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12 Home Depot Return Policy Hacks That Could Save You Big Money

Navigate Home Depot's return policy to save money with these tricks.

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Updated July 8, 2025
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Home Depot, the popular home improvement retailer, completed 1.6 billion worldwide customer transactions in 2024 alone. This trusted brand offers an extensive product selection, convenient locations, and excellent customer service.

In fact, Home Depot vows to hold prices steady during a time when other retail giants, like Walmart, are raising them. Another way the company maintains customer loyalty is by offering a flexible, reliable return policy that customers can count on.

If you're a regular Home Depot shopper, use these 12 legitimate return policy hacks to save more money shopping.

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Take advantage of the 365-day return window via a Home Depot credit card

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A Home Depot credit account is beneficial if you frequently shop at Home Depot. Unlike the standard return policy, which typically ranges from 30 to 90 days, purchases made with a Home Depot credit card are eligible for a 365-day return window.

With this no-fee card, you also get special financing offers and promotional perks, including $100 off select purchases upon opening an account.

Ask Home Depot to look up your purchase if you don't have your receipt

Eduardo Barraza/Adobe top view of a the home depot store building

Don't have your receipt? If you're worried you won't be able to return an item you no longer want or need, you can use Home Depot's credit and debit card lookup system. 

Depending on your payment method, the store may be able to locate your receipt within 90 days of your purchase (or 365 days with a Home Depot credit card payment).

Be sure to bring a government-issued ID.

Paid cash? Use the store credit option

Ivan Traimak/Adobe man chooses sewer plumbing pipes in a hardware

What if you paid cash and can't find your receipt? You'll often get a store or merchandise credit. Although Home Depot may process the return for the lowest advertised price, receiving something back, whether in the form of store credit or not, is better than nothing.

If your cash purchase exceeds $1,000, you may be sent a check from Home Depot's corporate office. However, this will generally require a receipt or further verification.

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Return opened, undamaged items

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Home Depot's return policy doesn't always require original packaging. Although you'll likely experience a smoother process when products are still packaged, as long as the item is not damaged and still in an unused, like-new condition, you can usually return it.

The final decision will be made at the store management's discretion, which may result in a store credit or exchange.

Report major appliance defects within 48 hours

Jammy Jean/Adobe store directionals signs inside

Home Depot's return policy states time frames based on product type. For example, unused air conditioners or pressure washers must be returned within seven days, chainsaws and mowers come with a 30-day window, and you have 90 days for most merchandise.

That said, major appliances (fridges, washers, dryers, ranges, dishwashers, and some microwaves) must be returned within 48 hours. Have an issue? Call the Customer Solutions team immediately at 1-800-455-3869.

Return online purchases in-store to avoid return shipping costs

Dennis/Adobe home depot company logo on a website

Returning items bought online may incur a return shipping fee (unless Home Depot makes an error or the product is eligible for a free return). To skip this fee, take the item to an in-store location (the process is free). Some items can only be returned in-store.

Bring the credit card used for payment and your ID. Be prepared to share your email address or order number.

Call customer service to return a large item using home pickup

Steve/Adobe apron pins honoring service

If you buy a large item, either online or in-store, instead of struggling to transport it back (or paying additional fees), it's best to contact an Online Customer Care Specialist at 1-800-430-3376 (available seven days a week).

A specialist will review your order to see if it's possible to arrange pickup from your home.

Buy seasonal items knowing you can return them (if plans change)

JackF/Adobe man choosing sealant tube

Seasonal items sell quickly. Have plans to renovate your patio or want to go all out with Christmas decorations? 

You may buy products you think you'll use, especially when competitively priced. Later, you might be unable to complete the project or question the value of your purchase.

Remember, the store offers a price match guarantee. However, verify the return policy on seasonal items in case your plans change.

Understand the custom item return policy before you buy

ungvar/Adobe lumber section of home depot store

If you order a custom product, such as window treatments, you cannot get a refund unless there is an issue concerning Home Depot's "Guarantee to Fit" policy. In this case, you're eligible for up to four item remakes per household per lifetime.

You have 15 calendar days to exchange, and note that this policy only applies to exchanges of the same product.

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Check return eligibility before purchase

Sundry Photography/Adobe people shopping at home depot

Some items are nonrefundable, including final sale items. In addition to custom and special order products, you cannot typically return whole house generators, gift cards, utility trailers, installed major appliances (outside the initial window), or custom-tinted paint.

Shopping pro tip: This month's best deals

InsideCreativeHouse/Adobe couple using credit card

July is in full swing, bringing the height of summer. That also means peak season for hot deals and unbeatable savings. Now’s the time to save big on:

  • Grills, coolers, and outdoor living upgrades
  • Travel must-haves for road trips and beach days
  • Swimwear and summer fashion
  • For grocery savings, grab seasonal produce like watermelon, peaches, and tomatoes

While you're enjoying the sunshine, retailers are quietly making room for back-to-school inventory. That makes July a prime opportunity to scoop up summer favorites while the deals are still blazing.

Return an item if you're missing parts

jollier_/Adobe interior of hardware retailer with aisles

To return an item to Home Depot, the product must include all original components to receive a full refund. However, if parts are missing due to a packaging defect (or in-store theft), you may be able to exchange the item for the same product if it is within the return window and the item is in stock.

Start by texting "Support" to 38698 or calling 1-800-430-3376 for resolution.

Exchange unwanted gifts for a store credit

Ivan Traimak/Adobe customer chooses screwdriver and drill

If someone gifts you something you already have or don't need, Home Depot does not offer a direct refund for gift receipts. Instead, you'll get store credit.

Considering the wide selection of products, you can use that money to purchase something you really want, such as potting soil and plants, cleaning products, or materials for your next DIY project.

Quick tips: How to cut costs on your utility bills

nikkimeel/Adobe opening silver faucet

Many people overlook their monthly utility expenses as fixed costs. But with small changes, you can see immediate drop in your bills. Here are some tips:

  • Install a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust temperatures
  • Switch to LED bulbs, which use up to 75% less energy than incandescent
  • Wash clothes in cold water and hang items to dry
  • Lower your water heater temperature to 120 degree Fahrenheit

Don't waste money. Remember that every dollar saved on a monthly bill turns into $12 annually.

Bottom line

Ivan Traimak/Adobe a man in a home goods store

Knowing how to navigate Home Depot's return policy will ensure you end up only with the products you'll use. Getting practical use and value out of the items you buy (while returning products you don't want or need) will help you keep more money in the bank.

Want other ways to keep more cash in your wallet? Check out Home Depot's weekly ad, explore financial deals via third-party sites, and take advantage of discounts, including 10% for active service members, veterans, and spouses.

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