Understanding the Return Policy Free People offers is key to a smooth shopping experience. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from time limits to condition requirements, so you can shop with total confidence.
We’ll cover how to start a return, what items are final sale, and how to handle exchanges. You’ll also learn about return methods, fees, and tracking your refund. Let’s get into the details.
Return Policy Free People
The Free People return policy is designed to be straightforward for customers. In general, you have 30 days from the date you receive your order to send items back for a refund. Items must be unworn, unwashed, and have all original tags attached.
This policy applies to purchases made both online and in Free People retail stores. However, there are some important exceptions and special cases to be aware of, which we will detail below.
What Are the Key Time Limits?
You have 30 calendar days to return your items. The clock starts on the day your package is delivered. It’s a good idea to initiate your return as soon as possible if your not happy with an item.
After 30 days, returns are typically not accepted. The system will often not allow you to generate a return label past this date. Always check your order confirmation email for your specific delivery date.
Condition Requirements for Returns
For a return to be accepted, items must meet strict condition guidelines. Failing to meet these is the most common reason for a return to be denied.
- Unworn and Unwashed: The item must show no signs of wear, perfume, deodorant, or makeup.
- Original Tags Attached: All brand tags and price tags must be fixed to the garment.
- Original Packaging: Shoes must be returned in their original box, and all accessories should come with their dust bags and tags.
- Hygiene Liners: For swimwear and intimate apparel, the protective hygiene liner must be perfectly intact and in place.
What About Damaged or Defective Items?
If you receive an item that is damaged or has a manufacturing defect, contact Free People Customer Service immediately. Do not initiate a standard return. They will provide you with specific instructions, which often involve sending photos for review. The 30-day window may be extended for these cases.
How to Start a Free People Return
Follow these steps to ensure your return is processed correctly and quickly.
- Log into Your Account: Go to the Free People website and log into the account you used to place the order. If you checked out as a guest, you’ll need your order number and email address.
- Find Your Order: Navigate to “My Orders” or “Order History.” Select the order containing the item(s) you wish to return.
- Select Items for Return: Choose the specific items and indicate your reason for returning each one.
- Choose Your Return Method: You can opt for a return by mail or an in-store return. The system will generate your prepaid return label if you choose mail.
- Pack Your Items Securely: Place the items in a sturdy shipping box or bag. Attach the return label securely to the outside. It’s wise to keep your drop-off receipt until the return is processed.
In-Store Returns vs. Mail Returns
You can return online purchases to a Free People retail store. This is often the fastest way to get your refund, as it’s processed immediately at the register. Just bring the items and your order confirmation email or the packing slip. Remember, the condition rules still apply for in-store returns.
Mail returns are convenient but take longer. You must use the prepaid label from your return portal. Using your own shipping method may result in delays or lost packages, and Free People won’t be responsible.
Final Sale Items: What You Can’t Return
This is a crucial section. Certain items are marked as “Final Sale” and cannot be returned for a refund or exchange. Always check the product description before buying.
- Face masks and other PPE items.
- Items marked “Final Sale” or “Non-Returnable” on the product page.
- Gift cards and e-gift cards.
- Personalized or monogrammed items.
- Items that have been altered.
- Swimwear and intimate apparel with the hygiene liner removed or tampered with.
Understanding Refunds and Processing Times
Once your return is received and inspected at the warehouse, the refund process begins. Here’s what to expect:
- Refund Method: Refunds are issued to the original form of payment. If you used a gift card, the refund will go back to a new e-gift card.
- Processing Time: It can take 7-10 business days for the warehouse to process your return after it arrives. Then, it takes an additional 3-10 business days for the refund to post to your bank or credit card, depending on your financial institution.
- You Will Get an Email: Free People will send you an email confirmation once your return is received and again when the refund is issued.
Are There Any Return Shipping Fees?
Free People provides a prepaid return label for U.S. returns. However, a $5.95 return shipping fee is deducted from your refund total for each return label you use. This fee is waived if you choose to return your items to a Free People retail store.
For international returns, you are responsible for all shipping costs and any applicable customs duties. It’s recommended to use a trackable shipping service.
How to Handle Exchanges
Free People does not offer direct exchanges through the mail. The process is to return the original item for a refund and then place a new order for the desired item. This ensures you get the correct size or color before it sells out.
For a quicker exchange, you can process the return and new purchase simultaneously in a Free People retail store. The associates can help you find the new item right away.
Special Cases: Holiday Returns and Gifts
During the winter holiday season, Free People often extends its return window. Purchases made within a specified November-December period may be returnable until late January. Always check the website banner or your receipt for the exact holiday return policy each year.
For gifts, the process is similar. The refund will go back to the original form of payment. If you have the order number, you can use the online return portal. If not, you’ll need to contact customer service for assistance. Gift givers may consider including a copy of the receipt for this reason.
Tips for a Hassle-Free Return Experience
- Inspect items immediately upon arrival. Don’t remove tags until your sure you’re keeping it.
- Use the original shipping box or a similar sturdy box to prevent damage in transit.
- Keep your drop-off receipt from the post office or UPS until you see the refund in your account.
- For expensive items, consider adding insurance or using a service with tracking when shipping internationally.
- If you have multiple orders, you usually need to process separate returns for each one.
What to Do If Your Return is Denied
If Free People denies your return—usually due to condition or timeframe issues—they will ship the item back to you at your address on file. You will recieve an email notification explaining the reason. Your best course of action is to review the condition requirements carefully and ensure you initiated the return within 30 days.
If you believe the denial was a mistake, you can reply to the email or contact customer service directly to discuss the situation. Having photos of the item’s condition when you packed it can be helpful.
Free People Return Policy FAQ
How long do I have to return Free People items?
You have 30 days from the delivery date to return items for a refund. The holiday season may have an extended window.
Can I return Free People items to a store?
Yes, you can return online purchases to any Free People retail store for free. Bring the items and your order confirmation.
Does Free People offer free returns?
Returns by mail have a $5.95 fee deducted from your refund. In-store returns do not have this fee, making them the free option.
What items are final sale at Free People?
Final sale items include face masks, marked clearance items, gift cards, and intimate apparel with removed hygiene liners. Always check the product description.
How long does a Free People refund take?
After the warehouse receives your return, allow 7-10 business days for processing, plus 3-10 business days for your bank to post the refund.
Can I exchange an item by mail?
Free People does not do direct mail exchanges. Return the item and place a new order, or do both at once in a retail store.
What if I lost my return label?
Log back into your return portal on the Free People website. You should be able to reprint the label from your order history section.
By understanding these guidelines, you can navigate the Free People return process easily. Always double-check condition requirements and time limits to ensure a smooth transaction. Keeping your order confirmations and return receipts is a simple way to protect yourself. With this knowledge, you can shop their collections knowing exactly how returns work.