Macy’s Return Policy: Everything You Need To Know
Written by
Scott Jeffries
Edited by
Elizabeth Constantineau
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Shopping at Macy’s comes with a wide range of perks — from seasonal sales to premium brands. But when something doesn’t work out, understanding Macy’s return policy is key to making the process smooth and stress-free.
How Long Do You Have To Return Items to Macy’s?
In most cases, Macy’s gives you 30 days to return an item from the date of purchase or delivery. However, depending on what you bought — and how — you may have only 14 days in some cases or extended return windows during the holidays.
Macy’s Return Policy Overview
- Standard return window: 30 days
- Apple products: 14 days
- Tech accessories: 30 days
- Fragrances and beauty products: 30 days if new or gently used
- Holiday purchases: Extended returns through Jan. 31
What Items Can Be Returned?
Macy’s accepts returns on most new, unused merchandise, whether bought in-store or online, if you still have the original packaging and proof of purchase.
Eligible Items
- Clothing, shoes and accessories
- Beauty and skincare, if new or gently used
- Small kitchen appliances
- Bedding, decor and housewares
- Most online orders
Conditions
- Items must be unworn and unused
- Original tags and packaging should be intact
- Include receipt or packing slip when possible
Exceptions to the Return Policy
Some items follow stricter rules or aren’t returnable at all. Here’s what to watch for.
Non-Returnable or Limited Return Items
- Final sale and clearance items
- Personalized or customized merchandise
- Perfume or beauty items in poor condition
- Furniture and mattresses
- Gift cards
- Apple products — must be returned within 14 days
Macy’s Refund Options
When your return is approved, you can choose how you want to be refunded based on how you paid.
Refund Methods
- Original payment method: Credit card, debit card, gift card, PayPal, etc.
- Store credit: For returns without a receipt
- Cash refunds: Only available for purchases originally made with cash
Refund Timeline
- In-store: Typically processed on the spot
- Online returns: 5 to 10 business days after the item is received
- PayPal orders: Refunded to PayPal within 3 to 5 business days
Keep In Mind
Some returns, such as furniture or mattresses, may include a pickup or restocking fee.
In-Store vs. Online Macy’s Returns
You can return Macy’s purchases both in-store and online, depending on where the item was originally purchased.
- Items purchased in-store must be returned to a Macy’s store.
- Online purchases can be returned in-store or by mail.
| Feature | In-Store Return | Online Return |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Same-day refund | 5 to 10 business days after the item is received |
| Cost | Free | Free for Star Rewards members, $9.99 otherwise |
| Ease | Requires physical visit | Start online, drop at UPS or USPS |
| Gift returns | Accepted with gift receipt | Accepted with a gift receipt |
Common Macy’s Return Issues and How To Solve Them
Lost Your Receipt?
Macy’s can often look up your purchase in a few ways:
- With the card you paid with
- Your Macy’s account number
- Your order number
Without any of those, you may still get store credit for the item’s lowest selling price.
Received a Damaged or Wrong Item?
If your item was damaged in transit or not what you ordered, contact Macy’s customer service at 1-800-BUY-MACY or use their online chat. Take photos and report the issue within your return window.
Missed the Return Deadline?
If you’re past the 30-day limit, your return might be declined. However, store managers may offer store credit at their discretion — especially if the item is unworn and in resellable condition.
How To Start a Macy’s Return
Whether you’re going in-store or mailing your return, the process is simple. Here’s how:
In-Store
- Bring the item, original packaging and receipt.
- Visit any Macy’s location and go to the customer service counter.
- Receive an immediate refund or exchange.
Macy’s Online Return Policy Steps
- Log in to their website.
- Select the item(s) you want to return.
- Choose your return reason and method.
- Print the prepaid shipping label.
- Package your item and drop it off at UPS or USPS.
If you don’t have a printer, you can use the QR code emailed to you and show it at UPS to print the label for free.
Final Take
Macy’s return policy is generally flexible, especially during the holiday season.
Whether you’re sending back a gift you received, returning a fragrance or managing an online order, knowing the timelines and exceptions helps avoid delays and frustrations.
To make your return easier:
- Stick to the 30-day window
- Keep receipts and order confirmations
- Always check item eligibility, especially for perfume and final sale items
Macy's Returns FAQs
Here are some common and frequently asked questions when it comes to Macy's return policy:- How long do I have to return something at Macy’s?
- Typically, you have 30 days to return an item to Macy's but some items come with a 14 day return policy.
- Can I return used items to Macy's?
- You can return gently used cosmetics and fragrances, but most other items must be unused and in original condition.
- What’s Macy’s return policy on perfume?
- Unopened or gently used perfume can be returned within 30 days.
- Can I return an online order in-store?
- Yes — most Macy’s online return policy items are eligible for in-store returns with the order confirmation or packing slip.
- Will I pay for return shipping?
- Macy's offers free shipping for Star Rewards members. Non-members will have a $9.99 return shipping fee deducted from their return.
Chris Ozarowski contributed to the reporting for this article.
Information is accurate as of Nov. 26, 2025.
Editorial Note: This content is not provided by any entity covered in this article. Any opinions, analyses, reviews, ratings or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author alone and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any entity named in this article.
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- Macy's. "Macy's Return Policy."
- Macy's. "What to Expect After I Make a Return."
- Macy's. "How to make a Return?"
- Macy's. "Return Center."
