Refund Policies (2024)

Before you buy, know the return and exchange policy.

Most retail stores allow you to return things you buy within a reasonable time for a full refund, credit, or an exchange. When a store clearly displays a limited or no-refund policy, however, refunds and exchanges are not required by law. So don’t assume a store will allow you to return an item if you change your mind. Check the store’s return policy before you buy.

Many retailers display their return policies at the cash register or the customer service department. If you don’t see the policy, ask. Keep in mind that many retailers require the original receipt for any returns. Some stores charge a “restocking fee” if you return certain types of products, and others limit cash refunds but may offer exchanges or store credit. Certain items may be “final sale” or “as is” and cannot be returned. Indeed, some stores may have a policy of not accepting returns or exchanges for any products.

If the product doesn’t work or is defective, check if it has a warranty. Often, an implied warranty exists by law even if the seller does not make any specific guarantees. (See Title 1.7 Consumer Warranties, California Civil Code section 1790, et seq.)

Stores that do not accept returns must clearly display their policy.

In California, retailers that won’t give a full refund or credit, allow an equal exchange, or any combination of these options, within seven days of purchase when goods are returned with a receipt, must clearly display their policy at each cash register and sales counter, or at each public entrance, or on tags attached to each item sold under the policy, or on the retail seller’s order forms, if any

This requirement does not apply to perishable items (like food or plants), items that are marked as final sale, goods used or damaged after purchase, custom orders, goods not returned with their original packaging, and items that can’t be resold for health reasons.

If a store violates this law (California Civil Code section 1723) by not clearly displaying their limited or no return policy, you can return the purchased item with proof of purchase for a full refund within 30 days. You can notify the consumer protection division of your local district attorney’s office of any violations, or file a complaint with our office using our online complaint form.

Refund Policies (2024)

FAQs

Refund Policies? ›

A store is legally required to post its refund policy. If the store doesn't post any return policy, the law requires the store to accept returns within 30 days of purchase. There's no right to cancel contracts or purchase agreements. Whether you can receive a refund depends on the retailer's return and refund policies.

What is a standard refund policy? ›

For example, a typical policy might state that customers can expect a full refund within 30 days of purchase, provided the item is unopened, unused, and has all tags and packaging intact.

What is an example of a refund policy? ›

An example of a return policy for a product-based business could be: "We offer a 30-day return policy for all unused and unopened products. Customers may return items for a full refund within 30 days of purchase, provided they are in their original condition and packaging.

What are the rules for a refund? ›

You must offer a full refund if an item is faulty, not as described or does not do what it's supposed to. Check when you have to offer refunds and accept returns. Customers have exactly the same rights to refunds when they buy items in a sale as when they buy them at full price.

How do you write a good refund policy? ›

The 5 steps of an effective return policy
  1. Step 1: Determine the return period. ...
  2. Step 2: Decide who pays the return costs. ...
  3. Step 3: Define the return scope based on the products you sell. ...
  4. Step 4: Make returns easy and uncomplicated. ...
  5. Step 5: Offer a smooth return, exchange and refund process.

What is the most common return policy? ›

The standard return policy typically ranges from 15 to 30 days, with some businesses offering up to 90 days or even 365 days with a receipt. It's important to check the specific policy of the store you're making a purchase from to ensure clarity on return timeframes.

Are refund policies legally binding? ›

Most retail stores allow you to return things you buy within a reasonable time for a full refund, credit, or an exchange. When a store clearly displays a limited or no-refund policy, however, refunds and exchanges are not required by law. So don't assume a store will allow you to return an item if you change your mind.

What is a fair return policy? ›

To make a return: Items must be [unopened/unused/unworn] Items must still be in their original packaging with all tags attached. Items must not be damaged or show signs of wear. You must have a receipt or other proof of purchase.

What is a refund policy for customers? ›

A refund policy is a document that outlines the rules for getting refunds for purchased goods and services. It often details the eligibility requirements for refunds, types of refunds given, the refund timeframe, and the return process.

Is no refund policy legal in US? ›

Yes, it is legal to offer a no return policy. There are no laws that prohibit no return policies, but there are laws that require businesses to clearly display their no return policy if they have one.

What to do if a business won't give you a refund? ›

Get Outside Help
  1. Contact your state attorney general or state consumer protection office. ...
  2. Contact a national consumer organization. ...
  3. Contact your local Better Business Bureau The Better Business Bureau is made up of organizations supported by local businesses. ...
  4. File a report with the FTC.

Can someone refuse to give a refund? ›

Your store has the option of offering refunds, store credit or an exchange based on circ*mstances or you can have a universal policy that only gives store credit or cash refunds. As long as you make it clear to your customers, your decision is acceptable under U.S. law.

What makes a refund eligible? ›

It is dependent upon a difference between the tax that is owed to the Treasury at the end of the year and the amount that has been withheld throughout the year. If the amount of tax owed is less than the latter number, that individual receives a tax refund.

How do I set up a refund policy? ›

Be sure to include the following elements in your Return and Refund Policy:
  1. A time frame for returns.
  2. The conditions under which you'll accept returns.
  3. List your store's requirements for returns.
  4. State whether you provide in-store credit for returns or if you provide partial or full refunds (or a combination, etc.)
May 12, 2024

What is a good sentence for refund? ›

The couple will not receive a refund. The company refunded the money after he complained. Returned items refunded at discounted price paid.

What should be included in a return and refund policy? ›

Here are the key elements that a business should include in its returns policy: Return conditions: This section defines the circ*mstances under which customers can return a product. Common conditions include receiving damaged or defective items, receiving the wrong product, or changing one's mind about a purchase.

What is a normal refund amount? ›

States with the largest/smallest average refunds for tax year 2021
RankStateAverage refund
6Nevada$4,884
7Connecticut$4,877
8Texas$4,753
9California$4,671
6 more rows
Mar 11, 2024

What is the standard refund time? ›

We issue most refunds in less than 21 calendar days. However, if you mailed your return and expect a refund, it could take four weeks or more to process your return.

How long is acceptable for a refund? ›

Policies that set a time limit, such as 'no refunds after 30 days', can be misleading because statutory rights have no time limits, other than what is 'reasonable'.

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