Ross Stores Return Policy

If you’ve ever bought something from Ross Stores and needed to bring it back, understanding the Ross Stores return policy is your first step. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from time limits to required documents, making your return process as smooth as possible.

Ross offers a flexible return policy designed for customer convenience. Whether you changed your mind or found an item defective, they aim to make it right. Knowing the rules ahead of time saves you time and ensures you get the refund or exchange you want.

The core of the Ross Stores return policy is straightforward. You have 30 days from the date of purchase to return most items for a refund or exchange. The item must be in its original condition, with all tags attached and preferably in the original packaging.

You will need your original receipt. This is the fastest way to process your return. Without it, the process becomes more complicated, but it’s not always impossible. We’ll cover that in detail later.

What Items Can You Return to Ross?

Most items sold at Ross Dress for Less are returnable. This includes:

Clothing for men, women, and children
Home decor items like curtains, pillows, and frames
Kitchenware and small appliances
Beauty products and fragrances (unused)
Jewelry and accessories
Toys and electronics

What Items Are Final Sale?

Some items are marked as final sale and cannot be returned. Always check your receipt and any tags on the item. Typically, final sale items include:

Clearance merchandise with a special price tag
Items marked “As Is” or “Final Sale” on the receipt or tag
Opened cosmetics or fragrances for hygiene reasons
Swimwear if the hygienic liner has been removed
Special purchase or seasonal items that are specifically noted

The 30-Day Return Window

The 30-day clock starts on the day you bought the item. It’s a good idea to act quickly if you think you might want to return something. Don’t let it sit in your closet for weeks.

If you’re near the deadline, it’s better to go to the store sooner rather than later. Store managers might have some discretion, but they are not required to accept late returns.

What Counts as “Original Condition”?

For an item to be in original condition, it must be unworn, unwashed, and unused. All original tags and labels should be firmly attached. If you removed the price tag, that can sometimes void the return.

The item should also be in its original packaging, especially for things like small appliances or electronics. This protects the product and shows it hasn’t been used.

Required Documents for a Return

To get your return processed quickly, you need the right paperwork. Here’s what you should bring:

The Original Receipt: This is the most important document. It has the barcode the cashier scans to find your purchase in the system.
The Item Itself: With all tags and, if possible, the original packaging.
A Valid Photo ID: This is required for returns without a receipt or for certain receipt look-ups. A driver’s license or state ID is perfect.
The Original Payment Method: If you want a refund back to your card, bring the card you used. It makes the process faster.

What If You Lost Your Receipt?

Don’t panic if you lost your Ross receipt. You can still make a return, but there are different rules.

You must provide a valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license).
The return is subject to manager approval.
Instead of a cash or card refund, you will likely receive a Merchandise Credit Card for the item’s current selling price.
There may be a limit on the number or value of no-receipt returns you can make within a certain period.

The system tracks no-receipt returns using your ID information to prevent fraud. So if you shop at Ross often, it’s best to keep those receipts in a designated spot.

Step-by-Step Return Process at the Store

Follow these simple steps for a hassle-free return at any Ross Dress for Less store.

Gather Your Items: Make sure the item is in original condition with tags. Find your original receipt and payment card.
Visit the Store: Go to the customer service or returns desk at any Ross location. It does not have to be the same store where you made the purchase.
Present Your Items: Give the associate the item and your receipt. They will inspect the item to ensure it meets return criteria.
Choose Refund or Exchange: Tell the associate if you want a refund to your original payment method, a merchandise credit, or an exchange for a different item.
Receive Your Refund: If approved, your refund will be processed. Card refunds can take 3-10 business days to appear on your statement. Cash purchases get cash back.

Can You Return Online Purchases to a Store?

Ross does not currently operate an online store for the general public. All sales are conducted in their physical retail locations. Therefore, you cannot buy items online from Ross, and there is no process for returning online orders to a store. All returns are for in-store purchases only.

Refund Methods and Timing

How you get your money back depends on how you paid.

Cash Purchases: You will receive a cash refund.
Debit/Credit Card Purchases: The refund is issued back to the same card. It typically takes 3 to 10 business days for the bank to post it.
Check Purchases: Refunds for check payments may be delayed until the original check clears your bank, which can take up to 10 days.
Merchandise Credit: If you don’t have a receipt, you’ll get a store credit card. This can be used for future purchases at any Ross store.

Ross Return Policy for Defective or Damaged Items

If you buy something from Ross that is broken, damaged, or missing parts, you can return it. The policy for these items is more lenient.

You should return the item as soon as you notice the problem.
Even if it’s past the 30-day window, Ross will usually accept returns for defective merchandise.
Bring your receipt and explain the issue at the returns desk. It’s helpful if you have the original packaging, especially for electronics.

What About Recalled Items?

If Ross sells an item that later gets recalled by the manufacturer, they will follow the recall guidelines. This usually means offering a full refund regardless of the purchase date. Check the Ross website or contact customer service if you hear about a recall.

Ross Return Policy for Shoes and Accessories

Shoes follow the same general policy. They must be returned within 30 days in unworn condition, with the original box and tags if possible. Try them on carpet to ensure you don’t mark the soles.

Accessories like handbags, belts, and jewelry also need to be in new condition. For jewelry, all protective packaging should be intact.

Holiday and Seasonal Return Policy

During the winter holiday season, Ross often extends its return policy. Purchases made in November and December may have a January return deadline.

Always check your receipt during this time, as it will print the specific last return date for your items. This extension is a great benefit for holiday gift-givers.

Tips for a Smooth Ross Return Experience

Keep Your Receipts: Tuck them in your wallet or take a photo with your phone immediately after purchase.
Don’t Remove Tags: Leave all tags on until you are sure you’re keeping the item.
Act Quickly: Don’t wait until day 29. Life gets busy, and you might forget.
Be Polite: Customer service associates respond better to friendly customers. If you have an issue, calmly ask to speak to a manager.
Check Store Hours: Go earlier in the day to avoid long lines, especially on weekends.

Common Reasons Returns Get Denied

To avoid disappointment, know why a return might be refused:

The item is worn, washed, or damaged by you.
Tags have been removed.
It’s past the 30-day return period (and not defective).
You don’t have a receipt or valid ID for a no-receipt return.
The item is clearly marked as a final sale item.
You’ve exceeded the limit for no-receipt returns.

Ross Exchange Policy

If you want a different size or color, an exchange is often the easiest route. As long as the item is in returnable condition and within the 30-day window, you can exchange it for another item.

You will pay the price difference if the new item costs more. If the new item costs less, you’ll get a refund for the difference, usually back to your original payment method or as store credit.

Gift Returns at Ross Stores

Returning a gift can be tricky since you won’t have the original receipt. Here’s what to do:

The person who bought the gift can process the return with their receipt and get the refund.
If you don’t have the receipt, you can try a no-receipt return with your ID. You will receive a merchandise credit for the item’s current, lowest selling price, which might be less than what the gifter paid.
Some gift-givers include a gift receipt. If you have one, the process is much simpler and you’ll get the refund as store credit.

Can You Return Without the Cardholder?

If the purchase was made with a card and you want the refund to go back to that card, the cardholder should ideally be present. Some stores may allow it if you have the physical card and the receipt, but policies can vary. It’s best to call your local store and ask about there specific rules.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long do I have to return something to Ross?

You have 30 days from the purchase date for most items. Holiday purchases may have an extended deadline.

What do I need to return an item to Ross?

You need the item in original condition with tags, and your original receipt. Bring the payment card if you want a refund to that card.

Can I get a cash refund from Ross?

Yes, if you paid with cash, you’ll get cash back. If you paid with a card, the refund goes back on the card.

What is Ross’s policy on returns without a receipt?

With a valid photo ID, you may receive a merchandise credit for the item’s current price. Approval is subject to manager discretion and system limits.

Does Ross have a return policy for used items?

No, items must be in new, unused condition with tags attached to be eligible for return. Worn or washed clothing cannot be returned.

Can I return clearance items at Ross?

Clearance items are often final sale. Check the receipt or the item’s tag for a “Final Sale” marking. If it says that, it cannot be returned.

How long does a card refund from Ross take?

Refunds to debit or credit cards usually take between 3 and 10 business days to show up on your account statement.

Can I return something to a different Ross store?

Yes, you can return items to any Ross Dress for Less location nationwide. You do not need to go back to the original store.

What is Ross’s return policy on electronics?

Electronics must be returned within 30 days with all original packaging, accessories, and manuals. They must be in unused, working condition.

Does Ross offer exchanges?

Yes, you can exchange an item for a different size, color, or style within the 30-day window as long as the item is in new condition.

Final Thoughts on the Ross Return Policy

The Ross Stores return policy is designed to be fair and manageable. The key points to remember are the 30-day window, the importance of the original receipt, and keeping items in new condition.

By following the guidelines outlined here, you can shop at Ross with confidence. You know exactly what to do if a purchase doesn’t work out. Keeping your receipts organized is the simplest way to guarantee a stress-free return experience every time.

If you’re ever unsure, the quickest course of action is to call your local Ross store directly. They can provide specific guidance for your situation and confirm current policy details before you make the trip.