Saks 5th Return Policy

Understanding the Saks 5th return policy is the first step to shopping with confidence. Whether you’re buying a gift or treating yourself, knowing the rules makes everything easier. This guide breaks down everything you need to know. We’ll cover timeframes, conditions, and the steps to make a return. You’ll also learn about exceptions for final sale items and how to handle online purchases. Let’s get started.

The core Saks 5th return policy is designed to be straightforward. Most items can be returned within 30 days of purchase. The items must be in new, unused, and resalable condition. This means all original tags and packaging should be attached. Receipts or proof of purchase are also required.

This policy applies to purchases made both in-store and online. It covers a wide range of products, from clothing and shoes to beauty items and home goods. However, there are important exceptions and special cases to be aware of. We’ll go through those in detail next.

Key Conditions and Requirements

To ensure your return is processed smoothly, you need to meet a few conditions. These are standard for most retailers but are worth repeating.

Time Limit: You have 30 days from the date of purchase or shipment to initiate a return.
Item Condition: Items must be unworn, unwashed, and unused. They should have all original tags and labels attached.
Original Packaging: For electronics, beauty products, or other boxed items, the original packaging is often required.
Proof of Purchase: You must provide the original receipt, packing slip, or order confirmation email. If you used a Saks Fifth Avenue credit card, the purchase can sometimes be looked up in their system.
Return Method: You can return online purchases by mail or to a physical store. In-store purchases must typically be returned to a store.

What Items Are Final Sale?

Some items are marked as “final sale” and cannot be returned. This is a critical part of the Saks 5th return policy to understand before you buy. Always check the product description carefully.

Items clearly marked “Final Sale” at the time of purchase.
Personalized or monogrammed merchandise.
Swimwear and intimate apparel if the hygiene seal is removed or broken.
Cosmetics and fragrances that have been opened or used.
Gift cards and e-gift cards.
Certain designer collections may have stricter rules; these are usually noted on the receipt or product page.

How to Return an Online Purchase

Returning something you bought online is simple. You have two main options: by mail or in-store. Here’s a step-by-step guide for each.

Option 1: Return by Mail

Log into your Saks Fifth Avenue account and go to your order history.
Select the item(s) you wish to return and initiate the return process. You’ll receive a prepaid return shipping label via email.
Repackage the item securely in its original packaging, if possible. Include all tags and the original packing slip.
Attach the return label to the outside of the box.
Drop the package off at the designated carrier (usually UPS or FedEx). Be sure to get a drop-off receipt for your records.

Refunds for mail returns are usually processed within 10-14 business days after the return is received and inspected. The refund will be issued to your original payment method.

Option 2: Return In-Store

Bring the item you wish to return to any Saks Fifth Avenue or Saks OFF 5TH store.
Bring the item in its original condition, with all tags and packaging.
Provide your receipt, packing slip, or order confirmation.
A store associate will process the return for you. The refund is often immediate if you have the original credit card, or you can opt for store credit.

Returning in-store is often faster for receiving your refund. It’s also a good option if your 30-day window is closing soon, as the return is considered complete when you hand it over at the counter.

How to Return an In-Store Purchase

If you bought something in a physical store, you should return it to a store. The process is very similar to returning an online purchase in-store.

Gather the item, all original tags, and your receipt.
Visit any Saks Fifth Avenue store. You can also go to a Saks OFF 5TH location, but it’s best to check if they accept returns from full-line stores.
A sales associate will verify the items and process your refund or exchange.

Remember, without a receipt, you may only be eligible for store credit at the current selling price. This price might be lower than what you originally paid.

Return Policy for Saks OFF 5TH

Saks OFF 5TH, the outlet division, has its own slightly different policy. It’s important not to confuse the two. The Saks OFF 5TH return window is typically longer.

Return Window: Most items can be returned within 45 days of purchase.
Condition: The same new and unused condition rules apply, with all tags attached.
Proof of Purchase: A receipt is required.
Final Sale: Items marked “Final Sale” at OFF 5TH are also non-returnable.

You can usually return Saks OFF 5TH online orders by mail or to an OFF 5TH store. Returns to a full-line Saks Fifth Avenue store may be possible but are subject to manager approval and might result in store credit only.

International Returns and Special Cases

If you are shopping from outside the United States, the return process involves extra steps. International customers are responsible for any duties, taxes, and shipping costs associated with the return. It’s recommended to contact Saks customer service directly before sending an international return to get specific instructions and avoid surprises.

For damaged or defective items, the policy is different. If you receive an item that is broken or not as described, contact customer service immediately. They will often provide a prepaid return label and expedite a replacement or refund. You should not have to wait the standard processing time for these cases.

Refund Methods and Timing

How and when you get your money back depends on how you paid and how you returned the item.

Credit/Debit Card: Refunds are issued to the original card. Processing can take 7-14 business days to appear on your statement after the return is received.
Saks Gift Card: Returns for purchases made with a gift card are refunded back to a new gift card.
Store Credit: If you don’t have a receipt, or for certain situations, you may be offered store credit. This is usually issued as an electronic gift card.
Cash: Cash purchases returned with a valid receipt may be refunded in cash, subject to store policy.

For mail returns, the clock starts when the return is delivered to Saks and passes their inspection. For in-store returns, the refund is typically initiated right away.

Exchanges vs. Returns

Saks Fifth Avenue generally processes returns rather than direct exchanges. The simplest way to “exchange” an item is to return the original item for a refund. Then, place a new order for the correct size or color. This ensures you get the item you want before it sells out.

In physical stores, associates may be able to facilitate an exchange more directly if the desired item is in stock. It never hurts to ask politely if they can hold the new item while your return is being processed.

Tips for a Hassle-Free Return Experience

Keep all tags on and packaging until you are sure you are keeping the item.
File your receipts digitally or keep the packing slip with the item.
Initiate online returns as soon as you know you want to send something back. Don’t let the 30-day window slip past.
Consider returning in-store for the fastest resolution, especially near the end of the return period.
For expensive or fragile items, consider purchasing with a credit card that offers extended return protection or purchase security.
Always inspect items carefully when they arrive to catch any defects early.

Common Issues and How to Resolve Them

Sometimes returns don’t go perfectly. Here are a few common problems and what you can do.

Lost Return Package: Always use a trackable shipping method and keep your drop-off receipt. If you used Saks’s prepaid label, the tracking is usually in your return confirmation email. Contact the carrier first if the tracking hasn’t updated.

Refund Delayed: If it’s been more than 14 business days since your return was delivered, contact Saks customer service. Have your return tracking number and order number ready.

Item Denied for Return: If your return is denied because it’s considered used or without tags, customer service may contact you. You can explain the situation, but the decision is ultimately at the discretion of the returns department.

Missing Receipt: Without a receipt, your options are limited. You may be offered store credit for the item’s current selling price, which could be much lower. If you used a Saks credit card, they might be able to find the purchase in their system.

Holiday and Extended Return Policies

Saks Fifth Avenue often offers an extended return window for purchases made during the winter holiday season. This is a common practice in retail.

Typically, items purchased between a certain date in November and December 24th or 25th can be returned until late January. The exact dates change each year, so it’s crucial to check the current policy on the Saks website during the holiday season. This extended policy is a great benefit for gift-givers, but remember that final sale items are still excluded.

Contacting Customer Service

If you have a specific question that isn’t covered here, reaching out to Saks directly is your best bet. You can find the most current contact information on their official website. Be prepared with your order number, item details, and any relevant communication before you call or email. This will help them assist you much more quickly.

FAQs About Saks Fifth Avenue Returns

Q: How long do I have to return something to Saks?
A: Under the standard Saks 5th return policy, you have 30 days from the purchase or shipment date. Saks OFF 5TH offers 45 days.

Q: Can I return an online order to a Saks store?
A: Yes, you can return most Saks.com orders to any Saks Fifth Avenue store for free. This is often the fastest method.

Q: What if I lost my receipt?
A: Without a receipt, you may receive store credit for the item’s current selling price. If you used a Saks credit card, the store may be able to look up the purchase.

Q: Are Saks Fifth Avenue returns free?
A: Returns by mail using the provided label are free. Returns to a store are also free. If you use your own shipping method, you will incur the cost.

Q: Does Saks have a return policy on used makeup?
A> No, for health and safety reasons, opened cosmetics and fragrances cannot be returned unless they are defective or damaged upon arrival.

Q: Can I return a final sale item?
A: No, items marked “Final Sale” at the time of purchase are not eligible for return or exchange under any circumstances.

Q: How long does a refund from Saks take?
A: After they receive and inspect your return, it takes about 10-14 business days for the refund to post to your original payment method. In-store refunds are faster.

Understanding the Saks 5th return policy helps you shop smarter. By following the guidelines on time, condition, and proof of purchase, you can ensure a smooth process. Always double-check for final sale markings, especially during sales. Keep your receipts and tags, and when in doubt, returning in-store is usually the most efficient choice. With this knowledge, you can enjoy your Saks Fifth Avenue purchases with total peace of mind.