If you’ve ever bought a book or a gift that wasn’t quite right, you know how important a store’s return policy is. Understanding the return policy Barnes and Noble has in place can save you time and ensure a smooth experience if you need to bring something back. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from time limits and conditions to step-by-step instructions for in-store and online returns.
Return Policy Barnes and Noble
Barnes & Noble’s return policy is designed to be customer-friendly, but it does have specific rules depending on what you bought, how you bought it, and when. The core principle is that most items in new condition can be returned with a receipt or proof of purchase within a reasonable window. However, there are important exceptions and special cases you should be aware of, especially for things like eBooks, magazines, and special orders.
What Items Can You Return to Barnes & Noble?
Generally, you can return most physical products sold by Barnes & Noble. This includes:
- Books (hardcover and paperback)
- Toys & Games from the Barnes & Noble collection
- Music and Movies (CDs, DVDs, Vinyl)
- Stationery and Gift Items
- Nook eReaders and their accessories (under specific conditions)
- Educational toys and learning materials
What Items Are NON-Returnable?
Some items cannot be returned for hygeine, legal, or digital nature reasons. These are typically final sale.
- Digital Products: This includes eBooks, digital audiobooks, digital magazines, and apps. Once downloaded or accessed, these are yours.
- Print Magazine Subscriptions: Single issues are final sale, though subscription problems can often be addressed with customer service.
- Gift Cards: Barnes & Noble gift cards cannot be returned or redeemed for cash, as is standard.
- Downloadable Software or Access Codes: Once the seal is broken or the code is revealed, it cannot be returned.
- Personalized Items or Special Orders: Items made specifically for you are usually final sale.
- Opened Audio/Video Software: If the shrink-wrap is removed from software, it may not be returnable unless defective.
Key Return Timeframes and Condition Requirements
The clock starts ticking from the date of purchase. The condition of the item is just as important as the timing.
Standard Return Window
For most items bought in-store or online, you have 30 days from the purchase date to make a return. This is the standard window for a full refund to your original payment method.
Holiday Season Extension
Barnes & Noble often extends its return policy for purchases made during the peak holiday season. Typically, items bought between November 1st and December 31st can be returned until January 31st of the following year. Always double-check your receipt or the website for the exact dates applicable in your year.
Condition is Crucial
To be eligible for a return, items must be in new, resalable condition. This means:
- Books should have no bent pages, spines, or markings.
- All original packaging, components, and manuals (for electronics or toys) must be included and undamaged.
- The item shouldn’t show any signs of wear or use.
- Tags and labels should still be attached.
Items that are damaged, worn, or missing parts may be denied a return or subject to a reduced refund.
How to Return an In-Store Purchase
Returning something you bought at a physical Barnes & Noble store is usually straightforward.
- Gather Your Items: Bring the item(s) you wish to return, along with all included parts and packaging.
- Find Your Proof of Purchase: You will need your original receipt. If you paid with a credit card, the store can often look up the purchase if you have the same card with you.
- Visit Any Store: You can return an in-store purchase to any Barnes & Noble retail location, not just the one where you bought it.
- Speak with a Cashier: Go to the main cashier or customer service desk. They will process your return, inspect the item, and issue your refund.
How to Return an Online Purchase
You have two main options for returning items bought on BN.com: by mail or in a store. The in-store method is often faster.
Option 1: Return to a Physical Store
This is the quickest way to get your refund. You don’t have to wait for shipping or deal with a return label.
- Bring the item in its original packaging.
- Bring your packing slip or the shipping confirmation email as your proof of purchase. If you don’t have it, they can look it up with the order number or the credit card used.
- Take everything to a Barnes & Noble store. They’ll process it just like an in-store return.
Option 2: Return by Mail
If you don’t live near a store, you’ll need to mail your return back.
- Initiate the Return Online: Log into your BN.com account, go to “Order History,” and select the item(s) to return. Follow the prompts to generate a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number and a prepaid return label.
- Package the Item Securely: Place the item and all its parts in a sturdy box. It’s a good idea to use the original box if you still have it.
- Attach the Label Securely to the outside of the box. Make sure to cover or remove any old shipping labels.
- Drop Off the Package: Take the package to the designated carrier (UPS or USPS, as indicated on the label). Get a drop-off receipt for your records.
- Wait for Processing: Refunds are issued once the returned item is received and inspected at the warehouse. This can take 7-14 business days after they get the package.
Understanding Refund Methods and Timing
How you get your money back depends on how you paid and how you returned the item.
- Original Payment Method: This is the standard. Credit/debit card purchases are refunded to that card. PayPal purchases go back to your PayPal account. Checks have a longer holding period, usually 10-14 days.
- Store Credit/Gift Card: If you don’t have a receipt, or if the return is outside the standard window but still acceptable, you may be offered a refund in the form of a Barnes & Noble gift card at the current selling price.
- Cash for In-Store Cash Purchases: If you paid with cash in the store, your refund will typically be in cash.
- Timing:
- In-Store Returns: Refunds to credit/debit cards usually appear in 3-10 business days, depending on your bank. Cash and gift card refunds are immediate.
- Online Returns by Mail: Allow 7-14 business days for the return to be received and processed, plus another 3-10 business days for the bank refund to post.
Special Cases and Exceptions
Some products have thier own specific rules.
Nook eReaders and Tablets
Nook devices can be returned within 14 days of purchase if they are in like-new condition with all original packaging and accessories. You must also deactivate the device from your BN.com account before returning. After 14 days, they are covered by the manufacturer’s warranty for defects.
Textbooks and Course Materials
Returns on textbooks often have a much shorter window, sometimes as little as 21 days with a receipt. They must be in perfect, unmarked condition. Highlighting, writing, or bent pages will void the return. Always check the specific return deadline printed on your textbook receipt.
Defective or Damaged Items
If you receive a damaged, defective, or incorrect item, contact Barnes & Noble Customer Service immediately. They will typically provide a prepaid return label and expedite a replacement or refund. Do not return a defective item to the store without contacting customer service first, as they may need to authorize a special exchange.
Returns Without a Receipt
Barnes & Noble may accept a return without a receipt at their discretion. You will likely need to show a valid photo ID, and the refund will be issued as a store gift card at the item’s current lowest selling price (which could be lower than what you paid). There are often limits on no-receipt returns to prevent abuse.
Barnes & Noble Membership and Returns
If you are a Barnes & Noble Member (the annual paid program), your return window is extended. Members typically have 60 days to return items instead of the standard 30. This is a significant benefit if you’re unsure about a purchase. Make sure to provide your membership information (or the phone number associated with it) at the time of the return to utilize this perk.
Tips for a Hassle-Free Return Experience
- Keep Your Receipts: File them digitally or in an envelope. A receipt is the simplest path to a smooth return.
- Inspect Items Quickly: When you receive an online order or leave the store, check your purchase as soon as possible. This ensures you’re within the return window if something is wrong.
- Keep Original Packaging: For electronics, toys, or gift items, keep the box and all inserts until you’re sure you’re keeping the item.
- Act Before the Deadline: Mark your calendar if you’re near the end of the return period. Don’t wait until the last day.
- Bring Your Payment Card: For in-store returns, having the card you used makes the lookup process faster, even if you lost the receipt.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I return a book I bought online to a Barnes and Noble store?
Yes, you absolutely can. This is often the fastest method. Just bring the item, its packaging, and your packing slip or order confirmation email to any Barnes & Noble retail location.
What is Barnes and Noble’s return policy on books?
Most books can be returned within 30 days of purchase with a receipt, as long as they are in new, unread condition. Textbooks have stricter rules and a shorter return window, so check that receipt carefully.
How long does it take to get a refund from Barnes & Noble?
For in-store returns, card refunds take 3-10 business days. For mailed returns, allow 7-14 days for processing after they receive the item, plus the bank processing time. Cash and gift card refunds in-store are immediate.
Can I return a Nook book or eBook?
No. All digital content, including Nook books, digital magazines, and audiobooks, is final sale and cannot be returned once purchased and downloaded. Be sure to sample eBooks before buying.
Does Barnes & Noble have a restocking fee?
Typically, no. Barnes & Noble does not charge a restocking fee for standard returns within the policy guidelines. However, if an item is returned opened or damaged, they may deduct a fee or refuse the return altogether.
What if I received a Barnes & Noble book as a gift?
If you have the gift receipt, you can return the item for a store gift card. Without any receipt, the store may offer a gift card refund at the book’s current lowest selling price, subject to their no-receipt return limits.
Can I return a used book to Barnes and Noble?
Generally, no. The return policy applies to items purchased new from Barnes & Noble. They do not accept returns of books purchased from third-party sellers or items not originally sold by them as new.
Knowing the details of the return policy Barnes and Noble offers gives you confidence when you shop. By keeping your receipts, understanding the time limits, and ensuring items are in resalable condition, you can handle any return or exchange without stress. Always check the official Barnes & Noble website for the most current policy information, as details can occasionally change.