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If only everyone could receive perfect holiday gifts that they didn't already own (and that the giver got a great deal on). But that's wishful thinking. When you're getting ready to return gifts — maybe while After Christmas sales are in full swing — it's important to familiarize yourself with a store's return policy to make the process as easy as possible.
Read on for the essential info on holiday returns, from the fine print to look for to the specific policies you can expect from retailers.
What to Look for in a Return Policy
Not all return policies are equal. Here are the questions you should ask to identify those that stand out.
How Much Time Do You Have for Holiday Returns?
Yes, you're on the clock. You can't just sit on an item for six months, then walk into a store and expect to get your money back. Retailers will commonly give you at least 30 days to make a return, and some are more generous. (Of course, the more time you have, the better.) Certain stores give you 60 or even 90 days, but there's usually a cutoff for getting cash back — and you may have to settle for a gift card.
Check for specific product-return dates for purchases made from October through December.
Also, as shown below, some stores expand their return policies during the holiday season. So check for specific return dates for purchases made from October through December. Apple, for example, typically gives you 14 days for returns. For items ordered online and received between November 1 and December 25, though, the return deadline is January 8, 2022.
Is a Receipt Required for Christmas Returns?
Hopefully, any Christmas delivery you get comes with a receipt — that'll help! If you don't have your receipt handy when making Christmas gift returns, you may still be able to return an item in exchange for store credit. But some retailers will reject your return altogether.
What Items Can't Be Returned or Exchanged?
The list varies by retailer, but super-exclusive items, used items, and final sale products probably won't make the cut. So it's best to read the fine print or ask to confirm the return policy before you attempt a return.
SEE ALSO: Shipping Deadlines for Christmas 2021: Get Gifts by Christmas!
Will You Need to Provide Identification?
Some retailers request a valid form of ID when you make a return. Why so? (Hint: It has nothing to do with who you are.) Those who shoplift will be less inclined to return an item for cash if their name is attached to the transaction. Plus, an ID requirement helps retailers track irregular return patterns.
48 Stores' Holiday Return Policies for 2021
What's the Best Buy holiday return policy for 2021? And what should you know about Target, Amazon, and Walmart holiday returns? We answer questions like these in the table below, but keep checking back! We'll update this piece as we learn more about 2021 holiday return policies.
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Related DealNews Blog Posts:
- 39 Retailers That Let You Buy Online and Return In-Store
- Shipping Deadlines for Christmas 2021: Get Gifts by Christmas!
- What to Expect From After Christmas Sales in 2021
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