If you've ever purchased an item only to regret having let go of the cash as soon as you get home (or worse yet, to your car)? Years ago, I was afraid to return items. I thought there would be a huge hassle, a long wait and/or rude associates to deal with. For the most part, none of this is true. Here are some tips to getting your money back:
- KEEP YOUR RECEIPT! Although a few stores can track your purchase if you pay with a credit or debit card, this is not the norm. You may want to file receipts temporarily, just in case you decide to return something.
- Do not remove tags or take items out of boxes until you are ready to use them. This gives you time to find a better deal or a more appropriate item.
- If you decide to return an item, find the receipt and read return details from the retailer (these may be located on the reverse side of the receipt...otherwise look online). Verify the time frame you must make your return (retailers may allow you 90 days, but some only allow 30).
- Grab a bag & fill it with the item & matching receipt. Keep this in your vehicle so you will be prepared the next time you shop at the appropriate store.
- On your way to make your return, be sure to carry the card you used to pay for the item, b/c some retailers can only give you credit if you have the payment form with you. (Otherwise you will be issued a store gift card.)
- If you cannot locate your receipt (or you received the item as a gift), you will be issued store credit at some retailers. Most shops limit how many items you can return without a receipt in a given time period. Also, without a receipt, you will receive the LOWEST price the item has sold for, which could be a lot less than you actually spent (back to rule #1....ALWAYS KEEP YOUR RECEIPTS!)
- Most larger chains require returns to be made at Customer Service.
- One final note: Make returns in the early morning. There are usually shorter lines from 8 - 10 am. (The worst times to make returns is anytime on the weekend, during the lunch hour rush and in the early evening hours.)
Special Rules for Returns:
- The Dollar Tree does NOT allow returns, however items w/receipt can be exchanged within 30 days of purchase.
- Walgreen's will accept returns for items you received Register Rewards for IF you return RR with the item (i.e. Occasionally I forget to use the RR before it expires, so I may return the item & the RR.)
- CVS will accept returns for items you earned Extra Care Bucks for IF you return ECB withe the item.
- Rite Aid will accept items you received a +UP reward for IF you return the +UP along with the item.
- Wal-mart requires shoppers to speak with the greeter & receive tags for unwanted items prior to entering the store & will give store credit for items returned w/out a receipt.
- Big Lots will accept returns with receipt within 30 days of purchase.
- Many retailers have different guidelines for clearance and/or seasonal items. Some do NOT allow returns for these items (check your receipt).
- Target can give credit to your card with the item and receipt, even if you don't have the card. If you cannot find your receipt, yet know which card you used to pay for the item, you can present the card & item & will receive credit.
The next time jeans don't fit when you get home or your child decides he doesn't like XYZ toy two days before Christmas or you visit your mom only to realize she already has the gadget you bought her for her birthday take the time to get your money back! I'm sure you'll have the receipt handy!
