The Kroger return policy gives you 30 days to return most items, with digital receipts and no-receipt store credit options available. Proof of purchase is preferred, but even without one, you can receive a refund—cash for small purchases or a Kroger gift card over $10. This 2025 guide covers timelines, exclusions, refund methods, and tips for both in-store and online returns.
Key takeaways
- Kroger allows returns within 30 days for most items.
- Proof of purchase is required; digital receipts are accepted.
- No-receipt returns are possible, with cash or store credit depending on the value.
What is the Kroger Return Policy?
Standard Return Window:
- Most items can be returned within 30 days of purchase.
Exceptions and Special Cases:
- Kroger-shipped online items: Some sources indicate a 60-day window for returns shipped directly by Kroger, but always check your order details for confirmation.
- Holiday Purchases: During the holiday season (typically October 1 – December 24), the return window may be extended until mid-January.
- Perishables: Must be returned within a “reasonable timeframe,” often as soon as possible after purchase.
- Baby Formula: Only returnable with a receipt and if not purchased with WIC.
- Alcohol and Tobacco: Returns are subject to local and state laws, which may prohibit or restrict returns.
Item Condition Requirements
To be eligible for a return or exchange, items should generally meet these conditions:
- Unopened and Unused: Most products must be unused, unwashed, and in their original packaging.
- Original Tags and Packaging: Apparel and accessories should have original tags attached. Electronics and specialty items should include all accessories and packaging.
- Perishables: Must be returned promptly, preferably with the original packaging.
- Damaged or Defective Items: If an item is defective or damaged, Kroger may allow a return or exchange, even if opened, provided you have proof of purchase.
Exceptions:
- Slightly Used Items: Generally not accepted unless the item is defective or does not meet Kroger’s freshness guarantee.
- WIC Purchases: Can only be exchanged for the same item, not refunded.
In 1930, Kroger became the first grocery store chain to test electronic scanners at its Cincinnati location. The technology eventually became widespread in the retail industry.
Proof of Purchase: What You Need
Kroger accepts several forms of proof of purchase:
- Original Paper Receipt: The most common and preferred proof.
- Digital Receipt: If you used your Kroger account or loyalty card, you can access digital receipts through your online account or app.
- Order Confirmation Email: For online purchases, printed or digital confirmation emails are accepted.
- Shipping Invoice/Packing Slip: For shipped items, these documents are valid proof.
- Gift Receipt: Allows returns or exchanges, usually for store credit or exchange only.
- Loyalty Program Account: Purchases linked to your Kroger Plus Card or online account can be verified digitally.
No Proof of Purchase?
Returns without a receipt are possible but subject to stricter conditions:
Under $10: Refunded in cash.
Over $10: Refunded as a Kroger Merchandise Gift Card.
You may be asked to sign a return slip for higher-value returns.
Non-Returnable and Final Sale Items
Certain items are not eligible for return or exchange at Kroger:
- Opened baby formula
- Alcoholic beverages (subject to local law)
- Tobacco products
- Prescription medications
- Health and safety items (e.g., PPE, opened formula)
- Gift cards
- Used personal care items
- Clearance/final sale merchandise
- Products without original packaging
- WIC purchases (can only be exchanged for the same item)
Exceptions:
Defective or damaged items may be eligible for exchange, even if normally non-returnable.
Online vs. In-Store Returns: Key Differences
FEATURE | IN-STORE PURCHASES | ONLINE PURCHASES |
Return Window | 30 days | 30 days (some items 60 days) |
Where to Return | Any Kroger family store | In-store or by mail |
Proof of Purchase | Paper/digital receipt, ID | Order confirmation, packing slip |
Refund Method | Original payment/store credit | Original payment/store credit |
Return Process | Customer service desk | Online portal or in-store |
Return Shipping Costs | N/A | May apply for mail returns |
Refund Timeline | Immediate (in-store) | 5–10 business days (mail) |
How to Start a Return at Kroger
In-Store Purchases
- Bring the Item: Take the product to any Kroger family store.
- Go to Customer Service: Visit the customer service desk.
- Provide Proof of Purchase: Present your receipt (paper or digital), or other proof.
- Show ID: For certain returns, especially without a receipt, you may need to show a photo ID.
- Refund/Exchange: The associate will process your return for a refund or exchange.
Online Purchases
- Log In: Access your Kroger account online or via the app.
- Find Order: Go to Purchase History and select Order Details.
- Request Refund: Choose the item and tap “Request a Refund” or follow the prompts for returns.
- Return by Mail: If applicable, print a return shipping label and send the item back.
- In-Store Option: You can also return most online orders at any Kroger store.
Mail Returns (for Online Orders)
- Follow the online return process to generate a shipping label.
- Pack the item securely in its original packaging.
- Include the packing slip or order confirmation.
- Ship the item using the provided label (return shipping fees may apply).
Kroger Refund Policy
- Original Payment Method: Refunds are issued to the original payment method (credit/debit card, EBT/SNAP, cash, or check).
- No Receipt: Refunds under $10 are given in cash; over $10, a Kroger Merchandise Gift Card is issued.
- Store Credit: Available for returns without a receipt or with a gift receipt.
- Refund Timeline:
- In-Store: Immediate for cash and card refunds.
- Mail/Online: 5–10 business days after the return is processed.
- Shipping Fees: Original shipping fees are generally not refundable.
- EBT Refunds: Online EBT refunds are not available; contact customer service for assistance.
“I love Kroger because they really understand the importance of community and giving back.” – Oprah Winfrey
Return Policy Full Breakdown
- Kroger allows returns within 30 days for most items.
- Proof of purchase is required; digital receipts are accepted.
- No-receipt returns are possible, with cash or store credit depending on the value.
- Online purchases can be returned in-store or by mail.
- Perishable, health, and safety items are non-returnable once opened.
- Refunds are processed to the original payment method or as store credit.
- Baby formula and WIC items have special return conditions.
- Alcohol and tobacco returns depend on local laws.
- Holiday returns may have extended timeframes.
- Damaged or defective items may be exchanged, even if normally non-returnable.
- Gift cards and clearance items are final sale.
- In-store returns are typically processed immediately.
- Mail returns take 5–10 business days for refunds.
- Always bring a valid ID for certain returns.
- Use your Kroger Plus Card or app for digital receipts.
- Contact customer service for any return issues or special cases.
Kroger Return policy FAQs
What is the Kroger standard return window for most purchases in 2025?
Most items can be returned within 30 days of purchase.
Can I return items to Kroger without a receipt?
Yes, but refunds are limited to cash (under $10) or store credit (over $10).
How do I return a Kroger.com or delivery order?
Initiate the return online or via the app, or bring the item to a store.
Which items are non-returnable under the Kroger return policy?
Opened baby formula, alcohol, tobacco, prescription medications, gift cards, PPE, and clearance items.
Does Kroger refund shipping charges on online or delivery returns?
No, original shipping fees are not typically refunded.
Can I return perishable or opened food items to Kroger?
Yes, if returned promptly and with a receipt.
What is the Kroger return policy for WIC purchases?
WIC items can only be exchanged for the same item, not refunded.
How long does Kroger take to issue a refund after a return?
In-store refunds are immediate; mail returns take 5–10 business days.
Is a photo ID required to return items at Kroger stores?
An ID may be required, especially for no-receipt returns.
What is the Kroger’s policy for returning gifts or gift receipts?
Yes, with a gift receipt you’ll receive store credit or an exchange.