Walmart's Holiday Return Policy 2024

Holiday shopping is a time of excitement and gifting, but it can also be stressful, especially when it comes to returns. The hassle of returning items can be a major concern for many shoppers. But Walmart has made the holiday return process easier by extending its return window for items purchased during this season. Here’s what you need to know about Walmart's holiday return policy for 2024.

Extended Return Window

Walmart has brought back its holiday return policy, which means that most items you buy in-store or online from October 1 through December 31, 2024, are returnable until January 31, 2025. This extended return period is part of what Clark Howard calls "the most liberal return policy Walmart has ever had," making it more convenient for customers to return items during the holiday season.

What Can Be Returned?

The extended return window applies to most items purchased from Walmart stores or online, but there are some exceptions. For example, online purchases made from Walmart Marketplace sellers are not eligible for this extended return period. Additionally, certain items like major appliances, some electronics, and fine jewelry have shorter return windows.

Shorter Return Windows

• Major Appliances: These items must be returned within 2 days of delivery.
• Electronics: Items like PCs, tablets, laptops, TVs, and cameras typically have a 14-day return window.
• Jewelry and Watches: Items over \$300 usually have a 14-day return window.
• Prepaid Wireless Phones: These items have a 14-day return window.
• Consumer Electronics: These items typically have a 30-day return window.

How to Return Items

Returning items to Walmart is relatively straightforward. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. In-Store Returns: If you bought an item in-store, you need to return it in person. You'll need to go to the customer service desk at the store where you made the purchase, along with your receipt.
2. Online Returns: For online purchases, you can initiate the return process on Walmart's website. You'll need to follow the instructions provided for shipping the item back to Walmart.

Without a Receipt

While having a receipt makes the return process easier, Walmart does offer options if you've lost your receipt. If you don't have your receipt, an associate can look up your store purchases using the debit/credit card you used for the purchase. However, this may delay your refund, and some items may not be eligible for a full refund without a receipt.

Exceptions to the 90-Day Rule

While the 90-day return policy covers most items, certain products have shorter return windows. These include:

• Wireless Phones: These must be returned within 14 days.
• Major Appliances: These need to be returned within 2 days.
• Luxury Items: Some luxury items purchased from the marketplace have a shorter return window or may incur a restocking fee.

Additional Tips

1. Check the Fine Print: Always read the fine print regarding specific items you're purchasing. Some items might have restrictions or additional fees for returns.
2. Online Return Shipping Fees: Keep in mind that Walmart charges shipping fees for online returns, which may not always be refunded.
3. RedCard Benefits: If you're a RedCard member, you get an additional 30-day return window for most items, making your holiday shopping even more stress-free.

Walmart's holiday return policy for 2024 is designed to make your holiday shopping experience less stressful. By understanding the extended return window and the specific exceptions, you can shop with confidence and return items more easily if needed.