Refund Policy

At Biomed Thought, we strive to provide a seamless and transparent publishing experience for our authors. While we aim to ensure that the publication process is smooth, we understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise. This Refund Policy outlines the conditions under which authors may request a refund of publication fees and the procedures for handling such requests.

1. Eligibility for Refunds:

Refunds will be considered under the following circumstances:

  • Before Peer Review: Authors may request a full refund if they choose to withdraw their manuscript before the peer review process begins. In this case, no charges related to editorial or peer review services have been incurred.

  • During Peer Review: Once a manuscript has entered the peer review process, the submission fee becomes non-refundable. This is because editorial and review processes, including reviewer compensation, begin once the manuscript is under review.

  • After Acceptance for Publication: Once a manuscript is accepted for publication, publication fees are non-refundable. At this point, editorial, production, and processing services have been initiated. Any requests for a refund after acceptance will not be considered unless there are exceptional circumstances.

  • Post-Publication: Once an article is published (online or in print), no refunds will be issued under any circumstances.

2. Refund Process:

  • Requesting a Refund: Authors who wish to request a refund must submit a formal written request to the editorial office. The request should include:

    • Manuscript title and ID
    • Date of submission
    • The reason for requesting the refund
    • Any relevant supporting documentation (e.g., withdrawal notice, extenuating circumstances)

    Refund requests must be submitted within 7 days of the submission or withdrawal notification.

  • Review of the Request: Upon receiving a refund request, the editorial office will review the request to ensure that it aligns with the conditions outlined in this policy. In cases where the manuscript has already entered the peer review or publication process, refunds will not be issued.

  • Refund Decision: Once the request is reviewed, authors will receive an email notification regarding the decision. If the refund is approved, the refund will be processed within 30 days from the approval date.

  • Refund Method: Refunds will be processed using the same payment method used for the original transaction. Please note that the payment processing service may charge transaction fees, which may be deducted from the refund amount.

3. Non-Refundable Situations:

Refunds will not be issued under the following conditions:

  • Dual Submission or Duplicate Submission: If a manuscript is found to have been submitted simultaneously to other journals or previously published elsewhere, no refund will be issued.

  • Author’s Change of Mind: If the author decides to withdraw the manuscript or request a refund for reasons unrelated to the journal’s processes (e.g., changes in the author’s circumstances), the refund request will not be accepted.

  • Failure to Adhere to Submission Guidelines: Manuscripts that are rejected due to failure to comply with Biomed Thought's submission guidelines, including formatting and ethical standards, are not eligible for a refund.

  • Late or Non-Responsive Authors: If an author fails to respond to requests for revisions, clarifications, or further information in a timely manner, or if the manuscript has been delayed by the author’s actions, no refund will be issued.

4. Special Circumstances:

In exceptional cases, such as a medical emergency or other extraordinary personal circumstances, Biomed Thought may consider issuing a partial refund or waive some fees. Authors must provide appropriate documentation to support the claim. Each case will be evaluated on its own merits, and any exceptions will be communicated in writing.

5. Administrative Fees:

An administrative processing fee may be deducted from the refund if applicable. This fee covers the costs of handling submissions, editorial review, and related administrative tasks. Authors will be informed of any applicable administrative fees before the refund is processed.

6. Refunds for Open Access Publication Fees:

  • Pre-Acceptance: If the manuscript is withdrawn before acceptance, any open-access publication fee paid will be refunded in full, minus any applicable administrative charges.

  • Post-Acceptance: Once an article is accepted and the open-access fee has been paid, no refund will be issued unless there is a significant issue with the payment processing or administrative error.

7. Handling of Refund Disputes:

If an author disagrees with the decision regarding a refund request, they may submit a formal appeal to the editorial office. The editorial team will review the case and provide a final decision within 7 business days.