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12 Target Return Policy Tips to Maximize Your Shopping

Last Updated: August 6, 2021

The Target return policy is one of the most lenient out there, but many shoppers don’t know some of their best features.

For example, in 2015, Target unveiled its newest changes to their already lenient return policy – customers could now return products from Target brands for up to a year after the date of purchase.

Many people don’t even know about this policy, even though it launched over 5 years ago! Keep reading to learn all of the secrets and hacks.

Target Return Policy (Overview)

Most items bought at a Target can be returned within 90 days (even if they’re opened) for a refund. Most items can be open, but there are a select few categories that won’t refund you if the items are opened (including music, movies, video games, and blow up mattresses).

In most cases, your refund will automatically go back to the original form of payment. Typically, it’ll take 1-2 days for you to see your refund on your Target REDcard, and other credit cards will normally take 1-3 days to arrive.


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12 Tips and Secrets For Target Returns

1. One-Year Return Policy on Target Brands

If you purchase an item from one of Target’s 41 “owned and exclusive” brands, you can return them within a year of the date of purchase. The full list of Target brands shares which brands are covered under the one-year Target return limit. 

When shopping online or through their mobile app, you can select “target brands” as a filter to ensure you get an entire year to decide if you like it or not. 

2. Exceptions to the Target Return Policy

Before we get into more exciting secrets, we should mention that there are a few exceptions to be aware of. 

  • The Target electronics return policy is 30 days rather than 90 days. 
  • You cannot get a refund on air mattresses, movies, music, video games, and software that have been opened (you can exchange).
  • Mobile Gift Cards and eGift cards cannot be returned or redeemed for cash.
  • Limited-time-only and Holiday items sometimes have modified return policies.

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3. No Receipt, No Problem

If you paid with a credit or debit card, a Target cashier can perform a receipt lookup as long as you bring the card. If you don’t have a credit card or receipt, they can issue your refund on a Target merchandise return card.

However, don’t rely on this – the price they give will likely be far less than what you paid. They give the lowest sale price in the last 60 days. 

Customer service will grant store credit for up to $100 each year for returns without a receipt as long as you bring your ID. 

4. Lost the Tags?

It’s hard to keep track of tags – with Target returns, you don’t have to. Just bring your receipt (physical or online), and they’ll issue a refund. 

5. Returning Used Items

The Target return policy is very lenient – you can return nearly anything that’s been opened and used as long as there are no obvious signs of wear. You can even return worn clothing from Target brands! Next time you buy some workout gear that doesn’t fit right, don’t be afraid to take it back.

However, some types of items (such as movies, video games, software, and blow up mattresses) need to be unopened in order to receive a full refund. That said, you can exchange these items if they’re opened.


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6. Buy One, Get One Rules

Target allows customers to return items that are a part of a BOGO offer. The refund will be prorated or split between the cost of the original items.  

BOGO Example: If you buy a $60 and $40 item on a buy one get one free sale, you’ll get $24 off of the first item, and $16 off the second item (which equals $40 worth of savings). Depending on the item you return, you’ll be refunded the prorated discount price.

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7. Target Returns + Manufacturer Coupons

Many people don’t know that manufacturer coupons are treated like cash to Target. If you return an item you used a manufacturer coupon on, you will receive the full value of the item. 

8. Use Target Circle to Keep Receipts

Target’s new rewards program allows you to earn 1% back from your purchases to redeem later, plus you can easily save your receipts in the app. This means no more lost receipts – just make sure to enter your phone number at purchase! 

9. Target RedCard Extended Returns

If you have a Target RedCard, any Target purchase you make with your card will have an extended return policy of 30 days.

Many people think this is a credit card, but they offer both a debit card (very easy to apply for) as well as two different credit cards. All of their cards have no annual fee.

On top of the extended return policy, you can receive 5% off your orders and other benefits!

10. One Year Return Policy For Registry Items

If you receive a registry gift that you want to return, you may be happy to hear that you have one year after your event date to return them (this goes for non-Target brands as well)!

Note: This policy is only valid for new, unopened items in original packaging.

12. Return Pickup Available for Large Items

If you purchased a large home item online that you want to return, but can’t fit in your car, you can schedule a return pickup through Target! Even some smaller items are eligible for return pickup.

That said, you will still need to fit your item in a box (it’s helpful to keep the box it was shipped to you in).

To see if your product is eligible, call Target.com Guest Services at 1-800-591-3869 and give them your order number.


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Target Return Policy FAQ

What is the return policy at Target?

Customers can return items within 90 days for a full refund or exchange with a receipt. If you purchase a product with a Target REDcard, you have 120 days to return your purchase. If you earned a reward like a free gift card with your purchase, they’ll subtract your gift from the value of the refund.

Can you return used makeup to Target?

Target is one of the few retailers that understands that makeup products don’t always work out. As long as you have your receipt, you can get a full refund of the purchase price within 90 days of your purchase (even on used products). Target RedCard shoppers have up to 120 days to return beauty products for a full refund, with the receipt.

Can you return worn shoes to Target?

While Target has a relatively lenient return and exchange policy, you cannot return worn or used shoes after purchase.

Does Target require ID for returns?

Target requires ID only if you do not have a receipt and would still like to make a return. Additionally, if you’d like to return items you received through your gift registry, you will need a government-issued photo ID to return items.


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Does Target have free online returns?

Yes, Target offers free shipping on every return. All you need to do is print the prepaid return mailing label, and they’ll email you when they get your return, so you know when to expect your refund. 

Final Thoughts

One of the many reasons we love Target is because of its dedication to elite customer service. Even if you lose your receipt, tag, or box, they’re willing to work with you as long as they can find proof of purchase (or even give you store credit if you don’t have proof). Plus, the year-long Target return policy for their own brands is an amazing perk!

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