How to return unwanted gifts if you do not have a check

The thoughts that pop up moments after opening a bad gift can range from “how do I get rid of this?” to “what time do stores open on Wednesday?” And then you discover that there is no receipt in the package. Peace of mind: you can also return such a gift. Here's how to do it.

Photo: Nowboxe

The annual acceptance of returns traditionally begins on Wednesday after Christmas, recalls USA Today.

According to a December survey by the National Retail Federation, 50% of consumers plan to take advantage of sales in stores, and 45% plan to do the same online. 17% plan to visit stores to return or exchange unwanted gifts, and 27% will get rid of gift cards they received.

Sarah Skirball, an expert on shopping and trends in RetailMeNot, believes that the post-Christmas and pre-New Year days are not the best time to return unnecessary gifts. She advises waiting until January 1st to process your return.

How to return gifts

Learn the rules and terms: This information is available on store websites, on signage or on the back of receipts.

Avoid crowds: Early morning and late evening may seem like a good time to visit the store, but immediately after Christmas you should expect long lines. Best to wait a few days.

With check: Having the original receipt usually makes the return process smoother and increases your chances of getting a full refund. In Target, a check allows you to fill out a return card, which, unlike a regular gift card, can only be used in a store.

Without a check: Return without a check usually ends with the return of the product value at the lowest selling price lately, but sometimes it happens that the return and exchange are not possible at all, depending on the store's policy.

Exchange: Do you like the gift, but you want to get the same thing of a different color or size? Find the item on the shelf or ask the seller for help in the hall, and if the item is not available, ask the store employee if it is available on the Internet or elsewhere.

Secret gift: Do not know where you got this gift from? If it has a barcode, try scanning it with a smartphone application, such as ShopSavvy, available for Apple and Android. Alternatively, try entering barcode numbers into Google.

Bring the document: even if you have a check, some stores require a state ID card.

Extra charges: if you are returning an electronics or already open product, be prepared to pay a commission of up to 15%.

Talk to the manager: if you have problems returning a gift, contact the store manager or customer service department.

Be patient: Sometimes a payment can be received only in a separate, specific case, so patience and kindness can be of great importance.

Sell ​​or give a gift: if you cannot return or exchange items, consider selling them on eBay or similar applications and websites. Or just give them to charity.

Фото: Depositphotos

What to do with gift cards

Small font: read the terms of the card. Pay particular attention to whether you can buy a card only in a particular store or place.

Fees: Some state laws prohibit service charges and the expiration date on store gift cards, but the rules on the cards with the specified name of the credit card company are stricter. The validity of these cards cannot be less than five years, and the service charge cannot be deducted if the card has not been used for 12 months.

Bonus cards: The holiday season is a time when some restaurants and stores give bonuses when purchasing gift cards. If you received a rewards gift card, keep in mind that most of them have a limited expiration date.

Protect your card: Some gift cards can be registered as credit cards on websites, which can protect them from theft or loss (the website is listed on the card). Take a picture of the front and back of the card or write down its data: some companies will replace lost or stolen cards if you provide specific information. Save your receipt with card information.

Unnecessary gift cards: if you get one as a gift, you can sell it for cash or buy discount gift cards on sites like Raise.com.

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