Best Buy Return Policy: Everything You Need To Know

Sue Hwang / GOBankingRates

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Navigating the return process can be daunting, but understanding the Best Buy return policy can make it straightforward.

Whether you’re dealing with a change of heart or a defective product, this guide provides all the essential information to ensure a smooth return experience.​

Return Timeframes

The return window at Best Buy varies based on membership status and product type:​

• Standard Members: 15 days from the date of receipt for most products.
• My Best Buy Plus™ and My Best Buy Total™ Members: 60 days for most items.
• Activatable Devices: 14 days for all customers, regardless of membership.
• Holiday Purchases: Items bought between November 1 and December 31 can be returned until January 14 of the following year.

What Items Are Eligible for Return?

To qualify for a return, items should be:​

• In like-new condition.
• Accompanied by all original packaging and accessories.
• Returned within the specified return window.​

Non-Returnable Items Include:

• Final sale merchandise
• Custom or personalized orders
• Non-subscription digital content
• Prepaid cards
• Opened consumable items (e.g., batteries, ink)
• Opened SIM kits
• Opened LEGO products
• Trading cards
• Sexual wellness products
• Personal care items

Refund Options

Refunds are typically issued to the original payment method. For returns by mail, processing can take 7 to 10 business days after receipt. Depending on your bank, it may take up to 7 additional days for the refund to reflect in your account.

Possible deductions

• Restocking Fees: 15% for certain items like drones, digital cameras and projectors.
• Activatable Devices: $45 restocking fee (excluding prepaid phones).

In-Store vs. Online Returns

In-Store Returns

• Bring the item, receipt or packing slip, the credit card used for the purchase and a valid photo ID.
• Immediate refund or exchange is typically available.

Online Returns

• Log into your Best Buy account to initiate a return.
• Print a prepaid UPS shipping label.
• Package the item securely and drop it off at a UPS location.​

Comparison Table

Common Return Issues & Solutions

• Missing Receipt: If you’re a My Best Buy member, your purchase history can be accessed online or in-store. Non-members may face limitations.
• Damaged or Defective Items: Return during the return window for a replacement or refund. For major appliances, inspect upon delivery and report issues immediately.
• Missed Return Deadline: Returns outside the window may be denied or subject to store credit at the manager’s discretion.
• Partial Refunds: If original packaging or accessories are missing, a deduction may be applied to your refund.​

How to Start a Return

Online

1. Log into your Best Buy account.
2. Navigate to your order history and select the item to return.
3. Choose the reason for the return and print the prepaid shipping label.
4. Package the item securely and drop it off at a UPS location.​

In-Store

1. Bring the item, receipt or packing slip, the credit card used for the purchase and a valid photo ID.
2. Visit any Best Buy store to process the return or exchange.​

Final Take to GO

Understanding the Best Buy return policy ensures a hassle-free experience. Remember to keep items in like-new condition, retain receipts and be mindful of return windows.

For more information or to initiate a return, visit Best Buy’s official return policy page.​

Chris Ozarowski contributed to the reporting for this article.

Information is accurate as of May 1, 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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