Knowing Return Policies Is Part of Thoughtful Gift Giving

Knowing Return Policies Is Part of Thoughtful Gift Giving

Rockford, Ill., — December 23, 2009 -Simply buying an appropriate gift in the final days leading to Christmas may be considered a success. However, it is important to pay attention to the return policies at the stores where you are making purchases. Doing so will help ensure your thoughtfulness continues even if the original item needs to be returned.

The Better Business Bureau reminds consumers that too many people assume anything can be returned. This is not always the case.

“Even though this is one of the busiest shopping periods of the year, consumers should always ask what a store’s return policy is,” said Dennis Horton, Director of the Rockford Regional Office of the Better Business Bureau of Chicago and Northern Illinois. “Asking before you buy is always a good idea to avoid the problems and embarrassment of a nonreturnable gift.”

Horton noted that some stores give refunds; some issue store credits only; some consider all, or some, sales to be final. He added that a store is not legally required to accept items for refund, exchange, or credit unless the merchandise is defective or was misrepresented.

The following are some hints from the Better Business Bureau on how to help make this Christmas merry and worry free.

Ask what specific return policy applies to the item you are purchasing. Do not assume the regular return policy applies to sales or clearance items. Some merchants consider sales items to be final.
Save your receipts. They are usually needed for returns.
Ask for a gift receipt and enclose it with the present.
Don’t remove electronics or similar products from their boxes before wrapping as the original packaging may be required for a return.
If you are shopping online, read the posted return policy before buying. If returns are permitted, be sure to print a copy of what procedures and timeframe need to be followed, along with complete contact information for the business from which you are ordering.
You don’t have to brave the crowds the day after Christmas, but don’t wait too long to return the item. Pick a time when the store is not likely to be crowded and be polite when talking to customer service. If you are a regular customer, or have a store credit account, mention that fact as you discuss your return options. Merchants are usually willing to accommodate loyal customers.
If you are the gift-recipient, do not assume you have the right to return or exchange an unwanted present. Like the shopper, you are bound by the merchant’s return policy.
Health regulations, which can prohibit the return of certain items like hats and intimate apparel.

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As a private, non-profit organization, the purpose of the Better Business Bureau is to promote an ethical marketplace. BBBs help resolve buyer/seller complaints by means of conciliation, mediation and arbitration. BBBs also review advertising claims, online business practices and charitable organizations. BBBs develop and issue reports on businesses and nonprofit organizations and encourage people to check out a company or charity before making a purchase or donation.