Target Return Policy: Here's What Might Surprise You

Ever wonder how to make returning items to Target even easier? With one of the most flexible return policies around, knowing the ins and outs of Target’s return process can save you a lot of time and hassle.

Target is all about the customer experience and their return policy is no exception. Whether you bought in store or online, Target wants to make returns as painless as possible.

What is Target's return policy?

Target’s return policy is simple and flexible. With some exceptions, most in-store or online items can be returned within 90 days of purchase.

• General return policy: Most items can be returned for a full refund or exchange within 90 days if they are in original condition. Refunds are returned to the original payment method used for the purchase, so having the card or method on hand can make it even easier. A free return mailing label can be printed from the Target website for online returns.

• Target GiftCard: Refunds for returned gifts can be issued as a Target GiftCard. This applies to items purchased with a receipt or proof of purchase linked to your Target account.

• Opened or used items: Some items, like electronics and home goods, can be returned even if opened or used. However, electronics and entertainment items have a 30-day return window.

• Return exceptions: Some items, such as a Target GiftCard, opened beauty products, and personalized items, cannot be returned or have different policies.

While Target’s return policy is flexible, keeping track of your purchase details and receipts is essential to avoid hiccups. Check the ‘Order Details’ page on the Target website or Guest Services for more information.

See also: Lowe's Return Policy: Complete Guide for Hassle-Free Returns

What can you do if you have an issue with your purchase?

Here’s what you can do if you have any issues with your purchase:

Missing or damaged items

• If you receive a missing or damaged item, you can start a return or exchange through the Online Return Center. Obtaining a return authorization number will streamline the return process.

• You can also contact Guest Services for missing or damaged items.

• You may be eligible for a refund or exchange if you paid with a credit or debit card.

• Target Plus Partner items have different return policies, so check the item’s details page.

In-store purchases

• You’ll need a valid receipt and the item in original condition to return an in-store purchase.

• You can return through the Target app. Just select 'in-store' or 'online.'

• If you don’t have a receipt, you can try to look up your purchase using your Target account or credit or debit card information.

• Some items, like electronics and entertainment, have a 30-day return window.

• You can use the Return Barcode feature in the Target app to start in-store returns.

• If you purchased an item through a third-party delivery service, you may need to contact the service for assistance.

• Target Circle members have additional benefits and perks when returning items. It's important to be aware of return policy exceptions for certain items.

Remember, you can use a return tracking number to monitor the status of your return.

How can you make Target’s return policy even easier and quicker?

Believe it or not, I have found a way to make the Target return policy even more effortless.

Shoeboxed—a receipt organizer app for your desktop or phone!

Shoeboxed can be super helpful for managing your receipts and making returns easier, especially for stores like Target.

Here’s how Shoeboxed can help you manage your receipts to make the return process even smoother.

1. Automated receipt storage

Shoeboxed lets you scan and store all your receipts digitally. Whether it’s a paper receipt from an in-store purchase or a digital receipt from an online order, Shoeboxed captures and organizes them all in one place. No more lost or misplaced receipts when you need to return an item.

Shoeboxed is a receipt scanning app or a receipt scanning service, whichever you prefer.

Mobile app

With the mobile app, scan your receipts with your smartphone's camera, and Shoeboxed's app will automatically upload them to your designated account.

Magic Envelope service

Or, if you prefer, you can put your receipts in a prepaid postage-free Magic Envelope provided by Shoeboxed and mail them to their processing center, where their team will scan, human-verify, and upload them into your account.

Gmail plugin

Shoeboxed also offers a Gmail plugin that automatically searches your inbox and forwards receipts directly to your Shoeboxed account.

2. Organized and searchable receipts

With OCR technology, Shoeboxed then automatically organizes receipts based on 15 tax or custom categories.

For example, you could organize receipts by store, date, or purchase so you can easily search for the exact receipt you need when you start a return.

Instead of digging through piles of paper or emails, you can quickly find the receipt and even retrieve it on your mobile device for in-store returns.

3. Add notes for return deadline tracking

Shoeboxed helps you track the return windows for your purchases by tagging receipts, or you can go into the 'Notes' section and add the return deadline.

4. Cloud access for in-store returns

Shoeboxed’s cloud-based system means your receipts are available anywhere. Whether you’re at the store starting a return or processing an online return, you can instantly access the receipt on your phone, tablet, or computer.

Using Shoeboxed for your receipts means you’ll always be prepared for returns with organized and easily accessible documentation that makes the process quick and painless.

Frequently asked questions

What if I lose my Target receipt?

If you lose your Target receipt, you can still return it. Target lets you look up your purchase using your Target account, or you can use the credit/debit card you used to make the purchase to find the transaction. The Return Barcode feature in the Target app can also help with in-store returns. Having a return receipt can make the process smoother.

Can I return the opened electronics to Target?

Yes, you can return opened electronics to Target within 30 days of purchase. Just include all original packaging and accessories for a smoother return process. Apple products purchased at Target have a 15-day return window. Review the return policy guidelines for electronics before making a return.

In conclusion

Target’s return policy is all about flexibility and ease. You can return items in-store or online. Know the rules and keep track of your receipts, and it’s hassle-free.

Tools like Shoeboxed can make the process easier by organizing receipts so you never lose essential purchase information. With an efficient receipt management system, Target's return process for store purchases can be smooth and stress-free, whether a missing item or just a change of mind.

Caryl Ramsey has years of experience assisting in bookkeeping, taxes, and customer service. She uses various accounting software to set up client information, reconcile accounts, code expenses, run financial reports, and prepare tax returns. She is also experienced in setting up corporations with the State Corporation Commission and the IRS.

About Shoeboxed!

Shoeboxed is a receipt scanning service with receipt management software that supports multiple receipt capture methods: send, scan, upload, forward, and more! Shoeboxed helps you keep all your return documentation organized.

You can stuff your receipts into one of our Magic Envelopes (prepaid postage within the US). Use our receipt tracker + receipt scanner app (iPhone, iPad, and Android) to snap a picture while on the go—auto-import receipts from Gmail. Or forward a receipt to your designated Shoeboxed email address.

Turn your receipts into data and deductibles with our expense reports, including IRS-accepted receipt images.

Join over 1 million businesses scanning & organizing receipts, creating expense reports, and more—with Shoeboxed.

Try Shoeboxed today!