Shopping at Nordstrom is known for its elevated service—but sometimes, a return is necessary. Whether you need to exchange a pair of designer shoes or return an online order, knowing the Nordstrom return policy helps you avoid delays and maximize your refund. This guide covers everything you need to know in 2025: return windows, item eligibility, online vs. in-store steps, refund timelines, and how Nordstrom Rack returns differ. Let’s simplify the process so you can shop—and return—with confidence.
Key takeaways
- Nordstrom offers unlimited days for most returns—no strict deadline.
- Special occasion dresses and designer items require original tags for return.
- Free returns by mail are available for U.S. customers.
- Nordstrom Rack purchases must be returned within 45 days.
What is the Nordstrom Return Policy?
Nordstrom’s return policy is famously flexible. The company handles returns on a case-by-case basis, aiming to make every customer happy. There is no strict, published time limit for most returns, and each return is evaluated individually. This customer-centric approach sets Nordstrom apart from many other major retailers.
No Official Time Limit for Most Returns
- Nordstrom does not specify a universal return window for most items. Returns are accepted as long as they are deemed reasonable and meet the store’s condition standards.
- The “reasonable period” is not strictly defined, but customers are encouraged to return items promptly.
Exceptions:
- Special Occasion Dresses & Designer Items: These must have original tags attached for a return to be accepted.
- Nordstrom Rack Purchases: Returns must be made within 45 days of the original shipping date. Returns after 45 days may be accepted for a partial refund (50% of the original price).
Holiday & Promotional Periods
- During holidays or special promotions, Nordstrom may extend the return window, especially for gifts.
Condition Requirements for Nordstrom Returns
General Condition Standards
- Items should be unworn, unwashed, and in a resalable condition.
- Original tags are preferred but not always mandatory (except for special occasion dresses and designer items).
- Original packaging is recommended, especially for shoes, accessories, and electronics.
Exceptions & Special Cases
- Worn or Damaged Items: Nordstrom evaluates these on a case-by-case basis. If an item is defective or shows minimal wear, it may still be eligible for return.
- Missing Tags: Returns are often accepted without tags if proof of purchase is available.
- Original Packaging: Required for certain categories, such as shoes and accessories.
Founded in 1901 Seattle, Nordstrom has a famous customer service policy which states that customers can return items at any time for any reason. This policy has become so famous that it is often referred to as the “Nordstrom Way”.
Proof of Purchase: What You Need
Accepted Forms of Proof
- Original receipt (paper or digital)
- Order confirmation email
- Packing slip or shipping invoice
- Gift receipt
- Purchase lookup via Nordy Club loyalty account, credit card, phone number, or email
Returns Without Proof of Purchase
- If no proof is available, Nordstrom may still accept the return but will issue a refund at the current selling price on a Nordstrom Gift Card.
- Personal identification may be required for such returns.
Gift Returns
- If returning a gift, you’ll receive a Nordstrom Gift Card for the credited amount.
Final Sale and Non-Returnable Items
Some categories are marked as “Final Sale” and cannot be returned or exchanged, including:
- Intimates (underwear, some lingerie)
- Swimwear (if hygiene liners are removed)
- Clearance merchandise marked as “Final Sale”
- Personalized or monogrammed items
- Opened beauty products (unless defective)
- Gift cards (except where required by law)
- Certain accessories (e.g., earrings, face masks)
Special Notes:
- Fine jewelry, designer items, and some third-party products must be returned to a full-line Nordstrom store.
- Nordstrom Rack purchases have a separate, stricter policy (45-day window).
Defective Final Sale Items:
If a final sale item is defective, Nordstrom may still accept a return or offer an exchange.
Online vs. In-Store Returns: Key Differences
FEATURE | ONLINE PURCHASES | IN-STORE PURCHASES |
Return Timeframe | No strict limit (case-by-case) | No strict limit (case-by-case) |
Initiation | Online portal or guest form | Bring item to any Nordstrom store |
Proof of Purchase | Order #, email, packing slip | Receipt, lookup via account/card |
Return Shipping | Free prepaid label (U.S. only) | No shipping needed |
Refund Processing Time | 10–14 days after receipt | 3–5 business days |
Return Location | Mail, Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack | Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack |
How to Start a Nordstrom Return
In-Store Returns
- Bring the item(s) to any Nordstrom or eligible Nordstrom Rack location.
- Provide proof of purchase (receipt, order confirmation, or account lookup).
- Present the original payment method for the fastest refund.
- A salesperson will process your return—refunds are typically issued to the original payment method.
Online Returns
- Sign in to your Nordstrom.com account and go to your Purchases page.
- Select the order and click “Start a Return.”
- Complete the online form and print your prepaid shipping label, or get a QR code for USPS/FedEx.
- Pack the item securely (original packaging recommended) and attach the label.
- Drop off at any eligible shipping location.
- Track your return via your Nordstrom account.
Mail Returns (Non-Online Purchases)
- Contact Nordstrom Customer Service for instructions and a return label.
Nordstrom Refund Policy
- Original Payment Method: Refunds are credited back to the original form of payment (credit card, PayPal, etc.).
- Gift Returns: Refunded to a Nordstrom Gift Card.
- No Proof of Purchase: Refunded at current price on a Nordstrom Gift Card.
- Refund Timeframes:
- In-store returns: 3–5 business days after processing.
- Mail returns: Usually processed within 10–14 business days after receipt.
- Shipping Fees: Original shipping charges are non-refundable.
- International Returns: Return shipping and handling fees may be deducted from the refund.
“I love Nordstrom. They’re a great company, they’re a great brand, and they really understand customer service.” – Mark Cuban, entrepreneur and investor
Return Policy Full Breakdown
- Nordstrom offers unlimited days for most returns—no strict deadline.
- Returns are handled on a case-by-case basis, prioritizing customer satisfaction.
- Special occasion dresses and designer items require original tags for return.
- Proof of purchase is preferred; returns without proof are refunded via gift card.
- Free returns by mail are available for U.S. customers.
- In-store returns are the fastest way to get a refund.
- Nordstrom Rack purchases must be returned within 45 days.
- Some items are final sale and not eligible for return.
- Refunds are issued to the original payment method or a Nordstrom Gift Card.
- Shipping fees are generally non-refundable.
- International returns may incur additional fees.
- Gift returns are refunded to a gift card.
- Returns are accepted at Nordstrom, Nordstrom.com, and eligible Nordstrom Rack locations.
- Refund processing times vary: 3–5 days (in-store), 10–14 days (mail).
- Personalized, monogrammed, and certain intimate items cannot be returned.
Nordstrom Return policy FAQs
Does Nordstrom have a time limit for returns in 2025?
No, most returns do not have a set deadline, but items should be returned within a reasonable period.
Does Nordstrom allow returns on worn or used merchandise?
Returns of worn or used items are considered on a case-by-case basis, especially if the item is defective.
How do returns work at Nordstrom with no receipt?
Nordstrom can often look up your purchase using your credit card, phone number, or Nordy Club account. If not, you may receive a refund on a gift card.
Can you return sale or discounted items to Nordstrom?
Yes, unless marked as “Final Sale.”
Can Nordstrom.com purchases be returned at a Nordstrom store?
Yes, you can return online purchases at any Nordstrom store or eligible Nordstrom Rack location.
Does Nordstrom refund shipping charges on returned orders?
No, original shipping charges are not refunded.
What is the Nordstrom return policy for gifts without a receipt?
Gift returns are refunded to a Nordstrom Gift Card.
Which products are non-returnable at Nordstrom?
Final sale items, personalized products, certain intimates, and opened beauty products (unless defective) are not returnable.
How long does Nordstrom take to process a refund after a return?
In-store: 3–5 business days. Mail: 10–14 business days after receipt.
Can you return Nordstrom Rack items to regular Nordstrom stores?
No, Nordstrom Rack purchases must be returned to a Nordstrom Rack location within 45 days.