If you’ve ever bought something that didn’t work out, you’ve probably wondered, what is Target return policy? It’s the set of rules that tells you how to bring items back for a refund or exchange. Knowing these rules can save you time, money, and a lot of hassle at the service desk.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know. We’ll cover return timeframes, what you need to bring, and how to handle online purchases. Whether you’re returning a shirt that didn’t fit or a gadget that didn’t work, we’ve got you covered.
What Is Target Return Policy
Target’s return policy is designed to be guest-friendly, offering flexibility for most items. The core of the policy is a 90-day return window for many purchases. You’ll usually need your receipt or the payment card you used to make the return process smooth.
However, there are important exceptions and special cases. Some items, like electronics or opened movies, have shorter return periods or different rules. It’s always a good idea to check the specific guidelines before you make a trip to the store.
Standard Return Window: 90 Days
For the majority of items you buy at Target, you have 90 days to return them. This is a generous window compared to many other retailers. It gives you plenty of time to decide if a product is right for you.
- The 90-day period starts from the original purchase date.
- This applies to items bought in-store and online.
- You can choose between a refund or an exchange, subject to stock availability.
What You Need for a Successful Return
To make your return quick and easy, you should gather a few things before heading to the store. Having the right documentation is key.
- Receipt: This is the easiest way to process your return. It allows Target to look up your purchase and issue a refund to your original payment method.
- Original Payment Card: If you don’t have the receipt, using the card you paid with can often work. The system can usually find your purchase this way.
- Government-Issued ID: For returns without a receipt or the original card, Target may ask for your ID. This is part of their system to prevent return fraud.
- The Item Itself: The product should be in its original condition, with all packaging and accessories. Some items, like clothing, should have the tags still attached.
How Refunds Are Issued
Target aims to refund your money the way you paid. The timing can vary depending on your bank or card issuer.
- Credit/Debit Card: Refunds are typically issued to your card within 3-5 business days after the return is processed.
- Cash: If you paid with cash, you’ll get cash back at the service desk.
- Check: If you paid with a check, the refund may be issued as a Target GiftCard.
- Target GiftCard: Returns for gift card purchases are refunded onto a new Target GiftCard.
- Target RedCard: Refunds to a RedCard are usually the fastest, often appearing within a few hours.
Special Category Return Rules
Not all items follow the standard 90-day rule. Here are the important exceptions you should be aware of.
Electronics Return Policy
Major electronics have a shorter 30-day return window. This includes items like:
- Televisions
- Tablets and laptops
- Video game consoles
- Smartwatches
- Portable audio players
These items must be returned in like-new condition with all original parts, cables, and packaging. For cell phones, you often have only 14 days to return them, and they must be in absolutely pristine condition with no damage.
Entertainment Items (Movies, Music, Games)
Once you open a movie, video game, or music CD, you generally cannot return it unless it’s defective. This is to prevent copying. If it’s defective, you can exchange it for the same title within the standard return window.
Open or Used Items
Target is usually understanding if you’ve tried a product and it didn’t work. You can return opened items within the applicable return window. However, for health and safety reasons, some opened items cannot be returned, such as:
- Opened swimwear or underwear
- Certain personal care items
- Opened breast pumps
Its always best to ask at the service desk if you’re unsure about a specific opened product.
Clearance and Seasonal Items
You can return clearance items! They follow the same return policy as full-price items, as long as you have your proof of purchase. Seasonal items (like Halloween costumes in November) are also returnable within their standard 90-day window.
How to Return Online Purchases
Returning something you bought on Target.com is straightforward. You have two main options: returning by mail or returning in-store.
Returning an Online Order by Mail
This is convenient if you don’t live near a Target store. Follow these steps:
- Go to “Your Orders” in your Target.com account or use the Target app.
- Select the item(s) you want to return and choose a reason.
- Choose to get a prepaid return mailing label. You can print it or get a QR code for the carrier.
- Pack the item securely in its original box if possible, include the return label, and drop it at the designated carrier (like UPS or USPS).
- Once the return is received at the warehouse, your refund will be processed. Note that a return shipping fee may be deducted from your refund for some items.
Returning an Online Order In-Store
This is often the fastest way to get your refund. You don’t need to wait for shipping, and there are no return shipping fees.
- Bring the item and your packing slip or the shipping confirmation email to any Target store.
- Go to the service desk. They can look up your order using your phone number, order number, or the card you used to pay.
- The refund is processed right there at the desk, following the same refund methods as in-store purchases.
Exchanges and Price Adjustments
How to Do an Exchange
If you want a different size, color, or simply a different item, you can do an exchange. The easiest way is to process the original item as a return and then purchase the new item separately. This ensures the pricing and any promotions are applied correctly to the new purchase. If the item is out of stock, you’ll need to get a refund and wait for it to be restocked.
Target’s Price Adjustment Policy
If you buy something at Target and the price drops shortly after, you can request a price adjustment to get the difference back. Here’s how it works:
- Timeframe: Price adjustments are only given within 14 days of your purchase date.
- Where to Go: Bring your receipt to the service desk at any Target store. For online purchases, you can call Target.com guest services.
- What Qualifies: The item must be the exact same product, and the lower price must be a current Target price (not a competitor’s price).
- Exclusions: Price adjustments are not offered during major sale events like Black Friday or on clearance items.
Tips for a Smooth Return Experience
A little preparation can make your return visit quick and stress-free.
- Keep Your Receipts: File them in an envelope or take a picture with your phone. The Target app also stores digital receipts if you use your phone number or account at checkout.
- Keep the Packaging: For electronics or fragile items, try to keep the original box and packing materials for at least the return period.
- Act Quickly for Electronics: Remember the 30-day rule for TVs and laptops. Mark your calendar so you don’t miss the deadline.
- Bring Your ID: Even if you think you have everything, bring a government-issued ID just in case.
- Check Holiday Policies: During the winter holidays, Target often extends its return window for purchases made in November and December. Always check the current policy on their website during this time.
Common Return Problems and Solutions
Sometimes returns don’t go perfectly. Here’s what to do if you hit a snag.
Lost Receipt or Payment Card
Don’t panic if you’ve lost your receipt. Target can often look up your purchase using:
- The credit or debit card you used.
- The gift card you used.
- Your phone number if you provided it at checkout.
- The barcode from your packing slip for online orders.
If they cannot find the purchase, you may be offered a merchandise return card for the item’s lowest selling price within the last 90 days, and you’ll need to show your ID.
Returning a Gift You Received
Returning a gift is simple, even if you don’t have the receipt. Use the Target Gift Receipt if the giver included it. If not, the service desk can often look it up using the order number from the packing slip. Without any proof, you may receive a merchandise return card for the item’s current selling price, subject to ID verification and return limits.
Defective or Damaged Items
If an item is broken when you open the box or stops working soon after, you can return it as defective. This applies even to electronics within their 30-day window. For items that have a manufacturer’s warranty, Target’s return policy applies first, and after that, you may need to contact the manufacturer directly.
Target’s Return Policy FAQ
How long do I have to return something to Target?
For most items, you have 90 days from the purchase date. Major electronics have a 30-day return window.
Can I return something to Target without a receipt?
Yes, but it’s harder. Target may be able to look up the purchase with your payment card. Otherwise, you might get a merchandise return card for the item’s lowest recent price, and you’ll need to show a valid ID.
What is Target’s return policy for online orders?
You can return online orders within 90 days (or 30 days for electronics) either by mail with a prepaid label or in any Target store for free. In-store returns are usually faster.
Does Target charge a restocking fee?
Typically, no. Target does not charge restocking fees on most returns. However, for certain large electronics like opened TVs or projectors, a restocking fee may apply, so its best to check first.
Can I return opened items to Target?
In most cases, yes. You can return opened items if they didn’t work for you. Exceptions include opened swimwear, underwear, and certain personal care products for health reasons.
What is the return policy at Target for gifts?
Gifts can be returned with a gift receipt for a full refund to a Target GiftCard. Without a receipt, you may get a merchandise return card for the current price after ID verification.
How long does a Target refund take to process?
In-store refunds to a card usually take 3-5 business days to post to your account. Refunds for mailed returns begin processing once the warehouse receives your item.
Can I return a Clearance item to Target?
Yes, clearance items follow the same return policy as regular-priced items, provided you have your proof of purchase like a receipt.
What items cannot be returned to Target?
Very few items are final sale. These typically include opened digital content, select personal care items, and items that have been used in an unsanitary way. Always check the package or ask for clarification.
Understanding Target’s return policy gives you confidence when you shop. By knowing the time limits, what to bring, and the rules for special items, you can handle any return easily. Always remember to check the official Target website for the most current policy details, as rules can occasionally change. With this knowledge, you can shop knowing that Target aims to make returns a simple process for their guests.