Tis the season for giving, but what happens if the gift you have given or received needs to be returned or exchanged? A busy holiday shopping season potentially means we will have a high number of post-holiday returns and exchanges. BBB provides the following tips on how to have hassle-free returns, Stores are not legally required to accept exchanges or give refunds unless the merchandise was defective or misrepresented. While most retailers do offer refund and exchange programs, policies vary greatly from one store to another.
Be sure to double-check policies this holiday season, even if you are familiar with the brand, as stores can change their policies whenever they want. The following tips should help to make your holiday returns run more smoothly. Research retailers beforehand.
Look up the business on BBB.org to check its rating, reviews, and complaints before purchasing, especially if you are unfamiliar with the retailer. This can help avoid issues with returns later.
Get to know store policies. Before you make a purchase, find out if the store has a return policy and, if so, how it works. Understand that many retailers change their policies for the holiday season.
If the store allows returns or exchanges, find out if you need to pay a restocking fee. Ask the seller if they offer cash refunds, exchanges, or only store credit. Store policies are usually posted at the check-out counter or printed on the back of receipts.
Understand online store return policies. If you ar.
