We’ve all been there. You purchase on a whim because it was on sale; because you felt like you needed it; or because you thought it would fit (and surprise, it didn’t).
Then, you juggle your options. Is it too late to return it to the store?
But, you’ve lost the receipt. Can you return it without a receipt? Will they notice (or care) that you wore it once?
Don’t worry. We’ll answer all these questions and more in this complete guide to the best return policies you can find in-store and online.
In this ultimate list, we compiled a list of the top 5 stores with the best return policies (plus the stores with the best return policy without a receipt).
To add to the suspense, these stores are listed in order of good to great to BEST (not that you couldn’t scroll down to number 31 right now, anyway).
But why would you do that?
Then you would miss out on the other 4 stores with amazing return policies!
What Is a Return Policy?
First things first, what is a return policy, anyway?
It’s a universal experience to wish you hadn’t bought something, whether it doesn’t fit right, doesn’t work, or was just a mistake in the first place.
Most retailers understand that, and because they want their customers to be happy, they offer policies that allow customers to return items they recently purchased, whether online or in-store.
Return policies also dictate all the rules and regulations around returning unwanted merchandise–for example, the timeframe for when returns are made, which items can be returned at all, and special conditions surrounding returns.
Most return policies have generous sections regarding exclusions to their policy. Luckily, we’ve gathered the most important information you need to know, including what you can and can’t return to your favorite retailers.
1. Best Buy: Better Return Policy
- Standard Return Window: 15 days
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: Maybe
Although Best Buy’s standard return window is 15-days, Best Buy members enjoy extended return windows:
- 30 days for Elite Members
- 45 days for Elite Plus Members
- 60 days for Totaltech Members
However, this information only applies to regular purchases at Best Buy.
Best Buy’s return policy for “activatable devices” is different. For items like phones, tablets, hotspots, and wearable devices, Best Buy only gives you two week period where you can return these items (except for Verizon devices, which have a 30-day return window).
Returned items must:
- Be “like-new” with no damage or dirt
- Not be worn or washed
- Attached to the original tags
And on top of that, some items will incur a restocking or return fee, which is $45 for activatable devices and 15% of the purchase price for:
- Drones
- Most cameras and lenses
- Premium camcorders
- Projectors and screens
- Special order products
The good news is that most items don’t fall under these restrictions–or the ones that dictate which items are final sale.
If you don’t have a receipt or any proof of purchase, Best Buy might still process your return. But it depends on the discretion of the store.
2. The Apple Store: The Best Electronics Policy
- Standard Return Window: 14 days
- Accepts returns without a receipt: No
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: No
Although some people deem Apple’s return policy as poor compared to other retailers, it’s a decent policy for electronics, especially phones.
Apple gives you 14 days to return items from the date you received them, whether in-store or online, and returns on cell phones do not incur a restocking fee like most other major electronics retailers–however, your Apple purchases must be directly from an Apple Store, not a third party seller like Amazon.
Apple notes in their return policy that you should look into your phone plan’s cancellation policy before making returns, since returning an Apple iPhone may not automatically cancel or reset your service agreement.
Some items can also never be returned to Apple, including:
- Opened or installed software
- Electronic software downloads
- Software upgrades
- Gift cards
- Apple Print products
- Apple Developer products
3. Amazon: Send it Back in 30 Days
- Standard Return Window: 30 days from delivery
- Accepts returns without a receipt: No
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: No
Amazon is the world’s largest online retailer, and there’s a reason Amazon retains so many loyal customers–they make it easy to shop and even easier to make returns.
Amazon’s return policy states that items “can be returned within 30 days of receipt of shipment in most cases,” but certain products may have additional stipulations (that’s why it’s always good to review specific return policies on individual products if you’re on the fence!).
Although Amazon returns are free–they won’t charge you anything to make the return–you may be liable for shipping costs.
Amazon returns are completely free of cost if:
- You receive a printable return label from the Returns Center
- You send your Amazon returns through Kohl’s Amazon Return Service
4. CVS: Return Open Beauty Products
- Standard Return Window: 60 days
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: Maybe
CVS offers a standard 60-day return window, and most items must be returned in new, unopened condition.
However, CVS does accept returns on open and used beauty products. So, you can enjoy a 100% satisfaction guarantee on beauty purchases.
CVS reserves the right to refuse returns for any items lacking proof of purchase, mentioning that these returns “may be limited or denied,” but you may still be able to process a return if the CVS manager is feeling kind that day.
5. Sephora: Accepting Gently Used Returns
- Standard Return Window: 60 days
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: No
You only have 60 days to process returns at Sephora, but they do allow you to return gently used products–so why not take a chance on a product you might love?
Returns at Sephora are always free. Sephora will provide you with a free shipping label for online orders you want to return by mail, including purchases through third-party sites like Instagram and Facebook. Or, you can also online orders at your local Sephora (also for free).
However, Sephora will not refund any original shipping charges.
If you lost your receipt, Sephora will only process your return if they can locate your purchase in their system through your Sephora account or associated credit card.
6. Athleta: Don’t Sweat It, Return It After Your Workout
- Standard Return Window: 60 days
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: No
Athleta falls under the same corporate umbrella as the GAP, Old Navy, and Banana Republic, but their return policies are not the same.
While Athleta’s sister stores require that returns be in their original condition, Athleta provides a GIVE-IT-A-WORKOUT GUARANTEE.
If you’re not happy with how your clothes “perform,” then you can return them within 60 days. Athleta doesn’t specify if you should wash them before returning–but we’d go with yes.
Returns are always free, and Athleta will provide a shipping label for returns sent back by mail.
Here are some details about Athleta’s return policy you should know:
- Items marked “final sale” cannot be returned
- All masks are final sale
- “Mail Only” items and items purchased through Facebook or Instagram cannot be returned in-store
- Items bought in-store cannot be returned online
- You cannot return items without valid proof of purchase
Altheta also offers a special policy for holiday returns. Any items purchased between November 1st and December 24th have until January 15th to make returns–or 60 days after purchase if that’s later.
7. Macy’s: Don’t Remove Tags on Returns
- Standard Return Window: 90 days
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: No
Any items you return to Macy’s must be in their original condition with the tags still attached.
Shipping and delivery fees are non-refundable, but online returns are entirely free when you mail your return back to Macy’s via UPS. Just print out Macy’s return mailing-label through their Easy Returns process.
There are several notable exclusions to Macy’s standard 90-day return policy, however, including no returns on:
- Food items
- Beverages
- Macy’s Beauty Boxes
You have only 14 days to return items from certain brands, including:
- Apple
- Gucci
- Longchamp
- Tous
8. Bed Bath & Beyond: Three Months to Return
- Standard Return Window: 90 days
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: Yes
Bed Bath & Beyond accepts returns online and in-store, and most items can be returned after 90 days or less after the purchase date even if they’ve been opened, worn, or used–but there are some exceptions.
If you don’t have a receipt and Bed Bath & Beyond can’t track down your purchase, you’ll receive an 80% refund of the current selling price of the item.
The 90-day return window is valid for most items, but you only have a 30-day return window for smart home tech and seasonal items, including patio decor and grills.
Electronics (like appliances, baby monitors, and robotic vacuums) have a 60-day return window, and open-air mattresses can’t be returned–only exchanged for a similar item.
Most baby and maternity items (including clothing, breast pumps, swings, seats, and strollers) must be new, unused, and opened to be eligible for returns.
And some items can’t be returned at all, like:
- “As-is” items
- Products sold on a “Beyond Deal”
- VEBO experiences
- Customized or personalized items
- Gift cards
- Charges for services
Overall, Bed Bath & Beyond offers a pretty solid return policy.
9. Lands’ End: A Lenient Return Policy
- Standard Return Window: 90 days
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: Yes
Lands’ End’s return policy states that you have 90 days to return items if you’d like to be refunded to the original form of payment.
If you don’t have proof of purchase or you’re past the 90-day window, you can still return your items–you just won’t see your money return your card. Instead, Lands’ End will issue a merchandise credit “at the value determined by Lands’ End.”
School Uniforms with a logo can only be returned within the 90-day return window, and some items cannot be returned at all, including:
- Personalized items
- Merchandise with monograms or embroidery
- “Final-sale” items
- Face masks
10. Bloomingdale’s: Taking Care of You
- Standard Return Window: 90 days
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: Yes
Bloomingdale’s accepts most returns up to 90 days after the purchase date–which is a fairly lenient return window!
The biggest caveat to Bloomingdale’s return policy is that your items must still be “in saleable condition,” but they specifically note that they “will always be reasonable” as a part of their “commitment to taking care of you every step of the way.” That’s pretty sweet, Bloomingdale’s.
If you don’t have a receipt or some other proof of purchase, you can receive store credit to your Bloomingdale account or merchandise credit valued at the lowest selling price of the product within the last 180 days.
Don’t be deceived by Bloomingdale’s “Final Offer” merchandise. You have 30 days to make returns on these items.
And there are some special return policies for select items, including designer apparel, dresses, furniture, mattresses, and area rugs.
11. Lowe’s: No Receipt? No Problem.
- Standard Return Window: 90 days
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: No
Whether you need to make a return by mail or in-person, Lowe’s makes it easy to process returns.
You have 90 days to return most items, but they must still be in new or unused condition–and you need some proof of purchase.
If you don’t have your receipt, you may be able to locate some proof of purchase through Lowe’s system if you provide:
- The original credit card used to purchase
- Your checking account number used to purchase
- Your MyLowe’s card or associated phone number
Without proof of purchase, Lowe’s may accept returns in exchange for store credit “at its discretion.” So, while you technically can make returns without a receipt, it depends on who’s working at your local Lowe’s that day.
If you do make a return without a receipt, however, you’ll need a valid photo ID.
Lowe’s major exceptions to their return policy include:
- 30-day returns on items like TVs, major appliances, power equipment, water heaters, and liquid paint
- No refunds on shipping charges, services charges, gift cards, credits, and face masks
- 20% restocking fee on Special Order products
12. The Home Depot: A Great Plant Policy
- Standard Return Window: 90 days
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: No
Unless specified in their Return Policy Exceptions, most merchandise can be returned to The Home Depot within 90 days of purchase as long as it is still new, unopened, and unused.
Some exceptions include things like:
- You have 30 days to return furniture, area rugs, generators, and electronics
- Major appliances must be returned within 48 hours of delivery or pick up
- Hazardous materials cannot be returned by mail
We’d say The Home Depot’s return policy’s exceptions are within reason. But their return policy on plants is outrageous (in a good way).
The Home Depot offers a 1-year guarantee on perennials, trees, and shrubs. If they die within the first year, you’re eligible for a full refund, no questions asked.
And, if any live plants you order online arrive dead, you can receive a free replacement for free if you alert The Home Depot within 3 days.
13. IKEA: Accepting Returns All Year Long
- Standard Return Window: 365 days
- Accepts returns without a receipt: No
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: No
You have a full year to make returns on IKEA purchases as long as they aren’t opened. Open products have a return window of 180 days–which is still a generous time frame.
Depending on the policies of the specific IKEA locations near you, you might even be eligible for pick-up services on your returned items!
IKEA does have some major restrictions on returns, though. You can never return:
- Plants
- Cut fabric
- Custom countertops
- As-is products
- Merchandise that is dirty, stained, or damaged
- Any product “modified from its original form”
You’ll also need your original receipt and a valid government-issued photo ID–so if you lost your receipt, you’re out of luck. No returns at IKEA for you.
But if you do have your receipt, you have all year to decide if your IKEA purchase is a keeper or if you need to make a return (as long as you don’t open it).
14. Whole Foods Market: 100% Product Satisfaction, Including Amazon Fresh Orders
- Standard Return Window: 90 days
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: No
Although the Whole Foods return policy isn’t as good as the one you’ll find around the corner at Trader Joe’s (which we’ll cover later), it’s still a decent policy!
Whole Foods Market allows returns within 90 days of purchase. And although their return policy clearly states that they “require receipts for all returns,” Whole Food may still refund you without a receipt.
Payments on all major credit cards or from gift cards (that you still possess) can help a Whole Foods employee track down your proof of purchase, and if that doesn’t work, some locations may still give you gift card reimbursement at their discretion.
If you made your purchase through Amazon Fresh, your order is eligible for free returns–but you can’t send food back by mail. Instead, you’ll need to head over to your local Whole Foods Market to process your Amazon return.
15. JCPenney: Accepts Returns After the 90-Day Return Window
- Standard Return Window: 90 days
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: Yes
As long as your JCP merchandise is in its original condition, you can return it within 90 days of the original purchase.
If you lost your receipt or you’re past the three-month mark, you can still make an exchange or receive a voucher. Under these conditions, your returns are eligible for an exchange or a JCP Return Voucher equal to the lowest selling price of the item within the last 45 days.
JCPenney does require you to provide a valid photo ID if you return an item without a receipt, though, so don’t forget your driver’s license at home!
Some items cannot be refunded or returned to JCP ever, including:
- Gift cards
- Personalized or monogrammed items
- Body jewelry
- Face masks
- Perishable foods
- Services
When you make in-store returns at JCPenney, it’s always free. However, when mailing returns through UPS, you’ll have to pay an $8 charge.
16. Zappos: No Rush to Try On Your New Shoes
- Standard Return Window: 365
- Accepts returns without a receipt: No
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: No
To make returns to Zappos, your products must be in new condition with their original packaging and tags still intact (so don’t rip into your new shoes too quickly). Luckily, there’s no rush, since Zappos gives you a full year to decide if you want to send your shoes back.
Since Zappos doesn’t maintain brick-and-mortar storefronts, all returns must be processed online or via mail. It might sound like a hassle at first, but Zappos does its best to make the process painless–and free!
Simply print your free shipping label from your Zappos account, tape it to your shipping box, and drop it off at your local UPS store.
17. L.L.Bean: Not a Lifetime, But Close to It
- Standard Return Window: 365 days
- Accepts returns without a receipt: No
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: No
L.L.Bean accepts returns for any reason within one year of purchase. After the first year, they will only accept returns that are “defective due to materials or craftsmanship.”
However, if you purchased your products before February 9, 2018, this return policy doesn’t apply to you. Instead, you’re covered under L.L.Bean’s lifetime guarantee.
There are some exceptions, which L.L.Bean calls “special conditions.” You cannot return products that:
- Are damaged by abuse, negligence, accidents, or natural disasters
- Show excessive wear and tear
- Are lost
- Have missing or defaced labels
- Are soiled, dirty, or otherwise contaminated
In addition to these restrictions, you are liable for a $6.50 fee per package if you return your items by mail.
18. REI: 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
- Standard Return Window: 90 days
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: No
REI’s standard return time limit is 90 days–unless you’re an REI Co-op Member (the membership costs $30 but never expires). Members get 365 days to return purchases, except for outdoor electronics which everyone has 90 days to return.
Before trying to make a return to REi, take note that there are a few more exceptions:
- Items with normal wear and tear or accidental damage cannot be returned
- Final sale items cannot be returned, including Memberships, tickets, passes, and gift cards
- Unwashed or excessively dirty items
Returns made by mail will cost you a $5.99 fee to cover shipping costs.
Overall, REI’s return policy is pretty decent. Worn and used items can be returned within three months for free as long as you take them to an REI location.
19. Walmart: A Great Value, Even When Returning
- Standard Return Window: 90 days
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: Yes
We all know that Walmart has some of the best prices–but does their return policy stand up to the competition?
Although it isn’t the best around, Walmart’s return policy is decent–and it’s free. You have 90 days to return most items, except for:
- Most cellphones (14 days)
- Most electronics (30 days)
- Prescription glasses and contact lenses (60 days)
- Hearing aids (60 days)
- Air Mattresses (exchange only)
One exception that works in your favor is Walmart’s policy for perennials, trees, and shrubs. You have one whole year to return or exchange these plants, but you must have a receipt.
20. Target: Expect More, Pay Less, and Return Some of It
- Standard Return Window: 90 days
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: Yes
When you make returns at Target, your items must be unopened and still in new condition. While most products are covered under the 90-day return policy, some items (like Apple products and other electronics) have special policies that you can find on your original receipt.
Lost your receipt? That’s okay.
Target can track down your proof of purchase if you paid:
- With a Target RedCard
- With Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover
- With a check and can bring a blank check from the same checkbook
- With a Target Giftcard and still have the card information
- Online through the Target App or website
- Through your Target account in-store or online
And if you can’t find any proof of purchase, Target may still be able to refund you with a merchandise return card.
21. Kohl’s: Six Months for a Full Refund
- Standard Return Window: 180 days
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: Yes
Kohl’s offers a pretty decent return policy.
At Kohl’s, you can return items up to 180 days after purchase (that’s about six months) for a full refund with or without your receipt.
If you’re missing your receipt, Kohl’s will issue a merchandise credit valued at the lowest sale price of the item in the past 13 weeks.
There are several exceptions to this policy, which have unique rules and regulations surrounding returns, including:
- Premium electronics
- Products purchased from Sephora at Kohl’s
- Gift cards
Kohl’s accepts returns in-store and by mail, but you are liable for any shipping costs to sending your items back to Kohl’s by mail.
22. Staples: Return Office Supplies Any Time
- Standard Return Window: Lifetime
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: Yes
Staples features very few restrictions in its return policy on office supplies. You can return them any time in almost any condition–except in toner which must be unopened.
Their policy for electronics and furniture is different, though. For these products, you have 14 days–and returns are always free.
If you don’t have your receipt, and Staples can’t find another proof of purchase, they will offer you a refund–but it won’t be a full refund. Instead, they’ll give you an in-store credit for the lowest selling price of the item in the last 30 days.
However, there are a few items that can never be returned to Staples including:
- Gift cards
- Prepaid phone cards
- Open headsets, headphones, or earbuds
- Downloadable software
23. Costco: 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
- Standard Return Window: Lifetime
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: No
Costco offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee to all customers, which translates to no time limit on when you can make returns, with a few exceptions on items like:
- Electronics
- Diamonds
- Cigarettes
- Alcohol
- Tires
- Batteries
- Special order products
With a dedicated returns counter and online options, Costco makes it easy to initiate returns–whether it’s been 2 days or 2 years since you purchased the item.
Since you must have a membership to shop at Costco, losing your receipt is no big deal. They’ll just look up your order through your membership number.
And, if you received a gift from Costco but aren’t a member yourself, all you need is a gift receipt or the gift giver’s membership number to make a return.
Not only is Costco one of the best wholesale stores in existence – but it also has one of the best return policies of all time.
24. Patagonia: Offering Repairs, Replacements, or a Refund
- Standard Return Window: Lifetime
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: Yes
Patagonia’s Ironclad Guarantee proves that they believe their products can and should satisfy you. If they don’t, you can always return your purchases.
There is no restriction on when you can return an item, but Patagonia does politely request that you return items promptly, especially those that are being returned due to their fit or color.
Patagonia also requests that the original tags are attached and the product still is in new condition–however, these are requests, not restrictions.
If your purchase was made over one year ago or if you don’t have proof of purchase, Patagonia will offer you merchandise credit rather than a full refund.
Returns by mail will also incur a $5 fee for a printable shipping label.
25. Orvis: The “Great Catch Guarantee”
- Standard Return Window: Lifetime
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: Yes
If you’re not happy with a purchase, you should contact the retailer to make things right. Why? Because you deserve 100% customer satisfaction.
According to Orvis, “that’s the Orvis way.”
When you contact Orvis about returns, chances are you won’t end up empty-handed (or should we say “with your hands full of things you don’t want?”).
In most cases, Orvis will process your return easily, regardless of when you purchased it or what condition it’s in (with the main exception being swimsuits without their hygienic liner).
If they can’t process your return, Orvis will probably repair your items, especially if you’d like to return:
- Chewed up dog beds
- Fly rods and reels
- Waders and Gokey Shoes
- Luggage
Read more about the very few exceptions to Orvis’s return policy here.
26. Bath & Body Works: Return Anything, Anytime
- Standard Return Window: Lifetime
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: Yes
Bath & Body Works likes to keep things simple. Their return policy is short, and it states:
“We just want you to love it! Return anything, anytime for any reason. 100% Guaranteed.”
But they do advise against trying to return empty bottles (which is embarrassing, anyway. Who would try to do that?).
Anyway, online purchases can be returned online or in-store, and purchases made at a Bath & Body Works location can be returned at any Bath & Body Works location in the US.
If you don’t have proof of purchase (like a receipt or a shipping confirmation), Bath & Body Works will issue you store credit based on “the lowest selling price of the item” including any discounts, promotions, or coupons.
27. Nordstrom: Here to Make You Happy
- Standard Return Window: Lifetime
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: Yes
Nordstrom’s return policy is iconic for its lenience.
If you believe the stories, a customer once returned an entire set of car tires to Nordstrom. Nordstrom’s no-questions-asked return policy accepted the return–even though Nordstrom doesn’t sell tires (and they never have).
Now, this isn’t an endorsement to try to return anything you want to get rid of to Nordstrom. Instead, just know that you can make purchases at Nordstrom with the assurance that you’ll either love it–or you can return it.
Although Nordstrom no longer offers a no-questions-asked policy, here’s what Nordstrom has to say:
“We handle returns… with the ultimate goal of making our customers happy.”
With proof of purchase, you can get your money back on your credit card or in cash (whichever you originally paid with), and without a receipt, you’ll receive a Nordstrom Gift Card (if you have a photo ID).
There aren’t many stipulations to Nordstrom’s return policy, but there are some:
- Gift cards can’t be returned
- You must call about Casper and Westin Heavenly Beds
- Fine jewelry requires unique return paperwork and procedures
- Some returns cannot be accommodated “from time to time”
- Designer dresses must have their original tags
This return policy only applies to Nordstrom locations–see Nordstrom Rack’s return policy here.
28. Trader Joe’s: Taste In-Store or At Home
- Standard Return Window: Lifetime
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: Yes
It’s difficult to find Trader Joe’s generous return policy online. All they have to say is, “We tried it. We like it. If you don’t, bring it back for a refund or exchange.”
Although this policy may seem scarce, it’s one of the broadest policies on this list. You can return anything to Trader Joe’s–even if you opened it, ate it, burnt it, sat on it, or just changed your mind.
No matter what, Trader Joe’s will give you your money back.
If you think that the return policy is impressive, you might be blown away by this TJ’s policy: customers can sample anything in the store before they buy it.
Don’t believe me? Just ask a crew member next time you’re at Trader Joe’s! I promise you’ll be delightfully surprised.
29. Ulta Beauty: Beautifully Simple Returns
- Standard Return Window: Lifetime
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: Yes
Ulta Beauty claims to make their return process “beautifully simple for you,” because they want to deliver the best shopping experience possible–and they mean it.
There’s no time limit on returns, you don’t need proof of purchase to receive a refund, and you can return beauty products even if you already used them. However, you will need to return the item with all original components–so don’t throw away your boxes!
If you lost your receipt, Ulta will try to look up your purchase in their system. And if they can’t find it, they’ll issue you a merchandise credit equal to the lowest selling price of the product within the last 90 days.
30. American Eagle: Returns That Last a Lifetime
- Standard Return Window: Lifetime
- Accepts returns without a receipt: Yes
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: Yes
American Eagle’s return policy is fairly lenient. There is no time limit to make returns and receive a full refund, which is pretty impressive.
And if that weren’t enough to put American Eagle in our top 5 best return policies, then these quick facts are sure to tip the scales:
- You can return Aerie and Tailgate to American Eagle (and vice versa)
- You can return online purchases in-store, even if they are “online-only”
- Aerie will give you a printable shipping label to send returns back to them
- Sale items are not “final sale” (you can always return them)
- You can return tagless and washed clothing
- You can return items without a receipt
If you don’t have proof of purchase, American Eagle will refund you store credit for your return rather than refund the charge on your card.
The only catch to AE’s return policy is that swimsuits without their original hygienic liners cannot be returned.
31. M.S. Rau: The Strongest Antiques Guarantee In The World
- Standard Return Window: Lifetime
- Accepts returns without a receipt: No
- Accepts returns without proof of purchase: No
M.S. Rau is a high-end retailer that sells fine art, antiques, and jewels. You know that we love to save money here at Koopy.com, so normally we’d brush past an expensive store like this. But M.S. Rau’s return policy is too good to skip past.
M.S Rau offers a 125% Guarantee–and we’re not talking about satisfaction. We’re talking money.
When you return an item to M.S. Rau, they will give you full credit for the return, plus 5% appreciation annually for up to 5 years after the sale. Yes, that’s a guaranteed 25% back in addition to the price you paid–if you can afford these pieces, to begin with.
Stores with Best Return Policy without a Receipt or Proof of Purchase
Of the 31 stores we covered with the best return policies of all time, many of them require some proof that you purchased the item (or received it as a gift). But these 17 stores have return policies that will reimburse you even if you don’t have a receipt or some other proof of purchase.
When making returns without a receipt, you’ll typically receive a gift card or merchandise credit rather than a refund to your credit card. So even though you technically get your money back, you’ll still need to spend it eventually at the same retailer.
Most stores also monitor returns to prevent return fraud, so if you don’t have a receipt, you’ll most likely need to provide some official form of identification, like a driver’s license or other photo ID.
If you read our blog with the ultimate list of stores with the best return policies, then you know we saved the best for last–but not this time.
These 17 stores will accept returns without any proof of purchase.
1. Walmart
What You’ll Get: A full refund
Walmart offers a great return policy to customers who crumpled up and threw away their receipts as soon as they left the store.
Without a receipt, Walmart may still process your return, as long as you’re still within the 90-day return window.
First, the refund verification process must accept your return. Then, you have the option to:
- exchange your item
- receive a cash refund (for items under $10 only)
- receive a Walmart gift card for the full value of the return
2. Target
What You’ll Get: A full refund
Whether your receipt is lost in the car or buried in your bag, Target will process your return for a full refund in the form of a merchandise return card.
3. Nordstrom
What You’ll Get: A full refund
No receipt? No problem. Return items to Nordstrom for a full refund on a Nordstrom Gift Card. Just be sure to bring a valid photo ID.
4. Trader Joe’s
What You’ll Get: A full refund
Trader Joe’s offers full refunds to all customers no matter what the return is–even if it’s a half-eaten bag of chips or expired cheese.
But if you want to avoid the hassle of processing a return at Trader Joe’s, consider cashing in on their sample policy, which lets you try anything in the store before you buy it. Just ask a team member for help!
5. Orvis
What You’ll Get: A full refund
Get an Orvis Gift Card with a full refund on any purchase you’d like to return to Orvis when you don’t have a valid proof of purchase.
7. Patagonia
What You’ll Get: A full refund
In most cases, retailers require you to provide some proof of purchase to receive a full refund–and Patagonia is the last exception to this standard return policy rule.
Without proof of purchase, Patagonia will issue a merchandise credit in the full amount you paid for the products you return.
8. American Eagle
What You’ll Get: The current selling price
Get store credit worth the current selling price of your returns when you take items back to American Eagle.
9. Bed Bath & Beyond
What You’ll Get: 80% of the current selling price
Bed Bath & Beyond will do their best to track down your purchase, but if they can’t, they’ll give you 80% of the current selling price of the item you want to return.
10. Staples
What You’ll Get: The lowest selling price in the last 30 days
Although Staples does allow returns without proof of purchase, you won’t get a full refund. Instead, Staples will give you store credit equal to the lowest selling price of the item in the last 30 days.
11. JCPenney
What You’ll Get: The lowest selling price in the last 45 days
JCPenny accepts receiptless returns in exchange for a JCP Return Voucher equal to the lowest selling price of your returned items in the last 45 days.
12. Ulta Beauty
What You’ll Get: The lowest selling price in the last 90 days
Don’t like your new beauty products from Ulta? Well, it’s no problem if you already tossed your receipt.
Ulta will give you a merchandise credit equal to the lowest selling price of the item in the last 90 days.
13. Kohl’s
What You’ll Get: The lowest selling price in the last 13 weeks (91 days)
Non-receipted returns at Kohl’s are eligible for a Kohl’s Merchandise Credit based on the lowest discounted 13-week sale price of the returned items.
14. Bloomingdale’s
What You’ll Get: What You’ll Get: The lowest selling price in the last 180 days
Bloomingdale’s will give you a merchandise credit valued at the lowest selling price of the product within the last 180 days if you want to return an item without any valid proof of purchase.
15. Land’s End
What You’ll Get: A value determined by Lands’ End
Land’s End isn’t very specific about how they process receiptless returns.
Although they say that they will give you a merchandise credit, we’re not sure how much. It likely depends on who’s managing the store that day.
16. Bath & Body Works
What You’ll Get: The lowest selling price of the item
Bath & Body Works has one of the best return policies on this list, but when it comes to returning items without any proof of purchase, they want to give you as little as possible.
So, you’ll only get back the “lowest selling price of the item.” Bath & Body is unclear whether that means currently or ever–but we’d bet on ever.
17. Best Buy
What You’ll Get: An undetermined amount
Best Buy’s policy for returns without any proof of purchase is even more unclear than Land’s End’s policy.
If you can return items without a receipt or any other proof of purchase is up to the store–and the amount you get back entirely depends on who’s managing the store that day.
18. CVS
What You’ll Get: An undetermined amount
If you weren’t a fan of Best Buy’s return policy for items without a receipt, you won’t like CVS’s.
CVS might accept your return.
But they’re very clear that returns without valid proof of purchase can be limited or denied.
Stores with Best Return Policy without a Receipt – If You Have Proof of Purchase
Now, some stores will allow returns without a receipt if you have another proof of purchase.
Alternate proofs of purchase include things like:
- Invoices
- Email confirmations
- Online order pages
- Purchases made on a major credit card
- Purchases made through stores accounts
These stores will accept returns without a receipt if you have another proof of purchase:
- Sephora
- Athleta
- Macy’s
- Lowe’s
- The Home Depot
- Whole Foods Market
- REI
- Costco
FAQs About Stores with the Best Return Policies
What stores have the best return policy?
The top three return policies of all time at everyday stores are offered by Trader Joe’s, Ulta Beauty, and American Eagle. But there are 31 stores that made our list of the best return policies. Check out the complete list for all the juicy details!
What stores have the longest return policy?
There are several stores that offer return policies without a limited time frame, including:
-Trader Joe’s
– Costco
– American Eagle
– Bath & Body Works
– Nordstrom
– Ulta
– Staples
– Patagonia
– Orvis
– M.S. Rau
What stores accept returns without a receipt?
Although most stores require receipts or some proof of purchase to process returns, these stores will give you a full refund (in the form of store credit) without a receipt or proof of purchase:
– Walmart
– Target
– Nordstrom
– Trader Joe’s
– Orvis
– Patagonia
– American Eagle
– Bed Bath & Beyond
– Staples
– JCPenney
– Ulta Beauty
– Kohl’s
– Bloomingdale’s
– Land’s End
– Bath & Body Works
What store has the best return policy without a receipt?
Walmart offers the best return policy without a receipt. Although their standard 90-day return policy is good, their return policy for customers with no proof of purchase is the best one you’ll find.
Receiptless returns must be made within at least 90 days of purchase (or at least within a time frame where Walmart still carries the product), and Walmart will run your items through a refund verification process to ensure that you’re not committing return fraud.
Once verified, Walmart may actually give you cash for your items–if they’re worth less than $10. Items worth more than $10 are eligible for a Walmart gift card equal to the full value of the return or an even exchange.
However, the exceptions to Walmart’s return policy still apply to receiptless returns, which mean you’ll have more trouble getting your money back for items like:
– Electronics
– Cell phones
– Prescription glasses
– Contact lenses
– Hearing aids
– Air mattresses
Final Thoughts: Save More by Getting Your Money Back
At Koopy.com, we’re all about saving money. And returning purchases you don’t want or won’t use is one of the best ways to save.
You can usually get your money back when you shop at major retailers, but these 31 businesses are the best when it comes to lenient return policies.
Whether it’s accepting washed and worn items or giving you a whole year to decide if a product is right for you, these retailers really are dedicated to your satisfaction–so you should cash in on it when you need to!
Did we miss a fabulous return policy that’s not on our list? Leave a comment below to let us know!