Do’s and Don’ts of Returning Gifts

Because nobody enjoys returning gifts, here are some do’s and don’ts to make your experience a bit more enjoyable:

Do bring a receipt.  Even if you’re embarrassed to ask the gifter for one, you may be able to get a receipt from the store.

Do avoid peak hours.  Try to go to the store late in the evening or right when it opens.

Do research the store’s return policies.  Stores are becoming more stingy about returns so visit their website before going in person.

Don’t be a jerk.  If you don’t have a receipt, don’t give the person behind the counter another reason to turn you away. 

Don’t wait too long.  Waiting until after the holidays to return gifts may be a good idea, but it also could be risky.

Don’t get discouraged.  Return polices are mostly in place to prevent abuse.  Even if you may be unsuccessful, try anyways.

See Geoff Williams, 6 Do’s and Don’ts of Gift Returns, U.S. News, Dec. 23, 2013.

Special thanks to Jim Hillhouse (Professional Legal Marketing (PLM, Inc.)) for bringing this article to my attention.