These 10 Stores Have the Longest Return Policies

Many CartMeFirst shoppers have noticed a trend: stores are tightening their return policies, making it trickier for consumers. Whether it's imposing return fees, restocking fees, or reducing the return window, the pressure is on for customers to decide swiftly about returning items. Delaying too long might mean ending up with unused items gathering dust in your closet while still on your credit card bill.

But there's a silver lining! Some stores still offer remarkably generous return policies, giving customers ample time to make returns ranging from six months to a year, and sometimes even indefinitely. This extended return window provides the luxury of more time to ponder purchases and make returns at your convenience, eliminating the stress of rushing back to the store or post office.

For those who value thoughtful consideration before making returns, here are the top 10 stores with the longest return policies, along with essential details for shopping and returning with them. Always remember to double-check specifics, as there may be exceptions to the rules and policy changes over time.

Costco: Practically Forever

Costco boasts a legion of loyal customers, and one major reason is their incredibly lenient return policy. At Costco, you can return items indefinitely, with only a few exceptions.

Return Timeframe at Costco: Unlimited (with some exclusions)

How to Return: For items purchased in-store, simply return them to any physical Costco warehouse. If you've made an online purchase, you have the option to return the item to a physical store or via mail. Costco even covers the cost of return shipping.

Caveats: While most items have no time limit for returns, certain products like electronics (such as TVs, major appliances, computers, tablets, and cell phones) are subject to a 90-day return window. Additionally, airline tickets and tickets for live performances are non-refundable.

American Eagle: No Time Limit

Adored by teenagers, twenty-somethings, and anyone who loves comfortable, casual clothing, American Eagle offers a return policy as laid-back as their style.

Return Timeframe at AE: Unlimited

How to Return: With proof of purchase, you can return both in-store and online purchases to any American Eagle store at any time. If you bought an item in-store, it cannot be returned online. However, for online purchases, you have the flexibility to return them to a physical AE location or ship them back. If your order qualifies for free returns, there's no charge: otherwise, a $5 fee will be deducted from your refund to cover shipping costs.

Caveats: If you lack a receipt, you can exchange your item or receive store credit based on the current price. Additionally, swimsuits with the hygienic liner removed are not eligible for returns.

Bath & Body Works: Flexible Returns

From the enticing three-wick candles to their welcoming return policy, Bath & Body Works ensures customer satisfaction by allowing returns or store credits for any item that doesn't meet expectations.

Return Timeframe at Bath & Body Works: Unlimited for store credit; 90 days for a refund

How to Return: Visit a Bath & Body Works store to process your returns. Online returns are also accepted, but shipping fees apply. Don't fret if you've misplaced your receipt you can still receive merchandise credit at the store for items totaling up to $250 without proof of purchase.

Caveats: With a receipt, items can be returned within 90 days for a refund. After this period, store credit is issued.

Chewy: Extended Returns

Ordered something for your furry friend and it's not quite the right fit? Chewy offers a generous 365-day return window for your convenience.

Return Timeframe at Chewy: 365 days

How to Return: Simply message Chewy to initiate your return process.

Caveats: Please note that prescription medications ordered for your pets cannot be returned.

IKEA: Flexible Returns

Swedish retailer IKEA provides ample time for returns, allowing customers up to a year to initiate the process.

Return Timeframe at IKEA: 365 days for unopened items still in original packaging: 180 days for opened ones. Mattresses must be returned within 90 days.

How to Return: Depending on your location, IKEA may offer pickup services for returns. Contact customer support for details. Alternatively, you can return items to the store with your receipt and a valid photo ID. Some small items may also be returned via mail.

Caveats: Please note that IKEA does not offer refunds on custom-made worktops, food, drinks, plants, cut fabric, or as-is products.

Kohl's: Customer-Friendly Returns

Kohl's offers a generous 180-day return window, making it convenient for customers to return items, with assistance available to locate receipts if needed.

Return Timeframe at Kohl's: 180 days (some exclusions apply)

How to Return: Items purchased at Kohl's stores must be returned to a store location. You'll need to present your receipt, but if it's unavailable, customer service can assist in locating it. If a receipt cannot be found, a merchandise credit will be issued. For online purchases, items can be returned to a nearby Kohl's store or via mail, with shipping fees applicable.

Caveats: While most items can be returned within six months, certain electronics or watches must be returned within 30 days with their original packaging. Beauty items have a 60-day return window.

L.L.Bean: Extended Returns

At L.L.Bean, located in Freeport, Maine, you have a generous year-long window to return your gear, with even longer allowances for defective items.

Return Timeframe at L.L.Bean: 365 days

How to Return: Simply return your items to one of their physical stores or mail them back via UPS or US mail. A proof of purchase is required for returns, and a $6.50 fee is applied for return shipping.

Caveats: L.L.Bean boasts a customer-friendly return policy with minimal restrictions. Even after the one-year mark, defective items may still qualify for a refund.

Nordstrom: Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed

Renowned for its exceptional return policy, Nordstrom prioritizes customer happiness and offers refunds for most items with no time constraints.

Return Timeframe at Nordstrom: Unlimited (with some exceptions)

How to Return: You have the option to return items to a Nordstrom store or obtain a QR code for UPS or FedEx return. If you lack proof of purchase but seek a refund, you'll receive a Nordstrom gift card for the item's current price. Note: Nordstrom may assist in locating your purchase even without a receipt, so don't hesitate to ask for help.

Caveats: Certain items, such as special-occasion dresses and select designer pieces, must be returned with tags attached. Look for tags indicating that removal renders the garment ineligible for return.

Sam's Club: Member-Friendly Returns

Similar to its counterpart, Costco, Sam's Club extends a generous return policy to its members.

Return Timeframe at Sam's Club: Unlimited (with exceptions)

How to Return: Return your item to any Sam's Club location with a receipt or by mail (return shipping fees apply). Ensure the product is returned with all original packaging, parts, instruction manuals, and accessories for a full refund.

Caveats: A valid membership is required to process returns. While many items have no time limit for returns, electronics and major appliances have a 90-day window, while cell phones must be returned within 14 days. Gift cards, tickets, and prescriptions are non-returnable.

Zappos: Extended Returns

At Zappos, you have a whole year to decide whether those shoes, boots, or slippers are the perfect fit.

Return Timeframe at Zappos: One year

How to Return: Returning items to Amazon-owned Zappos is hassle-free. Simply send back your unworn items in their original packaging, with all tags intact, for a full refund, including free shipping, within 365 days of purchase. Alternatively, you can return items without a shipping box at select Whole Foods Market locations.

Caveats: Please note that final sale and as-is items are not eligible for returns.