Understanding the return policy Kohl’s offers can save you time and stress when you need to bring something back. Whether you bought a shirt that doesn’t fit or a small appliance that wasn’t quite right, knowing the rules makes everything smoother. This guide breaks down everything you need to know in simple, clear steps.
Return Policy Kohl’s
Kohl’s has built its reputation on customer-friendly services, and their return policy is a big part of that. The core idea is flexibility, but there are important details and timeframes you should be aware of. Let’s look at the main points that define their approach to returns and exchanges.
What is Kohl’s General Return Window?
For most items, Kohl’s gives you a generous 180 days to make a return. That’s about six months from the date you purchased the item. This is much longer than many other major retailers, giving you plenty of time to decide if a product works for you.
- The 180-day window applies to purchases made in-store, online at Kohls.com, or through the Kohl’s app.
- The countdown starts from the original purchase date.
- You’ll need your receipt, packing slip, or the credit card used for the purchase for the smoothest process.
Items With Special Return Conditions
Not everything follows the standard half-year rule. Some products have shorter return periods or specific requirements. It’s crucial to check these before you buy, especially for big-ticket items.
Electronics and Premium Items
Items like televisions, laptops, tablets, drones, and major appliances (refrigerators, washers, etc.) have a 30-day return policy. This is pretty standard in the industry due to the nature of the products.
- Returns must be in like-new condition with all original accessories, manuals, and packaging.
- For appliances, installation fees may not be refundable, and special haul-away services might apply.
Special Seasonal Merchandise
Products bought during specific holidays may have adjusted return deadlines. For example, Christmas decorations or costumes purchased in October often have a return date posted in the store or on the receipt.
Final Sale and Non-Returnable Items
A few things generally cannot be returned. Always look for tags or labels indicating final sale.
- Personalized items or monogrammed merchandise.
- Swimwear and intimate apparel with the hygiene tag removed.
- Certain beauty products for health and safety reasons.
- Gift cards (these are non-returnable but never expire).
How to Return an Item to Kohl’s
You have several convenient options for making a return. Choose the one that best fits your situation, whether you want to go to a store or handle it from home.
Option 1: In-Store Returns (Easiest Method)
Bringing your item to a Kohl’s store is often the fastest way to get your refund processed. Here’s how to do it:
- Gather the item, all its parts, and the original packaging if possible.
- Bring your proof of purchase: the receipt, packing slip, or the credit card you used.
- Go to the customer service desk, usually located at the front of the store.
- A associate will process your return. You’ll get your refund based on your original payment method.
Option 2: Return by Mail
If a store isn’t nearby, you can start a return through the Kohl’s website or app. This is a good option for online orders.
- Log into your Kohl’s account online or in the app.
- Find the order containing the item you want to return.
- Select the item and choose the reason for the return.
- Print the prepaid return label that Kohl’s provides and attach it to your package.
- Drop the package off at a USPS location or schedule a pickup.
Remember to keep your tracking number! It can take up to two weeks for Kohl’s to receive and process your mailed return.
Understanding Your Refund Options
How you get your money back depends on how you paid and whether you have your receipt. Kohl’s is generally good about finding solutions.
With a Receipt or Proof of Purchase
- Original Payment Method: This is the best case. Refunds go back to the credit/debit card, PayPal account, or Kohl’s Card used. It usually appears in 3-5 business days after processing.
- Kohl’s Merchandise Credit: If you prefer, you can request a merchandise credit (like a gift card) even with a receipt.
Without a Receipt (No-Proof-of-Purchase Returns)
Kohl’s will often still accept returns without a receipt, but there are conditions.
- You’ll need a valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license). Kohl’s uses a third-party system to track no-receipt returns to prevent abuse.
- The refund will be issued as a Kohl’s Merchandise Credit at the item’s lowest selling price within the last 13 weeks.
- There may be a limit on the number or value of no-receipt returns you can make.
The Role of Kohl’s Cash and Yes2You Rewards
Returns can affect earned rewards, but the policy is straightforward. If you used Kohl’s Cash on a purchase and later return part of that purchase, the value of the Kohl’s Cash used will be deducted from your refund.
For example, if you spent $50 in Kohl’s Cash on a $100 order and return a $50 item, you might get back $25 in cash and $25 in reinstated Kohl’s Cash, depending on the calculation. The same logic applies to Yes2You Rewards points earned on a purchase; if you return the item, the points will be deducted from your account.
How to Handle Returns for Online-Only Items
Items marked as “Online Only” on Kohls.com can still be returned to any physical Kohl’s store for free. This is a huge convenience. Just bring the item and your packing slip to the customer service desk. If you prefer to mail it back, use the process outlined above with the prepaid label.
Exchanging an Item at Kohl’s
Exchanges are simple, especially in-store. If the new item you want is the same price or less, you can do a direct swap. If the new item costs more, you’ll just pay the difference. For online exchanges, it’s often easier to process a return and then place a new order for the desired item, especially if you want to use a new promo code.
Tips for a Hassle-Free Kohl’s Return Experience
A little preparation can make the process quick and easy.
- Keep the Tags On: Leave all original tags and labels attached to clothing and merchandise.
- Save All Packaging: For electronics and small appliances, keep the box, foam inserts, cords, and manuals. Missing parts can lead to a restocking fee or denied return.
- Act Within the Timeframe: Mark your calendar for items with a 30-day window so you don’t forget.
- Bring Your ID: Even if you have a receipt, having your ID handy speeds things up, especially for returns linked to your Kohl’s Card.
Common Problems and How to Solve Them
Sometimes returns don’t go perfectly. Here’s what to do in a few tricky situations.
Item is Past the Return Deadline
If you’re just a few days past the 180-day or 30-day mark, it’s still worth asking politely at customer service. Managers sometimes have the discretion to make exceptions, especially for loyal customers. If they cannot accept the return, you might consider selling the item online or donating it.
Missing Receipt and Original Payment Card
If you lost both your receipt and the card you used, your best option is the no-receipt return process with your ID for a merchandise credit. If you used a Kohl’s Card, the associate can often look up the purchase in their system using your card number or phone number.
Received a Damaged or Defective Item
Contact Kohl’s customer service immediately if an item arrives damaged or doesn’t work. They will typically cover the return shipping cost and expedite a replacement or refund. Take photos of the damage or defect as soon as you open the box; this can be helpful documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long is the Kohl’s return policy?
Kohl’s standard return policy gives you 180 days for most items. However, electronics and major appliances have a shorter 30-day return window.
Can I return something to Kohl’s without a receipt?
Yes, Kohl’s often accepts returns without a receipt. You’ll need a valid photo ID, and the refund will be issued as a merchandise credit for the item’s current selling price.
Does Kohl’s have a return shipping fee?
No, Kohl’s provides free return shipping labels for mail-in returns. You can also return online purchases for free at any Kohl’s store.
What items cannot be returned to Kohl’s?
Non-returnable items typically include personalized products, swimwear and intimates with hygiene tags removed, certain beauty items, and gift cards. Always check the product details before buying.
How long does a Kohl’s refund take?
Refunds to a credit or debit card usually take 3-5 business days after the return is processed. In-store refunds to a Kohl’s Card or merchandise credit are often instant.
Can I return online orders to a Kohl’s store?
Absolutely. You can return any item bought on Kohls.com to a physical Kohl’s store. Just bring the item and your packing slip to the customer service desk for a quick process.
What if I used Kohl’s Cash on my purchase?
If you return an item bought with Kohl’s Cash, the value of the Kohl’s Cash used will be proportionally deducted from your refund. Any expired Kohl’s Cash used may be forfeited.
Final Thoughts on Navigating Returns
Kohl’s aims to make returns as stress-free as possible with its long windows and multiple options. The key is to understand the specific rules for your item, especially the shorter 30-day policy for electronics. Always try to keep your receipt and original packaging, and when in doubt, your local store’s customer service team is there to help. By knowing the ins and outs of the return policy Kohl’s has designed, you can shop with confidence, knowing you have plenty of time and flexibility if your purchase isn’t quite perfect.