Return Policy For Big Lots

Shopping at Big Lots is a great way to find deals on furniture, home decor, and everyday essentials. Understanding the return policy for Big Lots is key to a stress-free shopping experience, whether you’re in-store or online. This guide breaks down everything you need to know in simple terms.

We’ll cover time limits, condition requirements, and what items you can’t send back. You’ll learn how to process a return with or without a receipt. Let’s get started so you can shop with confidence.

The core Big Lots return policy is designed to be straightforward. Most items can be returned within 30 days of your purchase. You’ll need your original receipt or a gift receipt to get a refund to your original payment method.

For returns without a receipt, Big Lots may offer an exchange or a merchandise credit at the item’s lowest selling price within the last 30 days. A valid government-issued photo ID is required for these returns.

What You Need for a Smooth Return

Gathering the right items before you head to the store makes the process quick. Here’s what you should have ready:

The Original Receipt: This is the best way to ensure a full refund to your card or cash.
All Original Packaging: Try to include the box, manuals, and all parts. This is especially important for electronics and furniture.
The Credit/Debit Card Used: If you paid with a card, bring it with you for the refund processing.
A Valid Photo ID: This is required for any return without a receipt.
The Item Itself: It should be in new, unused, and resellable condition.

Standard Return Timeframes

The 30-day window is standard for most products. But it’s important to know when that clock starts ticking.

In-Store Purchases: The return period begins on the date printed on your receipt.
Online Purchases: The period typically begins on the date the item was shipped to you. Check your packing slip for details.
Gift Returns: With a gift receipt, you usually have 30 days from the date of purchase (noted on the receipt) to make a return.

Items With Special Return Rules

Some product categories have specific conditions or shorter return windows. Always check the product details at the time of purchase.

Furniture and Area Rugs

Large furniture and rugs often have a more restrictive policy due to their size. Many Big Lots locations require furniture returns within 7 days of delivery or pickup. The item must be in its original assembly and packaging. You are often responsible for transporting the item back to the store. Always confirm the specific furniture return policy at your local store before buying.

Clearance and Seasonal Items

Items marked “Final Sale,” “As-Is,” or “Clearance” are typically not eligible for return or exchange. This is common for holiday decor after the season ends. Its always a good idea to double-check the price tag or listing for any final sale notices.

Food, Consumables, and Opened Products

For health and safety reasons, food, beverages, and opened consumable products cannot be returned. This includes cleaning supplies or personal care items if the seal is broken. Unopened, non-perishable items in their original packaging may sometimes be returned with a receipt.

How to Return an Item to a Big Lots Store

Returning an item in-person is usually the fastest method. Follow these steps:

Gather the item, all original packaging/parts, and your receipt (or gift receipt).
Bring the payment card used, if applicable, and a photo ID.
Take everything to the customer service desk at your local Big Lots store.
A store associate will inspect the item and process your return using your receipt.
You will receive your refund to the original payment method, or an exchange/store credit.

How to Return an Item You Bought Online

Big Lots offers two main ways to return online purchases: by mail or in-store.

Returning an Online Purchase by Mail

Log into your Big Lots account on their website and go to your order history.
Select the item(s) you wish to return and initiate a return request.
You will receive a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number and a prepaid return shipping label via email.
Securely pack the item with all accessories and include the RMA slip inside the box.
Attach the shipping label to the outside of the box and drop it off at the designated carrier (usually UPS or USPS).
Once the return is received and inspected, your refund will be processed. Note that return shipping fees may be deducted from your refund for some items.

Returning an Online Purchase In-Store

This is often the easiest option if you have a store nearby. You can bring your online order, along with the packing slip (which acts as your receipt), to any Big Lots store. The store will process the return directly. This method usually avoids any potential return shipping charges.

Understanding Refund Methods and Timing

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

Credit/Debit Card: Refunds are issued back to the original card. Processing can take 3-10 business days after the return is completed, depending on your bank.
Cash, Check, or Big Lots Gift Card: These refunds are typically issued immediately in-store.
Online Paypal Payments: The refund is sent back to your PayPal account.
Buy Now, Pay Later (e.g., Klarna): Contact the financing service directly, as the refund will be applied to your loan balance.
Store Credit/Merchandise Credit: Issued immediately in the form of a Big Lots gift card, often for returns without a receipt.

What If Something Is Damaged or Defective?

If you receive a damaged or defective item, contact Big Lots customer service immediately. For in-store purchases, take the item and receipt back to the store. For online orders, you can start a return request online or call customer service. They will typically cover the cost of return shipping for faulty items and offer a replacement, repair, or full refund.

Big Lots Exchange Policy

Exchanging an item is generally simple if you have your receipt. You can bring the item to a store and pick out a replacement of equal or greater value. If you choose a more expensive item, you’ll pay the difference. Exchanges are subject to the same condition and time limit requirements as standard returns.

Tips for a Hassle-Free Return Experience

Keep your receipt in a safe place until you’re sure you’re keeping the item.
Inspect furniture and large items immediately upon delivery. Note any damage right away.
Consider using a Big Lots credit card if you shop there frequently, as it may offer extended return benefits.
When in doubt, call your local store before making a trip. Their specific policy on large items may vary slightly.
Save all packaging for expensive or complex items until you are certain you will keep it.

Common Reasons Returns Get Denied

To avoid dissapointment, be aware of these common pitfalls:

The return is attempted after the 30-day (or 7-day for furniture) window has closed.
The item is not in resellable condition (stained, used, assembled, or missing parts).
You cannot provide a receipt or valid ID for a no-receipt return.
The item is on the non-returnable list (e.g., final sale, opened food).
The product was not purchased from Big Lots or BigLots.com.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I return something to Big Lots without a receipt?

Yes, but with conditions. You will need a valid government-issued photo ID. The return will be processed as an exchange or for a merchandise credit at the item’s lowest selling price in the last 30 days. There may be limits on the number or value of no-receipt returns you can make.

How long does it take to get a refund from Big Lots?

For in-store returns to a card, it usually takes 3-10 business days for your bank to post the refund. Online return refunds can take 10-14 business days after the warehouse receives and inspects your return. Cash and gift card refunds are instant in-store.

What is Big Lots’ return policy on furniture?

Furniture and mattress returns are often limited to 7 days from delivery or pickup. The item must be in its original, unassembled state with all packaging. You are typically responsible for bringing it back to the store. Always verify the policy at your store before purchasing big-ticket items.

Can I return online orders to a Big Lots store?

Absolutely. This is usually the quickest way. Bring the item, all packaging, and your packing slip (or order confirmation email) to the customer service desk. They can process the refund or exchange right there.

Are opened items returnable to Big Lots?

Generally, no. For health, safety, and hygiene reasons, opened consumable products, personal care items, or software cannot be returned. Electronics must be returned with all original components and packaging unopened or in like-new condition.

What items cannot be returned to Big Lots?

Non-returnable items typically include: final sale/clearance merchandise, assembled or used furniture, opened food/beverages, opened health/beauty products, gift cards, and custom orders. Always check the product details for specific restrictions.

Does Big Lots offer return shipping labels?

For most online returns, yes, they provide a prepaid return label via email. However, for “change of mind” returns, the cost of return shipping may be deducted from your refund. They usually cover return shipping for defective items.

Can I exchange an item instead of getting a refund?

Yes, exchanges are encouraged if you have your receipt. Simply bring the item to the store and choose a different product. If the new item costs more, you’ll pay the difference. If it costs less, you’ll get a refund for the balance.

Knowing the return policy for Big Lots helps you make informed purchases and handle any issues smoothly. Always keep your receipt, act within the time limits, and check for specific rules on furniture and clearance goods. With this knowledge, you can enjoy hunting for great deals with peace of mind.