Tips for Making Holiday Returns: What You Need to Know Before Heading to the Store

As the holiday season comes to a close, many people are gearing up to make returns on gifts that may not have been quite right. However, the process of returning items has become more complex in recent years, with stores tightening their return policies and requiring more documentation from customers.

According to the Better Business Bureau, it’s important to be prepared before heading out to make a return. This includes bringing your patience, doing your research on the store’s return policy, and making sure you have all necessary documentation such as a receipt and ID.

Pamela Hernandez, regional director for the Better Business Bureau, notes that many stores are cracking down on return policies due to potential abuse by customers. Some stores may now require identification, limit the number of returns allowed within a certain time period, or only offer store credit instead of cash or credit returns.

Online returns can be even more complex, with smaller retailers often requiring customers to pay for return shipping. Larger retailers may allow in-store returns, which can be more convenient for customers.

For larger items like electronics, customers may need to go directly to the manufacturer for warranty issues, rather than the retailer where the item was purchased.

If customers encounter any trouble making a return, they can always call the store’s customer service line for assistance.

Overall, being prepared and understanding the store’s return policy is key to a smooth return process during the holiday season.