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Headphones Return Policy Guide 2026
Updated January 2026 · 10 stores compared
Headphones fall under electronics at most retailers, giving them shorter return windows than standard merchandise. Hygiene concerns sometimes apply to in-ear headphones. Costco, Sam's Club, and BJ's are the most lenient.
Best Window
No limit
Average Window
83 days
Stores Compared
10
Headphones Return Policy Comparison
Sorted by return window length. Windows shown are specific to headphones where stores have category exceptions.
| Store | Return Window |
|---|---|
| CostcoBest | No limit |
| Sam's Club | No limit |
| BJ's Wholesale Club | 1 year |
| Walmart | 90 days |
| Target | 90 days |
| Amazon | 30 days |
| B&H Photo | 30 days |
| Newegg | 30 days |
| Best Buy | 15 days |
| Apple | 14 days |
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Best Store to Buy Headphones: Costco
Costco gives 90 days to return headphones with no restocking fee. That's 6× Best Buy's 15-day window. Costco also doesn't typically require original packaging in the same strict way. Sam's Club and BJ's match Costco's 90-day electronics window.
See Costco's full return policy →Tips for Returning Headphones
- ✓Test headphones thoroughly within the first few days — especially for sound quality, comfort, and wireless range.
- ✓Keep the original packaging for all headphones, especially over-ear and noise-canceling models.
- ✓For in-ear (earbuds), most stores prefer them unopened for hygiene reasons — test before cutting the seal.
- ✓If returning wireless headphones, unpair them from your devices and reset to factory settings first.
- ✓Apple products bought at non-Apple stores follow that retailer's shorter window (15 days at Best Buy vs. Apple's 14 days).
Frequently Asked Questions About Headphones Returns
- Can I return used headphones?
- Yes, if they're within the return window and were returned due to dissatisfaction (not visible damage). Most stores like Amazon, Best Buy, and Costco accept returns of tried headphones. However, if there's visible damage or missing accessories, you may get a partial refund.
- What's Best Buy's return policy for headphones?
- Best Buy gives 15 days to return headphones (they're classified as electronics). Elite and Elite Plus members get 30/45 days. You'll need the receipt or order number and all original accessories.
- Do I need original packaging to return headphones?
- Most stores prefer original packaging. Amazon is fairly lenient (just package them securely). Best Buy wants the original box and accessories. Costco is generally the most lenient about packaging for electronics returns.
- Which store has the best headphone return policy?
- Costco (90 days), Sam's Club (90 days), and BJ's Wholesale (90 days) offer the most generous headphone return windows. Amazon's 30-day window is the best among non-club retailers. Best Buy's 15 days is the most restrictive among major electronics chains.