How long does it take to get a refund from Amazon?

Typically 5 to 10 business days, though some refunds are processed instantly for eligible customers.

Can I return an opened item?

Yes — depending on the item type and condition. Some items may incur a restocking fee.

What’s Amazon’s return policy on holiday gifts?

Amazon’s holiday return policy allows for returns until Jan. 31 on most items purchased between Nov. 1 and Dec. 31.

Can I return items bought from third-party sellers?

Yes, but always check the seller’s return policy before buying. Some sellers offer less generous return options than Amazon itself.

What if I lost the packaging?

Returns are easier with original packaging, but many Amazon returns can still be accepted if you package the item securely.

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Amazon Return Policy: Everything You Need To Know

December 1, 2025

5 min Read

Written by John Csiszar

Edited by Elizabeth Constantineau

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Whether you ordered the wrong item, received something damaged or had second thoughts, understanding Amazon’s return policy can save you time and a potential headache. Here’s everything you need to know about Amazon returns, including timelines, exceptions and how refunds work.

Amazon Return Timelines

Amazon’s standard return window is 30 days from the date of delivery for most items. However, depending on the seller, item type and time of year, the policy can vary.

Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Standard returns: 30 days from delivery
Amazon holiday return policy: Items purchased between Nov. 1 and Dec. 31 can typically be returned until Jan. 31.
Third-party sellers: Policies may vary — check the product’s return window before purchasing
Category-based windows: Some items have 7-, 15-, 90-, 180- or 365-day return periods. Check the product page for details.

What Items Can Be Returned to Amazon?

Most items sold or fulfilled by Amazon can be returned within 30 days as long as they’re in original or unused condition.

Eligible Return Items

Clothing, shoes, accessories
Electronics — must include all accessories and packaging
Home goods and decor
Books and office supplies
Unopened beauty products

Non-Returnable Items

Some items either can’t be returned at all or have limited eligibility due to hygiene or safety regulations.

Opened software, games or digital downloads
Gift cards
Hazardous materials
Customized or personalized items
Perishable goods
Items marked “non-returnable” on the product page

Some opened electronics may still be returned if they meet Amazon’s guidelines, but they may be subject to a restocking fee.

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Amazon Refund Options

You may receive your refund in one of the following ways:

Original payment method: Credit card, gift card, checking account, etc.
Amazon gift card balance: If selected
Instant refunds: Applies for some items — before you ship the item back

Amazon Processing Times

Refund timelines vary based on how you paid. Here are a few examples:

Amazon gift card balance: 2 to 3 hours
Credit card: Up to 5 business days
Debit card: Up to 10 business days

Amazon Return Fees

Depending on the item and how you return it, Amazon may charge:

Return shipping fees: If you choose a paid drop-off or mail-in option

Late fees: If you miss the “return by” date

Restocking fees: For opened or used software, games or collectibles

Bulky item fees: For large or heavy products

In-Store vs. Online Amazon Returns

You don’t need a printer or packaging to return Amazon items in most cases. You can return items both online and in person, thanks to Amazon’s partnerships with retailers like Kohl’s and UPS.

Here’s how in-store and online Amazon returns compare:

Feature	In-Person Return — Kohl’s, UPS	Online Return — Amazon Portal
Speed	Same-day drop-off available	5-10 business days after item received
Cost	Free with QR code	May have return shipping charges
Packaging needed	No	Only if mailing the item yourself — most drop-off returns need no packaging
Refund timeline	Begins after item is scanned	Begins after item is scanned

Common Amazon Return Issues and How To Solve Them

No receipt or proof of purchase? Amazon tracks everything through your account. Just log in, find your order and initiate the return.
Damaged or incorrect items? Amazon usually offers a free replacement or a refund, often without requiring the return of the damaged item.
Missed the 30-day window? If you’re outside the return period, contact Amazon Customer Service. Some exceptions may apply for defective items or if the seller has a longer return window.

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How To Start a Return: Step-by-Step

Here’s how to return something on Amazon without the stress:

Log in to your Amazon account.
Go to “Orders” and select the item you want to return.
Click “Return or Replace Items.”
Choose the reason for return.
Select your preferred return method — drop-off, pickup or shipping.
Print the label or use a QR code for printer-free returns.
Pack the item or bring it to the selected location — UPS, Kohl’s or Whole Foods.

Final Take

The good news? Amazon’s return policy is one of the most customer-friendly out there — especially with free drop-offs, instant refunds and a flexible holiday extension. There are still exceptions to be aware of, especially for third-party sellers or certain item types.

To make the process as smooth as possible:

Return items within 30 days
Use the Amazon return portal to get free drop-off options
Keep an eye on policy changes and holiday return rules

Amazon Return Policy FAQs

Have questions about returning something on Amazon? Here’s what most people want to know:

How long does it take to get a refund from Amazon?
- Typically 5 to 10 business days, though some refunds are processed instantly for eligible customers.
Can I return an opened item?
- Yes — depending on the item type and condition. Some items may incur a restocking fee.
What’s Amazon’s return policy on holiday gifts?
- Amazon’s holiday return policy allows for returns until Jan. 31 on most items purchased between Nov. 1 and Dec. 31.
Can I return items bought from third-party sellers?
- Yes, but always check the seller’s return policy before buying. Some sellers offer less generous return options than Amazon itself.
What if I lost the packaging?
- Returns are easier with original packaging, but many Amazon returns can still be accepted if you package the item securely.

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Brooke Barley contributed to the reporting for this article.

Information is accurate as of Nov. 28, 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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