Major Retailers Charging Customers to Return Items  “Definitely a trend that does not favor consumers.\"

Several major retailers have implemented policies that charge customers fees for returning items. These fees, ranging from a few dollars to over $50, have sparked controversy and criticism from consumers and advocacy groups.

First, it started with awkward feelings when asked at the checkout counter to provide a gratuity (tip). Now retailers are basically penalizing you when you return an item. It has to stop!

~Ralph Nader

Consumer Advocate

One retailer that has come under fire for its return policy is Bed Bath & Beyond. The company recently announced that it would start charging customers a $30 fee for returning certain items without a receipt. This policy applies to vacuums, air fryers, and other high-priced items. The company has faced backlash from customers and advocacy groups, who argue that the fees are excessive and unfair.

Another retailer that has implemented return fees is Best Buy. The electronics giant charges a 15% restocking fee for specific items that are returned without a receipt or outside of the return window. This fee applies to cell phones, laptops, and tablets.

Other brick-and-mortar retailers implementing return fees include Macy's, which charges a $10 fee for returns without a receipt, and Target, which sets a $5 fee for certain items returned without a receipt.

Advocacy groups have criticized these policies, arguing that they disproportionately impact low-income consumers and discourage people from returning faulty items. They have called on retailers to reconsider these policies and offer more lenient return options for their customers.

In response to the criticism, some retailers have defended their return policies, arguing that they are necessary to prevent abuse and fraud. However, they have also pointed out that many other retailers have similar policies.

Despite the controversy, it remains to be seen whether or not these policies will change shortly. Consumers should be aware of these fees and the conditions they may be charged for purchasing.

Here is a list of the retailers and their return policies mentioned in the article:

Bed Bath & Beyond charges a $30 fee for returning certain items without a receipt.
Best Buy charges a 15% restocking fee for specific items that are returned without a receipt or outside of the return window.
Macy's charges a $10 fee for returns without a receipt.
Target charges a $5 fee for certain items returned without a receipt.
H&M charges a $5.99 fee for a USPS return label (Loyalty members are free)
J-Crew has a pre-paid return label. The cost of return shipping is $7.50 for any number of items and will be deducted from your refund. You may also mail the item back using your insured, traceable method.

Please note that the information in the article may be outdated, and these policies may have changed since the article was written. It is always a good idea to check with the retailer for their current return policies before making a purchase.

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