevent unnecessary charges.

Getting Your Money Back: Filing Claims

Preparing Claim Evidence

Before filing a claim, gather and organize all necessary evidence. Here's a quick breakdown based on the type of claim:

| Claim Type | Required Evidence | Time Limit |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Lost/Damaged Inventory | Shipping manifests, receiving reports, inventory snapshots | 60 days |
| Fee Discrepancies | Transaction records, fee calculations, weight/dimension data | 60 days |
| Return Errors | Customer return records, disposition reports, refund documentation | 60 days

Once everything is sorted, you're ready to proceed with filing your claims.

Filing Reimbursement Requests

To submit a reimbursement request, open the reimbursement system in Seller Central under the Help section. Follow these steps:

• Choose the appropriate case reason.

• Upload your organized evidence.

• Provide clear descriptions, including relevant dates and SKUs.

Tracking Your Claims

After submitting your claim, keep an eye on its progress using the Case Log in Seller Central. To stay organized, create a simple tracking spreadsheet with these details:

| Tracking Element | Purpose | Action Required |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Case ID | Reference number | Record this when submitting |
| Submission Date | Timeline tracking | Ensure it’s within 60 days |
| Claim Amount | Financial tracking | Note the expected reimbursement |
| Status Updates | Progress monitoring | Check weekly for updates

If you're managing multiple claims or larger amounts, consider using tools like Refunzo. These can help automate tracking, send alerts, and identify potential reimbursements.

Using Software Tools for FBA Audits

Manually auditing your FBA account can be a daunting task, especially as your operations grow more intricate. It's easy to miss errors or reimbursement opportunities. That's where audit software comes in - it simplifies reconciliation and helps spot missed reimbursements. Let's take a closer look at how Refunzo can assist with audits, along with its main advantages and limitations.

Refunzo: FBA Audit Software Overview

Refunzo is a tool designed specifically for FBA audits. It offers lifetime free reconciliation and performs automated 21-point checks to identify issues like lost inventory, incorrect fees, return problems, and shipping errors.

The platform generates reports that highlight potential reimbursement opportunities. Sellers can either file claims themselves or use Refunzo's professional assistance. If you choose professional help, Refunzo charges a capped commission of 15% or $5000 (whichever is lower), and only after a successful reimbursement.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Audit Software

Here's a breakdown of what audit software like Refunzo can offer:

| Feature | Advantages | Drawbacks |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Automated Reconciliation | Saves time and minimizes human mistakes | May take some time to learn initially |
| Detailed Reports | Makes it easier to spot missed reimbursements | Some features may come with extra costs |
| Claims Assistance Option | Professional help simplifies claim processes | Commission applies to successful claims |
| Real-time Monitoring | Tracks reimbursement chances within 60 days | Requires regular account access |
| Data Integration | Connects directly with Seller Central | Periodic manual checks might be needed

While tools like Refunzo can make audits more efficient, it's still important to monitor your account regularly and resolve issues quickly to ensure fair compensation.

When evaluating audit software, keep these factors in mind:

• Integration: Ensure the tool works smoothly with your Seller Central account.

• Pricing: Understand if costs are fixed or commission-based.

• Support: Check if professional claim assistance is included.

• Reporting: Look for features that provide actionable insights and analytics.

Audit software is a powerful ally, but pairing it with manual checks and a solid understanding of Amazon's FBA policies will give you the best results.

Conclusion: Key Steps for Successful FBA Audits

With the reimbursement window reduced from 18 months to just 60 days, staying on top of your FBA audits is more important than ever. A mix of manual checks and automated tools can help you stay organized and catch every potential reimbursement opportunity.

Here’s an example of an effective audit process:

| <strong>Audit Component</strong> | <strong>Key Actions</strong> | <strong>Timing</strong> |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Inventory Review | Look for lost or damaged items | Weekly |
| Fee Verification | Compare fees with Amazon’s published rates | Monthly |
| Shipping Records | Reconcile inbound and outbound shipments | Bi-weekly |
| Return Processing | Track customer returns and verify related fees | Weekly |
| Claims Management | Submit and follow up on reimbursements | Within 60 days

This process highlights the importance of combining manual oversight with automated tools. Platforms like Refunzo can simplify audits by automating routine checks, especially for accounts with a high volume of transactions.

To keep your audits consistent and effective, follow these best practices:

• Keep detailed records of inventory movements and transactions.

• Use audit software to run regular automated checks.

• Compare Amazon's fee schedules to your charges every month.

• Act on discrepancies quickly to meet the 60-day claim deadline.

• Organize and track all claims and their resolutions.

A hybrid method - combining manual reviews with tools like Refunzo - helps you avoid missing discrepancies while creating a smoother, more efficient process.

Key Factors for Success:

• Address issues as soon as they arise.

• Document every claim thoroughly.

• Perform regular system checks and updates.

• Stick to a consistent monitoring schedule.

• Have a clear plan for escalating complex cases.

FAQs

What is FBA audit?

An FBA audit involves reviewing your Amazon Seller Central account to spot mismatches between your records and Amazon's data. It examines inventory reports, shipping details, fee calculations, and customer returns to uncover errors that might qualify for reimbursements.

How often should I audit my FBA account?

Because of Amazon's 60-day deadline for claims, it's best to audit your account regularly - ideally every week. This helps you catch issues early and ensures you can file claims on time.

What reports do I need for an effective audit?

The FBA Inventory Report is essential. It gives you a real-time view of inventory levels, movements, and status updates.

How can I maximize reimbursement opportunities?

Focus on areas where errors are most common, such as lost or damaged inventory, incorrect fees, customer returns, and shipping discrepancies. Addressing these can help you recover more funds.

What tools can help streamline the audit process?

Tools like Refunzo and GETIDA can simplify the process by scanning your account for discrepancies and preparing the necessary documents. This is especially useful given the tight 60-day claim window.

What's the current reimbursement claim timeline?

Amazon requires sellers to file claims within 60 days from when a discrepancy is identified. Missing this window means losing out on potential reimbursements.