March 23, 2007, Newsletter Issue #12: Easy Gift Returns After the Holidays

Tip of the Week

It's almost inevitable that you'll need to return a gift or two after the holidays are over. Before you venture inside the mall, make sure you know a particular store's return policy. According to a published story from the Boston Globe on Dec. 24, 2006, different stores have different return policies. Take some tips from these hot retailers on returning your gifts.

Best Buy: The technology giant accepts returns on purchases maded between Nov. 1 and Dec. 24 until Jan. 24. However, exchanges can only be made for computers, camcorders, digital cameras and video games. Items that have been reopened, like camcorders, computers, cameras and GPS systems will be subject to a restocking fee of 15 percent.

Sears: Items that were bought between Nov. 15 and Dec. 20 can be returned for at least 60 days (sometimes 90 days). Items that have been opened, like automotive products, some appliances, home electronics, home improvement items and lawn and garden products are subject to a 15 percent restocking fee.

Toys "R" Us: With a receipt, customers can return most items within 90 days. Videogames, software, electronics, music, DVDs and trading cards cannot be opened and must be returned within 45 days. Products purchased online have to be returned within 30 days. A store credit will be issued if the item is returned to the store.

Target: This major retailer will accept returns on most items for 90 days. Like the other stores, a 15 percent restocking fee is charged for items like camcorders, cameras, portable electronics, framed art, gas-powered scooters and hot tubs. TVs that are 40 inches or larger are required to be in their original packaging and DVDs, music and videogames can only be returned if unopened.

Wal-Mart: Returns on most products can be made within 90 days, however, computer hardware, GPS systems, digital music players and portable video players have to be returned within 15 days. Camcorders and cameras have a 30 day limit and computer accessories must be brought back within 45 days. If you are returning more than three items without a receipt withing 45 days requires manager approval.

Sports Authority: Returns are accepted for 90 days. If you don't have a receipt, a store credit is issued for the lowest price of the product. You have until Jan. 31 to return items bought between Nov. 1 and Dec. 31. Certain products, like perishable items and bats, have different return policies and autographed paraphenalia cannot be returned. Also, know that you cannot return an online purchase to a Sports Authority store.

Barnes & Noble: This retailer will allow returns on items bought after Nov. 19 until the end of January. If you have an item that was purchased online, you can ship it back for a full refund or return to the store for credit. Items without a receipt will receive a store credit. If you plan on returning CDs or DVDs, don't open them beforehand.

Express: This clothing retailer will take up to five returns within 90 days if accompanied by a receipt. If you have a gift receipt, you will receive a store credit or be allowed to exchange the item. It's important to know that if you don't have the receipt, Express will take up to $300 in returns within that 90-day window. You will, however, receive a store credit or be able to exchange the items.

About LifeTips

Now one of the top on-line publishers in the world, LifeTips offers tips to millions of monthly visitors. Our mission mission is to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Expert writers earn dough for what they know. And exclusive sponsors in each niche topic help us make-it-all happen.