Many Happy Returns! Your Guide to Getting a Refund After the Holidays

Holiday shopping is challenging. Returning holiday purchases can be maddening. Nothing is more frustrating than dealing with post-holiday returns and not getting a proper refund. Here are some tips on the return process to make sure you have hassle-free returns this holiday season.

Note Your Return Window

Many online retailers have a return window of 30-60 days to return the item. Make sure you return the item within that timeframe. Check the seller's fine print to determine if the time period starts from the order date or delivery date. During the holidays some retailers offer extended return windows.

Electronics and Apple products may have shorter return periods. For eBay and Etsy items, the return times depend on the seller. If an item is “not as described” from eBay, the company has a 30-day return window. Walmart and Target typically have a 90-day return policy on most items.

Check for Return Shipping Costs

You may have snagged that “free shipping” deal, but that may not mean that the retailer provides free returns. You might be able to get a better deal by printing out a label and bringing it to a USPS or UPS store instead of having the retailer arrange for pickup. Similarly, if you ordered online from a retail store near you, you may be able to save on the return shipping fee altogether by returning it to a physical store.

Depending on the retailer or e-commerce site, you may have to pay a restocking fee, which is typically a percentage of the item.

Return in Original Packaging With Order Number

You may have a receipt or packing slip with the original order. Include a copy of that receipt (keeping the original for your records) in the package. When using their return label, take a photo of the tracking number so you will be able to show proof when the seller received the returned item.

If you still have the original packaging, use it or pack the item in a way so it will not be damaged in transit. Before you ship, take a photo of the item to prove it was not damaged before you mailed it.

Charm Customer Service

Customer service teams are trained to preserve customer loyalty. Some make the return experience easy so they have higher customer satisfaction. If you are respectful and earnest in your request, they may be able to waive store return policies. If you can’t get a full refund, ask for store credit or a gift card.

Additionally, some sellers may provide you with a discount for online purchases if you agree to keep the item.

Still Didn’t Get Your Money Back?

If you have done everything properly and you are not getting the return you should, contact your credit card company. They will put the charge in dispute and the seller must explain why they did not issue a refund. Having all your documentation, including the receipt when you sent it back, will help prove your case.

You can also report the seller to the Better Business Bureau, state consumer protection bureau, or a third-party retailer (such as Amazon or eBay). You can also leave online reviews about not getting a refund, but stick to the facts and don’t post anything that is defamatory.

Pro Tips for No Hassle Holiday Returns

• Be aware of the seller’s holiday return policy.
• Read the fine print about return fees and restocking fees.
• Keep all proof of purchase, gift receipts, and packing slips in one place.
• Note the return by date on the slip so you don’t miss the return window.
• Take photos of items and shipping labels with tracking numbers before mailing.

With some planning, good recordkeeping, and patience you may get the refund or credit for your online or in-store purchases and enjoy the rest of your holiday season.

Related Resources

• Do Retail Stores Have to Accept Returns? (FindLaw Law and Daily Life)
• Customer Returns and Refund Laws By State (FindLaw Legal Guide to Consumer Transactions)
• Return Policies and Refunds (FindLaw Legal Guide to Consumer Transactions)