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? ›

A 15 to 30-day return policy is standard, but some businesses opt for 90 days, and others are willing to accept a return up to 365 days later, as long as you have the purchase receipt. When writing this clause, remember that items with gift receipts are often expected to have longer return windows.

What is an example of a refund policy statement? ›

Return / Refund Policy [Text Format]

Thank you for your purchase. We hope you are happy with your purchase. However, if you are not completely satisfied with your purchase for any reason, you may return it to us for [a full refund], [store credit], or [an exchange].

How to do a refund policy? ›

A refund should be the full amount the consumer paid for the product. The business must not deduct an amount from a refund to take into account the use a consumer has had of the product. Refunds should be provided in the same form as the original payment, unless the business and consumer agree otherwise.

Do I have a right to a refund? ›

You don't have an automatic right to get your money back if you just change your mind about something you've bought and there's nothing wrong with it. It's the same no matter how expensive the item was - it's really down to the seller whether they offer you anything.

How long does a business have to refund money? ›

Most return policies have a clear time frame. The typical time limit can be anything between 14 and 60 days after purchase, depending on the product type, whether it was bought online or in-person, and how long shipping can take.

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.

How long should a refund policy be? ›

If a Refund Policy is not conspicuously posted, the business must offer a refund for any goods returned within 60 days of purchase.

How do you explain no refund policy to customers? ›

No cash refund policy: Under this policy, customers are not eligible for cash refunds under any circ*mstances. However, alternative forms of refunds like store credit or exchanges might be available.

What do you say when refunding a customer? ›

If you refund their purchase, tell them how and when they will receive their money back. Express regret that you failed to meet the needs and requirements of the customer. Asking for feedback and show your motivation to improve in the future.

What is basic no refund policy? ›

A no refund, no return policy explains that your business does not accept returns after a customer finalizes a purchase and that you will not provide compensation or a replacement item.

What is the minimum amount for refund? ›

In case, there is an income tax refund due to you as per the income tax department's calculations, it typically gets credited to your bank account in few weeks time. However, do keep in mind that if the amount is less than Rs. 100, then the income tax refund amount will not be credited to your bank account.

How long is standard refund time frame? ›

Most refunds will be issued in less than 21 days. You can start checking the status of your refund within 24 hours after you have e-filed your return. Refund information is updated on the IRS website once a day, overnight. Remember, the fastest way to get your refund is to e-file and choose direct deposit.

What is the 24 hour refund policy? ›

This mandates airlines to offer a full refund if a booking is canceled within a 24-hour window after purchase. This applies to all airlines operating within the U.S., including international carriers, provided the booking is made at least seven days before the flight's departure.

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