If you’ve ever bought something that didn’t fit quite right or just wasn’t what you expected, you know how important a good return policy is. Understanding the American Eagle Outfitters return policy can save you time and ensure you get your money back or find a better item. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from time limits to condition requirements, making your return process smooth and stress-free.
American Eagle Outfitters Return Policy
The core of the American Eagle Outfitters return policy is designed to be customer-friendly. They accept returns and exchanges on most items within 30 days of purchase, as long as you have your proof of purchase. Items must be unworn, unwashed, and have all original tags attached. This policy applies to purchases made both online and in their physical stores across the United States and Canada.
What Items Can You Return?
Most items from American Eagle and Aerie are eligible for return or exchange. This includes:
- Jeans, pants, and shorts
- Tops, sweaters, and jackets
- Swimwear (with hygienic liner attached)
- Dresses and skirts
- Accessories like bags, hats, and belts
- Most footwear
What Items Are Final Sale?
Some products are marked as final sale and cannot be returned. It’s crucial to check your receipt or the online product page before buying. Typically, final sale items include:
- Clearance or heavily discounted items (often marked with a red tag in stores)
- Face masks and other personal safety items
- Gift cards
- Altered or personalized merchandise
- Items marked “Final Sale” at checkout online
The 30-Day Return Window
You have 30 days from the date of purchase to initiate a return. The clock starts on the day your order ships for online purchases or the day you buy in-store. It’s best to start the process as soon as you know you want to return something, as processing can take a few days. If you’re close to the deadline, don’t wait—head to a store or start the online return immediately.
Condition of Items for Return
For a return to be accepted, the item must be in its original condition. This means:
- All original tags and labels are still attached.
- The item has not been worn, washed, or altered.
- It is free of stains, odors, or damage.
- Footwear should be returned in the original box, which is part of the product.
Swimwear and intimates have a special requirement: the hygienic liner must be fully intact and not removed. If it is, the return will likely be refused for health and safety reasons.
How to Return an Online Purchase
Returning something you bought on the American Eagle website is straightforward. You have two main options: returning by mail or returning in-store. The in-store option is usually faster for getting your refund.
Option 1: Return by Mail (Using a Prepaid Label)
This is the most common method for online returns. Follow these steps:
- Go to the American Eagle Returns Center on their website. You’ll need your order number and the email address used for the purchase.
- Select the items you wish to return and state your reason. You can choose a refund or an exchange if available.
- Print the prepaid return shipping label that is generated. You will need a printer for this step.
- Pack the items securely in any box or the original package. Attach the label clearly on the outside.
- Drop the package off at any USPS location or authorized drop-off point.
Remember to keep your tracking number! It’s your proof that you sent the package. Refunds are usually issued within 10-14 business days after the return is recieved at their warehouse.
Option 2: Return In-Store
This is often the quickest way. Simply bring the item(s) you want to return, along with your packing slip or the original credit card used, to any American Eagle or Aerie store. The associate will process the return right there. You’ll get your refund immediately if you paid with a card or cash, or you can choose store credit or an exchange. This bypasses shipping delays and waiting for processing in the warehouse.
Understanding Return Shipping Fees
American Eagle provides a free prepaid return label for most returns. However, there is a $7 return shipping fee deducted from your refund for returns made by mail. This fee is waived if you choose to return your online order to a physical store. Exchanges made by mail may also incure this fee, so check the latest terms on their website.
How to Return an In-Store Purchase
Returns for items bought at a retail location are also simple. You must return the item to a store, as they generally do not accept mail returns for in-store purchases. Bring the item with all tags attached and your original receipt. If you don’t have the receipt, they may be able to look up the purchase using the credit card you used or offer you store credit at the current selling price, which could be lower than what you paid.
What If You Lost Your Receipt?
Don’t panic if you can’t find your receipt. American Eagle can often look up your purchase in their system if you used a credit card, debit card, or their AEO Connected loyalty account. If they find it, they can process the return normally. If they cannot locate the transaction, they may offer you merchandise credit for the item’s current price, which might be less than the price you originally paid.
Refund Methods and Timing
How you get your money back depends on how you paid and how you returned the item.
Refund to Original Payment Method
This is the standard refund. If you return an item with your receipt and original payment card, the refund will go back to that card. Processing times vary:
- In-store returns: Refunds to credit/debit cards usually appear within 3-7 business days, depending on your bank.
- Mail returns: After the warehouse receives and inspects your return, it takes 10-14 business days for the refund to post to your card.
Store Credit or Merchandise Credit
If you return without a receipt, or sometimes as a customer preference, you may receive store credit. This is typically issued as an electronic gift card or a physical one. Store credit does not expire and can be used online or in stores. It’s a great option if you know you’ll shop there again.
Cash Refunds
Cash purchases returned with a valid receipt are usually refunded in cash. For card purchases, even if you have the card with you, the refund must go back to the card for security and accounting reasons.
Exchanges vs. Returns
Sometimes you love the style but need a different size or color. An exchange might be the perfect solution.
How to Exchange an Item
The easiest way to do an exchange is to visit a store. They can process it directly, assuming the desired item is in stock. For online exchanges, you typically need to initiate a return for the original item and then place a new order for the item you want. This is because they don’t have a direct “exchange” function that holds inventory for you. Be aware that price differences will apply if the new item costs more.
Exchange Timing and Price Protection
If the price of an item drops after you buy it, you can often request a price adjustment within 7 days of your purchase. For exchanges, if you are simply swapping a size or color, you should get the new item at the price you originally paid, as long as the style is the same. Always mention this to the customer service associate or check the online policy for current details.
Special Circumstances and Exceptions
Holiday Return Policy
During the winter holiday season, American Eagle usually extends its return window. Purchases made in November and December often have a return deadline in late January. The exact dates change each year, so always check the website or your receipt during the holidays for the most current policy. This extended window is a huge benefit for gift-givers.
International Returns
If you purchased from an American Eagle website serving another country (like Canada), you generally must return to that country. Returns to the US from international orders are often not accepted, or you may be responsible for high shipping costs and duties. Contact their customer service for specific instructions if you need to make an international return.
Returns for Damaged or Defective Items
If your item arrives damaged or has a manufacturing defect, contact American Eagle customer service immediately. They will usually provide a prepaid return label and send out a replacement at no cost to you, even if it’s past the standard 30-day window for regular returns. Take photos of the damage as soon as you open the package, as this can help speed up the process.
Tips for a Smooth Return Experience
- Keep your receipt and tags on the item until you’re sure you’re keeping it.
- Try on items promptly after they arrive so you don’t forget and miss the return window.
- For online returns, use the original packaging if possible, but any sturdy box will do.
- Return in-store whenever you can for the fastest refund and to avoid the $7 mail return fee.
- Sign up for the free AEO Connected loyalty program. It makes receipt-free returns easier and sometimes gives you bonus points for returns turned into store credit.
- Always check the final sale status before buying a clearance item.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does the American Eagle return process take?
In-store returns are processed instantly. For mail returns, it takes 10-14 business days after the warehouse receives your package for the refund to show on your statement.
Can I return American Eagle items to Aerie?
Yes, you can return items from American Eagle to an Aerie store, and vice versa, as they are sister brands. This is very convenient if one store is closer to you than the other.
What is American Eagle’s return policy without tags?
The official policy requires all original tags to be attached. However, some stores might accept a return without tags at their discretion, likely issuing store credit at the current price. It’s not guaranteed, so it’s always best to keep the tags on.
Does American Eagle have a return policy for swimwear?
Yes, swimwear can be returned as long as the hygienic liner is fully intact and not removed. If the liner is detached, the return will not be accepted for health reasons.
Can I return online orders in store?
Absolutely. Returning an online order to a physical store is encouraged, as it’s faster and they waive the $7 return shipping fee. Just bring your items and packing slip.
What if I bought something on sale?
Sale items can be returned unless they are marked “Final Sale.” You will get back the price you paid, not the original full price.
How do I start an American Eagle online return?
Visit the Returns Center on their website, enter your order number and email, and follow the steps to print your label and get instructions.
Knowing the ins and outs of the American Eagle Outfitters return policy gives you confidence when you shop. By following the guidelines on time limits, item condition, and having your proof of purchase, you can handle any return or exchange without hassle. Whether you prefer the convenience of a mail return or the speed of a store visit, you have options to ensure you’re happy with your purchase. Always double-check the policy on their official website for the most up-to-date details, as store policies can occasionally change.