Here's Why Best Buy's Return Policy May Surprise You

Returns and exchanges are a fact of shopping life, and with them comes at least some anxiety over the often complicated associated policies. Best Buy, with its range of product offerings and membership tiers, can be somewhat of a puzzle to solve when it comes to returns. Fortunately, we've done our research and are able to give you the pertinent details. Here's all you need to know about returns and exchanges at Best Buy, be they for new, clearance, open-box, refurbished, or pre-owned products.

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Best Buy Return Policy FAQs

What is Best Buy's return policy?

Standard Best Buy membership allows you to return or exchange most products up to 15 days from the time you receive them. My Best Buy Plus and My Best Buy Total members have up to 60 days to return or exchange most products.

Activatable devices can be returned or exchanged up to 14 days from the day the product is received, and this applies across all membership tiers. Activatable devices are devices capable of being activated and include cell phones, cellular tablets, mobile hotspots, and cellular wearables. Verizon devices capable of being activated have a 30-day return period for all customers. There is also a $45 restocking fee on activatable devices (excluding prepaid phones).

A 15% restocking fee applies to certain items, including drones, digital cameras, camera lenses, camcorders (including action cameras), electric bikes, electric mopeds, premium scooters, super scooters, mobility scooters, electric wheelchairs, leg and body recovery systems, projectors, projector screens, and special-order products.

What qualifies for Best Buy returns?

• Most products: Standard members can return or exchange most items up to 15 days from receipt of the item. Plus and Total members have 60 days to return most products.
• Activatable Devices: Cell phones, cellular tablets, mobile hotspots, and cellular wearables may be returned or exchanged up to 14 days from receipt of the item. (A restocking fee will apply.)
• Verizon Devices: Verizon activatable devices have a 30-day return period for all customers.

What doesn't qualify for Best Buy returns?

• Final Sale merchandise
• custom orders
• personalized orders
• non-subscription digital content (including digital gaming but excluding Microsoft Office)
• prepaid cards
• vehicle replacement key fobs
• memberships
• completed services
• plumbing items including bidets
• sexual wellness products
• trading cards (including Pokémon cards)
• home standby generators
• opened products that interact with bodily fluids
• opened SIM kits
• opened LEGO products
• opened consumable items including batteries, cleaning agents, oils, fuel, filters, cleaners, health supplements, health test kits, ink and 3D printer filament

Best Buy requires that products be returned in like-new condition. Items that are damaged, unsanitary, dented, scratched or missing major contents may be denied a return. Apparel can't be worn or laundered, and original tags must be attached.

I Don't Have My Receipt, Can I Still Return the Purchase?

According to Best Buy's return policy, "reimbursements on returns lacking proof of purchase may require an email address, may be denied or limited, and state sales taxes and fees will not be reimbursed." If the item was shipped to you, bring the packing slip, the credit card used for the purchase, and your ID. My Best Buy members can log in to their account and look up their receipts for online purchases. This information can also be looked up in-store for members. Receipt copies aren't available for purchases paid in cash or check if you are not a My Best Buy member. So, what we're saying is, become a member to avoid all receipt hassles.

What is Best Buy's return window?

The time period for returns and exchanges begins the day you receive your product and continues for 15 days on most products with standard membership, 60 days on most products with Plus or Total membership, and 14 days on most activatable devices.

How do holiday shopping returns differ from regular returns?

There are no differences in return policies, whether regular or holiday. The same terms apply to anything you buy year-round. Store credit for the purchase price of gifts you return will be given in store. For gifts returned via mail, Best Buy will credit the gift purchaser and notify them via email.

Can I make a return in-person after purchasing online?

Any in-store or online purchase may be returned to any Best Buy store. Your return may also be shipped free with a prepaid UPS shipping label.

Are There Any Special Considerations That I Should Know Of?

There is no restocking fee if the product you're returning is unopened, or if the purchase and the return both occur within AL, CO, HI, IA, MS, OH, OK, SC, and where prohibited by law. The restocking fee will be taxed in select states.

For faster return processing, Best Buy asks that you bring your packing slip (if you received one), or your receipt, the credit card used to make your purchase, and a valid photo ID.

For major appliances, it's a good idea to inspect them before you accept delivery. If you've already accepted delivery of the appliance, don't contact the store. Instead, call 1-888-BEST BUY.

Certain items have extended return periods, specifically litter boxes (90 days) and pet training devices and hearing aids, excluding hearing amplifiers, (60 days).

Best Buy FAQs

What time does Best Buy open?

Best Buy offers flexible shopping hours to accommodate the needs of tech enthusiasts and busy families. They're generally open Monday through Saturday, 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Stores are typically open on Sundays from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Hours are subject to change based on location, local demand, and holiday schedules. Visit the store directory to look up the hours specific to the Best Buy nearest you.

How to save the most at Best Buy

Best Buy has a variety of customer-centric programs and strategies to help customers achieve maximum savings. Subscribing to our email newsletters is an excellent way to stay informed about the latest technology, upcoming sales, and exclusive member-only offers. The Best Buy Rewards program is another good tool for savings. The program provides points on purchases that can be redeemed for discounts on future purchases, and special access to member-only deals. Our website and mobile app are essential tools for bargain hunters, showcasing daily deals, clearance items, and open-box specials that offer significant savings. Best Buy also matches the prices of local retail competitors and other major online retailers to ensure you always get the best deal available. Their commitment to value extends to an extensive selection of high-quality electronics and appliances, ensuring you can equip your home with the latest technology without exceeding your budget.

How does shopping compare online vs. in-store at Best Buy?

Personal preference and the kind of purchase you're making will factor into the decision of whether to shop at Best Buy in store or online. Online shopping at Best Buy is convenient and allows customers to explore their extensive inventory of electronics, appliances, and accessories in the time and place of their choosing. BestBuy.com contains detailed product specifications, customer reviews, and comparison tools that assist shoppers in making informed decisions. Also, online customers will find exclusive web-only deals, as well as delivery or store pickup options. Visiting a Best Buy store gives the customer a more hands-on experience. Customers can physically interact with products, conduct real-time comparisons, and receive personalized advice from knowledgeable staff. Products are immediately available in stores, customer service is on-the-spot, and customers can explore in-store exclusives. Regardless of how you choose to shop, Best Buy is dedicated to providing a seamless and satisfying shopping experience, both online and offline.

What else should I consider when shopping at Best Buy?

Best Buy has long been known for providing opportunities to explore the latest innovations in technology. In addition to purchases, customers customers have access to a range of services and support. Blue Shirts are ready to offer expert advice, answer questions, recommend products, and give insight as to the kind of technology that will meet the customer's needs. Best Buy also offers comprehensive protection plans and tech support subscriptions, which will cover devices against accidents and technical troubles. Geek Squad services offer professional help with computer setup, home theater installation, and more. Looking to upgrade your technology? The Best Buy trade-in program can reduce the cost of new purchases. Best Buy is dedicated to customer support and service, in addition to the quality products they provide, for an enhanced overall shopping and product usage experience.

Stay up to date with the best deals at Best Buy and other retailers by signing up for the DealNews Select newsletter, which delivers dozens of our handpicked top offers to your inbox every weekday. You can also set up a Deal Alert for specific items you're looking to buy. Finally, check out our Staff Picks page, where the best of the best deals are highlighted.