Doing homework now saves gift-return headaches later

Add comment December 5th, 2007

One of your most important holiday gift shopping strategies could be researching the store’s return policy, says the Better Business Bureau.  Some study tips:

* Most stores have a return policy. But while some offer full refunds, others only give store credit or exchanges. Make sure you know who offers what.

* Always ask for a gift receipt and enclose it with the present — or at least, leave the price tag on with the price cut off.

* With on-sale and clearance items, return policies may be different than for full-priced items. Check before buying.

* Don’t take electronics out of their boxes before wrapping. Original packaging may be required for a return. And some merchants charge a restocking or “open box” fee for returns of such items.

* Pay attention to differences in return policies when you’re shopping online, from catalogs or in a bricks-and-mortar store. If ordered merchandise can’t be returned at a store, you may be charged a shipping fee for returns.

* Returns of some personal items such as intimate apparel and hats may be prohibited by health regulations.

* Make sure you know what the time limit is on returns. Many stores only offer a limited time frame from the date of purchase.