For some the season of giving may also be the season of returns. Currently, no state laws exist for Washington and Idaho covering customer returns for retail sales. This means being aware of a store’s policies will be important should you need to return or exchange items.
BBB offers some information and advice to help you make sure returns and exchanges are a smooth transaction:
Time limits can be the biggest opponent to successful returns and exchanges. Take care of it right away may just be the best advice.
Be sure to keep the original packaging and store retail tags. This will make it possible for the store to identify the item.
Whenever possible keep receipts and order confirmations. Most retailers will include return and exchange information on the receipt or as a link within the order confirmation.
When purchasing gifts for others, request a gift receipt so you can pass it along to the recipient.
When returning items purchased online, follow the directions carefully. You may need to use a specific carrier to return the item. You may need to pay for shipping or restocking fees, as well.
If you received a gift and don’t have the receipt, you are likely to only receive store credit and for the lowest sale price of that item.
Before purchasing big-ticket items, understand return and exchange policies, including any special time limits.
Keep all warranty information from the manufacturer. If an item is defective, you may be able to get it repaired or replaced by the manufacturer. In some cases, you will need to go through the retailer as part of the warranty.
If you are concerned that a retailer may not live up to their stated policies, you can check their BBB Business Review at http://www.bbb.org to see if this complaint is one BBB has received.
You may be wondering if the federal 3-day Cooling Off rule applies to retail purchases. Unfortunately it only applies to sales made within a home, workplace or at a temporary location, such as a convention center, fairground or restaurant. And even more restrictions apply. You can read the rule in full at http://bit.ly/1MwZuOt.
If you are having difficulty with a local, national or online retailer, contact your local BBB for help at www.bbb.org/eastern-washington or by calling (509)455-4200.
