Saks Fifth Return Policy

If you’ve ever wondered about the Saks Fifth return policy, you’re in the right place. Understanding the return rules before you buy can save you a lot of hassle later, and we’re here to break it all down for you in simple terms.

Shopping at Saks Fifth Avenue is a special experience, but sometimes an item just doesn’t work out. Maybe the fit is off, the color looks different at home, or it was a gift that wasn’t quite right. Knowing the return policy inside and out gives you the confidence to shop, knowing you have options if you need them. This guide covers everything from time limits and condition requirements to the steps for sending something back.

The core Saks Fifth return policy is designed to be straightforward. You have 30 days from the date you receive your item to initiate a return for a refund to your original payment method. For a full refund, the item must be in its original, unworn condition with all tags attached and in the original packaging.

After 30 days, but within 90 days of receipt, you can still return most items. These returns will be processed as a merchandise credit, which is issued to you as a Saks Fifth Avenue e-gift card. It’s important to note that some product categories have specific rules, which we’ll detail below.

Key Timeframes to Remember

0-30 Days: Full refund to original payment method for items in new condition.
31-90 Days: Merchandise credit (e-gift card) for eligible items.
Beyond 90 Days: Returns are generally not accepted, with very few exceptions.

Condition is Everything

For a smooth return, the item’s condition is crucial. The staff will inspect it. It should look like it’s never been used or worn. All manufacturer tags, labels, and security tags must be intact. If the item came with a dust bag, certificate, or special box, those should be included too.

What “Unworn Condition” Really Means

Shoes should have no scuffs on the soles and the original shoe box should be in good shape.
Clothing should have no deodorant marks, perfume smells, or lint.
Jewelry should not be sized or altered in any way.
Electronics must have all original parts and packaging.

Exclusions and Special Categories

Not everything follows the standard 90-day window. Some items have much stricter return policies. Always double-check the product page before buying these categories.

Final Sale Items: These are clearly marked and cannot be returned or exchanged for any reason. This often applies to clearance, certain luxury items, and personalized goods.
Beauty & Fragrance: For health and safety reasons, these products are final sale unless they are defective upon arrival.
Swimwear & Intimates: For hygiene reasons, these items must have the original hygienic liner attached and be in pristine condition. Returns are typically only accepted for store credit.
Designer Items: Some high-end designer brands (like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, etc.) may have their own return rules that override Saks’ general policy. The store or website will note this at purchase.
Monogrammed or Altered Items: Any item that has been personalized or altered is considered final sale.

How to Return an Item to Saks Fifth Avenue

You have three main options for returning your Saks purchase: by mail, in-store, or through a pickup service. Here’s how each one works.

Option 1: Return by Mail (Pre-Paid Label)

This is the most common method for online purchases. The process is simple but must be followed correctly.

Initiate Online: Log into your Saks.com account and go to “My Orders.” Select the item(s) you wish to return.
Choose Reason & Print: Select your return reason and a pre-paid return shipping label will be generated. Print this label.
Pack Securely: Place the item in its original packaging, include all tags and accessories. Seal the box securely.
Attach Label: Attach the pre-paid label over the original shipping label on the box.
Drop Off: Drop the package at any UPS location. You should get a receipt for your drop-off.

Once Saks receives and inspects your return, they will process your refund or merchandise credit. This usually takes 10-14 business days from the day you drop it off. Refunds appear on your credit card statement in a few days after that.

Option 2: Return In-Store

This is often the fastest way to get your refund. You can return items bought online to any Saks Fifth Avenue store, and items bought in-store should generally be returned to a store.

Bring the item, all original packaging and tags, and your receipt, packing slip, or the credit card you used to buy it.
A sales associate will process the return at the register. If you don’t have your proof of purchase, they can often look it up with your ID or the credit card used.
Your refund to your original payment method is typically instant for in-store returns, or you can opt for store credit.

Option 3: Scheduled Pickup Returns

For large or heavy items (like furniture or rugs), Saks may offer a scheduled pickup service. You’ll need to contact their customer service to arrange this. There might be a pickup fee, so ask about any charges when you call.

Understanding Refunds and Store Credit

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

Refund to Original Payment

If you return within 30 days in new condition, the money goes back to the original form of payment. For credit cards, it can take 1-2 billing cycles to see the credit, though the store processes it right away. Debit card refunds may take a bit longer to clear in your bank account.

Merchandise Credit (E-Gift Card)

For returns between 31 and 90 days, or for items not in perfect condition within 30 days, you’ll receive a Saks Fifth Avenue e-gift card. This credit does not expire and can be used online or in stores. You’ll receive the email with the gift card code once the return is approved.

Sale Items

Items purchased on sale follow the same timeframes, but the refund amount will reflect the sale price you paid, not the original price.

Tips for a Smooth Return Experience

A little preparation can make the return process quick and easy. Here are some pro tips.

Keep the Box: Try to keep the original shipping box and all interior packaging for at least the return window.
Take Photos: Before you send a valuable item back, take photos of it from all angles, showing its condition and that all tags are attached. This provides proof if there’s any dispute.
Act Quickly: Don’t let the return window slip by. Mark your calendar when you receive a package if you’re unsure about an item.
Read Product Details: Always check the product description for any special return notes, especially for designer, beauty, or final sale items.
Use the Pre-Paid Label: Never use your own shipping method unless instructed by customer service. Using the wrong label can delay or void your return.

Common Issues and How to Solve Them

Sometimes, returns don’t go as planned. Here’s what to do if you run into a problem.

Lost Return Package

If you used the Saks pre-paid label, the return is tracked. Always get that drop-off receipt from UPS. If the tracking doesn’t show as delivered after a long time, contact Saks customer service with your receipt and tracking number. They can usually initiate a trace with the carrier.

Return Denied Due to Condition

If Saks says the item was not in new condition and you disagree, your pre-return photos are your best evidence. Politely ask customer service to review your case and provide the photos. If you returned in-store and were denied, ask to speak with a manager.

Refund Not Received

First, check the return status in your online account. If it shows “processed,” allow the standard time for your bank to post it (up to 14 business days). If it’s been longer, contact Saks with your return confirmation number. They can provide the refund transaction details for you to give to your bank.

Missing Original Packaging

While returning items in the original box is strongly recommended, it’s not always an absolute requirement for a refund, especially for clothing. However, for electronics, shoes, or handbags, missing the original box can result in a restocking fee or a denial of the return. It’s always safer to include everything.

Gift Returns and Exchanges

Returning a gift has it’s own set of steps. Since the purchase was made with someone else’s payment method, Saks handles it differently to prevent fraud.

With a Gift Receipt

This is the easiest scenario. If the giver included a gift receipt, you can return the item within 90 days of the original purchase date. You will receive the refund as a Saks Fifth Avenue merchandise credit (e-gift card). The refund amount will be the price paid by the giver.

Without a Gift Receipt

If you don’t have any receipt, you can still try to return the item to a Saks store. They may be able to look it up. If accepted, the return will be for the item’s current selling price (which could be lower than what was paid) as a merchandise credit. There is no gaurantee without proof of purchase.

Exchanging a Gift

You can exchange a gift for a different size, color, or item entirely. In-store exchanges are simplest. If you have the gift receipt, the value will be applied to the new item. If the new item costs more, you’ll pay the difference. If it costs less, you’ll receive the balance on a merchandise credit.

International Returns

If you are outside the United States and ordered from Saks.com, the return policy still applies, but the process is different.

You must contact international customer service to initiate the return. They will provide instructions and a customs form.
You are typically responsible for the cost of international return shipping, which can be expensive.
Refunds are issued to the original payment method, but currency conversion fees may apply, and the refund amount could vary slightly based on exchange rate changes.
The 30/90-day window still applies from the date of delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Saks Fifth Avenue’s return policy?

Saks offers a 30-day window for a full refund to your original payment and a 90-day window for store credit, provided items are in new, unworn condition with all tags and packaging.

Can I return online purchases to a Saks store?

Yes, you can return items bought on Saks.com to any Saks Fifth Avenue physical store for your convenience. This is often the fastest method.

How long do Saks returns take to process?

Once the warehouse receives your return, processing takes 10-14 business days. After that, your bank may take a few more days to post the refund to your account. In-store refunds are much quicker.

Are Saks Fifth Avenue returns free?

Returns using the pre-paid label provided by Saks are free within the U.S. However, for large item pickups or international returns, fees may apply.

What is Saks’ holiday return policy?

During the winter holiday season, Saks often extends its return window. Purchases made in November and December can frequently be returned until late January. Always check the website for the official holiday policy announcement each year.

Can you return sale items to Saks?

Yes, sale items follow the same policy unless they are marked “Final Sale.” Final sale items cannot be returned for any reason, so read the product details carefully.

What if my return is past 90 days?

Returns past 90 days are generally not accepted. Your best course of action is to contact customer service directly to explain your situation, but be prepared for the answer to be no.

Knowing the Saks Fifth return policy gives you the freedom to shop with confidence. By keeping track of the time limits, preserving the condition of your items, and following the correct return steps, you can ensure a positive experience even when something doesn’t work out. Always double-check your receipts and the product details for any special instructions, and when in doubt, a quick call to customer service or a trip to your local store can clear up any confusion.