Key takeaways
- Most items can be returned within 90 days; 120 days with a Kohl’s Card.
- Premium electronics and watches: 30-day return window with packaging and receipt.
- Beauty and Sephora items: 60 days, must be new or gently used.
- Store purchases must be returned in-store; online purchases can be returned in-store or by mail.
- Some items are final sale and not eligible for return, including beverages, opened breast pumps, and certain clearance items.
- No receipt? Returns may be processed for store credit at the lowest sale price.
- Refunds are processed to the original payment method or as store credit.
Shopping at Kohl’s offers a wide variety of products, from apparel and home goods to beauty and electronics. But what happens if your purchase isn’t quite right? Understanding the Kohl’s return policy can save you time, money, and frustration.
This comprehensive guide breaks down every aspect of returning items to Kohl’s in 2025—including return windows, item conditions, proof of purchase, online vs. in-store returns, non-returnable items, step-by-step return instructions, refund timelines, and more. Whether you’re a frequent Kohl’s shopper or making your first return, this article will help you navigate the process with confidence.
What is the Kohl's Return Policy?
Standard Return Timeframes
Kohl’s is known for its customer-friendly return policy, but the return window varies depending on what you bought and how you paid:
Most Items:
- 90 days from the date of purchase for standard transactions.
- 120 days if you paid with a Kohl’s Card.
Premium Electronics & Watches:
- 30 days with original packaging and receipt.
Beauty and Sephora at Kohl’s Products:
- 60 days in new or gently used condition.
Gift Registry Items:
- 365 days with a gift receipt or original receipt.
Holiday Purchases:
- Electronics, watches, and Sephora items purchased after November 1 can be returned through January 31 of the following year.
Note: The return window is calculated from the purchase date, not the delivery date.
Item Condition Requirements
To ensure a successful return, items must generally meet these condition requirements:
Apparel, Accessories, Home Goods:
Unworn, unwashed, and with original tags attached.
Electronics & Watches:
Must include all original packaging, accessories, and the receipt.
Beauty Products (including Sephora at Kohl’s):
Must be new or gently used (opened but not excessively used).
Gift Registry Items:
Must be unused and accompanied by a gift or original receipt.
Damaged or Defective Items:
If you receive a damaged or defective item, contact Kohl’s customer service immediately for guidance.
Exceptions:
Some slightly used items (especially beauty) may be accepted, but heavily used, damaged (not due to shipping), or altered items are typically not eligible for return.
In 2021, Kohl’s launched a major partnership with Sephora, transforming hundreds of store sections into “Sephora at Kohl’s” beauty destinations.
Proof of Purchase: What You Need
Kohl’s offers flexibility with proof of purchase but having documentation speeds up the process:
Accepted Proofs:
- Original receipt (paper or digital)
- Order confirmation email (printed or digital)
- Packing slip or shipping invoice
- Gift receipt
- Kohl’s Rewards or Kohl’s Card account lookup
No Receipt?
- Kohl’s can often look up your purchase using your credit card, Kohl’s Card, or rewards account.
- If no proof can be found, you may receive store credit at the item’s lowest sale price.
Gift Returns:
- Present the gift receipt for an even exchange or store credit.
Online vs. In-Store Returns
In-Store Returns
What can be returned?
- Both online and in-store purchases.
How?
- Bring your item(s) and proof of purchase to any Kohl’s customer service desk.
Benefits:
- Fastest refund processing.
- No return shipping costs.
- Exchanges can be completed on the spot (except for online exclusives).
Online Returns (By Mail)
What can be returned?
- Only items purchased from Kohls.com.
How?
- Log into your Kohls.com account, print your order invoice and return form, pack items securely, and ship to the Kohl’s Return Center.
Costs:
- Return shipping is not covered by Kohl’s except for defective or incorrect items.
Processing Time:
- Up to 30 days for refund after Kohl’s receives your package.
Special Services
Return Drop at Kohl’s:
- Drop off returns from select partner brands (Carhartt, Hanes, Levi’s, and more) using a QR code—no box or label needed.
Important:
Store purchases cannot be returned by mail; they must be returned in-store.
How to Start a Kohl's Return
In-Store Return
- Gather your item(s) and proof of purchase.
- Visit any Kohl’s location and head to the customer service desk.
- Present your item(s) and receipt/order confirmation.
- Receive your refund or exchange on the spot.
Online Return (Mail)
- Log into your Kohls.com account and print your order invoice.
- Complete the return form included with your shipment (or print a new one).
- Pack the item(s) securely with all original tags and packaging.
- Include the return form and invoice in the package.
- Ship to:
Kohl’s Return Center, 3550 Salzman Road, Middletown, OH 45044-9401. - Pay for return shipping unless the item is defective or a Certified Partner product (which may include a prepaid label).
Return Drop @ Kohl’s (For Partner Brands)
- Initiate the return through the original brand’s portal.
- Select “Kohl’s Drop Off” to receive a QR code.
- Bring the item and QR code to any Kohl’s store—no box or label needed.
Refund Processing: Methods and Timelines
Refund Methods:
- Original payment method (credit/debit card, Kohl’s Card)
- Store credit (for non-receipted or gift returns)
- Cash or corporate refund (for check purchases)
Timeframes:
- In-Store Returns:
- Credit/debit refunds: Up to 7 days.
- Cash/check refunds: Immediate or up to 7 days.
Mail Returns:
- Up to 30 days after Kohl’s receives your package.
Store Credit:
- Issued immediately in-store.
Shipping Fees:
- Not refunded unless the item is defective or incorrect.
Kohl’s Cash and Rewards:
- If you used Kohl’s Cash or rewards on a returned item, the value is typically reissued as store credit.
“Kohl’s has always stood for value, convenience, and a sense of community. Our job is to keep evolving with our customers.”
– Michelle Gass, former CEO of Kohl’s
Kohl’s continues to stand out for its customer-friendly return policy, offering generous timeframes, flexible proof-of-purchase options, and multiple return methods. Whether returning in-store or by mail, following the outlined procedures ensures a smooth experience. Always check for category-specific rules and keep your receipts or digital proofs handy. If you have questions, Kohl’s customer service is ready to help. For more tips on maximizing your Kohl’s shopping experience, explore our related guides.
Kohl's Return policy FAQs
How long do I have to return an item to Kohl’s?
Most items: 90 days; Kohl’s Card purchases: 120 days; electronics: 30 days; beauty: 60 days; registry: 365 days.
Can I return an online purchase to a Kohl’s store?
Yes, online purchases can be returned at any Kohl’s location.
What if I lost my receipt?
Kohl’s can look up your purchase or issue store credit if no proof is found.
Are shipping fees refunded?
No, unless the item is defective or incorrect.
What items are non-returnable?
Beverages, opened breast pumps, “final sale” beauty items, personalized items, and gift cards.
How do I return a gift?
Bring the item and gift receipt to a store for store credit or exchange.
Can I exchange an item by mail?
No, exchanges must be done in-store.
How long does it take to get my refund?
In-store: up to 7 days; mail: up to 30 days after receipt.
What if my item is damaged or defective?
Contact Kohl’s customer service immediately for assistance.
Do I need the original packaging for returns?
Yes, for electronics and watches; recommended for all items but not always required.