Returning something you bought online can feel confusing. But Walmart makes it pretty simple. Understanding the Walmart online return policy is the first step to a smooth experience. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from time limits to step-by-step instructions.
You’ll learn how to start a return online, what items have special rules, and where you can drop off your package. We’ll also cover how refunds work and what to do if you have a problem. Let’s get started.
Walmart Online Return Policy
The main rule is straightforward. Most items bought on Walmart.com or through the Walmart app can be returned within 90 days of purchase. This is a generous window that gives you plenty of time to decide if something is right for you.
You have a few easy options for sending your item back. The most popular is using a Walmart store. You can also use a FedEx location or schedule a pickup from your home in some cases. The exact options will depend on the item and your location.
What is the Standard Return Window?
For most things you order, you get 90 days. This applies to electronics, home goods, clothing, and more. The count starts from the day the item was delivered to you, not the day you ordered it. Always check your packing slip or online order details for your specific delivery date.
Items With Different Return Deadlines
Some products have shorter or longer return periods. It’s important to check these before you buy, especially for big-ticket items.
- Cell Phones, Tablets, & Prepaid Phones: Must be returned within 30 days. They also need to be in like-new condition with all original accessories.
- Walmart+ InHome Delivery Items: You get a full 365 days (one year) to return these, which is a great perk for members.
- Specialty Electronics: Items like drones, camcorders, and some smartwatches often have a 30-day policy.
- Opened Software, Music, and Movies: These generally cannot be returned if the seal is broken, unless they are defective.
What Items Cannot Be Returned?
Walmart has a short list of non-returnable items for safety and health reasons. Knowing this list can save you a trip.
- Opened health and personal care items (like toothpaste or vitamins).
- Opened diapers or formula.
- Gift cards (both physical and digital).
- Downloadable software or digital content if accessed.
- Certain grocery items, especially perishable ones.
- Hazardous materials, like some cleaning chemicals.
- Items marked as “final sale” on the website.
Condition Requirements for Returns
Your item needs to be in its original condition. This means you should return it with all parts, tags, and accessories that it came with. The packaging doesn’t have to be perfect, but it should be included if possible.
For clothing, tags should still be attached. For electronics, all cables and manuals should be in the box. If an item is damaged because of normal use, it can usually still be returned. But if you broke it yourself, the return might be denied.
How to Start Your Walmart Online Return
Initiating the process is done online or in the app. You cannot start a return for an online purchase by just walking into a store with the item. You need to begin online to get a return authorization.
Step-by-Step: Online & App Return Process
- Log into Your Account: Go to Walmart.com or open the app and sign in. Go to your “Purchase History.”
- Find Your Order: Locate the order containing the item you want to send back.
- Select “Start a Return”: Click the button next to the specific item.
- Choose a Reason: Select why you are returning it from the dropdown menu (e.g., wrong size, changed mind, defective).
- Pick Your Return Method: You’ll see your options: Return to Store, Drop-off at FedEx, or Home Pickup (if available).
- Review and Submit: Check the details and submit your return request. You will get a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number and a QR code if returning to a store.
Option 1: Returning at a Walmart Store
This is often the fastest way to get your refund. Bring the item, its original packaging, and all accessories. You also need your QR code (on your phone or printed) or the order number. Go to the Customer Service desk or the dedicated Returns area. A store associate will scan your code, check the item, and process your refund immediately in most cases.
Option 2: Dropping Off at FedEx
If a store isn’t convenient, you can use FedEx. After starting your return online, choose the FedEx option. Walmart will email you a prepaid return shipping label. Package the item securely, attach the label, and drop it at any FedEx location. Don’t forget to get a receipt! Your refund processes after Walmart receives the package at their return center.
Option 3: Scheduling a Home Pickup
In eligible areas, Walmart offers free scheduled pickups for returns. During the online process, if you see this option, you can select a date. A carrier (like FedEx) will come to your door to collect the packaged item. You don’t need to print a label; the driver will have it. This is the most convenient method if it’s available to you.
What About Returns Without a Receipt?
If you lost your receipt or order details, you can still try to return an item in-store. Walmart may be able to look up your purchase if you used a credit card, debit card, or your Walmart.com account. If they can’t find it, they might offer store credit for the item’s current selling price. This is not guaranteed and is at the store’s discretion.
Understanding Refunds and Exchanges
How you get your money back depends on how you paid and where you returned the item.
Refund Timelines and Methods
- Store Returns: Refunds to credit/debit cards or Walmart accounts are usually instant. Cash returns may be issued as cash or onto a Walmart gift card, depending on the store’s policy.
- Mail-in Returns (FedEx/Home Pickup): Refunds begin processing once the return center scans your package. This can take 5-10 business days after they get it. Then, it takes another 3-5 business days for your bank to post the refund.
The refund always goes back to the original payment method. If you used a gift card, you’ll get a new eGift card. If you used multiple payment methods, the refund is split accordingly.
How to Do an Exchange
Walmart doesn’t have a direct “exchange” function for online orders. The easiest way to get a different size or color is to process a return and then place a new order for the item you want. This ensures you get the current price and availability. If your doing a return in-store, you can simply buy the new item right after processing the return.
Special Return Situations
Returning Marketplace Items
Items sold by third-party sellers on Walmart.com have there own return policies. When you start a return, the system will show you the specific policy for that seller. Some may offer 90 days, others might be shorter. The return process is still managed through your Walmart account, but the item might go back to the seller, not a Walmart warehouse.
Returning Large or Heavy Items
For big things like furniture or treadmills, the process is different. You often cannot bring these to a store. You’ll need to contact Walmart Customer Service directly to initiate a return. They will often arrange for a pickup from your home. Be aware that some large items may have restocking fees, so read the product details carefully before purchasing.
Holiday and Extended Return Periods
During the winter holidays, Walmart usually offers an extended return window. Items purchased around October and November often have a return deadline in January. The exact dates change each year, so check Walmart’s official holiday return policy announcement. This is a great benefit for early holiday shoppers.
Tips for a Hassle-Free Return Experience
- Keep the Packaging: Don’t throw away the original box and materials for at least a few weeks, especially for electronics.
- Act Quickly: If you know you don’t want an item, start the return soon to avoid forgetting and missing the deadline.
- Take Photos: If your returning something because it arrived damaged, take pictures before you send it back. This can help if there’s any dispute.
- Save Your Tracking: For mail-in returns, keep the FedEx receipt or tracking number until you see the refund in your account.
- Check for Fees: While most returns are free, some special items (like large appliances) might have a pickup or restocking fee. The return process will warn you about any fees before you finalize it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long do I have to return something I bought on Walmart.com?
You typically have 90 days to return most items bought online. Some electronics, like cell phones, have a shorter 30-day window. Always check your order details for the exact return by date.
Can I return an online order to any Walmart store?
Yes, you can return Walmart.com purchases to any physical Walmart store in the United States. Remember, you must start the return online first to get your QR code or RMA number before going to the store.
What if my Walmart return is past the 90-day deadline?
After 90 days, the return is generally not accepted through the standard policy. However, you can contact Walmart Customer Service to explain your situation. In some cases, they may make an exception, especially if the item is defective.
Does Walmart offer free return shipping?
Yes, Walmart provides free return shipping labels for most items returned via FedEx or scheduled pickup. You won’t be charged a fee to ship the item back to them.
How do I return something bought from a third-party seller on Walmart?
You start the return the same way through your Walmart.com account. The system will show you the specific return window and instructions set by that particular seller, which may differ from Walmart’s standard policy.
What happens if I lost my return label?
You can log back into your Walmart.com account, go to your return tracking, and reprint the label. If you selected a store return, you can just show the QR code on your phone from the app or email.
Can I return opened electronics to Walmart?
Yes, opened electronics can be returned within the applicable return window (usually 30 or 90 days) as long as all components, accessories, and manuals are included. The item should be in resellable condition.
Solving Common Return Problems
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Here’s what to do.
If your refund hasn’t appeared after the expected timeline, first check the return tracking to confirm Walmart received it. If they have, contact their customer service for help. Have your RMA number and order number ready.
If a store refuses your return, politely ask for a manager. If the issue is with an online return process, the best contact is Walmart.com Customer Service at 1-800-966-6546. They have more authority over online orders than store managers do.
Remember, being calm and having your information organized—order numbers, RMA, receipts—is the key to resolving any issue quickly. The Walmart online return policy is designed to be customer-friendly, and most problems have a simple solution.