Finding the perfect gift or treating yourself during the holiday season is exciting. Understanding the American Eagle holiday return policy ensures your gifts are just right, even if they need to be exchanged. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about returns, exchanges, and refunds during the busiest shopping time of the year. We’ll cover extended deadlines, condition requirements, and how to handle both online and in-store purchases.
Knowing the rules ahead of time saves you stress and makes the process smooth. Let’s get into the specifics so you can shop with total confidence this holiday season.
American Eagle Holiday Return Policy
The core American Eagle holiday return policy offers an extended window for gifts purchased during the peak season. Typically, items bought between November 1st and December 24th qualify for this special holiday return period. You usually have until January 31st of the following year to make your return or exchange.
This applies to most items, but there are always important exceptions. Always check your receipt or the online order confirmation for the exact return-by date for your purchase. It’s the best way to be sure.
What Items Are Included in the Holiday Policy?
Most merchandise from American Eagle and Aerie falls under the holiday return guidelines. This includes:
- Jeans, pants, and shorts
- Tops, sweaters, and jackets
- Swimwear and loungewear
- Accessories like bags, hats, and belts
- Most footwear
Key Exceptions to Remember
Not everything is eligible for the extended return window. Be aware of these common exclusions:
- Face masks and other health safety items (final sale)
- Items marked “Final Sale” on the tag or receipt
- Gifted items without a proof of purchase
- Altered or damaged merchandise
- Underwear and intimates for hygiene reasons (unless defective)
Condition of Items for Return
To process your return, items must be in their original condition. This means:
- All original tags are attached and intact.
- The item is unworn, unwashed, and free of stains or odors.
- It is returned in its original packaging if possible, especially for shoes.
How to Return Holiday Purchases: Step-by-Step
You have two main options for returning your American Eagle holiday items: by mail or in a store. The process is straightforward if you follow these steps.
Option 1: Returning by Mail (Online Orders)
This is the best method for items you bought on the American Eagle website or app.
- Initiate the Return Online: Log into your account on ae.com or use the guest return lookup. Find your order and select the items you wish to return.
- Choose Your Refund Method: Select if you want a refund to your original payment method or store credit. Store credit is often issued faster.
- Print Your Label: A prepaid return shipping label will be generated for you to print. You can also request a QR code for a label-free return at select carriers.
- Pack Your Items: Securely package the items with the tags attached. Include the original packing slip if you have it.
- Ship the Package: Attach the label and drop the package at the designated carrier (USPS, UPS, or FedEx). Keep your tracking number!
Option 2: Returning In-Store
This is often the fastest way to get your refund or make an exchange.
- Bring Your Items and Proof of Purchase: Gather the items in their original condition. Bring either the original receipt, the packing slip, or the order confirmation email.
- Visit Any Store: You can go to any American Eagle or Aerie store, not just the one where the item was purchased.
- Associate Processes the Return: A store associate will scan your receipt and check the items. They will then process your chosen refund or help with an exchange.
What if You Don’t Have a Receipt?
Don’t panic if you’ve lost the receipt or received an item as a gift. American Eagle can often look up purchases using the credit card used, the order number, or the gift receipt. Without any proof, they may offer the lowest selling price in the form of merchandise credit.
Understanding Refunds and Exchanges
Knowing how and when you’ll get your money back is crucial. The timeline and method depend on how you return the item.
Refund Timelines and Methods
- In-Store Returns: Refunds to a credit/debit card usually appear on your statement within 3-7 business days. Cash returns are immediate, and merchandise credit is given as a digital or physical gift card on the spot.
- Mail Returns: Once the return is received and inspected at the warehouse (which can take 7-14 days after they get it), your refund is processed. Refunds to a payment method take 3-10 more business days. Store credit via email is often issued quicker.
How to Handle Exchanges
Exchanging an item for a different size, color, or style is simple.
- In-Store: This is the easiest method. Bring the item in, and an associate can immediately find the new item you want. If it’s not in stock, they can help you order it online.
- By Mail: For online exchanges, you typically need to process a return for a refund and then place a new order for the desired item. This ensures you get the correct size before it sells out.
Tips for a Smooth Holiday Return Experience
A little preparation goes a long way during the hectic post-holiday period. Follow these tips to make your return quick and easy.
- Keep All Tags and Packaging: Until you’re sure you’re keeping an item, leave all tags on and save the original bag or box.
- Organize Your Receipts: Create a special folder in your email for online orders or a physical envelope for in-store receipts. A gift receipt should be attached to the gift when given.
- Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute: Avoid the January rush by processing returns early. Stores are less crowded, and inventory for exchanges is better.
- Check Store Hours: Holiday and post-holiday hours can vary. Check your local store’s hours online before you make the trip.
- Know the Final Sale Rules: Be extra cautious with clearance or promotional items marked “Final Sale,” as they cannot be returned for cash or credit.
Special Considerations for Aerie Purchases
Aerie follows the same fundamental holiday return policy as American Eagle, but with stricter rules on intimates. For hygiene reasons, items like bras, underwear, and swimwear bottoms must have the original hygiene liner attached and be unworn to be eligible for return. If an intimate item is defective, contact customer service promptly for assistance.
Common Holiday Return Scenarios and Solutions
Scenario 1: Returning a Gift You Received
If you got an American Eagle item as a gift, the process is still simple. You’ll need the gift receipt. With it, you can return the item in-store or by mail for merchandise credit. Without a gift receipt, the store may be able to look it up or offer store credit at the current price.
Scenario 2: The Item is Past the Standard 30-Day Window
This is where the holiday policy helps! If your purchase was made within the eligible holiday dates (Nov 1 – Dec 24), you have until January 31st. If it’s past even that date, the return will likely be refused unless there is a manufacturer defect.
Scenario 3: You Bought the Item with a Discount or Promo
Refunds are typically issued to the original form of payment for the amount you actually paid, after the discount was applied. If you used a “Buy One, Get One” offer and only return one item, the discount may be forfeited, changing your refund amount.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the American Eagle holiday return deadline?
For purchases made between November 1 and December 24, the return deadline is usually January 31 of the following year. Always double-check your receipt for the precise date.
Can I return holiday purchases without a receipt?
Yes, but it’s harder. With a valid ID, American Eagle may offer merchandise credit for the item’s current lowest selling price. A gift receipt or order number is much better for a full-value return.
Does American Eagle have an extended holiday return policy?
Yes, that’s exactly what the holiday policy is—an extension of the normal return window. It gives you more time to make decisions on gifts and seasonal purchases.
Are Aerie returns different during the holidays?
The timeline is the same, but Aerie’s hygiene policy for intimates remains strict year-round. Bras and underwear must have the hygiene liner attached and be unworn.
How long do online holiday returns take to process?
After you mail your return, allow 7-14 days for the warehouse to receive and inspect it. Then, allow another 3-10 business days for the refund to post to your bank account. Store credit by email is faster.
Can I return an online order in store?
Absolutely. This is often the fastest method. Just bring the item and your packing slip or order confirmation to any American Eagle or Aerie store.
What if my holiday return is past the January 31 date?
Returns after the posted deadline are typically not accepted. Your best option is to contact customer service directly if you have a compelling reason, like a delayed shipment or defective item.
Final Thoughts on Navigating Returns
The American Eagle holiday return policy is designed to be flexible and customer-friendly during the gift-giving season. The key is to act within the extended window and ensure your items are in like-new condition. By keeping your receipts organized and choosing the right return method for your situation, you can handle any post-holiday exchange without hassle.
Remember, store associates are there to help. If you’re ever unsure about an item’s eligibility or the process, a quick call to your local store or customer service can provide clarity. With this knowledge, you can shop the holiday sales at American Eagle and Aerie with complete peace of mind, knowing the return process is clear and manageable.