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Entry bubble Many Happy (Gift) Returns

By: Nancy | December 27, 2007 | Category: Money

cash registerWrong color.
It didn't fit.
I have two already.
I can't regift it.

There are a lot of reasons to head back to the mall this week to return the gifts that weren't quite right, and exchange them for something a little more "you." Before you go, here are some quick tips for making the trip successful.

First, double check to make sure you have all the packaging and instructions together if you're returning a boxed product and keep the tags attached if you're returning a piece of clothing. Stores are more apt to accept returns if the items look like they’re in unused condition.

Store return policies vary like crazy. Some will give only a store credit or a size or color exchange. Others are much more liberal in what they'll allow. To avoid surprises, check the store's return policy on their website before you go. If you have the sales receipt or gift receipt, you'll be in a better position to get a cash refund or store credit for the amount your gift giver paid. Without proof of the price actually paid for the item, you may just be able to get a refund or store credit for the amount the item is currently selling for. And if it's part of an after-holiday sale, that means you may be getting less than it was originally worth.

Unless your gift was purchased months ago, you don't even need to head out into the crowds this week to exchange the items you want to return. Most traditional stores allow you at least a few weeks to return things. If your gift was purchased online though, you may need to return or exchange items more quickly. Many online stores allow only a week or two for returns or exchanges.  And more and more stores, online or traditional, charge restocking fees on returned electronics or appliances. That can really eat into your cash refund or store credit!

ugly sweaterIf you're not satisfied with your exchange or return experience, it can't hurt to contact the seller by phone or send a complaint letter.  And if all else fails, you can always try to sell your unwanted gift on an online auction site or donate it to a charity. Or, go ahead and stage an ugly sweater contest at work.

What’s the oddest or most return-worthy gift you received this year for the holidays?

| Comments [7] | envelope Email This Entry | Tags: money   nancy   shopping  

Comments:

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This year was relatively tame, gift-wise. But my husband received a talking flyswatter. What is up with that?

Posted by christine on December 27, 2007 at 08:24 AM EST #

Betcha he didn't get a duplicate of it.

Does the flyswatter direct its comments to the fly as in "Gotcha, sucker!" Or does it direct its comments at the person using it, as in "Boy do you look dumb chasing flies with a talking swatter!"?

Posted by Nancy on December 27, 2007 at 08:49 AM EST #

It is all about taunting the fly in its last moments. "flight cancelled!" and "hasta la vista!" Great stuff.

Posted by christine on December 27, 2007 at 08:49 AM EST #

Here's a story for you. A few years ago I got a sweater from my aunt in California - pale yellow cable knit sweater from Izod. Not really my style. I'd say my grandmother would probably wear it wearing pearls and on her rocking chair. So I told my mom "Can you donate this?" She agreed.

But what did I open this year? The same exact sweater! I'm sure my mom threw it in the back of her closet, found it again, and thought - hmmm - my daughter would LOVE this.

FYI - I'll MAKE SURE it gets donated this time.

Posted by clutter_buster on December 27, 2007 at 04:29 PM EST #

LOL!

Oh clutter_buster, have I got a great idea for what you can give your mom NEXT Christmas! And be sure to put it in the same gift bag too. Just remember the golden rule of regifting: be sure to remove the old to/from label. ;)

Posted by Nancy on December 27, 2007 at 04:33 PM EST #

If you live in Los Angeles County or you can share a lot of helpful advice with your neighbors pertaining to personal finance, legal assistance, housing, health, etc., visit The Metropolitan Community Resource Center on the world-wide web at MCRCworks.org!!
MCRC is a news and information service for public benefit activities in L.A. County.
Thanks!!!

Posted by Paul Henneman, MCRC Chief Volunteer Officer on December 28, 2007 at 04:11 PM EST #

I have a number of online stores and I cannot seem to figure out government regulations. Local government doesn't even seem to know. I'm lost. Help!!! lol. I want to be a good citizen and pay my dues but I don't know to whom and where? Thanks

Rick
www.londonstimes.us
www.ricklondoncollection.com

Posted by beardiethor on January 11, 2008 at 10:14 PM EST #

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