Markets resolve based on confirmed data, not on when an event appears to end. There are several reasons a market may be open longer than you expect.
Common reasons for delay
Reason | What it means |
Official data not yet published | The source agency or organization has not released the final result |
Determination time is later than the event | The market rules specify a closing time or date that has not been reached yet |
Outcome is being disputed | The proposed resolution has been challenged — resolution typically takes 4–6 days |
Close or disputed real-world outcome | A result is under official review — for example, a recount, a replay review, or a stat correction |
The determination time matters
Every market has a determination time in its About section. This is the official moment the outcome is assessed — it may be different from when the event appears to conclude. Your trade settles only after Polymarket officially marks the market as resolved, which happens at or after the determination time.
Example: A market asking "Will Bitcoin close above $95,000 on May 2?" may specify resolution based on a specific exchange's closing price at 12:00 PM ET on May 2. Even if Bitcoin trades above that level all morning, the market does not resolve until that exact time on that date.
What to check before contacting support
Has the event fully concluded — including any overtime, appeals, or official reviews?
What is the determination time listed in the market's About section?
Is the market showing as disputed? Check the Resolution tab on the market's page at Polymarket to confirm.
If more than 12 hours have passed since the event concluded and the market is not showing as disputed, contact support with the market name and a screenshot.