What this tracker does
After Black Friday, Cyber Monday and the holidays, it is easy to lose track of which store gives 15 days and which gives 90. This tracker keeps your list in one place: type the item, the store, the day you bought it and the return window, or the exact last day if the store gives one. It sorts your list by deadline, highlights anything due in the next 7 days and adds up how much money you can still get back. Mark an item as returned or kept and it leaves the list.
Your list is saved only in this browser on this device, so it is still there when you come back. It is never sent to us. Use "Clear the list" to delete it.
How return policies usually work
Each store sets its own return policy. You will usually find it on the receipt, the packing slip, the store's website or a sign at the register. Many stores accept returns or exchanges only within a set time, such as 30 or 90 days (FTC: returns, refunds and other resolutions). Before you buy, and before you go back, check:
- How many days you have, and whether holiday purchases get a longer window that ends on a fixed date in January.
- Whether you need the receipt, the original box or the tags.
- Whether you get your money back or only store credit or an exchange.
- Whether there is a restocking fee.
- For online orders: who pays return shipping, and whether you can return the item to a local store instead (FTC: online shopping).
- Whether sale, clearance or outlet items follow different rules.
An example
You bought a $120 winter coat 25 days ago with a 30-day window, and $79.99 headphones 3 days ago with a 15-day window. The coat's last day is in 5 days, so it is highlighted. The headphones have 12 days left. Together you can still return $199.99.
If a return goes wrong
- Talk to the store first, and keep receipts, order emails and chat messages.
- If you paid by credit card and the store does not give a refund it promised, you can ask your card issuer about disputing the charge (FTC: disputing charges).
- Returning a gift card or got one you will not use? See gift cards and holiday returns. If a package never came, see package theft and delivery problems.
Frequently asked questions
Do stores have to accept returns?
Each store sets its own policy, and it can differ for sale items or certain products. Read the policy before you buy and keep the receipt.
When does a holiday return window start?
Usually on the day you bought or received the item, but many stores extend windows for holiday purchases to a fixed date in January. If the store gives an exact last day, type it in the "last day" box.
Can I return a gift without a receipt?
Some stores allow it, often for store credit only, sometimes at the item's lowest recent price. A gift receipt makes returns easier.
Is my list private?
Yes. It is saved only in this browser on this device and is not sent to us. It does not go into "copy link" either.
Will the tracker remind me?
It shows what is due when you open the page. It does not send notifications.