> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.sendovex.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Cancelling a Trade

> When and how a trade can be cancelled, and what happens to escrow funds.

## When can a trade be cancelled?

A trade can only be cancelled before the escrow transaction is confirmed on-chain. This covers two stages: waiting for the merchant to start escrow, and while the escrow transaction is still pending but not yet confirmed. Once crypto is locked on-chain, cancellation is no longer possible through the normal flow.

| Trade stage                                        | Can be cancelled?    | How                            |
| -------------------------------------------------- | -------------------- | ------------------------------ |
| Waiting for escrow                                 | Yes, by either party | Tap Cancel in the trade detail |
| Escrow being prepared (not yet confirmed on-chain) | Yes, by either party | Tap Cancel in the trade detail |
| Escrow funded or later                             | No                   | Open a dispute instead         |
| Completed or resolved                              | No                   | Trade is final                 |

<Warning>
  Once the merchant has funded escrow, neither party can cancel the trade. If there is a problem at this stage, open a dispute from the trade screen.
</Warning>

## What happens to the escrow when cancelled?

If a trade is cancelled before escrow is funded, no funds have moved and nothing is returned, because nothing was locked.

If for any reason escrow was funded and a dispute is resolved in the seller's favour, the smart contract returns the crypto directly to the merchant's wallet.

## How to cancel

1. Open the trade in the **Active Trades** screen.
2. Tap the **Cancel** option in the menu.
3. Select a reason.

Cancellation is instant if the trade has not yet been funded.

## If you have already sent fiat

If you sent ETB and the trade is at the escrow funded or payment marked sent stage, **do not try to cancel**. That button is disabled at those stages. Instead:

1. Open a dispute from the trade screen.
2. Attach your bank transfer receipt showing date, time, amount, and recipient.
3. A Sendovex agent will review both sides and can resolve the dispute in your favour if your payment is confirmed.

<Warning>
  Never send crypto or fiat outside the app to resolve a stuck trade. Contact support through the official support ticket system only.
</Warning>