Return Policy Ross

If you’ve ever bought something from Ross Dress for Less and needed to bring it back, you probably have questions about the return policy Ross uses. Understanding the details can save you time and ensure a smooth process. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from time limits to required documents, so you can shop with confidence.

Ross offers a straightforward return policy, but it has specific rules that differ from many other retailers. It’s designed to be simple, but knowing the ins and outs beforehand is key. Let’s walk through all the important points step by step.

The official Ross return policy allows returns within 30 days of your purchase. You will need your original receipt and the item must be in its original, unused condition with all tags attached. This is the standard rule for most items sold in their stores.

What Items Can You Return to Ross?

Most items purchased at Ross can be returned. This includes clothing, shoes, home decor, kitchenware, and electronics. As long as you have the receipt and the item is in new condition, you should be able to process a return without major issues.

Items with Special Considerations

Fine Jewelry: Must be returned within 30 days with all tags and certificates. It will be inspected carefully.
Fragrances: Can be returned if the seal is unbroken and packaging is intact.
Small Electronics: Items like headphones or alarm clocks are returnable if all parts and manuals are included.

What Items Are Final Sale and Cannot Be Returned?

Some items are marked as final sale. These are typically non-returnable for health or safety reasons. Always check your receipt and any tags on the item for this designation.

Swimwear (if the hygienic liner is removed or damaged)
Earrings for pierced ears (for obvious hygiene reasons)
Clearance items marked with a “Final Sale” sticker on the tag
Opened cosmetics or skincare products
Any item that appears used, washed, or worn

The 30-Day Return Window Explained

The 30-day period is strict. It starts from the original purchase date on your receipt. Ross does not typically offer extensions, so it’s best to initiate the return as soon as you know you don’t want the item. Weekends and holidays count within the 30 days.

What If You Don’t Have Your Receipt?

Returning without a receipt is possible, but it’s more complicated. Ross may offer you an exchange for a similar item or a merchandise credit at the current selling price, which might be lower than what you paid. They use a third-party system to track returns without receipts, and excessive receipt-less returns may be declined.

Steps for a No-Receipt Return:

Bring the item and a valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license).
The ID will be scanned into their return authorization system.
You will receive a merchandise credit voucher for the item’s lowest recent selling price.
This voucher can be used in any Ross store.

Condition of Returned Items

The item must be in resellable condition. This means:

All original tags are attached and undamaged.
The item has not been worn, washed, or altered in any way.
All original packaging, manuals, and accessories (for electronics) are included.
There are no stains, odors, or signs of use.

How to Make a Return In-Store: A Step-by-Step Guide

Returns are processed at the customer service desk or the register at the front of the store. Here is the typical process:

Gather Your Items: Collect the item(s) you wish to return, ensuring all tags are attached.
Find Your Receipt: Locate the original paper receipt. If you used a credit card, having that card with you can sometimes help.
Visit the Store: Go to any Ross store. You do not have to return to the same location you bought it from.
Speak to an Associate: Proceed to the customer service counter and let them know you’d like to make a return.
Wait for Inspection: The associate will inspect the item and check your receipt.
Choose Your Refund Method: The refund will generally be issued back to your original form of payment. If you paid with cash, you’ll get cash back. For card payments, the refund goes back to the card, which can take 3-10 business days to appear on your statement.

Can You Return Ross Items Online or By Mail?

Ross does not currently offer online shopping, and therefore does not have an online return or mail-in return process. All purchases are made in physical stores, and all returns must be handled in person at a Ross store location. This is a important point to remember.

Understanding Ross Return Exceptions

While the policy is generally consistent, store managers may have some discretion in certain situations. For example, if an item is defective but you discovered it after 30 days, they might still offer an exchange as a courtesy. It’s always worth asking politely if you have a special circumstance, but be prepared for them to stick to the stated policy.

Ross Return Policy for Gifted Items

If you received a Ross item as a gift, the process is similar to a no-receipt return. You will need to bring the item to a store with your ID. You will likely receive a merchandise credit for the item’s current price, which you can use to choose something you prefer.

Tips for a Hassle-Free Ross Return

Keep Your Receipts: File them in an envelope or take a photo with your phone immediately after purchase.
Check Items Quickly: Try on clothing and inspect home goods within a few days of buying them so you stay within the 30-day window.
Leave Tags On: Never remove tags until you are certain you are keeping the item.
Bring Your Card: If you paid with a card, bring it with you to the return for faster processing.
Be Polite: Customer service associates are more likely to help with borderline cases if you are kind and understanding.

Common Problems and Solutions

Problem: The item is missing a tag.
Solution: Ross will likely deny the return. You can ask if an exchange is possible, but there’s no guarantee.

Problem: You lost your receipt and don’t have an ID.
Solution: Unfortunately, Ross cannot process any return without either a valid receipt or a government-issued ID for their system.

Problem: The 30-day period ended two days ago.
Solution: You can try speaking with a manager, but officially the return will be denied. They may allow an exchange as a one-time exception.

Ross Exchange Policy

Exchanges follow the same rules as returns. Essentially, you are processing a return and then immediately purchasing a new item. If you want a different size or color, you can do an exchange as long as the original item meets all return conditions. The price difference will be either charged or refunded.

Refund Methods and Timing

Cash Purchases: Refunded in cash immediately at the register.
Debit/Credit Card Purchases: Refunded back to the original card. This can take 3 to 10 business days for your bank to post it.
Check Purchases: Refunds may be delayed until the original check clears, which can take up to 10 days.
Merchandise Credit: Issued as a store-specific voucher for no-receipt returns or exchanges. It does not expire.

Comparing Ross to Other Stores

Ross’s policy is less flexible than some major department stores that offer 90-day or even 180-day return windows. However, it is similar to other off-price retailers. The key difference is the lack of online returns, which is standard for stores without an e-commerce platform.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long is the Ross return policy?
The standard return period at Ross is 30 days from the purchase date with a receipt.

Can I return at Ross without a receipt?
Yes, but you need a valid ID and you’ll receive a merchandise credit for the item’s current price, not what you paid.

What is Ross’s return policy on shoes?
Shoes can be returned within 30 days with the receipt. They must be unworn, with the original box and all packaging.

Does Ross take back opened items?
Generally, no. Items must be in new, unopened, or unused condition with original packaging for a successful return.

Can you return Ross home decor?
Yes, items like curtains, pillows, and decor can be returned within 30 days with the receipt and in original condition.

How does the Ross 30 day return policy work?
You have 30 calendar days from the date on your receipt to bring an item back for a refund or exchange, provided you meet all other conditions.

Can I return something to Ross if I lost the tag?
Items without the original attached tags are typically not accepted for return, as they are no longer considered resellable.

Does Ross give cash back for returns?
If you paid with cash, you will get cash back. If you paid with a card, the refund is processed back to that card.

In conclusion, the Ross return policy is clear and consistent. The main pillars are the 30-day window, the need for a receipt, and the requirement that items be in new condition. By following the guidelines outlined here—keeping your receipt, checking items promptly, and leaving tags on—you can make returns a simple and stress-free part of your Ross shopping experience. Remember, when in doubt, the customer service team at your local store is the best resource for specific questions about your purchase.