Keep the Information Flowing
Small contributions go a long way. Your donation to Consumer Action, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, can help us cover the cost of research, writing, and translation of our materials. To keep our services free for those who need them. Select an amount to give.
Released: March 16, 2011
Help Desk FAQ
Retail
Do retail stores have to accept returns and give refunds?
In most cases, stores are not required to accept returns or give refunds but most do. (An exception can be goods on sale or sold as a "final sale." Consumer purchase refund laws vary by state, but many specify that the refund policy of the store must be clearly and conspicuously posted in the retail establishment.
Under state requirements in states that require notice, most insist that stores tell you whether a refund, store credit or an exchange will be given; the time period during which the customer must return the merchandise; he types of merchandise covered and any conditions such as the requirement for an original receipt.
If you don't see such a notice, ask about the refund and returns policy BEFORE you make a purchase.
Quick Menu
Support Consumer Action
Join Our Email List
Consumer Help Desk
- Help Desk
- Submit Your Complaints
- Presente su queja
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Links to Consumer Resources
- Consumer Service Guide (CSG)
- Alerts
- Consumer Booknotes