12 Stores With Incredible Return Policies

Returning a purchase isn’t exactly fun, but sometimes it’s necessary. Whether you receive a gift you’ll never use, buy the wrong size, or you simply change your mind, the odds are good that you’ll need to take something back to the store in the near future.

When it comes to returns and exchanges, not all businesses are created equal. Some of them have outstanding return policies, while others aren’t so eager to help. But if you made your purchase at one of these 12 retailers, you’re more likely to enjoy an easy, hassle-free process (even if you don’t have your receipt).

Here are 12 stores known for their fantastic customer service and easy returns.

Making a return at Costco is as risk-free as it gets. While there are some exceptions, like electronics and diamond jewelry, there’s typically no time limit for returning most products. Just bring them to your nearest Costco for an instant refund.

And since a membership is required to shop here, you won’t have to save your receipt — they’ll be able to look up the item with your membership card.

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Target is well-known for its generous return policy. Most unopened items can be returned within 90 days for a refund or exchange for any reason, even if you changed your mind or just feel like you spent too much.

You might be denied a refund if your item is damaged or if you don’t have a receipt, though, so save that paper when you make your purchase. 

Online shoe retailer Zappos has an incredible return policy. You’ll have 365 days from the date of purchase to return your items — and Zappos will even pay for the return shipping and post a credit to your original payment method.

The key is to keep the original packaging and leave the tags on, because this policy applies to new shoes only. For items that are defective or damaged, reach out to the customer service department. 

Nordstrom has always been known for its exceptional customer service, so it comes as no surprise that they have a great return and exchange policy. The company handles returns and exchanges on a case-by-case basis, but the goal is always to make sure the customer is happy. Even if you don’t have a receipt, the team will work with you if your item is new.

Not only does Nordstrom have a great return policy, but they do their best to make the process easy. Many locations have customer service bars where you can go directly without waiting in lines. You can also choose curbside returns or send your item through the mail, depending on what it is you’re parting with. 

If you’re unsatisfied with your L.L. Bean purchase, you have a full year to return it for a refund. Proof of purchase is required, but if you don’t have a receipt, the customer service team may be able to look up the sales record in the system. You can also return your item through the mail for a low, flat shipping fee. 

At Bath & Body Works, it’s important you love the products you purchased or were gifted. If you don’t, just take them in within 90 days of their purchase date for a full refund. If you don’t have your receipt or a packing invoice, you’ll be able to trade it in for store credit. Better yet, you can return the product at any time for any reason, so the experience will be hassle-free.

When you shop at the eclectic and budget-friendly IKEA, you’re allowed to change your mind. If you’re not completely happy with your purchase, you have 365 days to return new and unopened merchandise for a full refund. You can also return opened items within 180 days for a full refund, as long as you have proof of purchase. 

Kohl’s just might have the best return policy of all. They accept returns for up to 180 days after purchase, and you don’t even need your receipt. They can look up your credit card or Kohl’s Charge purchase in the system for 180 days and offer you a full refund that way. And if you wait longer than 180 days, you can still get store credit.

Some exclusions do apply. Premium electronics and watches must be returned within 30 days, and beauty buys need to be returned within 60 days. That’s still more generous than a lot of other retailers. 

Home Depot advertises free, fast, and easy returns. With a few exceptions, you’ll have 90 days for returns and exchanges.

And if you purchase a plant, make sure to keep your receipt, because you can get a full refund or exchange for a year if the plant dies for any reason. The company also offers convenient online returns on your schedule. 

The American Eagle return policy is designed with your convenience in mind. If you’re not happy with your purchase, you can return your item(s) at any time (with no time limit) as long as you have proof of purchase. That even includes items without tags, with the exception of swimsuits and intimates with the hygienic liner removed. No receipt? No problem — you can get store credit. 

Lowe’s has a standard 90-day return policy for most items, although there are a few exceptions. Outdoor power equipment and liquid paint, for example, must be returned within 30 days in like-new condition.

Not having a receipt is not an issue here — in most cases, Lowe’s can track purchases through their system using the original credit card, checking account number, or phone number used to buy the items. If your return doesn’t have a valid receipt, Lowe’s may only be able to offer store credit. 

REI has a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee, so it’s not surprising to see their generous return policy. If you’re not completely happy with your purchase, you’ll have a full year to return it for a refund (with a few exceptions).

If you don’t have a receipt, they’ll do their best to track the purchase in their system. And while they won’t accept returns on damaged items, the team at the store will help you take advantage of the manufacturer’s warranty. 

During the holiday season especially, we’re sometimes given something we know we won’t use. Knowing that so many retailers have easy, generous return policies eases the stress of the return and exchange process substantially and allows you to treat yourself to something you truly want.