Returns & Refunds

Best return policies (US, 2025)

• Costco — basically lifetime, except electronics (90 days). Even open food/perishables.
• L.L.Bean — 1 year, no receipt needed.
• REI — 1 year (members).
• Trader Joe's — full refund on anything, no receipt, no questions.
• Nordstrom — no time limit, no receipt usually.
• Costco/Amazon — easiest in terms of process.

Standard return rules (most stores)

• 30-90 days typical. Holiday season often extended.
• Receipt makes everything easier. Take a photo when you buy.
• Original packaging usually required for electronics.
• Tags still attached for clothing.
• Some stores charge restocking fees on electronics (15-25%).
• "Final sale" / "All sales final" CAN sometimes be returned for store credit.

If the store refuses

1. Ask politely for a manager.
2. Be calm. Explain the issue clearly.
3. If still refused, mention "I'd hate to dispute the charge with my credit card."
4. If still no, leave. Don't escalate further in store.
5. Call your credit card. Open a dispute (chargeback).
6. Bank investigates. Usually wins within 30 days.

Credit card chargeback (your secret weapon)

Federal law (Fair Credit Billing Act) lets you dispute any charge on a credit card if:

• Item never arrived.
• Item was damaged or wrong.
• Item materially different from description.
• Service not performed.
• Billed wrong amount.

Time limit: 60 days from statement. Call the number on back of card. Say "I want to dispute a charge."

Online order that never arrived

1. Wait until 5 days past promised delivery date.
2. Email seller. Give them 7 days to respond/refund.
3. If no response — call credit card company. Chargeback.
4. If paid via PayPal — open dispute in PayPal. They handle it.
5. If paid via Zelle/Venmo/Cash App — almost no recourse. Lesson learned.

Extended warranty rights

• Many credit cards DOUBLE manufacturer warranty for free.
• Visa Signature, Mastercard World Elite, AmEx Platinum, Chase Sapphire — extended warranty included.
• Save receipts in your password manager or photos.
• Skip the in-store extended warranty — usually overpriced.