A bid or commitment to buy on eBay is considered a contract and you're obligated to purchase the item. However, if you feel that you have a legitimate reason for not buying the item, you can contact the seller and explain your situation. Many sellers are willing to work with you if you communicate with them openly and honestly. If you haven't done so already, request the seller's contact information and call him or her. You may be able to work things out to everyone's satisfaction.

If the seller doesn't respond in the way you hope, keep in mind that failing to purchase an item you've won can result in an unpaid item being recorded on your account. If you get too many unpaid items recorded on your account in too short a time period, your account may be restricted or suspended.