Walmart's Return Policy This April: Returns With & Without A Receipt

The retailer's rules are more involved than you'd suspect when reading their main return policy page, but we break down the info you need.

Updated 1 week 12 hr ago

BY:
KEIRA WAGNER

Editor

Shoppers walk in an out of Walmart store.

Return policies: They seem so simple in theory. That shirt you bought didn't fit quite right, a piece snapped off your new toaster and you found it buried in the box, or the lamp you bought doesn't turn on. Surely, it's just a matter of taking your item back to the store and getting a refund or exchange.

Unfortunately, that kind of simplicity boarded a ship that has long since sailed. And sometimes you feel like you need a stint in law school to navigate a return policy. While return policies can vary from store to store, understanding one store's policy can help you decipher the return process at other stores, as well. Keep reading for everything you need to know about the Walmart return policy.

Keep reading for everything you need to know about Walmart's 2025 return policy and how it compares to other retailers like Sam's Club and Best Buy. From understanding Walmart standard guidelines to mastering those tricky Marketplace returns, we'll equip you with the knowledge to navigate the return process like a pro—or at least avoid a major headache at the customer service desk. If all worked as how they can, it would be an excellent and well said point to do, to know where it is to go and what.

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What Is Walmart's Return Policy This Year?

Walmart's return policy is a lot more involved than you'd suspect just by reading the initial Walmart return policy page. This page can give you a general overview for how the process works. But if you delve into Walmart's fine print, you'll soon see that Walmart's electronics return policy may be entirely different from Walmart's car battery return policy or Walmart's TV return policy. For simplicity's sake, you'll have 90 days after purchase or upon receipt to exchange or return an item, unless otherwise noted in Walmart's exceptions. Keep in mind that these policies might evolve as we move into summer 2025, so it's always best to check the most current information.

The Walmart return policy gives you 90 days after purchase or upon receipt to exchange or return an item, unless otherwise noted.

Items may be eligible for return via the Walmart return center or by mail, depending on the item and return method. Walmart's return policy with receipts and Walmart's return policy without receipts vary by item conditions. Most Walmart return hours coincide with standard store hours, typically from 6 am to 11 pm. However, not all Walmart return centers adhere strictly to these hours, and some stores may have different opening or closing times. To confirm the exact Walmart return hours at your local Walmart store, our guide has you covered! Utilizing the Walmart app can also provide this information.

Return Windows To Be Aware Of

Generally speaking, Walmart allows you to return, exchange, or get a refund for most items. Having your receipt definitely smooths the process. However, be aware that certain items come with special instructions. We're talking about things like marketplace items and luxury goods, items with batteries, freight, anything that needs assembly, alcohol, tobacco, and even items shipped to places outside the mainland US. Always double-check the item conditions.

As a rule of thumb, if you have a new, unopened item, you can probably return or exchange it, as long as you're within the right time frame. For example, think of a new, unopened vacuum cleaner still sealed in its original box, with all attachments included and unused. As long as it meets the item conditions, you can return it. Here's a breakdown:

2 days: Major appliances - Seriously, just two days for those fridges and ovens! Remember, this timeframe starts from the date of delivery, not the date of purchase.
14 days: Wireless phones - Keep this in mind if the new phone doesn't quite work.
30 days: AppleCare+, consumer electronics, PCs and PC components, vacuums, cooling and heating items, electric scooters and hoverboards, Verizon postpaid phones, most marketplace items, Walmart protection plans - Electronics can be tricky. Make sure you know the exact date! Remember that after the holidays, you can't make these returns.
60 days: Contacts, glasses, and hearing aids - Good to know for your month eyewear and eyewear guarantee!
90 days: Walmart+ memberships, home and garden equipment, unmounted tires, photos, and toilets - The standard window, but still check!
365 days: Perennials, shrubs, and trees - Whoa, a whole year for plants!

Outside of these timeframes, you might still have options. Check if the manufacturer has their own return policy or warranty.

You might also receive a partial refund. Walmart's policy for an item to be in "sellable condition" means that is it still in its original packaging along with all the included components from when the item was sold new. Restocking fees may be charged for certain items such as opened drones or products with missing original materials. You also need to check if the manufacturer has a different warranty.

Steps To Make a Return

Log In To Your Account: Go to Walmart.com and access "My Account" by clicking on the account icon at the top right of the page. Enter your registered email address and password to log in.

Navigate To Purchase History: Once you have logged in, find the "Purchase History" link in your account dashboard. Click on this link to view a comprehensive list of your past online and in-store purchases.
Locate The Relevant Order: Scroll through your purchase history until you find the specific order that contains the item you wish to return. You can also use the search bar to look up orders by date or product name.
Initiate The Return Process: Click on the "View Details" button next to the order, then locate the item you intend to return and click the "Start a Return" button next to the product.
Select Return Reason: Choose a reason for the return. You'll be prompted to select a reason from a dropdown menu, such as "Defective item," "Wrong item received," or "Changed my mind." Select the appropriate reason to proceed.
Choose a Return Method: Next, select your preferred return method. You can choose to return the item to a physical Walmart store or ship it back using a prepaid shipping label. Click on your selection.
Returning To a Store: Select the Walmart store where you'd like to drop off the item. You will receive a return barcode for presentation at the store. Bring the item, along with the return barcode, to the customer service desk.
Returning By Mail: Select "Return by Mail" and click "Continue". You must confirm your mailing address and then click "Submit". This will generate the shipping label for you to print. What Qualifies for Walmart Returns?

What Doesn't Qualify for Walmart Returns?

Now, for the stuff you can't return at all. This list includes:

Firearms and ammo
Airsoft guns, BB guns, crossbows, and bows
Pepper spray
Gas-powered recreational vehicles
Used or mounted tires, wheels, rims, or snow tires
Trading cards (opened or unopened)
RV sewer lines, toilets, toilet bowls, and urinals (used or installed)
Precious metals
Adult items and medical testing kits (pregnancy, COVID, etc.)
Prescription medications and devices
Items containing pseudoephedrine, ephedrine, phenylpropanolamine
Diabetic supplies
Hygienic medical equipment

Also, don't expect to get a refund for gift cards, or to return opened video game download cards (they fall under the same non-refundable category). With 2025 on the horizon, it's unlikely these rules will change much. That said, while we didn't see an official Walmart video game return policy, you can find information for redeeming a code if there is an issue, and may likewise find help for other issues with digital goods. The Walmart app may contain help topics.

Once home and tech services, like TV mounting or furniture assembly, are complete, you can't get a refund. That includes cancellations less than 24 hours before the appointment. Some items might not be returnable to a Walmart store at all. For example, you can't return major appliances in-store; you have to start the online return process within two days of delivery. After that, opened appliances have to go back to the manufacturer, and unopened ones might be subject to a 20% restocking fee if returned to Walmart.

Also, marketplace items, including luxury goods, might have restocking fees of up to 20%.

What counts as "luxury"?

Apparel
Shoes
Accessories (including handbags)
Jewelry and watches above $300
Fine art
Gems
Collectibles

If Walmart sells these directly, they might have a special, shorter return window (often 14 days) and require all the original packaging and paperwork.

WIC- and SNAP-purchased items have special rules, too. You can usually only exchange them for the same thing. Some other items are exchange-only when opened:

Unlocked wireless phones (within 14 days)
Drones (within 30 days)
Air beds (within 90 days)
Durable medical equipment, like walkers or crutches (within 90 days)
Funeral products, like caskets (within 90 days)

If these items are new and unopened, you can still get a full refund. When in doubt, check with the Walmart return center to confirm.

I Don't Have My Receipt, Can I Still Return the Purchase?

Walmart's return policy without receipt varies by item, but in many instances, customer service will still be able to look up your purchase.

Alright, let's face it, we've all been there. You're ready to return something, but...uh oh, where's the receipt? Walmart's return policy with receipts is usually pretty straightforward: refund or exchange, no problem (for most products, anyway). But what if that little piece of paper has vanished into thin air, somewhere within that typical 90-day window? Walmart's return policy without a receipt definitely has more nuances and varies depending on the item conditions.

Luckily, all hope isn't lost. In many cases, customer service can work their magic and look up your purchase history. If you used a debit or credit card, or have an online order number associated with your phone number or email address, they might be able to find your transaction. The Walmart App has lots of help topics for finding a receipt for a purchase history.

Now, keep in mind that returning or exchanging something without that receipt showing always requires a government-issued ID to verify identity. They need to make sure you are who you say you are. If everything checks out, you might be able to exchange the item. If the item's value is less than $10, you could get a cash refund. If it's $10 or more, you're more likely to get a refund loaded onto a gift card.

SEE MORE: Does Walmart Price Match in 2025?

What Is Walmart's Return Window?

Okay, so you're wondering how long you've got to make a return? For most things you buy directly from Walmart, you're looking at a pretty generous 90 days window. That's a solid three months to decide if that blender really blends or if those shoes are actually comfortable.

But (and there's always a "but," right?), you absolutely need to check the full policy. Some items come with a shorter return window. For example, electronics typically have a 30 days or even 14 days return window. It all depends on the specific item. Make sure you read the guarantee terms.

Additionally, holiday returns are extended, meaning items purchased between October 1 and December 31 are returnable until January 31.

Of course, there are always exceptions to the exceptions! Things like wireless phones, major appliances, Dyson products, protection plans, and certain luxury goods may not be included in the extended holiday return period.

Are There Any Special Considerations That I Should Know Of?

Yep, there are always a few extra things to keep in mind!

First up: recalls. If you bought something that gets recalled, you're guaranteed a cash refund, no matter what condition the item is in. No questions asked.

And what about groceries? Walmart's got you covered there, too. Things like produce, meat, bakery items, deli items, dairy, and even fresh flowers are often covered by a "freshness guarantee." That means you can usually get a refund or exchange if you're not happy with the quality. This is a great Walmart benefit.

Walmart is pretty confident in their own brands, too. They offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on Walmart Private Brand items. If you're not happy with something, they'll refund your money or replace the item.

The Policy on Returning Car Batteries

Now, for those of you who get your car batteries at Walmart's automotive center: You might be wondering about Walmart's car battery return policy. If the battery tests bad within 90 days, you can usually get a refund or exchange. After that, you're subject to the manufacturer's terms. It's a good idea to keep your receipt showing. You can also check your purchase history for more info.

However, it's important to note that some customers have reported inconsistencies in how this policy is applied. One customer, for example, tried to return a car battery after discovering the issue was with their fuses, not the battery itself, only to be told about a new policy requiring same-day returns – a policy not found in the official documentation. While the battery may come with a 3-year warranty, it's crucial to understand the difference between a return and a warranty claim.

The warranty typically covers exchanges if the battery is found to be defective, not necessarily a money-back return. Some Walmart stores may offer a refund in situations where the battery is essentially new (as in the example), but they aren't obligated to do so, as stores often operate at a degree of autonomy, with returns varying based on employee discretion.

If you find yourself in a similar situation, it's best to:

Visit the Auto Care Center: Have them test the battery to confirm it's in good working order. A Walmart auto care center can provide a written copy of their return policies upon request.
Contact Customer Service: Escalate the issue beyond the store level if necessary.
Review the Warranty: Familiarize yourself with the specific terms and conditions of the battery's warranty.
Check for Policy Updates: Policy changes are sent to stores before the website is updated, so it's entirely possible that the website is out of date.

Keep in mind that, according to policy, batteries may not be returned for a refund unless defective. The warranty is meant for exchanges of defective batteries for the same type of new battery.

Navigating Returns for Marketplace Items

One of the great aspects of shopping on Walmart's website is the wide selection of marketplace items offered by third-party marketplace sellers. However, returning these items can be a bit different than returning something Walmart sells directly. Understanding the nuances of marketplace returns is key to a smooth experience.

Identifying Marketplace Items:

Before you even click "Add to Cart," take a moment to check who's selling the item. On the product page, look for the phrase "Sold and Shipped by" followed by the seller's name. If it's anything other than "Walmart.com," you're dealing with a marketplace item.

The Return Process includes:

Check the Seller's Return Policy: Marketplace sellers are required to have their own return policies, which may differ from Walmart's standard return policy. You can usually find the seller's policy on their storefront page or on the specific product listing. Pay close attention to the return window, shipping costs, and any restocking fees.
Initiate the Return: To start a marketplace return, log in to your Walmart account and go to your order history. Find the item you want to return and click "Start a Return." You'll then be guided through the process, which may involve contacting the seller directly. You can also use the Walmart App.
Shipping the Item Back: In most cases, you'll need to ship the item back to the seller at your own expense, unless the seller offers free returns. Be sure to use a trackable shipping method and keep the tracking information for your records.
Return Processing Times: Marketplace returns often take longer to process than returns of items sold directly by Walmart. This is because the seller needs to receive and inspect the item before issuing a refund.
Item Conditions: You need to make sure that the item is as close to the original condition as possible, with the original packaging and components.

Common Issues and How to Handle Them

Longer Processing Times: Be patient! It can take several weeks to receive a refund for a marketplace return.

Shipping Costs: If the item was defective or not as described, you may be able to negotiate with the seller to cover the return shipping costs.

Disputes with Sellers: If you're unable to resolve a return issue with the seller, you can file a dispute with Walmart. Walmart will then investigate the matter and attempt to mediate a resolution. It's important to have documentation, such as photos of the item and communication with the seller.

Walmart acts as a facilitator in disputes between buyers and marketplace sellers. They will review the evidence provided by both parties and make a determination based on the seller's return policy and Walmart's terms of service. While Walmart will try to ensure a fair outcome, they may not always be able to force the seller to issue a full refund.
Because Walmart acts as a facilitator, you need to make sure you check for Walmart benefits.

How Long Do Returns Take to Process?

Alright, so you've made your return... now the big question: when do you get your money back? The answer depends on a few things, namely whether you have a receipt and how you paid for the item in the first place. With receipted items, refunds or exchanges depend on the item and return method of payment, and may depend on individual item conditions.

Without a receipt, the process might take a bit longer – up to 10 business days, but it is not always guaranteed, and will depend on circumstances. Sometimes, it may take a bit longer.

Here's a general idea of the refund timelines you can expect for receipted items:

Cash: Immediately
Credit cards: Within 10 business days
Debit cards: Within seven business days
Walmart gift cards: Within 3 hours
EBT cards: Within 3 hours
EBT cash: Immediately
To a refund credit account: Within 3 hours

It's worth noting that these are just estimates. The actual time it takes for the refund to appear in your account can vary depending on your bank or card issuer. Keep an eye on your account statements, and if you don't see the refund within the expected timeframe, contact Walmart customer service for assistance. This is just another Walmart benefit. You can also check the confirmation email or the Walmart app.

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