Walmart, being one of the largest retail giants, sees a significant number of returns each day. While the company typically allows returns for most items purchased both in-store and online within 90 days, there are certain exceptions to this policy. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the details of what items cannot be returned to Walmart, providing you with a clear understanding of their return policy.
Certain items cannot be returned to Walmart, including firearms and ammunition, airsoft and BB guns, pepper spray, gas-powered vehicles, prescription medications and devices, over-the-counter medications containing pseudoephedrine, ephedrine, and phenylpropanolamine, sex toys, pregnancy tests, ovulation tests, home-diagnostic testing kits, diabetic supplies, and hygienic medical equipment. It’s important to check the specific return policy for the item you’re purchasing as exceptions may apply.
Walmart’s General Return Policy
Generally, Walmart accepts returns for most items within 90 days of purchase, subject to certain exceptions and conditions. The items must be in their original condition and packaging to be eligible for a refund or exchange. If the product is damaged or used, Walmart may refuse the return or provide a partial refund.
Exceptions to the General Return Policy
Walmart’s return policy covers most items, but there are some exceptions. For instance, prepaid wireless phones have a 14-day return window, and certain electronics have a 30-day return window. The holiday return policy extends the return window for items with a 14-day to 30-day return window, starting from November 1st and freezing the return countdown until December 26th.
If you don’t have a receipt, Walmart may still accept your return if you show a valid government-issued photo ID, and the information matches their secured database. In this case, you can exchange the item with another item or receive a Walmart shopping card or gift card.
Non-Returnable Items
There are certain items that cannot be returned to Walmart at all, including:
- Firearms and ammunition
- Airsoft guns and BB guns
- Pepper spray
- Gas-powered vehicles
- Prescription medications and devices
- Over-the-counter medications containing pseudoephedrine, ephedrine, and phenylpropanolamine
- Sex toys
- Pregnancy tests, ovulation tests, home-diagnostic testing kits
- Diabetic supplies
- Hygienic medical equipment
Return Policy for Opened, Used, or Damaged Items
The return policy for opened, used, or damaged items varies. While most items must be in their original condition and packaging to be eligible for a return, Walmart may accept returns for these items on a case-by-case basis. If the item is damaged or used, Walmart may provide a partial refund or deny the return.
Returning Gifts or Items Purchased with a Gift Card
If you received an item as a gift or purchased it with a gift card, you could still return it to Walmart. The refund will typically be issued back to the original gift card or, in some cases, a new gift card. However, Walmart does not allow the return of gift cards themselves, as they are not returnable or refundable for cash except in states where required by law.
Recent Changes to Walmart’s Return Policy
Walmart has recently introduced changes to its return policy to make the shopping experience more convenient for customers during the holiday season. The “Holiday Guarantee” allows customers to have a longer return window for eligible purchases made on or after October 1st, extending the return period until January 31st. This applies to certain electronics, Marketplace items, and other eligible purchases.
In closing, while Walmart’s return policy is generally accommodating, it’s crucial to note that not all items can be returned. Always check the specific return policy for the item you’re purchasing and keep your receipt, as it will make the return process much smoother.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the return policy for clothes and shoes?
Clothes and shoes can generally be returned within 90 days of purchase if they are in their original condition. However, some exceptions may apply for certain types of apparel or footwear, so it’s always a good idea to check the specific return policy for the item you’re purchasing.
Can I return food items to Walmart?
Yes, most unopened food items can be returned to Walmart within 90 days of purchase. However, perishable items such as fresh produce, bakery goods, and frozen foods typically cannot be returned.
What if I lost my receipt for a Walmart purchase, can I still return the item?
Yes, Walmart may still accept your return even if you don’t have a receipt. You’ll need to show a valid government-issued photo ID, and the information will need to match their secured database. In this case, you can exchange the item with another item or receive a Walmart shopping card or gift card.
What is the return policy for Walmart’s branded products like Great Value or Equate?
Walmart’s branded products like Great Value or Equate also fall under the general 90-day return policy. They must be in their original condition and packaging to be eligible for a return.
Can I return online purchases in a physical Walmart store?
Yes, most items purchased online from Walmart can be returned either by mail or at a physical Walmart store. However, it’s always best to check the specific return policy for the item you’re purchasing as some exceptions may apply.
