How long do you have to return a Christmas gift?
Often into mid or late JanuaryNo federal law sets a deadline, so the store's own policy decides, and 30 days from purchase is a common standard. Many big stores stretch that for holiday purchases, often into mid or late January, and the clock usually starts the day the gift was bought, not the day you opened it. Without a receipt, you'll often get store credit at the lowest recent price, if the store takes it back at all.
Gifts and giving
How much should you tip at Christmas? 
What should I give my child's teacher for Christmas, and how much? 
How does Secret Santa work, and how far ahead should you draw names? 
What are the rules of a white elephant gift exchange? 
What goes in a Christmas stocking? 
How do you kindly end a family gift exchange? 
What should you bring to Christmas dinner as a guest? - Do stores have to take returns at all?
- Generally no, unless the item is defective or wasn't as described. Some states require a store to post its return policy, so look at the register or on the receipt.
- Are electronics different?
- Often, yes. Their windows can be shorter and some come with restocking fees, so read the policy that came with it.
- What are some big stores doing for Christmas 2026?
- Amazon takes most items bought November 1 through December 31 until January 31, 2027, and Best Buy takes most items bought October 30 through December 31 until January 15. Apple products from Amazon have to go back by January 15.
See the whole Christmas Checklist
Last checked Monday, November 9, from state consumer protection offices.
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