USPS delayed delivery and refunds

[clutchacrosstexas]

I shipped an order out on the 11th of Dec. As of today, Dec 22, it is still in transit with a notice for the USPS stating it is running late (Duh!). 

Anyway, the buyer is now expecting a refund from me. I am not Walmart or Amazon, I can't just recoup my loses like they can, and it is not my fault it is delayed.  

I know she will end up getting the product, even though it will be late. 

Am I obligated to issue a refund even though this is out of my control?

Thank you for your answers and feedback

Dottie

[PearlGlassesVintage]

Is tracking showing updates of arriving at different sorting centers?  If it's stuck on showing in transit without any other scans since drop off, then you need to file for missing package on USPS website.  After 15 days of first scan on USPS Priority and GA you can request a refund via USPS website.  Let your customer know these are the steps you're taking and that USPS is experiencing holiday delays.  The customer, of course, can open a case on Etsy, but before they do, just try to reason with the person that you are doing everything you can with USPS to get a delivery soon.  I have one missing package since 9th with no help from the missing pkg help request, so I'll be requesting a refund for tomorrow.  

[NanaLetha]

No, unless you said it would arrive by a certain date.

[Hertfordweaver]

If they demand a refund, ask them the not open upon receipt and mark it return to sender and put it back through the postal system. Upon receipt you can refund minus the shipping charge. You are not responsible for the USPS delays.

[ZenCatPottery]

I would not refund.  Once you drop a package with USPS it is out of your control.  If a customer complains, I would refer them to the USPS tracking page so that they can see you shipped the item on time.

[CraftyCornishMaids]

on the e-mails they get from etsy, they say get your item on time, or we  will refund - so that's probably what they expect

they can open a case against you, and get a full refund

 etsy offeres seller protection, and do not recoup from you,  if you follow all their rules