> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.advocora.io/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Set up and manage an event auction

> Prepare lots, review bids, and understand closing and winner-payment behavior.

Enable **Manage auction items** for the event and open **Auction**. Before opening bidding, confirm the public page and payment setup are ready.

## Prepare a lot

1. Add a lot and enter its number, name, description, donor, and estimated value as appropriate.
2. Set the starting bid, minimum increment, and bidding window.
3. Review the lot's other available settings and keep it **Draft** while preparing it.
4. Save, inspect the lot, and change its state when ready to offer it for bidding.
5. Review the public auction page and the event's auction-preview setting.

## Monitor and close bidding

Review the bids for the lot and its current status. Use the available extend-bidding control when you need a later closing time.

<Warning>
  **Close now** ends bidding and requests a charge to the winning bidder's saved card. Check the lot and bids before confirming. This is a payment action, not merely hiding the lot.
</Warning>

Wait for the result after closing. A close request being accepted does not mean the winner's payment has completed. Check the final status and use [Event Match](/data-management/event-match) for an unmatched auction buyer.

## Troubleshooting

If a lot is missing publicly, check its state, bidding window, and the event's published/public settings. If closing or payment fails, preserve the lot and visible message for **Get support**. Do not create a second lot or charge manually without reconciling the first attempt. Deletion is restricted to draft lots.