Before You Buy Concert Tickets, Here’s What to Know About Presales, Resale & Fees

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There’s nothing quite like the excitement of your favorite artist announcing a new tour. That is, until you realize thousands of other fans are trying to get tickets to the same show. Between presale codes, virtual queues and fluctuating prices, buying concert tickets can sometimes feel like a competition of its own.

Fortunately, knowing where to look and how the process works can make things a lot easier. Whether you’re planning ahead or hoping to snag seats at the last minute, here’s what to know before your next concert.

Where Can I Buy Official Concert Tickets?

The safest place to start is with the artist’s official website or the venue’s designated ticketing partner. Ticketmaster is one of the largest platforms for official concert tickets, giving fans access to thousands of events across the country, from arena tours to intimate club shows.

You can search by artist, venue or city to find upcoming concerts, compare available seats and check when tickets go on sale. Every ticket purchased through Ticketmaster, including verified resale tickets, is backed by the platform’s ticket authenticity guarantee.

How Can I Buy Concert Tickets Before They Go on Sale to the Public?

If you’ve ever watched a highly anticipated tour sell out in minutes, you know timing matters. Presales give eligible fans an opportunity to purchase tickets before the general public, although access doesn’t guarantee you’ll secure a seat.

Depending on the event, Ticketmaster may offer access to artist presales, select credit card promotions and other early ticketing opportunities. Check the eligibility requirements ahead of time and have your account ready before sales begin.

How Do I Find Legitimate Concert Tickets?

Not every ticket listing you encounter online comes from an authorized seller. Before purchasing, verify the website, double-check the event details and be cautious of unsolicited offers on social media.

For eligible events, Ticketmaster also offers verified resale tickets from existing ticket holders, providing another way to find seats after the initial sale. Availability and resale restrictions vary by event.

And don’t forget to check the total price, including applicable fees and taxes, before completing your purchase.