Returning Holiday Gifts: Hassle Free

Gifts are always given with good intentions, but it can be a hassle to return gifts that, while appreciated, are not needed. Here are some great guidelines to help you navigate retailers for continued deals and many happy returns.

• Whether you’re the gifter or the giftee, make sure you understand the retailer’s return policy. According to the National Retail Federation, more than half of retailers’ return policies will be more lenient during the holiday season, but that doesn’t mean you won’t hit a snag here and there. Some of those big pre-Christmas discount offers may have strings attached such as limited or no returns, or exchanges or store credit in lieu of refunds.
• If you receive a gift in the wrong size, style or color, don’t open the product packaging or remove tags. The item will be difficult if not impossible to return, and may be subject to a restocking fee if accepted by the store.
• Be sure to save receipts, whether for the original purchase or enclosed as gift receipts. This’ll ensure that you receive the full purchase value for an item in your refund, exchange or store credit transaction. Receipts also contain return policies and deadlines important for your planning.
• Make online gift returns easy by knowing the process and who (you or the retailer) foots the return shipping bill. Most online retailers with brick-and-mortar shops will allow the in-store returning of shipped goods. 

• Go beyond deals on Christmas wrap and menorah candles and stock up for next year’s holidays. A lot of red wrappings, ribbons and craft supplies will be useful for Valentine’s Day, and there’s a bit o’green among the yuletide fare that you’ll be glad to have on St. Patrick’s Day.
• Hold on to e-mailed and newspaper insert coupons for your after-Christmas shopping. Many have terms stretching to New Year’s Eve, and some may be honored for a bit past their expiration date in order to move merchandise.
• If your sale shopping yields several holiday gifts for next Christmas and occasions, record the items and their storage spots so that you’ll know what you have and where when said occasions arrive.
• No matter how amazing the deals on potential holiday gifts, don’t cave in to pressure to buy what you wouldn’t really want, need or give at its regular retail price. Stay focused and spend wisely with upcoming projects and occasions like birthdays and anniversaries.