Stores With the Best and Worst Return Policies

When you’re making your holiday gift list this year, keep in mind that where you buy presents is just as important as what you buy. The chances are pretty high that some of the gifts you buy will be returned. In fact, the 2020 Deloitte Holiday Retail Servey found that 33% of shoppers made returns last holiday season.

Yes, the thought behind a gift does count. But you should also think about buying gifts at stores with generous return policies to make it easier for your friends and family to take back the items they don’t want. Who has time to research store return policies, though?

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Don’t worry: GOBankingRates has done the research for you. We looked at 69 of the top U.S. retailers to find out which ones have the best and worst return policies, evaluating them on the time allotted to return items for a full refund, whether a refund is given in the form of original payment, whether an item can be returned without a receipt, and whether free shipping is available for online returns. The stores on GOBankingRates’ list are organized by retail category.

So, if you’re trying to figure out where to do some end of year shopping (or returning) find out which retailers are the worst and best for return policies.

Last updated: Dec. 29, 2020

Big-Box Retailers

A majority of shoppers plan to do holiday shopping online, and half plan to shop with mass merchants, according to Deloitte. That’s probably no surprise, considering that these retailers offer such a wide range of products. If you’re planning to do your shopping at a big-box retailer, the good news is that the two biggest players in this retail sector — Walmart and Target — have generous return policies. In fact, Walmart’s return policy is better than many on this list.

1. Walmart

Days to return for a full refund: 90
Extension for holiday returns: Extensions on return windows for products purchased between Oct. 16 and Dec. 25 are as follows:
- 14 days: Return by Jan. 8, 2021
- 30 days: Return by Jan. 24, 2021
- 60 days: Return by Feb. 23, 2021
- 90 days: No extension
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes
Free shipping for online returns: Yes

2. Target

Days to return for a full refund: 90
Extension for holiday returns: The extended holiday return policy is as follows:
- Electronics and entertainment items purchased Oct. 1 through Dec. 25: Refund period begins Dec. 26
- Apple products (except mobile phones) purchased between Oct. 1 and Dec. 25: 15-day refund period begins Dec. 26
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: Yes

3. K-Mart

Days to return for a full refund: 45 for Shop Your Way members; 30 for non-members
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: No
Free shipping for online returns: No

4. Big Lots

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: No
Free shipping for online returns: No

5. Sears

Days to return for a full refund: 45 for Shop Your Way members; 30 non-members
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: No
Free shipping for online returns: No

Clothing and Department Stores

Clothing and accessories are expected to be at the top of Americans’ shopping lists this year, according to the Deloitte holiday survey. Be careful where you do your holiday shopping for clothes — return policies can vary greatly among retailers in this category.

Department stores tend to have better return policies than clothing-only stores. The return policy at Macy’s is one of the better ones. However, the most generous policy is at Nordstrom, which doesn’t place a time limit on returns and doesn’t require a receipt for returns.

1. Nordstrom

Days to return for a full refund: No time limit
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes
Free shipping for online returns: No

2. Bloomingdale’s

Days to return for a full refund: 365
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: Yes

3. L.L. Bean

Days to return for a full refund: 365, except for defective items, which will be considered for returns beyond a year
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, if other evidence of purchase can be found
Free shipping for online returns: No

4. Macy’s

Days to return for a full refund: 90
Extension for holiday returns: Purchases made by Dec. 31 may be returned by Jan. 31, 2021 or the last date allowed under the standard return policy; exceptions exist for some products.
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes
Free shipping for online returns: Yes

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5. Gap/Old Navy/Banana Republic/Athleta

Days to return for a full refund: 45
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes
Free shipping for online returns: Yes

6. Neiman Marcus

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: Jan. 31, 2021, for items purchased between Nov. 1 and Dec. 25
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes
Free shipping for online returns: Yes, within 15 days

7. J.C. Penney

Days to return for a full refund: No time limit
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: No

8. Kohl’s

Days to return for a full refund: 180, except for premium electronics
Extension for holiday returns: Jan. 31, 2021 for items purchased between Nov. 1 and Dec. 25
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes
Free shipping for online returns: No

9. Zara

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: No — Even exchanges only
Free shipping for online returns: Yes

10. Victoria’s Secret

Days to return for a full refund: 90
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: Yes

11. Abercrombie & Fitch

Days to return for a full refund: 60
Extension for holiday returns: Jan. 31, 2021 for purchases made between Nov. 1 and Dec. 31, or within 60 days, whichever is longer.
Returns accepted without a receipt: No
Free shipping for online returns: No

12. Anthropologie

Days to return for a full refund: 60
Extension for holiday returns: Jan. 31, 2021 for purchases made between Oct. 1 and Dec. 1
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only as an exchange
Free shipping for online returns: No

13. Express

Days to return for a full refund: 60
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Even exchange only
Free shipping for online returns: No

14. Lane Bryant

Days to return for a full refund: 45
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: No

15. Burlington

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: Jan. 5, 2021 (Jan. 20, 2021 for loyalty members) for items purchased between Oct. 14 and Dec. 6.
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: N/A

16. Marshalls

Days to return for a full refund: 30 for store purchases, 40 for online purchases
Extension for holiday returns: Jan. 24, 2021 for purchases made between Oct. 11 and Dec. 24
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: No

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17. TJ Maxx

Days to return for a full refund: 30 for store purchases, 40 for online purchases
Extension for holiday returns:Jan. 24, 2021 for purchases made between Oct. 11 and Dec. 24
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: No

18. H&M

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: In-store exchange only
Free shipping for online returns: No

19. Dillard’s

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: No
Free shipping for online returns: No

20. Dollar General

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: No
Free shipping for online returns: No

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21. Forever 21

Days to return for a full refund: 60
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: No
Free shipping for online returns: No

22. Ross Stores

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit and you must show ID
Free shipping for online returns: N/A

23. Saks Fifth Avenue

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: Jan. 23, 2021 for purchases made between Nov. 1 and Dec. 24
Returns accepted without a receipt: No
Free shipping for online returns: No

24. Dollar Tree

Days to return for a full refund: Does not offer refunds
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: No
Free shipping for online returns: N/A

Electronics and Game Stores

Video games and electronics are among the most popular items on holiday wish lists this year, according to Deloitte. Unfortunately, electronics and game stores have some of the worst return policies. In fact, Apple has the shortest return policy of any retailer on this list — only 14 days.

1. Newegg

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: Jan. 31, 2021
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes
Free shipping for online returns: Only on items eligible for replacement. Otherwise, a restocking fee of 15%-30% applies.

2. Apple

Days to return for a full refund: 14
Extension for holiday returns: Jan. 8, 2021 for purchases made between Nov. 10 and Dec. 25
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes
Free shipping for online returns: Yes

3. GameStop

Days to return for a full refund: 30, except for pre-owned items, which get seven days
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: No
Free shipping for online returns: Yes

4. Best Buy

Days to return for a full refund: 15
Extension for holiday returns: Jan. 16, 2021 for purchases made between Oct. 13 and Jan. 2, 2021, except cellular products, major appliances and holiday products
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes
Free shipping for online returns: Yes

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Health and Beauty Stores

Buying beauty products as holiday gifts can be tricky, unless you know exactly what the recipient wants. If you don’t, consider buying from retailers with policies that will make returns easy. Among health and beauty stores, MAC Cosmetics and Bath & Body Works have the best return policies.

1. MAC Cosmetics

Days to return for a full refund: No time limit
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: Yes

2. Bath & Body Works

Days to return for a full refund: No time limit
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: No

3. Ulta

Days to return for a full refund: 60
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: No

4. Morphe

Days to return for a full refund: 30 days after stores reopen from COVID-19 closures for store purchases; 60 days from shipping date for online orders
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: No
Free shipping for online returns: No

5. Sephora

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: Jan. 15, 2021 for purchases made between Oct. 30 and Nov. 16
Returns accepted without a receipt: No
Free shipping for online returns: Only if return is due to Sephora’s error

Home Goods and Furniture Stores

Nearly half of this year’s holiday shoppers are expected to make home and kitchen purchases, reported Deloitte. If you’re among them, you’ll have to consider return options from home goods and furniture stores.

Some offer only 30 days to return items, and several don’t allow returns without a receipt. Only one retailer offers free shipping on returns.

1. Bed Bath & Beyond

Days to return for a full refund: 90
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit; some form of proof of purchase is required
Free shipping for online returns: Yes

2. Ikea

Days to return for a full refund: 365
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: No
Free shipping for online returns: No

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3. Wayfair

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes
Free shipping for online returns: No

4. The Container Store

Days to return for a full refund: 120
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: No
Free shipping for online returns: N/A

5. Pier 1 Imports

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes
Free shipping for online returns: No

6. HomeGoods

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: Jan. 24, 2021 for purchases made between Oct. 11 and Dec. 24
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: No

7. Crate & Barrel

Days to return for a full refund: 90
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: No
Free shipping for online returns: No

8. Pottery Barn

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: Jan. 31, 2021 for purchases made between Oct. 15 and Dec. 26
Returns accepted without a receipt: No
Free shipping for online returns: Depends on reason for return

9. Williams-Sonoma

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: Jan. 31, 2021 for purchases made between Oct. 15 and Dec. 26
Returns accepted without a receipt: No
Free shipping for online returns: No

Home Improvement Stores

Fortunately for DIYers, the two biggest home improvement stores — Home Depot and Lowe’s — offer relatively generous return policies. But be careful: One only offers store credit for returns without a receipt.

1. Lowe’s

Days to return for a full refund: 90, except for major appliances, outdoor power equipment, liquid paint, highway trailers and TVs and electronics
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit if purchase can’t be verified
Free shipping for online returns: Yes

2. The Home Depot

Days to return for a full refund: 180
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, within 30 days if purchase can be located in system
Free shipping for online returns: Yes

3. Sherwin-Williams

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Proof of purchase required
Free shipping for online returns: No

4. Menards

Days to return for a full refund: 90
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but you must print a receipt for check or credit card purchases using the return receipt kiosk in stores or show ID
Free shipping for online returns: No

5. Ace Hardware

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: No
Free shipping for online returns: No

Office, School and Art Supply Stores

“I want a stapler for Christmas,” said no one ever. But if you have a friend or family member who needs office supplies or kids who love arts and crafts, the stores that sell these items have consumer-friendly return policies. The best, by far, is at Staples — which allows returns at any time for a full refund or store credit if you don’t have a receipt.

1. Staples

Days to return for a full refund: No time limit, except for electronics and furniture, which get 14 days, and unopened software, which gets 30 days
Extension for holiday returns: Jan. 25, 2021, for any electronic or furniture products purchased between Nov. 15 and Dec. 24
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: Yes

2. Joann Fabric and Craft Stores

Days to return for a full refund: No time limit
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: No

3. Michaels

Days to return for a full refund: 180
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: Yes

4. Hobby Lobby

Days to return for a full refund: 90
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: No

Online Retailers

Holiday shopping can be a breeze if you do it all online from the comfort of your home. And fortunately, the two online retailers included here have extended holiday return policies this year. Amazon also has one of the best store credit cards, which you might want to consider if you frequently shop on the site.

1. Amazon

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: Jan. 31, 2021, for items purchased between Oct. 1 and Dec. 31
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes
Free shipping for online returns: No, but Amazon will automatically return up to $20 for return postage if return postage exceeds $20

2. Overstock

Days to return for a full refund: 30
Extension for holiday returns: Jan. 31, 2021 for purchases made between Nov. 1 and Dec. 31
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes
Free shipping for online returns: Only for defective item or Overstock error

Pet Stores

Don’t forget Fido or Fluffy during your holiday shopping. You’ll likely find what you need for your animal friends at Petco and PetSmart. But do these two popular pet stores have the return policies you need, too? Turns out, their return policies are essentially identical.

1. PetSmart

Days to return for a full refund: 60
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: No

2. Petco

Days to return for a full refund: 60
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: No

Shoe Stores

Shoes can be a tricky holiday gift to buy. Even if you know the recipient’s shoe size, there’s no guarantee that the fit will be right. Fortunately, online shoe retailer Zappos provides free shipping and ample time to make returns for a refund — 365 days. However, other retailers aren’t quite so generous.

1. Zappos

Days to return for a full refund: 365
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes
Free shipping for online returns: Yes

2. DSW

Days to return for a full refund: 60, or for store credit thereafter
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: No

3. Foot Locker

Days to return for a full refund: 45, or 30 days after stores reopen following COVID-19 closings, whichever is later
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: No
Free shipping for online returns: No

Sporting Goods and Recreational Stores

If you’re shopping for sports fans or outdoor enthusiasts, one retailer stands out for its return policy: Big 5 Sporting Goods. You can return store purchases for a full refund at any time if you have a receipt and for store credit without a receipt. The one drawback is that it doesn’t offer free shipping for returns.

1. Big 5 Sporting Goods

Days to return for a full refund: No time limit for store purchases; 90 days for online purchases
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: No

2. Recreational Equipment Inc.

Days to return for a full refund: 365; 90 days for outdoor electronics
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: No, unless you’re a REI member
Free shipping for online returns: No

4. Cabela’s/Bass Pro Shops

Days to return for a full refund: 60; fee charged on refunded returns
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes, but only for store credit
Free shipping for online returns: No

Wholesale and Warehouse Stores

You might not only be stocking up on gifts at a warehouse store but also on food and other things for your holiday gatherings. In addition to low prices, these stores make it easy to return items if you’re not satisfied with them. Of these retailers, Costco offers the most generous return policy.

1. Costco

Days to return for a full refund: No time limit, except for electronics, which get 90 days
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes
Free shipping for online returns: Yes

2. Sam’s Club

Days to return for a full refund: No time limit, except for contact lenses, which get 30 days
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes
Free shipping for online returns: No

3. BJs Wholesale Club

Days to return for a full refund: 365, except for major appliances (30 days after delivery); TVs, home theater displays, laptops, tablets (14 days after receipt); and computers and electronics (90 days)
Extension for holiday returns: N/A
Returns accepted without a receipt: Yes
Free shipping for online returns: No

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Daria Uhlig contributed to the reporting for this article.

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Stores With the Best and Worst Return Policies

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