10 Best Store Return Policies in 2026

Ranked by return window length, ease of process, and real shopper ratings

Updated February 2026 · Based on 50 stores

A generous return policy can make or break your shopping experience. We analyzed return policies from 50 major retailers and ranked them using a combination of return window length (40% weight) and real shopper ratings (60% weight). Here are the 10 best stores for hassle-free returns in 2026.

1

Trader Joe's

No time limit
★★★★★4.7/5(32 ratings)

Trader Joe's has one of the most generous return policies in grocery retail — you can return almost anything, at any time, for virtually any reason, with no receipt required. Even partially used or consumed products can be returned. The store manager will typically offer a replacement or full refund on the spot.

2

Costco

No time limit
★★★★★4.6/5(47 ratings)

Costco has one of the most generous return policies in retail — no time limit on most items. Electronics are limited to 90 days. Membership itself is 100% refundable at any time. They look up purchases via your membership card, so no receipt is ever needed.

3

Nordstrom

No time limit
★★★★★4.6/5(38 ratings)

Nordstrom has no formal time limit on returns — one of the most generous policies in fashion retail. They handle returns on a case-by-case basis and generally accept them if the item is in good condition. Free return shipping on all orders.

4

REI

365 days
★★★★★4.6/5(29 ratings)

REI's 100% Satisfaction Guarantee is legendary — REI members get a full year (365 days) to return or exchange any item they're not satisfied with, no questions asked. Outdoor electronics are limited to 90 days. REI Co-op members never need a receipt since purchases are tied to their account.

5

Sam's Club

No time limit
★★★★★4.5/5(19 ratings)

Sam's Club has one of the most generous return policies around — most items can be returned at any time with no time limit. Membership is required, and all purchases are tracked under your account so no receipt is ever needed. Electronics and appliances are limited to 90 days; cell phones to 14 days.

6

IKEA

365 days
★★★★4.0/5(22 ratings)

IKEA offers an exceptionally generous 365-day return window for unopened products with proof of purchase. Opened or assembled items can be returned within 180 days. Returns must be brought to an IKEA store — pickup or free shipping is not offered for returns. IKEA Family members get 90-day price protection on own price drops.

7

BJ's Wholesale Club

365 days
★★★★3.5/5(12 ratings)

BJ's Wholesale offers a full year (365 days) to return most items — a generous policy for a warehouse club. Electronics are limited to 90 days. All purchases are tied to your BJ's membership so no receipt is needed. Items should be in saleable condition with original packaging.

8

Bath & Body Works

90 days
★★★★★4.7/5(15 ratings)

Bath & Body Works has a famous 100% satisfaction guarantee — return any item within 90 days, even if you've used it, with or without a receipt. With a receipt: full refund to original payment. Without a receipt: store credit or exchange. No-receipt returns are capped at $250 per 90-day period. Online orders must be returned to a store or by mail.

9

Dick's Sporting Goods

90 days
★★★★4.3/5(15 ratings)

Dick's Sporting Goods offers a 90-day return policy for most items — generous for a sporting goods retailer. Items must be in original condition with tags. Free return shipping for online orders. ScoreCard members can have purchases looked up. Firearms and ammunition are non-returnable.

10

Home Depot

90 days
★★★★4.3/5(36 ratings)

Home Depot offers 90-day returns for most items. Home Depot credit card holders get a full year (365 days). Major appliances must be inspected within 48 hours of delivery. Plants come with a 1-year guarantee.

How We Ranked These

Our ranking uses a weighted score combining two factors: return window length (40% weight — longer is better, no-limit policies score highest) and shopper ratings (60% weight — based on real user ratings for ease of process and overall experience). This means a store with a shorter window but excellent service can outrank one with a longer window but frustrating process.