I paid for return shipping. Item never returned

[seeryanb]

Buyer started a return for "item not as described", while it was still shipping! (days before it was even delivered) 

Anyways, I immediately accepted the return, and sent him a paypal payment thru ebay for return shipping costs. 

Today I checked the tracking and see this message: 

We attempted to deliver your item at 8:55 am on February 9, 2021 in CIRCLE PINES, MN 55014 and a notice was left because an authorized recipient was not available. You may arrange redelivery by using the Schedule a Redelivery feature on this page or may pick up the item at the Post Office indicated on the notice beginning February 10, 2021. If this item is unclaimed by February 24, 2021 then it will be returned to sender.

My question is, if the buyer doesnt return the item that *I paid* to be returned, can I get my money back from him? Thanks, Ryan

[grasscarp]

"Buyer started a return for "item not as described", while it was still shipping!"

Now here is a red flag!

You shipped your item. You refunded before receiving the item back.

You are too trusting!! You may be out of both the item and your $$$$$$$$

You will only get your money back if the seller is as nice as you.  Good luck!!

[stuff4divas]

If the paypal payment you issued is 'unclaimed' then close it out.

Wait for the item to be returned to you.

If the buyer refuses the package delivery, he will lose his ebay money back guarantee protection.

If he decides to accept it, he will have to open a return request.

[fern*wood]

If you authorize a return label through a return case on ebay, you aren't charged for the label unless it gets used.