As consumers look to return holiday gifts and other merchandise, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is reissuing her consumer alert on Avoiding Unhappy Returns to help consumers avoid surprises by taking a little extra time to understand the store's return policies.
“Return policies vary greatly from store to store, but almost all impose a time limit on returns,” Nessel said. “If you know you will return an item you received this holiday season, don't wait, and review the store’s return policy before making the trip.”
The best way to avoid an unhappy return is to know the store’s return policy before making a purchase. Look for a posted return policy at the cash register or in the customer service area. Shoppers can also ask a store clerk.
Online shoppers should examine a store’s website to determine whether returns are allowed. If the online store allows returns, you should search the store’s website for information on how to return items. If the information is not posted on the store's website, you should be cautious about purchases. If you decide to proceed, you should first contact the store. Ask for the return policy in writing. Be sure to print and retain the return information (along with all receipts, packing slips, and other documentation).
If your return has been refused by a store clerk, ask to speak with the store manager. If the store refuses the return of items that are defective or not as represented, you have a legitimate complaint. You can also complain if you discover that the store is not honoring its return policy. If you paid by credit card, you may wish to contact your credit card company and dispute the charges.
To view all the holiday scam alerts, visit the Department of Attorney General’s website at www.michigan.gov/consumerprotection/scams/holiday-scams. To file a complaint with the attorney general, or get additional information, contact:
Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form at https://secure.ag.state.mi.us/complaints/consumer.aspx
“Return policies vary greatly from store to store, but almost all impose a time limit on returns,” Nessel said. “If you know you will return an item you received this holiday season, don't wait, and review the store’s return policy before making the trip.”
The best way to avoid an unhappy return is to know the store’s return policy before making a purchase. Look for a posted return policy at the cash register or in the customer service area. Shoppers can also ask a store clerk.
Online shoppers should examine a store’s website to determine whether returns are allowed. If the online store allows returns, you should search the store’s website for information on how to return items. If the information is not posted on the store's website, you should be cautious about purchases. If you decide to proceed, you should first contact the store. Ask for the return policy in writing. Be sure to print and retain the return information (along with all receipts, packing slips, and other documentation).
If your return has been refused by a store clerk, ask to speak with the store manager. If the store refuses the return of items that are defective or not as represented, you have a legitimate complaint. You can also complain if you discover that the store is not honoring its return policy. If you paid by credit card, you may wish to contact your credit card company and dispute the charges.
To view all the holiday scam alerts, visit the Department of Attorney General’s website at www.michigan.gov/consumerprotection/scams/holiday-scams. To file a complaint with the attorney general, or get additional information, contact:
Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form at https://secure.ag.state.mi.us/complaints/consumer.aspx
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