Walmart’s Return Policy

We’ve all done it before, gone shopping with stars in our eyes only to get home later and find that we either spent too much, bought something that we already have, or the pants we loved but didn’t try on don’t fit.

Fortunately most retailers will allow their customers to return or exchange items that don’t work out. Unfortunately, these policies have gotten more and more confusing and customers are often left in the cold because they don’t understand what they are responsible for in a return transaction. Walmart is one of the U.S.’s largest retailers and here is brief breakdown of their return policy for the next time you change your mind on a purchase.

If you have misplaced your receipt and don’t have it on you at the time you would like to make your return, here is the information you need to know. First, all returned items under $25 will receive a cash refund. Please note that all individuals requesting refunds without a receipt will be asked to provide a photo i.d. Also, returns without a receipt must follow the return policy protocol. Finally, in order to make that return you cannot have a return denial within the past 90 days.

If your item is over $25 dollars and you do not have your receipt, you will receive a gift card for the amount of the purchase or you may request an even exchange.

Please note that all sales are final on weapons purchases.

If you have your receipt, you may return your item within 90 days with the following exceptions, including but not limited to the following items: many electronics, chainsaws, power washers, and personal electronics such as computers.

The Holidays are approaching fast and people will make the majority of their purchases during November and December. Walmart has a slightly modified return policy for items purchased during that time frame. All items purchased between November 1-December 24 are considered holiday purchases. They have a limited return period that begins on December 26 (Boxing day in other countries). Customers may return items with 15-30 days of December 26.

If you aren’t sure about whether or not your item will meet the criteria for a return during that time period, I recommend that you go with the first 5 days of that limited return period just in case your item is one which has to be returned within the 15 day window.

Return policies have become more complicated because we now use computerized systems to track purchases. With that type of system comes the ability to store information on all of the store’s items and each item’s return policy. Retailers are now able to craft return policies that aren’t as intuitive to the humans they serve. Be proactive and get to know your favorite store’s return policy. Have a favorite sales associate, ask about the return policy prior to purchase, and be mindful of what you’re buying. Work hard to avoid having to make a return so that you don’t have to know the ins and outs of how your store manages item returns.