Walmart Return Hours in 2024 (Complete Guide)

Understanding the return policy and hours of Walmart can make your shopping experience smooth and stress-free. In this guide, we provide a comprehensive breakdown of –

• Walmart’s return hours
• Return policy and procedures, and
• Tips for a hassle-free return process.

What Time Does Walmart Accept Returned Items?

Walmart’s customer-friendly return policy includes accommodating return hours that align with their general operating times. This means that as long as the store is open, you can return the items you’ve bought. Most Walmart locations open their doors at 7 am and shut them at 11 pm, seven days a week. This standard timing enables you to return items at your convenience during these hours.

Nevertheless, the specific opening and closing hours can differ based on the location and the day of the week. In certain cities and at certain times of the year, stores may open earlier or close later.

Furthermore, it’s important to keep in mind that during public holidays such as Christmas, New Year’s Day, Independence Day, and Thanksgiving, the operating hours may vary. Therefore, we highly recommend that you check the exact times with your local store or on the Walmart official website before planning your return.

Here’s a general return schedule for a standard week:

This table provides an at-a-glance understanding of Walmart’s return hours. However, always check with your local Walmart store for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Can You Return Items to Walmart 24/7?

The exact hours for returns can vary depending on individual store policies and whether the Walmart location operates 24/7.

While some 24/7 stores may technically allow returns at any hour, most designate specific hours during which the customer service desk is open and staffed. It’s always recommended to check with the specific store for their return policy and hours of operation.

Are Return Hours the Same for All Stores?

Not necessarily. Return hours can vary based on location and store type. Supercenters might have extended hours compared to smaller Walmart Express stores. Always verify the return hours for your local store by visiting the Walmart store locator page or contacting the store directly.

Where Can I Return Items at Walmart?

Walmart strives to make the return process as simple as possible for its customers. That’s why they offer multiple locations within each store where you can return your items. Depending on your convenience and the specific item, you can choose from the following return locations at Walmart:

• Customer Service Desk: This is the most common place for returns. It’s typically located at the front of the store, and you’ll find trained staff members ready to assist you with your return process.
• Walmart.com Services in the Store: If you’ve bought something online from Walmart.com, you can choose to return it in-store using this service. It’s particularly useful for those who prefer the speed and convenience of in-store returns over mailing the item back.
• Any Checkout Lane: This option adds flexibility to the return process. If the Customer Service Desk is crowded or closed, you can return your items at any checkout lane. All Walmart cashiers are trained to process returns, so you won’t have to wait in multiple lines.

Each of these return locations within Walmart has its advantages, so choose the one that works best for you based on your item, comfort, and convenience.

How to Return Items at Walmart?

Here’s a concise guide to help you navigate the return process at Walmart, whether you purchased in-store or online.

Returning In-Store Purchases

Follow these steps to return an item you purchased in-store at Walmart:

1. Find your Receipt: Locate the receipt from your purchase. This is essential for processing your return.
2. Repackage the Item: If possible, place packaging. Make sure to include any manuals, accessories, or tags that came with it.
3. Visit a Walmart Store: Take your item and receipt to your local Walmart store.
4. Go to the Returns Area: Once in the store, head to the Customer Service Desk or any checkout lane.
5. Complete the Return: Present your receipt and item to the store associate. They will guide you through the return process and issue your refund.

Returning Online Purchases

The procedure for returning items you bought online from Walmart.com is as follows:

1. Initiate the Return Online: Log into your Walmart.com account, find your order, and click “Start a Return.”
2. Choose the Return Method: Decide whether you’d like to return the item in-store or by mail. Walmart provides options for both.
3. Package the Item: Pack the item in its original packaging, if possible, along with all accessories and the packing slip or return receipt.
4. Finalize the Return: If returning in-store, bring the item to the customer service desk or any checkout lane. For mail returns, attach the prepaid return shipping label and drop the package at a FedEx or USPS location.
5. Receive the Refund: After the return has been processed, your refund will be issued in the original form of payment, or as a Walmart gift card or eGift card for online use.

What is the Best Time to Return Items at Walmart?

The best time to return items at Walmart is during non-peak hours, usually early morning or late evening. Weekdays are also typically less busy than weekends.

Determining the best time to return items at Walmart depends largely on your schedule and store’s busiest hours.

Generally, early morning hours (between 8 am and 11 am) and late evening hours (after 7 pm) can be less crowded, making the return process quicker and smoother. Weekdays are usually less busy than weekends. Avoid peak hours (around 5 pm to 7 pm) and weekends if possible.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to avoid the beginning and end of the month, when many people receive paychecks and do their shopping. However, always remember to check your local Walmart’s hours of operation before planning your return.

How Can I Know the Return Hours at the Nearest Walmart?

To find the return hours of your nearest Walmart, use the store locator tool on the Walmart website or the Walmart app.

You can also call the store directly for this information.

How Walmart Handles Return Requests?

Walmart’s return process is designed to be customer-friendly:

• Receipt Scan: Walmart employees will scan your receipt to verify the purchase.
• Item Verification: They will inspect the condition of the item to ensure it is eligible for return.
• Refund Processing: The associate will process your refund. The method depends on your original payment method.

How Late Can You Return an Item to Walmart?

Most items can be returned within 90 days of purchase. However, there are exceptions for certain categories of products. Always review Walmart’s return policy on the receipt or their website.

How Long Do Online Returns Take?

Online returns generally take about 2-3 weeks to process. It includes shipping time (if you mailed the item), return processing at the warehouse, and refund processing.

Walmart Return Experience:

Timing, Types of Purchases, and Refund Processing

Taking into consideration the time of day, the type of purchase, and how refunds are processed can help streamline your return experience at Walmart. The below table expands on this:

Tips to Remember:

• The times and busyness levels are general estimations and may vary depending on your local store.
• The refund process time for online returns begins once Walmart receives and processes your returned item.
• The type of refund method for in-store purchases can often be in the original form of payment or store credit, while online purchases may also be refunded as a gift card or eGift card for online use.
• To ensure a smooth return process, keep your receipt and ensure the item is in returnable condition with original packaging.

By planning your return trip around these guidelines, you’ll be more prepared to navigate the return process at Walmart.

Can You Return an Item at Walmart Without Customer Service?

Yes, returns can be processed at any checkout lane or at Walmart.com services in the store, not just the customer service desk.

How Can I Get the Refund for Returned Items?

Refunds are typically issued to your original payment method. If you paid with cash or a debit card, you could choose to receive cash or have the amount put back on your card.

What’s the Maximum Amount You Can Return to Walmart Without an ID or a Receipt?

For returns without a receipt, Walmart may allow you to return items for a cash refund, gift card, or a product exchange, up to a limit of $25.

Can I Return an Item Without a Receipt?

Yes, but there are restrictions.

Walmart can attempt to look up the receipt using your credit card or store card. If they can’t find a receipt, they may still allow the return for store credit.

Items Not Returnable at Walmart

Here’s a list of items typically not returnable at Walmart:

• Opened Software: Opened computer software cannot be returned, but may be exchanged for the same title and version.
• Gift Cards: Both Walmart Gift Cards and other brand gift cards cannot be returned or redeemed for cash or credit, except where required by law.
• Perishable Items: Opened or defective perishable items like food, flowers, and plants may not be returnable, but can usually be refunded or replaced.
• Some Health and Personal Care Items: Opened or used items such as body jewelry, earrings, mattresses, undergarments, and swimwear cannot be returned due to health and hygiene reasons.
• Firearms and Ammunition: These cannot be returned due to public safety concerns. Defective firearms are to be returned to the manufacturer.
• Gas-Powered Items: Items like ATVs, go-karts, mini bikes, dirt bikes, and utility terrain vehicles cannot be returned if gas or oil has been put in them.
• Prescription Drugs and Products Containing Pseudoephedrine and Pseudotropine: Due to legal restrictions and health considerations.
• Tires mounted on rims: For safety reasons, they are not eligible for return.
• Prepaid Cellular Devices: Prepaid phones, SIM cards, or refill cards cannot be returned, but they may be exchangeable.
• Some Large Appliances: Large appliances, such as ranges, refrigerators, washer/dryers, and dishwashers, can only be returned within 30 days of purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Understanding the return policy and hours of Walmart can help you navigate your shopping and return experience more efficiently. While this guide provides a comprehensive overview, it’s always best to check with your local Walmart or their website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Remember, the key to a smooth return is keeping your receipt, returning within the appropriate period, and ensuring the item is in its original condition. Happy shopping!