Understanding the Saks return policy is key to a stress-free shopping experience. Whether you bought something in-store or online, knowing the rules helps you shop with confidence. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about returns, exchanges, and refunds at Saks Fifth Avenue.
Saks Return Policy
The Saks return policy is designed to be flexible for its customers. It covers most items purchased from Saks Fifth Avenue stores, the Saks website, and Saks OFF 5TH. The core timeframe for returns is 30 days from the date you received your order. You’ll need your original receipt or packing slip for a smooth process.
Items should be in their original, unworn condition with all tags attached. The policy aims to make things simple, but there are some important exceptions and details to keep in mind. Let’s look at the specific rules for different ways you can shop.
In-Store Purchase Returns
Returning an item you bought at a physical Saks store is straightforward. You have 30 days from the purchase date to bring it back. Make sure you bring the item with all its original packaging and tags, along with the original receipt. The refund will typically go back to your original payment method.
- Bring the item, tags, and receipt to any Saks Fifth Avenue store.
- Returns are processed to your original payment method; cash purchases may be refunded as store credit.
- Some large items or electronics might have different rules, so it’s good to ask at the time of purchase.
Online Purchase Returns
For items bought on Saks.com, you also have 30 days from the date you received the package. Saks provides a few easy options for sending your return back. You can use a prepaid return label, drop the package at a UPS location, or even return it in-person at a Saks store for immediate credit.
- Log into your Saks.com account and go to ‘My Orders’.
- Select the item(s) you wish to return and print the provided prepaid return label.
- Pack the item securely with all tags and the original packing slip in a box.
- Attach the label and drop it at a UPS drop-off point.
Once Saks receives your return, it usually takes 10-14 business days for the refund to appear on your account. Shipping charges are generally non-refundable.
Saks OFF 5TH Return Policy
Saks OFF 5TH, the outlet division, has its own slightly different policy. The return window is shorter, at only 21 days from the purchase date. All the standard conditions about tags and original condition apply here too. This policy is consistent for both OFF 5TH stores and online purchases from its website.
- 21-day return period for full refund.
- Original receipt and tags are required.
- Returns can be made to any Saks OFF 5TH store or via mail using their online return process.
Exceptions and Final Sale Items
Not everything can be returned. It’s crucial to check your item’s eligibility before attempting a return. Some products are marked as “Final Sale” at the time of purchase, and these cannot be returned or exchanged under any circumstances.
- Final Sale items: Clearly marked and non-returnable.
- Personalized or monogrammed merchandise.
- Swimwear and intimate apparel with hygiene tags removed.
- Certain beauty products, for health and safety reasons.
- Gift cards are non-returnable.
Always check the product description online or ask an associate in-store if you’re unsure about an item’s return status.
Returning Gifted Items
If you received a gift from Saks and need to return it, the process is still simple. You will need the gift receipt that came with the item. Without a gift receipt, Saks may offer store credit at the item’s current selling price. The return period for gifts is typically 30 days from the date of purchase, as noted on the gift receipt.
- Locate the gift receipt included with your present.
- Bring the item and gift receipt to any Saks Fifth Avenue store.
- The refund will be issued as a Saks Fifth Avenue gift card.
International Returns
For customers who shopped at Saks from outside the United States, the return process involves a few extra steps. International returns are generally accepted within 30 days, but you are responsible for any shipping costs and customs duties associated with the return. It’s recommended to contact Saks Customer Service before sending an international return to get specific instructions and avoid any surprises.
Damaged or Defective Items
If your item arrives damaged or is defective, you should contact Saks immediately. The 30-day window still applies, but Saks will often cover the return shipping costs in these cases. Take photos of the damage and the packaging as soon as you open the box, as this can help speed up the resolution process.
- Contact Saks Customer Service within 24-48 hours of delivery.
- Provide your order number and photos of the damage.
- Saks will provide instructions for a free return and replacement or refund.
Return Methods and Timing
You have a couple of main options for sending your return. The most common is using the prepaid UPS label. You can also return in-store, which is often the fastest way to get your money back. For online returns, the timeline has two parts: the shipping back to Saks and their processing time once received.
Using the Prepaid UPS Label
This is the standard method. After you initiate the return online and print your label, drop the package at UPS. It can take 5-7 business days for the package to reach Saks’ return center. Then, allow another 10-14 business days for processing and for the refund to post to your account.
In-Store Returns for Online Orders
This is usually the fastest option. By bringing your online order to a Saks store, you can get instant credit or a refund to your original payment method. Remember to bring the item, all packaging, and your order confirmation or packing slip.
Refund Methods and Processing Time
How you get your money back depends on how you paid and how you returned the item. Refunds are issued to the original form of payment whenever possible. This is important to remember if you’re expecting cash back to a credit card.
- Credit/Debit Card: Refunds appear in 10-14 business days after Saks processes the return.
- Saks Gift Card: Refunds are issued immediately as a new gift card.
- Store Credit: Issued immediately if returning in-store without a receipt (at current price).
- PayPal: Refunds are processed back to your PayPal account within the standard timeframe.
Note that your bank or card issuer may take a few additional days to post the credit to your account after they receive it from Saks.
Exchanges at Saks Fifth Avenue
If you want a different size or color, an exchange is often the easiest path. You can process exchanges in-store or by contacting customer service for online orders. For online exchanges, you might need to place a new order for the desired item and return the original one separately. In-store exchanges are processed on the spot, assuming the new item is in stock.
Holiday and Extended Return Periods
Saks often offers extended return windows during the holiday season. Purchases made in November and December frequently have a return deadline in January of the following year. The exact dates change each year, so it’s essential to check the current policy on their website during the gifting season. This extension provides extra flexibility for holiday shoppers and gift recipients.
Tips for a Smooth Return Experience
Following a few simple tips can make your return process quick and hassle-free. The main goal is to be prepared and act within the allowed timeframe.
- Keep all original packaging, tags, and receipts until you are sure you’re keeping the item.
- Initiate online returns promptly through your account to stay within the 30-day window.
- For in-store returns, consider calling ahead to confirm the item can be returned at that location.
- Inspect online orders immediately upon delivery to report any damage fast.
- Take a photo of your return package and the tracking number before you drop it off.
Common Issues and How to Resolve Them
Sometimes, returns don’t go as planned. Here are solutions to common problems.
- Lost Receipt: Saks can often look up your purchase with the credit card you used or your loyalty account. If not, you may receive store credit at the current price.
- Past the Return Window: Returns after 30 days are typically not accepted. You can try contacting customer service, but approval is at their discretion.
- Return Not Received: Use the tracking number from your return label to check the package status. If it’s lost, contact UPS first, then Saks with your tracking info.
- Incorrect Refund Amount: If the refund is less than expected, it could be due to a price adjustment or non-refundable shipping. Contact customer service with your receipt for clarification.
Contacting Saks Customer Service
If you have specific questions about your return, reaching out to customer service is the best step. They can provide guidance tailored to your situation.
- Phone: Call the Saks Fifth Avenue customer service line. The number is listed on their website and your receipt.
- Email: You can send a message through the contact form on Saks.com.
- Live Chat: Use the live chat feature on the website for real-time help during business hours.
- Social Media: Saks is active on platforms like Twitter and Instagram; they can often direct you to the right help channel.
FAQs About Saks Returns
How long do I have to return something to Saks?
For most full-price items, you have 30 days from the date you received your order. Saks OFF 5TH purchases have a 21-day return window.
Can I return online purchases to a Saks store?
Yes, you can. Bring the item, all original packaging and tags, and your packing slip or order confirmation to any Saks Fifth Avenue store for a quick return or exchange.
What is considered final sale at Saks?
Items marked “Final Sale” at checkout, along with personalized goods, intimate apparel without hygiene tags, and some beauty products, cannot be returned.
Does Saks offer free return shipping?
Saks provides a prepaid return label for online orders, but the initial outbound shipping fee is not refundable. Returns due to damage or Saks’ error usually have fully covered return shipping.
How are refunds processed for gifted items?
With a gift receipt, refunds are issued as a Saks gift card. Without any receipt, store credit may be offered at the item’s current selling price.
What if I missed the 30-day return deadline?
The policy is strict, but you can contact customer service to explain your situation. They might make a one-time exception, though it’s not guaranteed.
Can I return beauty products?
Returns on beauty items are often limited for health reasons. It’s best to check the specific product’s return eligibility before buying, especially if you’re trying a new brand.
How do I start a Saks online return?
Log into your Saks.com account, navigate to ‘My Orders’, select the item, and follow the prompts to generate a return label. Pack the item securely and ship it via UPS.
Knowing the details of the Saks return policy makes shopping there much easier. Always check your receipts, keep the tags on, and act within the time limits to ensure your returns and exchanges are processed without delay. When in doubt, a quick call to their helpful customer service team can provide the answers you need.