Need to make a return? Here’s which retailers have extended policies
Were the sneakers you bought for your child this holiday season too small? Or maybe that shirt you received wasn’t the right color? You’re not alone. The National Retail Federation says retailers are estimating almost 17% of this year’s annual sales will be returned.
Here’s what to know about making returns in New York.
Which retailers have extended holiday return policies this year?
Many major retailers offer extended holiday return deadlines. Here’s how long you have to make those returns this year:
- Amazon: Most items purchased between Nov. 1-Dec. 31, 2024 can be returned through January 31, 2025. However, Apple brand products purchased between those dates can be returned only through Jan. 15, 2025.
- Walmart: Most items purchased either in-store or online between Oct. 1-Dec. 31, 2024 can be returned through Jan. 31, 2025.
- Target: Most new, unopened items can be returned for free within 90 days of purchase and this year’s holiday return window for electronics and entertainment, which excludes Apple and Beats products, has been extended to Jan. 24, 2025. If you’re a Target Circle 360 member, you’ll have an extra 30 days to return items.
- Best Buy: Certain items purchased between Nov. 1-Dec. 31, 2024 can be returned through Jan. 14, 2025.
Tips for making holiday returns in NY
Here’s what to know about making holiday returns in New York this year, according to the New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Pay attention to return policies
In New York state, retailers are not required to accept returns, but their refund policies and whether or not they accept returns must be noticeably posted, the state Division of Consumer Protection says.
If the retailer doesn’t have their return policy posted, they are required to accept returns of unused and undamaged merchandise within 30 days of its purchase with proof of purchase and the form of the refund is based on the customer’s preference.
Refunds also don’t have to be given in any specific manner, according to state law.
Keep any proof of purchase
You’ll most likely need your receipt, ID and original form of payment with you when you go to make a return, the state Division of Consumer Protection and BBB say, as retailers are trying to prevent return scams. It’s also a good idea to keep the original packaging of the item and its confirmation number.
Make timely returns
Most, if not all, return policies include a specific time frame as to when you can return an item you’ve purchased, and some stores even modify them during the holidays, specifically, the BBB says. Make sure to return unwanted items sooner rather than later.
Watch out for return scams
Keep an eye out for fraudulent return policies or suspicious third-party return services that promise to handle the process for you, according to the BBB, and be sure to follow the official channels and platforms when you go to return something.
Emily Barnes reports on consumer-related issues for the USA TODAY Network’s New York Connect Team, focusing on scam and recall-related topics. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram @byemilybarnes. Get in touch at ebarnes@gannett.com.
