How to Fix Steam An Unexpected Error Has Occurred. Your Purchase Has Not Been Completed?
by A N Rahul
Updated May 24, 2023
How to fix Steam an Unexpected Error has occurred. Your Purchase has not been completed?
Retry the purchase
If you encounter the "An Unexpected Error has Occurred. Your Purchase has not been Completed" error on Steam, it could be due to a temporary processing issue or a problem with the specifics of your order. In such cases, a simple solution is to retry the purchase. Before doing so, carefully review the details of your purchase, including billing information, to ensure everything is accurate. It is important not to excessively retry failed purchases to avoid overwhelming the system or creating duplicate requests.
PRO TIP: If the issue stems from system corruption, consider using Restoro Repair, a program that scans and replaces corrupt or missing files on your computer.
Disable any VPN programs or IP proxies
Steam's systems are designed to prevent purchases initiated from masked or spoofed IP addresses. Therefore, if you have VPN programs or IP proxies enabled, they may be causing the error. Disable these programs before attempting your purchase. Locate the toggle or setting to disable the VPN program or IP proxy on your computer.
Wait for the underlying issue to be resolved
If none of the above solutions work, it is possible that the Steam servers responsible for processing purchases are experiencing issues. In this case, there is little you can do except wait for the servers to be back online. Once the issue is resolved, try making your purchase again.
Contact Steam Support
If you have exhausted all other options and continue to face the error, it is recommended to seek assistance from Steam Support. Visit the Help section of the Steam store and specify the problem you are encountering, providing details about the failed purchase. Contact Steam Support, and their helpful and professional team will guide you through resolving the issue.
Causes of Unexpected Error has occurred in Steam
Have you ever wondered what causes the frustrating "An unexpected error has occurred" message when trying to make a purchase on the Steam store? Let's delve into some of the possible causes behind this issue.
Temporary Processing Issue:
Sometimes, the error can be attributed to a temporary processing issue. This hiccup may occur either on the Steam client's end or the server's end. It's a minor glitch that can prevent your transaction from going through smoothly. Thankfully, this is often resolved by simply retrying the purchase one or two times.
Problem with Order Particulars:
Another potential cause could be an issue with the particulars of your order. This might involve errors in the billing address or other information provided during the purchase. Double-checking and ensuring the accuracy of these details before retrying your purchase can help prevent the error from occurring again.
IP Proxy or VPN In Effect:
Using an IP proxy or VPN can sometimes interfere with the Steam store's purchasing process. The systems in place are designed to prevent purchases initiated from masked or spoofed IP addresses. Therefore, if you have any VPN or IP proxy software active, it's best to disable it temporarily while making your purchase.
Internet Connection Problem:
A stable and reliable internet connection is crucial when using Steam. If you encounter the error, it's worth checking your internet connection to ensure it's not the cause. Make sure you're connected to the internet and that your connection is stable before attempting the purchase again.
Steam Server Issues:
Steam's servers can experience temporary errors or downtimes, leading to disruptions in the purchasing process. If this is the case, the best course of action is to wait for the servers to stabilize and try again later.
Payment Method Issues:
Having an invalid or expired payment method or insufficient funds in your account can also trigger the error. Make sure your payment method is valid and that you have enough funds to complete the transaction.
Steam Account Problems:
Issues with your Steam account, such as being banned or having restrictions, can prevent successful purchases. Ensure that your account is in good standing and doesn't have any restrictions that may hinder your transactions.
Game-specific Problems:
In some cases, the error may be related to the specific game you are trying to purchase. It could be unavailable in your region or experiencing server-related difficulties. Checking for any region restrictions or contacting Steam Support for further assistance can help resolve such issues.
About Steam
Steam is a digital distribution platform and online storefront for video games, developed by Valve. It was initially created in 2003 to provide automatic updates for Valve's own games but later expanded to include titles from third-party publishers. Steam offers a wide range of features and services to enhance the gaming experience.
One of the key aspects of Steam is its digital rights management (DRM) system, which ensures that games are only playable by authorized users. It also provides game server matchmaking and anti-cheat measures to maintain fair gameplay. Steam incorporates social networking features, allowing users to connect with friends, join communities, and participate in in-game chats. It offers a marketplace where users can buy, sell, and trade in-game items.
Developers can utilize Steamworks, an API provided by Valve, to integrate Steam features into their games. This includes adding achievements, implementing microtransactions, and supporting user-created content. Initially available for Windows, Steam expanded to support macOS and Linux operating systems. Mobile apps for iOS and Android were also released, allowing users to access certain Steam features on their smartphones.
Steam has become the largest digital distribution platform for PC gaming, with a significant market share. It offers a vast library of games, spanning various genres and categories. The platform has achieved tremendous success, with billions of dollars in game purchases and a large user base.
In addition to games, Steam provides other digital content such as software, soundtracks, videos, and even virtual reality hardware like the Valve Index headset. It has also ventured into the hardware market with products like the Steam Machine gaming PCs, SteamOS operating system, and the Steam Controller. More recently, in 2022, Valve introduced the handheld Steam Deck, designed specifically for playing Steam games on the go.
With its extensive features, diverse game catalog, and large user community, Steam has had a profound impact on the gaming industry, shaping the way people discover, purchase, and play games on their computers and devices.
How to contact Steam Support?
To contact Steam Support, you have a few options available. Firstly, you can visit the Steam website and navigate to the "Help" tab, where you'll find the "Contact Steam Support" button. Alternatively, if you're using the Steam app, you can click on the "Steam" menu, choose "Help," and then select "Steam Support."
Another option is to contact Steam Support by phone, using the number 1-888-275-7646. When reaching out to Steam Support, provide detailed information about your account and the specific issue you're facing. Consider including relevant screenshots or logs that could assist with troubleshooting.
Keep in mind that response times may vary, so be patient while awaiting a resolution. If further assistance is needed, you can explore the Steam forums for potential solutions or reach out to the game's developer directly.
How to fix Steam an Unexpected Error has occurred. Your Purchase has not been completed - FAQs
This error can occur due to a temporary processing issue or a problem with the specifics of your order, such as billing information. It can also be caused by VPN programs or IP proxies being enabled, or if there are issues with Steam's servers.
First, try retrying the purchase one or two times, ensuring that all the details of your order are accurate. Avoid excessive retries to prevent system overload. Additionally, consider disabling any VPN programs or IP proxies that may be active on your computer.
If retrying the purchase doesn't resolve the issue, it is possible that the Steam servers responsible for processing purchases are experiencing problems. In such cases, it is recommended to wait for the underlying issue to be resolved. Keep checking for updates and try again later.
If you have exhausted all other troubleshooting steps and continue to encounter the error, it is advisable to contact Steam Support for help. Visit the Help section on the Steam store and provide details about the failed purchase. The Steam Support team will assist you in resolving the issue and provide further guidance.