I thought it might be a good idea to take a look at Target’s Return Policy and try and give you a few pointers on how you can try and make the process go smoother. Target says they want your return experience to be as hassle-free as possible, but, there are certain stipulations you need to follow, otherwise you may be out of luck. Most unopened items in new condition returned within 90 days will receive a full refund or exchange, especially when accompanied by a store receipt. However, some items have a modified return policy that gives you less time to return. Your best bet is to check your receipt for a “return by” date, listed under the item on your receipt or packing slip, and in the “item details, shipping” tab if purchased on Target.com.
Return Options
For in-store returns, there are 3 ways Target can attempt to process a return for you: 1) scan your receipt or packing slip, 2) do a receipt look-up if you have the credit card that was used to make the purchase, or 3) do a return or exchange with a valid form of identification if you don’t have the receipt with you. Option #3 in some cases, can be the most difficult to pursue, and on Target’s website, they recommend going online to process the return.
Target Packing Slip
Pictured at top right is an example of Target’s packing slip. There are 2 important numbers that help Target identify your purchase: #1 – the Order ID code found in the top right corner. This number is also included in the confirmation email you received when you placed your order. #2 – the Release ID number which is also in the top right corner. Your packing slip will also outline the available Return Method for your purchase.
Target’s Receipt Look-Up
In most cases, Target stores can verify purchases made in Stores and on Target.com within the last 90 days on a credit or debit card, check or GiftCard using their Refund Look-up System.
TIP: Whenever I make a purchase from Target that I think I may need to return, ie., an appliance that may not work, or a piece of furniture that may not fit my home decor, I write at the top of the receipt, “Keep” and file it away in an envelope in my purse or in a drawer in my desk. That way, I know where to find it when I need it. Now of course, I’m not always so organized. That’s when I rely on Target’s receipt look-up policy. I only use 2 debit cards so if the purchase is not on one, I know its on the other one. Do you have a clever way of keeping your receipts organized? If so, please share it with us in the comments below.
Online Returns
You can also choose to return your item online at Target.com, but, keep in mind that shipping and handling fees will be deducted from the value of your refund unless the return is a result of Target’s error. So you may want to look at the cost of postage before deciding to return online. If you do decide to mail in your return, you can go HERE and follow the instructions provided to process your return and print the prepaid Target.com return label.
Gift Registry Returns
Whenever you receive a gift, remember to keep your PACKING SLIP or GIFT RECEIPT. With it, you can return the item to your local Target store or ship it back to Target with relative ease. If you do not have the Gift Receipt but have a Gift Registry at Target, you can print out your “Gift Purchase Log” anytime from Target.com or at a store Kiosk and use it just like a receipt. You can read more about Target’s Gift Registry Return Policy HERE.
NOTE: Customers do not always let Target know when they are purchasing a gift registry item, in which case, there will not be a record of it on the Gift Purchase Log. You can print a gift receipt but you will need both the Order Number and Release ID to do so.
So a word to all Target gift givers… Please remember to include a gift receipt or packing slip whenever you purchase a gift. They do not display any price information and make returns much easier. You can obtain a gift receipt during checkout at any Target store. If you ever forget to ask for a Gift receipt, bring in your original receipt and Target Guest Services can print as many as you’d like. Or you can print online following the instructions HERE. Just scroll down to where it says, “printing a gift receipt”.
Return Exceptions
There are exceptions to the Target Return Policy in terms of what can be returned or not returned, or only exchanged. For example, did you know that all Halloween costumes and accessories must be returned by 10/31? Or that cameras must be returned within 30 days for a refund or exchange? You can go HERE and scroll down to where it says, “exceptions” to learn more.
Refund Payment
Target’s policy is to issue refunds in the same form as payment originally used for purchase but there are exceptions. You can go HERE and read under “refunds” for more details on how refunds are issued. Included in this list are check purchases, coupon purchases, discounts and promotions and more.
