How Do I Return an Item from Amazon?

Introduction

Planning to return an item to Amazon? Most products sold on the website can be returned within 30 days; select items may be returned within 90 or 180 days, depending on the item. Digital books, textbooks, and albums must be returned within 7 days, while Apple products purchased through Amazon can be returned within 15 days. Some items are not eligible for return, including perishable goods, pet medication, customized products, and certain digital items. If you need to return an item, read this guide for the step-by-step instructions.

Sign in to Amazon and Go to Your Orders

To initiate a return, log in to your account and go to the Returns & Orders page. Select the item you wish to return and follow the steps below.

It is best also to review Amazon’s Return Policy to learn when you can return an item, which products are not eligible for return, and when you can expect your refund.

Click Return or Replace Items

Choose a Reason for Return

You can check the dropdown menu for a list of return reasons.

Select a Refund Type

After choosing the return reason, the next step is to select a refund type. You can receive the refund straight to your Amazon account balance or to the card used for the item. Just select the right option and click Continue.

Choose a Return Method

How will you return the product purchased? You can return it without a box or a return label. Choose the appropriate option and proceed to the next step. Amazon has over 8,000 drop-off locations, so select the one closest to you for convenience.

Click Confirm Your Return

When returning an item to Amazon, the product must be in its unused and original condition with the seals and tags attached. Include the manufacturer's packaging as well, and ensure that accessories and manuals are in the box. It's also important to return the item before the "return by date" stated in the confirmation email to avoid paying a late fee of about 20% of the item's price.

If you return a damaged item, an extra fee will be charged. You will also be charged 100% of the item price if the damaged product is considered an Amazon Luxury item.

For Amazon Global Store returns, customers are provided a prepaid UPS return label for the product. You can drop the item at any UPS location in the US. However, keep in mind that not all Global Store products are eligible for a free return. In this case, you will need to shoulder the shipping cost. Amazon does refund up to $20 for the postage costs.

When returning an electronic device, delete any personal information stored on it. Amazon also accepts gift returns, and the process is the same.

If you're returning bulky items, a shipping fee may apply. You may also need to schedule an appointment with the specialty carrier team for home collection.

Conclusion

After a successful return, expect to receive the funds within 30 days, depending on the chosen refund method. Credit card refunds usually arrive within 3–5 business days. If you paid using reward points, expect the refund within 5 business days. Debit cards, EBT cards, and checking accounts take up to 10 business days. If you chose an Amazon Gift Card as your refund method, expect the funds to be credited within 2–3 hours. Note that refunds are not issued for promotional certificates. Do you have any further questions about returning an item to Amazon? Contact Customer Support today.