Have you ever bought something that you loved while you looked at it in the store? But when you got home, you decided that you don’t want it after all? Maybe you were given a gift from a neighbor that you really aren’t into. Whatever the case, check out these tips that will help you get the refund that you want.
Find out their policy
Before you bring the item back into the store, find out what their return and exchange policy is. Every store has different return policies, so make sure you are familiar with them before you ask for a refund. Returns can vary by store since there is no law in the United States that says stores have to give a customer a refund. While most businesses, especially large chains, will be happy to give you money back in exchange for the item, others will only offer a replacement or store credit. Knowing what the store offers before you walk in will make the experience better. It’s also worth knowing what the return policy is on an item before you make the initial purchase.
Bring the receipt and tags
You’ll find it a lot easier to return an item if it has the original tags still on it. Having the receipt will make it even easier. If you threw out or misplaced the receipt, some merchants may accept alternative forms of proof, such as a credit card statement that shows you bought the item there. Bring along the packaging the item came in if you have it, and have your credit card handy if you used it to make the purchase. In most cases, you will be able to get your money back. If you paid with a credit card, the store may refund the money back to your card. In some cases, they will give you cash. If you don’t have the receipt or tags for the item, many stores will allow you to take your refund in store credit.
Return it as soon as you can
If you are buying an item that you aren’t sure you will be keeping, ask about their return policy as you check out. Most stores offer a limited time for returns and exchanges. Some allow you one month to return an item, while others may offer as much as two months or more. For many electronics, you may only have a seven or 14-day window to return the item. Always return the product within this window for the best chance at getting a refund.
Check for broken pieces or missing parts
You’ll likely get a full refund if your item is broken or otherwise damaged. Of course, it has to come this way to begin with! Trying to return an item that you broke yourself is unethical. If the item was already damaged, you are certainly within your rights to ask for a full refund. Most businesses will happily refund your cash or send a refund back to your credit card.
