Community Corner

Returning That Holiday Gift Without the Hassle

Take this checklist with you before you head to the store.

Shopping, gift wrapping, eating and family gatherings—sure  the holidays are always fun until you unwrap that hideous sweater or blouse that you know you're never going to wear. We've all been there: You want to return the item back to the store as soon as possible without any hassles. Some of us might be dealing with a gift we just want to exchange or get rid of an unnecessary warranty we purchased.

According to Consumer Reports, 1 in 5 Americans is expected to return at least one holiday gift. Most return policies are more lenient than they were before the recession started, according to a National Retail Federation study, but it points out that some companies have maintained strict policies to fight off fraud and abuse from shoppers. 

So what do you do? Do you have a receipt? Did you pay cash? We checked with Consumer Reports to see what you can do to be prepared before you step foot into that store and ask for a return.

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Be sure to have a receipt

Consumer Reports says many merchants that used to offer at least store credit to shoppers who didn't present a receipt now turn those people away. If you used your debit card, credit card or paid by check, some stores will try to help you by looking up an electronic receipt. Cash customers might be out of luck. 

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Check the Return Deadline

Some stores have varying return deadlines depending on the type of item. "Big merchants usually allow 90 days for returns of most items but might have far shorter periods for home and personal electronics, software, and CDs and DVDs," Consumer Reports says on its website. Some stores may choose to extend their return dates during the holidays, but usually electronics have to be returned within 15 to 30 days. 

Online vs. In Store 

If the item was purchased online you might be able to return it at your local store. Consumer Reportssuggests that you call the merchant or check the website to see whether you can do so, thus avoiding  repacking and shipping fees. 

Your ID

Be sure to bring your identification with you when you go to return something. Consumer Reports suggests you come prepared and bring along your driver's license because some companies, including Best Buy, require a government-issued ID with a receipt. "That way, they can track serial returners even if the transaction is in cash," Consumer Reports says. 

Make Sure You Like It Before You Open It

Ever heard of restocking fees? "Merchants can't resell an item as new after the package has been opened, so they impose a restocking fee, usually 15 percent of the product's cost," according to Consumer Reports. These fees can also apply to furniture, sporting goods and special orders. If you open a CD or DVD case, chances are you won't be able to return it.


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