Navigating gift returns can be tricky, especially with varying policies among retailers. Here's a handy guide to help you know the best places for returns and the tips to make the process hassle-free.

Best Retailers for Returns

Amazon
- Policy: 30 days for regular purchases; extended holiday returns for items bought Nov. 1–Dec. 31 until Jan. 31, 2024.
- Process: Free shipping for returns; drop-off options at Amazon Lockers, Whole Foods, Kohl’s, and UPS stores.

Costco
- Policy: No time limit for most items; 90 days for electronics.
- Extras: No receipt needed (except for specific items like alcohol or batteries).

Kohl’s
- Policy: 180 days for most items. Holiday purchases made after Nov. 1 can be returned until Jan. 31, 2024.
- Extras: No receipt required; premium electronics must be returned within 30 days.

L.L.Bean
- Policy: 1-year return window with proof of purchase.
- Extras: Free returns if purchased with Bean Bucks or L.L.Bean credit card; otherwise, $6.50 for mail-in returns.

Target
- Policy: 90 days for most items; 30 days for electronics (holiday purchases extended to Jan. 31, 2024).
- Extras: Returns are free in-store or via mail.

Walmart
- Policy: 90 days for most items; electronics have a 30-day window, and post-paid phones must be returned in 14 days.
- Holiday Extension: Purchases made Oct. 1–Dec. 31 are returnable until Jan. 31, 2024.

Nordstrom
- Policy: No formal time limits; flexible case-by-case returns.
- Extras: No receipt required, and free prepaid mail-in returns.

Zappos
- Policy: 1-year return window for unworn items in original packaging.
- Extras: Free shipping on returns and exchanges.

Retailers With Stricter Policies

Apple
- Policy: 14 days for most items.
- Holiday Extension: Purchases made Nov. 3–Dec. 25 can be returned until Jan. 8, 2024.

Best Buy
- Policy: 15 days for most items; holiday purchases (Oct. 27–Dec. 30) are returnable until Jan. 13, 2024.
- Extras: 15% restocking fee for some opened items.

GameStop
- Policy: 15 days for unopened items; 7 days for pre-owned products.
- Extras: Opened merchandise is exchangeable for an identical item within 30 days.

Wayfair
- Policy: 30 days for most items, excluding clearance and Open Box deals.
- Holiday Extension: Purchases made Nov. 1–Dec. 31 returnable until Jan. 31, 2024.

4 Tips for Easy Returns

Keep Packaging Intact
- Avoid opening boxes or removing tags unless you're certain about keeping the item. Many retailers charge restocking fees for opened items, especially electronics.

Save Gift Receipts
- These are often required for refunds or exchanges. Without a receipt, some stores offer only store credit based on the lowest recent price.

Check Policies in Advance
- Look up return deadlines and specifics for items like electronics or seasonal goods. Note whether returns are free or if you’ll need to pay shipping fees.

Bring ID for Returns Without Receipts
- Many stores, including Home Depot and Best Buy, require ID for tracking returns and limiting abuse.

Final Notes

Return policies vary widely, but knowing the terms can make the process smooth and stress-free. For hassle-free returns, stick with flexible retailers like Amazon, Costco, and Nordstrom, and always keep your receipts or tags intact. Happy shopping and returning!

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