A Little Homework Before Returning Gifts Could Pay Off
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Now that Christmas is over, you probably got something that you just can't keep.
"Usually for the wrong size, sweaters, shirts – people buy the wrong size," said Joe Sanders of South Fayette.
"It's usually clothing that either doesn't fit or is not my style," said Meg Pryor of Peters Township.
Or even worse, just an ugly gift you want to unload.
So when you get items you don't want, what do you need to return them?
We talked to two local experts on returning gifts.
First rule: collect as much information as you can about the gift.
"Any kind of information that would tell what the store was and any kind of tag on it that would give you some kind of data that they could know how much was paid for the gift," said Duquesne University Professor Audrey Guskey.
If you're comfortable with asking the gift-giver for the receipt or gift voucher, that's best. But if not, collect what you can.
"If you've clipped off the price but you have the barcode or the inventory code, they will look and see what that product was, but what you will get is the lowest price that it sold for in the season," said Point Park University Professor Elaine Luther.
And remember, don't open electronics or packaged goods.
"Don't want to open it up," said Luther. "You don't want to open it up and see what it looks like because a lot of times if it's opened they either won't return it or they'll charge you a 15 percent restocking fee."
The day after Christmas is traditionally a big day for returns, but you can wait to avoid the crowds.
"The rules for returns are becoming a little less stringent in 2014," said Guskey.
Although some store are more hassle-free than others, like Nordstrom.
"Took it back without even blinking," said one person.
But don't wait more than a few weeks and you may only be able to exchange or get store credit. Although, that too is changing.
"For Walmart this year, if it's under $25, even if you don't have a receipt, they'll give you cash," said Luther.
Bottom line: before you get into that return line, a little homework may pay off.
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