Walmart has a good return policy for most items that you pick up from the store. As long as you return items with a receipt within 90 days, you’re good to go.
But not every return is equal and there are some items that are considered “Exchange only,” which means you won’t be able to get store credit or a cash refund.
Check this list of items that can only be exchanged for like items rather than returning for cash to avoid wasting money on items you might be on the fence about.
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Wireless phones
Walmart has all the top names in wireless cell phones. You can choose from Apple and Samsung products, for example, depending on whether you want an iPhone or Android platform.
But there are some restrictions on what can be returned for a cash refund and what can be returned as an exchange only. You can get a full refund for an unopened phone, but unlocked phones that have been opened can only be exchanged within 14 days of purchase.
Drones
Another electronic that’s affected by the exchange-only policy is drones. The drones stocked by Walmart come in a wide price range — from around $10 to more than $1,000.
It’s important to make sure the drone is what you want before you open the box, as only new and unopened drones can be exchanged. You’ll also need to remember you’ll have a maximum of 30 days before you won’t be able to exchange the item at all.
Projectors
It can be tempting to get an outdoor projector for summer movies or grab an indoor projector for sporting events like the Super Bowl.
But projectors are another electronic that Walmart has on its exchange-only list so returning it after the Super Bowl for a cash refund is not an option. You also only have 30 days to bring it back if you decide to go with a different model.
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Air beds and mattresses
If you’re hosting a crowd at your home over the holidays you’ll likely need some extra beds for all your guests.
It might be better to ask them to bring their own air beds and air mattresses, as you won’t be able to return any of those items to Walmart for cash after you use them. Instead, the best offer Walmart will give you is an exchange-only option within 90 days.
Medical equipment
It can be tough to break a leg and need crutches or a sling for a broken arm. You may be surprised that Walmart has you covered with the medical equipment you need.
The retailer doesn’t have you covered, though, when it comes to returning those items for cash. You can buy them through Walmart, but you’ll only be able to exchange them within 90 days of purchase.
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Funeral products
Yes, you can get a casket or urn through Walmart’s website, but the store has specific criteria if you want to exchange them.
You can only exchange items if they're damaged or defective, and the exchange needs to be done within 90 days of purchase. The items also still have to be new and unused to exchange them.
Walmart’s return policy for items
Walmart has specific exchange-only policies for some items. That label probably doesn’t apply to most items you plan to return to Walmart, but you may want to double-check the return policy for things like electronics before you buy.
The company’s standard return policy includes a 90-day window for most items, and Walmart recommends keeping the manufacturer’s package and your receipt to help with the return process.
Special holiday return policy
Walmart may be on your list of stores to visit for the gifts you have to get at the end of the year, and the store has you covered if you want to buy a gift early.
Walmart gives customers a bigger return window for items bought between Oct. 1 and Dec. 31. Any purchases you may get as gifts can be returned by Jan. 31 or within 90 days of purchase.
Bottom line
Walmart can be a good option if you want to save money on essentials or keep some cash in your pocket after buying groceries, but you’ll also want to keep the exceptions for certain returns in mind, or you could end up eating unnecessary extra costs.
If you're not sure whether you'll keep an item or return it later, it’s a good idea to ask a Walmart associate about the store’s return policy on certain items.
Remember to also keep your receipt if you’re considering returning an item, as it can make the return experience easier.
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