'Tis the Season for Returning
We share our tips for making your holiday returns a bit easier, from All Covered: IT Services Partner for Small Business.
So what are you doing on December 26th? Many of us will be headed to the mall to do the dreaded task of returning the presents that weren't quite a perfect fit on the seconded busiest day of the holiday season. Keep in mind, retailers are not legally required to offer cash refunds for merchandise; however, you can make the process easier for you and the stores with these simple tips:Pay with a credit card
Although many retailers frown upon doing cash returns, they are usually willing to easily do a credit back onto a credit card. It's an easy transaction for them and it doesn't deplete their cash drawers.
Ask for a sent check
If what you really want is cash, but the item is over the cash limit for returns; ask if the retailer will have their corporate office send a check to your home. This usually works with the bigger-ticket items.
Try to exchange it first
As much as you would prefer the cold hard cash for the item, consider exchanging as your first option. Retailers want to keep their bottom lines level so they tend to be more willing to exchange. Plus, you can get just what you want and at this time of year, it's probably on sale too!
Keep all of your holiday receipts
I don't know about you, but for me the one receipt that I need for a return always seems to be the one that ends up in the garbage can. Have a container ready to hold all of your holiday receipts so you can quickly find the one you need. This is like your 'get out of retail jail free' card. It's not a guarantee that you'll get your money back, but at least you will get the full price paid in a store credit rather than the end of season clearance price.
Ask for gift receipts
Before the cashier ever starts your transaction, ask for a gift receipt. Many of the major retailers will issue gift receipts in addition to the regular receipt. A gift receipt proves that a purchase was made without any of the pricing information. In addition to being a backup to your regular receipt, you've given the recipient of your gift a chance to have a hassle-free experience.
Know the return policy before making a purchase
Many retailers have their most lenient return policy during the holiday season, but there are usually limits that may not apply at other times of the year like time limits or 'store credits only' for gift items. Ask to see a copy of the retailers return policy if it's not posted at the register.
Don't throw away anything
Keep the packaging. So before gifts are torn open (even though that's the fun part) preserve the packaging, just in case. Many retailers require all of the original packaging in order for a return.
Don't open it
If you have any doubt about keeping a gift, don't open it. This is especially true for electronics, movies, or music. Once it's opened, the only thing you can hope for is a same-item exchange for damages.
Go today
Try to make all of your returns as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the harder it can be to make the return, especially for seasonal items.
Bring a friend
You can tag team while you wait in line and the long lines don't seem so long when you have someone to talk to while you wait.
How All Covered Can Help
If this is an issue for your business, All Covered provides backup consulting and services for small businesses nationwide.
- Call us: For a personal consultation, call our friendly sales team at 866-446-1133
- Email us: Use our contact form and we'll contact you within one business day.
- Free Newsletters: Use our Free IT Newsletters about IT issues facing small business
- Our services: All Covered Care
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