How to Close Bidding and Finalize Winners
Closing bidding and finalizing winners in CharityAuctions is simple and fully automated.
There are two ways bidding can be closed: automatically at the scheduled time or manually if you need to end the auction early.
Option 1: Automatic Close at the Scheduled Time
The most common way bidding ends is automatically.
When the Bidding Window End Time arrives:
- Bidding closes automatically
- No action is required from the administrator
- The highest bidders are automatically assigned as winners
- Invoices are generated instantly for all winning bidders
The system handles the entire process for you with no manual steps needed.
Option 2: Closing Bidding Early
If you need to end your auction before the scheduled end time, you can close bidding early at any time.
To close bidding early:
- Open your auction dashboard
- In the left navigation menu, click Auction Setup
- Select Bid Schedule
- Locate the active bidding window
- Click the Close Early button
As soon as you confirm this action:
- The bidding window will immediately close
- High bidders will be assigned as winners
- Invoices will be generated automatically
This option is helpful if you need to end an auction sooner than planned for any reason.
What Happens After Bidding Closes
Regardless of whether bidding closes automatically or early, the same steps occur:
- Winning bidders are finalized
- Invoices are created
- Bidders are notified to complete payment
- The auction moves into post-event tasks
From there, you can manage invoices, collect payments, and prepare for payout.
Fully Automated Process
CharityAuctions is designed so administrators do not need to manually assign winners or generate invoices.
Once bidding closes, the system takes care of everything automatically, allowing you to focus on follow-up and event wrap-up.
If you need help closing your auction or reviewing winners, Contact Support is always available to assist.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to manually close bidding?
No. Bidding closes automatically at the scheduled end time.
Can I end my auction early if needed?
Yes. Use the Close Early button under Auction Setup > Bid Schedule.
What happens when bidding closes?
High bidders are assigned as winners and invoices are generated automatically.
Is there anything I need to do after bidding ends?
No manual steps are required. You can simply review invoices and begin post-event tasks.
Related articles
- How to Change the End Time of Your Auction
Change your auction start or end time through Auction Setup > Bid Schedule. Edit the Bidding Window—all assigned items update automatically. No need to edit items individually.
- How to Create a New Auction
Create a new auction from your dashboard or while inside an existing auction. Use the auction dropdown to access View All Auctions, then click Create a New Auction.
- How to Launch Your Auction and Make It Live
Click Publish Auction in the top right to launch. Bidding opens automatically at the scheduled Bid Start Time. You need at least one item to publish. Schedule is in Auction Setup > Bid Schedule.
- How to Share Your Auction With Bidders
Share your auction using the auction URL and built-in promotional tools. Post on social media, email, text, and your website. Use Promote & Links for graphics and templates.
Still need help?
Can't find what you're looking for? Contact our support team or browse all help articles.