Did you know that when it comes to electronics, different return rules often apply. This is something to be aware of when you are shopping for that holiday HDTV, digital camera, iPod, phone or video gaming device.
In some cases, stores will not accept returns on any electronics at all, so make sure that you have a good understanding of store policy. Also, for something that is very expensive, you might want to get the return policy in writing in case it changes after your purchase or if the sales clerk has a faulty understanding of the policy.
For stores that do take electronics returns, many will not accept open boxes. Of course, this can be pretty inconvenient, so make sure you want to keep the item before opening it. Some stores will make an exception for electronics that aren’t working and will gladly replace faulty items.
Some stores will take opened items for any reason, but will then charge you a restocking fee. This is because they cannot sell the item as new. The charge for this restocking fee can be as much as 15 to 25 percent! At this writing, I know of three stores that charge restocking fees and two of them are no longer in business. Target is the third.
One other thing about electronics that is important with returns is the service plans that may come with the item. Often canceling these plans can get costly. Usually, though, there is a trial or grace period, so as long as you cancel before that deadline is reached, you should be okay. There is nothing worse than getting a bill for a service when you don’t even have the product! Don’t assume that the service will be canceled automatically.
In the next post, I’ll share some ideas for what to do if you can’t make a return and how to handle unwanted gift cards.
You can read more blog posts by Mary Ann Romans here!
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