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Before you return holiday gifts, check the fine print

As the 2025 shopping season approaches, several prominent retailers are offering extended return windows for holiday purchases. While this is a welcome change for many, failing to pay attention to the finer details could still lead to unnecessary expenses and missed refunds.

The trend of increasing post-holiday returns has prompted many stores to provide generous return periods, often extending through late January. However, shoppers should be aware that these extended windows do not apply universally. Items such as electronics, online purchases, and clearance merchandise often fall outside the scope of these policies.

Ken Maccarone from BestReviews.com provided insights on NewNation’s Morning in America, highlighting crucial information for anyone looking to return holiday gifts.

How long shoppers have to make holiday returns

During the holiday season, most major retailers extend their return policies to between 30 and 90 days, allowing returns on qualifying purchases until late January. It’s important to note, though, that these extended return windows typically apply only to items bought from October through December. Purchases made outside this timeframe are usually subject to the retailer’s regular return policies.

How refunds are issued

Refunds vary by retailer and the item’s condition. Unopened products generally receive refunds to the original payment method, while opened, used or late returns may only qualify for store credit. Many retailers also charge fees for mail-in returns, especially for online purchases.

The biggest holiday return mistake

Missing the return deadline is the most frequent mistake shoppers make, and it often results in lost refunds or store credit.

Electronics, wireless devices and online-only deals often come with shorter return periods or stricter rules that override extended holiday policies. Always check the fine print before making a return.

Holiday return policies at top retailers

Several major retailers offer extended holiday return windows, with some exceptions. Amazon accepts returns for most items bought between Nov. 1 and Dec. 31, 2025, through Jan. 31, 2026. However, Apple-branded products must be returned by Jan. 15. Walmart allows returns on purchases made from Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, 2025, until Jan. 31, 2026, but electronics and wireless phones usually have shorter deadlines. Target accepts returns on most electronics through Jan. 24, 2026, while Apple, Beats and mobile phones must be returned by Jan. 9.

What shoppers should do before returning items

Before returning items, shoppers should carefully review the retailer’s policy. Keeping receipts, confirming deadlines and checking for exclusions can help avoid surprise fees or denied refunds.

It’s essential to know whether an item qualifies for a full refund or only store credit, especially for electronics and online purchases. For returns that require shipping, confirm the instructions and use appropriate packaging to avoid delays that could impact your refund or exchange.

BOX USA Boxes Medium 

These boxes fit typical USPS/UPS/FedEx mailing needs and are sturdy enough for returns. Best for electronics, accessories and medium‑sized items.

Quality Park Bubble Mailers

Air bubble mailers come in various sizes and provide cushioning without the need for a box. Best for clothing, soft goods and small accessories.

UBMOVE Moving Packing Peanuts

These classic loose‑fill packing peanuts help fill voids in a box, so items don’t shift in transit. They’re a standard non‑brand packing filler that’s widely used.

Scotch Heavy Duty Shipping Packaging Tape

Strong, clear 2‑inch packing tape seals boxes securely for mailing and handling. Ideal for sealing packages, boxes and most common return items.

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