As the holiday season winds down, shoppers looking to return unwanted gifts need to be aware of upcoming return deadlines. Whether the gift was the wrong size, or color, or simply not to your liking, acting quickly can help avoid unnecessary stress. Many retailers offer extended return periods after Christmas, but these deadlines are fast approaching, so it’s essential to keep track. Here’s a rundown of key retailers’ policies to make your return process smoother.
Extended return policies from major retailers
A few major retailers, Best Buy, Macy’s, Walmart, and Target, have all extended the return dates for their patrons because of the holiday rush.
Return policies at Amazon vary according to item specifications. Always check an item’s policy or reach out to the seller directly for assistance. However, Best Buy gave a window until January 14 for a majority of items, while most holiday decorations will have to be returned within 15 days.
For Macy’s, this is an extension from the previous deadline, but customers can now return any item they purchase until January 31. Similarly, those who buy from Walmart will also benefit from a new return window until January 31. It covers nearly all items purchased between October 1 and December 31 and allows returns on those items until January 31 or within 90 days after purchase—whichever date is later.
Most merchandise typically comes with a 90-day return policy under Target’s terms and conditions. Certain items are, however, the exceptions. It will be 30 days for electronics bought during the holiday season. Mobile phones are encompassed and must be returned in just 14 days for Apple and Beats products.
Best practices for returning holiday gifts
Returning holiday presents is indeed such a hassle, but it can all be smoothed with the following best practices for the effective return of gifts. Consumer Reports advises shoppers to bring along physical IDs and the appropriate receipts when going to a store. This is chiefly if an item is returned that has been purchased online or, rather, without its gift receipt.
To avoid misplacing paper receipts, you can ask for digital copies via email at the time of purchase with the retailer. That way you will have a backup in case the physical one goes missing. Subsequently, try to keep gift items in their original packing and during shipping, not to open anything or remove tags, which might be a requirement for returns.
With keeping organized and understanding the return policy of the retailers, all shoppers would hopefully experience a hassle-free moment as they return gifts, bringing the holiday to a good ending note.
