Macy's 2025 holiday return policy: items purchased Oct 6-Dec 31 can be returned until Jan 31, 2026. Complete details on deadlines, exclusions, fees, and no-receipt returns for gifts.
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Shopping at Macy's for the holidays? Here's what you need to know about returns: purchases made between October 6 and December 31, 2025 can be returned through January 31, 2026. That gives you nearly 4 months for early holiday purchases and about 30 days after Christmas for gifts.
This extended window applies to most items, but there are important exceptions for electronics, fine jewelry, and certain cosmetics. You'll also need to know the difference between in-store returns (usually free) and mail-in returns (may have fees).
This guide covers everything: exact dates, category-by-category exclusions, what you need for returns without receipts, how fees work, and tips to make your return smooth and fast.
Quick Summary: Macy's Holiday Return Policy 2025
Macy's extends returns for holiday purchases from October 6 through December 31, 2025 until January 31, 2026. Items must be unused with tags attached. In-store returns are free. Mail-in returns incur a $9.99 fee deducted from refund. Electronics have shorter windows (15-30 days). No receipt? You may get store credit with ID. Fine jewelry, final sale, and used items are excluded.
Macy's Holiday Return Window: Exact Dates
Macy's 2025 holiday return policy operates on a simple framework:
This means if you buy a gift on October 6 (the first day of the extended window), you have until January 31, 2026 to return it—nearly four months. If you purchase on Christmas Eve, you still get 37 days.
How It Compares to Standard Policy
Outside the holiday window, Macy's standard return policy is typically 30-90 days depending on item category and payment method. The holiday extension is significantly more generous, designed to accommodate gift-giving and the busy holiday shopping season.
Save your receipt and order confirmation emails. While you can return without them, having proof of purchase makes the process faster and ensures you get refunded to your original payment method instead of store credit.
For comparison with other major retailers' holiday return policies, see our complete Stores With Extended Holiday Returns (2025) guide.
What You Can Return (And What You Can't)
Most items purchased during the holiday window qualify for the extended return period, but several categories have restrictions or shorter timeframes.
Standard Returns (Full Holiday Extension)
These items get the full extended window through January 31, 2026:
- Clothing and accessories (all brands)
- Shoes and handbags
- Home goods and bedding
- Toys and games
- Most watches (non-luxury)
- Small kitchen appliances
- Furniture (with original packaging)
Electronics (Shorter Windows)
Electronics have significantly shorter return windows even during the holiday season:
| Category | Return Window | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Computers & Tablets | 15 days | Must be unopened or 25% restocking fee applies |
| TVs & Monitors | 30 days | Original packaging required |
| Cameras & Camcorders | 30 days | Unopened preferred; opened items may have restocking fee |
| Video Game Consoles | 30 days | Sealed games cannot be returned if opened |
| Cell Phones | 14 days | Carrier-specific policies may apply |
| Small Electronics | 30 days | Headphones, speakers, fitness trackers |
Electronics return windows start from the purchase date, not the end of the holiday season. If you buy a laptop on October 10, you must return it by October 25 (15 days), not January 31.
Items That Cannot Be Returned
Macy's excludes these categories from returns entirely:
- Final Sale Items: Clearance marked "final sale" at purchase
- Used Cosmetics: Opened beauty products (hygiene reasons)
- Personalized Items: Engraved or monogrammed merchandise
- Special Orders: Custom furniture or made-to-order items
- Intimate Apparel: Opened undergarments
- Perishables: Food and beverage items
- Gift Cards: Cannot be returned for cash
- Some Fine Jewelry: Custom or sized pieces
Fine Jewelry & Watches (Special Rules)
Fine jewelry follows different guidelines:
- Luxury watches ($500+): 30 days with original packaging and papers
- Engagement rings: May have specialized return policies; check at purchase
- Resized jewelry: Cannot be returned after sizing/engraving
- Fashion jewelry: Standard holiday return window applies
How to Return Items to Macy's
Macy's offers three return methods: in-store, by mail, and through their Star Rewards Concierge (for loyalty members). Each has different fees and processing times.
In-Store Returns (Recommended - Free)
The fastest and cheapest option. Bring your item to any Macy's location:
Bring online purchases to a store instead of mailing them back. You'll save the $9.99 return shipping fee and get your refund processed immediately.
Mail-In Returns ($9.99 Fee)
If you can't get to a store, you can mail your return:
Star Rewards Concierge Returns (Loyalty Members)
If you're a Macy's Star Rewards member at Silver level or above, you may have access to concierge services that can arrange pickups or process returns with fewer requirements. Check your account benefits.
Returns Without a Receipt
Lost your receipt or returning a gift? Macy's will still accept returns with some limitations.
What You'll Need
- Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, state ID)
- The item with original tags and packaging
- Original payment method if possible (credit card used for purchase)
How No-Receipt Returns Work
Macy's uses a third-party service called The Retail Equation to track no-receipt returns. This system flags suspicious patterns (too many returns, high dollar amounts) to prevent fraud. If you're flagged, your return may be declined.
Frequent no-receipt returns can get you temporarily or permanently banned from making returns at Macy's. The system tracks your ID across all locations. Keep your receipts, and if you're a Star Rewards member, your purchases are automatically tracked.
For strategies on writing customer-friendly no-receipt return policies for your own business, see our guide on Holiday Gift Returns Without a Receipt.
Refund Methods & Processing Times
How and when you get your money back depends on your original payment method and return location.
Refund to Original Payment Method
| Original Payment | In-Store Return | Mail-In Return |
|---|---|---|
| Credit Card | 3-5 business days | 5-10 business days after receipt |
| Debit Card | 3-10 business days | 5-10 business days after receipt |
| Macy's Card | Immediate (usually same day) | 2-5 business days after receipt |
| Cash | Immediate cash back | Check mailed in 10-14 days |
| Check | Cash after check clears (7-10 days) | Check mailed in 10-14 days |
| PayPal | 3-5 business days | 5-10 business days after receipt |
| Gift Card | Immediate store credit | Store credit 5-7 days after receipt |
Store Credit (No Receipt or Exchange)
If you don't have a receipt or choose to exchange, you'll receive a merchandise credit:
- Format: Physical gift card or account credit (for Star Rewards members)
- Amount: Lowest selling price in last 180 days or current price, whichever is lower
- Usage: Can be used in-store or online
- Expiration: No expiration on Macy's store credit
- Restrictions: Cannot be redeemed for cash; cannot be used to purchase gift cards
Fees & Deductions
Macy's charges fees in specific situations. Here's the complete breakdown:
Return Shipping Fee: $9.99
Applied to all mail-in returns unless:
- You're a Star Rewards Platinum member or higher (fee waived)
- The item was defective or wrong (Macy's error)
- You return in-store instead (no fee)
Restocking Fees: 15-25%
Applied to opened or used electronics:
| Category | Fee | When Applied |
|---|---|---|
| Computers, Tablets | 25% | If opened/used |
| TVs, Monitors | 15% | If opened/used |
| Cameras | 15% | If opened/used |
| Other Electronics | 15% | If opened/used |
Unopened electronics in original packaging are not subject to restocking fees.
How Fees Are Deducted
Example refund calculation:
Fees are deducted before processing your refund. You'll see the breakdown in your refund confirmation email.
Tips for Smooth Returns
Make your Macy's return faster and hassle-free with these strategies:
Before You Buy
- Keep packaging: Save boxes, bags, and original tags until you're sure you're keeping the item
- Join Star Rewards: Free membership tracks your purchases automatically (no receipt needed for returns)
- Check the category: If buying electronics, understand the shorter 15-30 day window
- Save digital receipts: Screenshot order confirmations or save emails
When Returning
- Return in-store when possible: Saves the $9.99 mail fee and gets you refunded faster
- Bring your ID: Required for no-receipt returns and may speed up the process
- Check store hours: Customer service desks may close earlier than store hours
- Avoid peak times: Returns are fastest on weekday mornings; avoid weekends and the days after Christmas
- Be prepared to show damage: If returning a defective item, have photos ready
For Gift Recipients
- Ask for a gift receipt: Tell gift-givers you prefer gift receipts (shows item but not price)
- Check if it's a gift: Ask the gift-giver where they purchased before assuming it's from Macy's
- Exchange vs refund: Without a receipt, you'll get store credit—consider exchanging for something you want
- Look for the invoice: Online orders include a packing slip that works like a receipt
Common Return Scenarios
Scenario 1: Gift Without Receipt
Situation: You received a sweater as a gift, no receipt included, and it's the wrong size.
Best approach:
- Ask the gift-giver if they have the receipt or order number (they can forward the email)
- If not, bring the sweater to Macy's with tags attached and your ID
- They'll likely find the purchase in their system (if bought with a Macy's card or Star Rewards account)
- Exchange for the right size or get store credit
Scenario 2: Electronics Past Return Window
Situation: You bought a TV on October 15, and it's now November 20 (past the 30-day window).
Options:
- Macy's won't accept the return past the electronics window
- If it's defective, manufacturer warranty may still cover it
- Contact Macy's Customer Service to explain any extenuating circumstances—they may make an exception
- Consider selling it privately or donating for a tax deduction
Scenario 3: Online Purchase, Want to Return In-Store
Situation: You ordered online and want to return in-store to avoid the fee.
Process:
- Bring the item with tags, packaging, and your order confirmation email (printed or on phone)
- Go to Customer Service at any Macy's location
- They'll look up your order and process the return
- Refund goes back to your original payment method (same timeline as online purchases)
- No $9.99 fee charged
Frequently Asked Questions
Macy's Holiday Return Policy FAQs
Can I return items after January 31, 2026?
No. The extended holiday return window closes on January 31, 2026 for items purchased between October 6 and December 31, 2025. After that date, Macy's will not accept returns on holiday purchases unless they're defective and covered under manufacturer warranty. Standard return windows apply to items purchased outside the holiday window.
Do I need a receipt to return a gift?
Not necessarily. If the gift-giver used a Macy's Star Rewards account or Macy's credit card, the purchase is already in Macy's system and can be looked up with your ID. If it can't be found, you'll receive store credit for the current selling price. Having a gift receipt or order number makes the process faster and may get you a refund instead of store credit.
Can I return electronics after Christmas?
Only if they're within their specific return window. Electronics have 15-30 day return windows from the purchase date, NOT from the holiday deadline. A laptop bought on December 1 must be returned by December 16 (15 days). The January 31 extended deadline doesn't apply to electronics. Check your receipt for the exact return deadline for your electronic item.
Is there a limit on how many items I can return?
Macy's doesn't publish a specific item limit, but they use The Retail Equation to track return patterns. Excessive returns—especially without receipts or of high-value items—can trigger a return ban. No-receipt returns are limited to $200 per calendar year. If you're making legitimate returns with receipts, you're unlikely to hit limits, but serial returners may be flagged.
How do I avoid the $9.99 return shipping fee?
Return items in-store instead of mailing them back. All in-store returns are free. Alternatively, become a Star Rewards Platinum member or higher—these tiers get free mail-in returns. If your item is defective or Macy's sent the wrong item, the return shipping fee is also waived.
Can I exchange an item for a different size or color?
Yes. Bring the item to any Macy's store with tags attached and exchange it for a different size, color, or similar item. Exchanges are processed as a return and a new purchase. If the new item costs more, you'll pay the difference. If it costs less, you'll get a refund or store credit for the difference. Online, you must process a return and place a new order—Macy's doesn't offer direct exchanges online.
What if my item is defective?
Defective items can be returned even past the standard return window under manufacturer warranty. Bring the item with proof of purchase to any Macy's store or contact Customer Service. For electronics, you may be directed to the manufacturer for warranty service. Macy's typically waives restocking fees and return shipping fees for defective merchandise. Document the defect with photos before returning.
Can I return sale or clearance items?
Yes, unless they're marked "final sale" at the time of purchase. Regular sale items follow the same return policy as full-price items during the holiday window. Final sale items—often deeply discounted clearance—cannot be returned or exchanged under any circumstances unless defective. Check your receipt or the tag for "final sale" designation.
How long does it take to get my refund?
In-store returns: 3-5 business days for credit cards, 3-10 days for debit cards, immediate for Macy's card or cash. Mail-in returns: add 5-10 business days for processing after Macy's receives your return. Total timeline for mail returns can be 2-3 weeks from when you ship it. Choose in-store returns when you need your refund faster.
Official Policy & Contact Information
For the most current information, always check Macy's official resources:
- Official policy page: Macy's Return Policy
- Customer service: 1-800-289-6229 (available 7 days a week)
- Online account: Macys.com (track orders and initiate returns)
- Store locator: Find your nearest Macy's for in-store returns
Policy details are accurate as of October 2025. Macy's reserves the right to change return policies at any time. Always verify current terms before making a purchase.
Conclusion
Macy's 2025 holiday return policy is generous: October 6 through December 31 purchases get until January 31, 2026 for returns. That's plenty of time for gift recipients to exchange or return items.
Key takeaways:
- Extended window: January 31, 2026 deadline for holiday purchases
- Electronics excluded: 15-30 day windows from purchase date
- Return in-store: Free and faster than mailing
- Keep receipts: Easier refunds and avoids store credit limits
- Watch for fees: $9.99 mail fee, 15-25% restocking on opened electronics
For more information on other retailers' holiday return policies and how to write your own business return policy, check out these guides:
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