Shopping online or in-store at a luxury retailer should be a stress-free experience, and that includes making a return if something isn’t quite right. Understanding the Saks Fifth Avenue return policy is key to shopping with confidence. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from timeframes and conditions to step-by-step instructions for a smooth process.
Whether you changed your mind about a dress or received a gift that wasn’t your style, we’ve got you covered. Let’s look at the details so you can handle your return or exchange without any hassle.
Saks Fifth Avenue Return Policy
The core Saks Fifth Avenue return policy is designed to be customer-friendly, offering a generous window for returns and exchanges. Most items can be sent back within 30 days of the delivery date for a full refund to your original payment method. It’s important to note that the 30-day clock starts when your order is delivered, not when you placed it.
For online purchases, you have two main options: returning by mail or visiting a Saks Fifth Avenue store. In-store returns are often the fastest way to get your refund processed. All items must be in new, unused, and resalable condition with all original tags and packaging attached.
Key Timeframes to Remember
* Standard Returns: 30 days from delivery.
* Holiday Extension: Purchases made between November 1st and December 31st typically have an extended return deadline, often until January 31st of the following year.
* Saks OFF 5TH: Items from the outlet division follow a 30-day return policy from the date of purchase.
Condition of Items
All returned merchandise must be in its original state. This means:
* Tags are still attached.
* Items are unworn, unwashed, and unaltered.
* All original packaging, dust bags, and authenticity cards (for luxury items) are included.
* The item is in its original shipping box or a suitable replacement.
What Items Are Final Sale?
Not everything can be returned. To avoid surprises, be aware of final sale items. These are typically non-returnable and include:
* Personalized or monogrammed merchandise.
* Swimsuit bottoms (for hygiene reasons).
* Certain beauty products, like fragrances that have been sealed broken.
* “Final Sale” items clearly marked at the time of purchase.
* Gift cards and e-gift cards.
Always double-check the product description before buying, as it will clearly state if an item is final sale. This is one of the most common oversights shoppers make.
Returning Online Purchases by Mail
Returning an online order by mail is straightforward. Here’s how to do it in a few simple steps.
1. Initiate Your Return Online: Log into your Saks Fifth Avenue account and go to “My Orders.” Select the item(s) you wish to return. If you checked out as a guest, you’ll need your order number and billing zip code to start the process on their website.
2. Choose Your Method: Select whether you want a refund or an exchange (if available). You will also choose your preferred method for receiving your return label.
3. Print Your Label: A prepaid return shipping label will be generated. You can print it immediately or have a link sent to your email. Saks often provides a QR code you can show at a drop-off location without needing to print.
4. Pack Your Item Securely: Place the item with all tags and packaging into a sturdy box. Seal the box securely and attach the return label over the original shipping label.
5. Drop Off Your Package: You can drop the box at any United States Postal Service (USPS) location or with other designated carriers, depending on the label provided. Be sure to get a receipt for your records.
Once Saks receives your return, it usually takes 7–10 business days for the refund to be processed and another 3–5 business days for it to appear on your bank or credit card statement. They will send you an email confirmation when the return is received and again when the refund is issued.
Making In-Store Returns
If you have a Saks Fifth Avenue store nearby, this is often the quickest option. You can return both online and in-store purchases at any full-line Saks Fifth Avenue location. Saks OFF 5TH stores can only process returns for items purchased at Saks OFF 5TH.
What to bring:
* The item in its original condition.
* Your original receipt, packing slip, or the order confirmation email.
* The credit card used for the purchase (if applicable).
The associate will process your return at the register. Your refund to the original payment method is usually instant for credit cards, though bank processing can take a few days. For returns without a receipt, you may receive a merchandise credit at the current selling price.
Using the Saks Fifth Avenue Return Centers
Some major metropolitan areas have dedicated Saks return centers or concierge services. These are separate from the main store and are designed specifically for handling returns and exchanges, which can make the process even faster during busy periods. Check the Saks website for locations near you.
Understanding Refunds and Credits
How you get your money back depends on how you paid and how you returned the item.
* Credit/Debit Card Purchases: Refunds are issued back to the original card. Processing times vary by bank.
* PayPal or Other Digital Wallets: The refund goes back to that account.
* Saks Gift Card or Merchandise Credit: You will receive a new gift card or credit.
* Cash or Check Purchases: Refunds for in-store purchases made with cash or check are typically issued as a check mailed from the corporate office, which can take longer.
If you used a promotion or discount on your original purchase, the refunded amount will reflect the price you actually paid. For example, if you bought a $200 item with a 20% discount, you would be refunded $160, not the full $200.
Special Circumstances and Exceptions
While the standard policy covers most situations, there are some special cases worth noting.
Returns for Gifted Items
Receiving a gift from Saks Fifth Avenue is wonderful, but if it’s not right for you, the return process is easy. You’ll need the gift receipt that was included with your present. The return will be processed for the amount paid onto a Saks Fifth Avenue merchandise credit or gift card, which you can use for a future purchase. Without a gift receipt, you may need to contact customer service for assistance, and a refund may be issued at the item’s current price.
International Returns
If you are shipping a return from outside the United States, different rules apply. You are generally responsible for any duties, taxes, and shipping costs associated with the international return. It is highly recommended to contact Saks Fifth Avenue Customer Service before sending an international return to get specific instructions and avoid unexpected charges. The return timeframe still applies, so allow extra time for international shipping.
Damaged or Defective Items
If your item arrives damaged or is defective, you should contact Saks Customer Service immediately—ideally within 7 days of delivery. They will guide you through a separate process, which often involves providing photos of the damage. In these cases, Saks will typically cover all return shipping costs and expedite a replacement or full refund. Do not use the standard return portal for damaged goods.
Late Returns: What Happens?
What if you miss the 30-day window? It’s not always a dead end. Saks Fifth Avenue may, at its discretion, accept a late return. It will likely be processed for store credit at the item’s current selling price, which may be lower than what you paid. The best course of action is to call customer service or try the return in-store and speak politely with a manager. There’s no guarantee, but it’s worth an ask, especially if the item is in perfect condition.
Tips for a Smooth Return Experience
A little preparation can make your return effortless. Follow these tips to ensure there are no hangups.
* Keep All Packaging: Until you’re sure you’re keeping an item, store it with all its tags, bags, and original boxes. This is especially crucial for luxury handbags, shoes, and jewelry.
* Act Within the Window: Mark your calendar or set a reminder on your phone. 30 days can pass quickly, especially during the busy holiday season.
* Inspect Items Upon Delivery: Try on clothing and inspect accessories as soon as you get them. This gives you the full return period to make a decision and immediately identify any shipping damage.
* Use the Prepaid Label: Always use the official return label provided by Saks. Using your own shipping method can delay processing and you won’t be able to track the return easily.
* Get a Drop-Off Receipt: Whether at USPS or a carrier store, always get a receipt when you drop off your return package. This is your proof of shipment if the package gets lost.
Saks OFF 5TH vs. Saks Fifth Avenue Returns
It’s easy to get these two confused. Saks OFF 5TH is the outlet division, and its return policy is separate. Returns for Saks OFF 5TH purchases are generally accepted within 30 days of purchase with a receipt. They must be made at a Saks OFF 5TH store, not a mainline Saks Fifth Avenue store. Always check your receipt for the specific return policy of the store where you bought the item.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to get a refund from Saks Fifth Avenue?
After Saks receives your return, please allow 7-10 business days for processing. The refund will then be sent to your bank or card issuer, which can take an additional 3-5 business days to post to your account.
Can I return an online purchase to a Saks store?
Yes, you can. Bring the item in its original condition, along with your packing slip or order confirmation, to any full-line Saks Fifth Avenue store for a quick return. This is often the fastest method.
What is Saks Fifth Avenue’s holiday return policy?
Purchases made between November 1 and December 31 typically qualify for an extended return period, often until January 31 of the following year. Always verify the exact dates on their website each year, as they can sometimes shift a little.
Are there any return shipping fees?
Saks Fifth Avenue provides a prepaid return label for most online returns within the U.S., so there is usually no cost to you. However, for international returns or exceptionally large items, fees may apply.
What if I lost my receipt?
If you made the purchase with a credit card linked to your Saks account, the store can often look it up. Otherwise, you may be offered a merchandise credit for the item’s current selling price.
Can I return beauty products?
Generally, used beauty products cannot be returned for health and safety reasons. However, if a product is defective or you have an allergic reaction, it’s best to contact Customer Service directly to discuss a possible exception.
How do I track my return?
When you initiate your return online, you will receive a return confirmation email with a tracking number for the prepaid label. You can use this to track the package back to Saks’ warehouse.
Does Saks Fifth Avenue offer exchanges?
Yes, you can request an exchange for a different size or color online, subject to availability. For a wider selection, it’s often easier to process a refund and then place a new order for the desired item. In-store exchanges are very simple to do.
By knowing the ins and outs of the Saks Fifth Avenue return policy, you can shop their fantastic collections with total peace of mind. Remember to keep your tags on and act within the time limits, and you’ll find their process to be as refined as their merchandise.