Ticket Resale: How to Buy and Sell Concert Tickets Legally and Safely

When you hear ticket resale, the practice of buying concert tickets with the intent to sell them later at a higher price. Also known as ticket scalping, it’s a reality for anyone chasing sold-out shows—whether you’re trying to get in or make a little extra cash. It’s not magic. It’s not illegal everywhere. But it’s messy. And if you don’t know the rules, you’ll get burned.

Most people think ticket resale is just about bots and shady websites. But the truth is, it’s a system. Platforms like Ticketmaster, StubHub, and SeatGeek let fans resell tickets legally—if they follow the rules. Artists and venues often partner with these sites to keep sales controlled. That’s why you see official resale sections on the same page you bought your ticket. It’s not a loophole—it’s a feature. And it’s how many fans actually get into shows when the first sale sells out in seconds.

But here’s what no one tells you: VIP concert tickets, premium packages that include early entry, merch, or meet-and-greets. Also known as concert VIP packages, they’re the most sought-after items in resale markets. Why? Because they’re limited. A VIP pass with a meet-and-greet might sell for $2,000 new. On resale? It could hit $5,000. And that’s not fraud—it’s supply and demand. But scams thrive here too. Fake listings, cloned websites, and text message scams target people desperate to see their favorite artist. The fix? Only buy from verified sellers on official resale platforms. Check the seller’s history. Look for a guarantee. If it feels too good to be true, it is.

And if you’re thinking about reselling your own tickets? Know the venue’s policy. Some ban resale entirely. Others cap prices. Taylor Swift’s team, for example, has strict rules: resale must happen through Ticketmaster’s official platform, and prices can’t exceed face value plus fees. Break those rules, and your tickets get canceled. No refunds. No second chances.

Don’t let the hype fool you. Ticket resale isn’t about getting rich. It’s about access. For fans, it’s the only way to get in when the primary market fails. For sellers, it’s a way to recover what they paid—or maybe even break even after a last-minute change. The key is playing it smart. Use trusted tools. Know your rights. And never, ever send money to someone you don’t know over a DM.

Below, you’ll find real stories and guides from fans who’ve navigated this world—how to spot fake listings, when to buy VIP packages, and which artists actually make resale fair. No fluff. Just what works.