Return Shipping Label after Refund

[schopelas]

I sold a laptop and the buyer wants to return it because he wasn't happy with the condition.  I issued a refund and eBay shows I created the return label.

The buyer responded with: 

Thank you for your reply, looks like since the refund was processed eBay has not shared the label with us. It does not show any label here.

eBay's automated system said:

A return request hasn't been opened for this item yet. The buyer can open a return request from their Purchase history or their order confirmation email. Once opened, you'll receive a notification in your Messages.

I guess I'm at risk because I gave the refund prior to receiving it back but he is trying to do the right thing.

How do I point the buyer to the return label? 

[ebooksdiva · Accepted solution]

You jumped the gun there my friend.

When you issued the refund to the buyer that closed the return, when the return closed the return label is no longer accessible. 
 You would need to buy a label and send it to your buyer. You would need to call the buyer for their email address to send them a PDF of the label.  Their phone number is in the order details. 
But understand, since you refunded, the buyer is under no obligation to return the item. 

[schopelas]

Thanks for the response.  I think the buyer is honest and will return the item.

I have two follow ups:

1) I can't see anything about the return label I purchased.  Do I need to contact eBay to get that refunded to me?

2) Is there way to create the return label on eBay or do I need to purchase one directly from USPS?

Thanks!

[ebooksdiva]

As long as the shipping label is not used you won’t be charged for it. 
You would  need to purchase a shipping label on PayPal, Pirateship, or USPS click n shop commercial.

[aproudparent2010]

When you send a refund before the return is made then the shipping label is no longer available to the buyer.

[schopelas]

Thanks to all that helped!  I sent the buyer a return label and it's confirmed to be on my way.

Luckily, this was an honest buyer but lessons learned!