Shopping Guide

How to Return Products Bought Online at Amazon and Walmart

6 min read · Published May 2026

Buying online is easy. Returning online purchases? That can feel like a maze if you do not know the process. The good news is that both Amazon and Walmart have made returns straightforward once you understand the steps. This guide walks you through the entire return process for each retailer so you can get your money back quickly and without unnecessary hassle.

Amazon Returns: Step by Step

Amazon gives you a 30-day return window on most items, starting from the date of delivery. Some categories like electronics may have shorter windows, while holiday purchases often get extended return deadlines. Here is exactly how to return an item to Amazon.

Step 1: Start the return online. Go to Your Orders in your Amazon account. Find the item you want to return and click "Return or Replace Items." Select the reason for your return from the dropdown menu. Amazon will then show you your available return options.

Step 2: Choose your return method. Amazon typically offers several drop-off options. You can drop off your return at a UPS Store, a Kohl's location, or a Whole Foods Market. In many cases, Amazon offers label-free, box-free returns at Kohl's and Whole Foods, which means you just hand over the item and walk out. If you prefer, you can also print a prepaid shipping label and mail the item back yourself using any UPS drop-off point.

Step 3: Drop off or ship the item. If you chose a box-free return, simply bring the item to the designated location with the QR code Amazon provides on your phone. The store associate scans it and handles the packaging and shipping for you. If you are shipping the item yourself, pack it securely, attach the prepaid label, and drop it off.

Step 4: Get your refund. Amazon typically processes refunds within 3 to 5 business days after they receive the item. If you dropped off at Kohl's or Whole Foods, the refund often appears even faster because those locations confirm receipt immediately. Refunds go back to your original payment method. If you paid with a credit card, the credit may take an additional 3 to 5 business days to appear on your statement.

Walmart Returns: Step by Step

Walmart offers a generous 90-day return window on most items, which gives you three times the flexibility of Amazon. Walmart also provides multiple ways to return items purchased online, including options that do not require you to ship anything.

Online return by mail. Log in to your Walmart account and go to your Purchase History. Select the item you want to return and click "Start a Return." Choose the reason and select the mail option. Walmart will provide a prepaid shipping label. Pack the item, attach the label, and drop it off at any post office or schedule a carrier pickup. Refunds are processed within 5 to 7 business days after Walmart receives the item.

In-store returns for online purchases. This is the fastest option. Bring the item to the Customer Service desk at any Walmart store. You can show your order confirmation email or the barcode from the Walmart app. The associate will process the return on the spot, and your refund is typically issued immediately. You do not need the original packaging for most items, though having it makes the process smoother.

Curbside returns. Walmart also offers curbside returns at many locations. Open the Walmart app, start your return, and select the curbside option. Drive to your local Walmart, check in through the app, and a store associate will come to your vehicle to collect the item. This is a great option if you are short on time or have mobility concerns.

What Can and Cannot Be Returned

Both Amazon and Walmart have restrictions on certain product categories. Items that are generally not returnable include gift cards, downloadable software, personal care items that have been opened (such as electric toothbrushes or razors), hazardous materials, and grocery items. Perishable goods, customized products, and items marked "non-returnable" on the product page are also excluded.

At Amazon, third-party seller items may have different return policies than items sold directly by Amazon. Always check the return policy on the product listing before buying from a marketplace seller. Walmart similarly distinguishes between items sold by Walmart and those from third-party Marketplace sellers, who may set their own return rules.

Electronics and big-ticket items deserve special attention. Amazon typically allows 15 to 30 days for electronics returns depending on the category. Walmart gives you 30 days for electronics, which is shorter than the standard 90-day window. Opened electronics may be subject to a restocking fee at either retailer, so check the product page before opening the box if you think you might return it.

Smart Tips for Hassle-Free Returns

Keep the original packaging. Both retailers process returns faster and more smoothly when items arrive in their original boxes with all accessories, manuals, and tags included. For electronics especially, keeping the box for at least 30 days after purchase can save you significant headaches.

Check the return window before you buy. Not every product follows the standard return policy. Amazon shortens the window on certain categories, and Walmart does the same for electronics and luxury items. A quick glance at the return policy section on the product page takes five seconds and can save you from being stuck with something you do not want.

Save your order confirmation emails. These serve as your proof of purchase and make the return process much faster, especially for in-store returns at Walmart. Your order history in the app or website also works, but having the email as a backup is always smart.

Act quickly. Do not wait until the last day of the return window. Shipping delays, processing times, and unexpected complications can cause you to miss the deadline. If you know you want to return something, start the process within the first week.

Inspect items on arrival. Open and inspect your purchases as soon as they arrive. If something is damaged, defective, or not what you ordered, initiate the return immediately. Both Amazon and Walmart are more accommodating with damaged or incorrect items, often offering free return shipping and expedited refunds.