Tips from consumer experts on stress-free holiday returns

DAVENPORT, Iowa (KWQC) - The day after Christmas is a day spent by many making returns and exchanges. But if you plan on swapping out any gifts, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) has some tips to make your returns stress-free.

Each holiday season, the majority of consumers make at least one return, the BBB said. When shoppers go to make those returns it pays to know the retailer’s policy before you buy and before you try to take something back.

If you plan on heading out, the BBB has a few tips that you need to know to ease that holiday stress.

First, if you did any online shopping, search for the seller’s return policy. There, you can find out if they accept returns or exchanges and who pays for the shipping if an item is returned.

In some cases, the BBB said you can save on shipping fees by returning an online purchase to the local brick=and-mortar store.

Next up, be sure to keep your receipt and packaging.

Most stores will only accept returns and exchanges if you can present the item with its receipt and original packaging, according to the BBB. If you received a gift receipt, be sure to hang onto that and present that to the cashier.

Returning gifts without a receipt can be tricky.

If you don’t have the receipt, most retailers will offer store credit or an exchange, rather than a full refund to your original form of payment, especially if it’s marked down or on clearance, according to the BBB.

Also, make sure you have your ID.

Many stores will ask to see your ID when you return an item to avoid holiday return scams, the BBB said. Sometimes retailers will require that your bring your ID and the original form of payment.

Finally, make your returns in a timely fashion, the BBB said. Almost all return policies are valid during a specific time period, so don’t risk missing your chance to make that return.

The BBB provides consumers with the availability to check various retailers reviews and complaints. To learn more, click here.