Key takeaways
- Most Macy’s items can be returned within 30 days; check for exceptions by category below
- Items must be unworn, unwashed, and have original tags attached.
- Proof of purchase is required, but alternatives exist if you’ve lost your receipt.
- Returns without proof are refunded as store credit at the lowest price in 180 days.
- Online purchases can be returned by mail or in-store; in-store purchases must be returned in-store.
- Star Rewards members get free return shipping; others pay $9.99 per return.
- Refunds are issued to the original payment method or as store credit.
- Refund processing takes up to 7 days by mail, or is immediate in-store for cash.
Shopping at Macy’s should be a worry-free experience, but sometimes, a purchase just doesn’t work out. Whether you’re dealing with sizing issues, a change of heart, or a gift that missed the mark, understanding Macy’s return policy is essential for a smooth and stress-free return or exchange.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Macy’s return policy in 2025, including return timeframes, item conditions, proof of purchase requirements, exceptions, refund processes, and step-by-step instructions for both in-store and online returns.
What is the Macy's Return Policy?
Standard Return Window
- Most items: 30 days from the date of purchase or delivery.
- Holiday purchases: Items bought between October 7 and December 24 can be returned until January 31 of the following year.
- Star Rewards members: May receive additional perks, such as free return shipping.
Exceptions by Category
Category | Return Window | Notes |
Designer items | 14 days | Varies by brand; check receipt or online listing |
Electronics & Apple products | 14–30 days | Apple: 14 days; other electronics: 30 days |
Mattresses | 120-night trial | Must be returned within 14 days after trial; $99 pickup fee may apply |
Area rugs | 30 days | Must be returned by mail or at select stores |
Jewelry & watches | 30 days | May require inspection |
Macy’s Backstage | 30 days | Returns only accepted at Backstage locations |
Last Act merchandise | Final Sale | No returns, exchanges, or price adjustments |
Custom, personalized, or altered | Final Sale | No returns unless defective |
Food, beverages, live plants | Final Sale | No returns |
Beauty Box, Bridal Salon | Final Sale | No returns |
Item Condition Requirements
- Clothing and accessories: Must be unworn, unwashed, and in original, saleable condition with all tags attached.
- Shoes: Should be returned in the original box, unworn.
- Electronics: Must include all accessories, manuals, and packaging.
- Cosmetics and fragrances: New or gently used items are returnable (excluding certain luxury brands).
- Original packaging: Required for certain categories, especially electronics and home goods.
Exceptions:
- Items showing signs of wear, washing, alteration, or missing tags may be denied a refund or exchange.
- Opened or used items (other than gently tested cosmetics/fragrances) are generally not accepted.
Macy’s was the first store to feature escalators. The flagship store in New York City installed the first wooden escalators in 1902, revolutionizing the shopping experience.
Proof of Purchase: What You Need
Proof of Purchase: What You Need
Macy’s requires proof of purchase for all returns, but you have several options:
- Original receipt (paper or digital)
- Order confirmation email
- Shipping invoice or packing slip
- Credit/debit card used for purchase
- Gift registry number
- Macy’s account purchase history
If you don’t have a receipt, Macy’s can often look up your purchase using your payment method or account details. Without any proof, refunds are issued as store credit at the item’s lowest selling price in the last 180 days.
Gift returns:
With a gift receipt, refunds are issued as store credit.
Final Sale and Non-Returnable Items
Certain Macy’s items are non-returnable under any circumstances unless defective:
- Last Act clearance merchandise
- Custom, personalized, or altered items
- Macy’s Beauty Box and Bridal Salon purchases
- Food, beverages, and live plants
- Gift cards (physical and electronic)
- Opened or used personal care items (except gently used cosmetics/fragrances)
- Final Sale marked items
Always check your receipt or the product page for return eligibility before purchasing.
Online vs. In-Store Returns: Key Differences
FEATURE | IN-STORE PURCHASES | ONLINE PURCHASES |
Where to return | In-store only | In-store or by mail |
Proof of purchase | Receipt or payment method | Order confirmation, receipt, or account lookup |
Return shipping fee | N/A | Free for Star Rewards members; $9.99 for others |
Curbside returns | Not available | Not available |
Exchanges | In-store only | Return by mail, then place new order |
How to Start a Return at Macy's
In-Store Returns
- Bring the item(s) and proof of purchase to any Macy’s store.
- Present your receipt, order confirmation, or payment method for lookup.
- Ensure items are in original condition with tags attached.
- Refunds or exchanges are processed on the spot.
Online Returns (by Mail)
- Sign in to your Macy’s account or use your order number to start a return online.
- Select the items to return and print the return label and confirmation page.
- Pack items securely, including the return slip.
- Attach the return label to the package.
- Drop off at a UPS location or schedule a pickup (fees may apply).
- Track your return via Macy’s website.
- Refunds are processed within 7 days of receipt at Macy’s facility.
Return Shipping Fees:
- Free for Star Rewards members.
- $9.99 fee (plus tax) for non-members, deducted from refund.
Refund Methods and Processing Times
- Original payment method: Credit/debit card, PayPal, or Macy’s card.
- Store credit: Issued for gift returns, returns without proof, or if requested.
- Cash: Immediate refund for cash purchases.
- Check: Refunds issued by check for purchases made by check.
Processing times:
- In-store refunds: Immediate for cash, 3–5 business days for cards.
- Mail-in refunds: Processed within 7 days of receipt; allow additional time for bank processing.
- Shipping fees: Non-refundable unless the return is due to Macy’s error or a defective product.
“Macy’s is a place where you can find almost anything you need, but also where you can find things you didn’t even know you wanted.” – Anna Kendrick, actress and singer
Macy’s return policy in 2025 is designed to make returns and exchanges as simple as possible, with clear guidelines and flexible options for both in-store and online shoppers. By understanding the specific requirements for your items and keeping your proof of purchase handy, you can shop confidently and enjoy a hassle-free return experience if needed. Have more questions or want to share your own Macy’s return tips? Share this guide with friends, or subscribe for more retail insights!
Macy's Return policy FAQs
How long do I have to return an item to Macy’s?
Most items can be returned within 30 days of purchase. Some categories have shorter or longer windows; check your receipt or online listing.
Can I return an online purchase to a Macy’s store?
Yes, online purchases can be returned in-store or by mail.
What if I lost my receipt?
Macy’s can look up your purchase with your payment method, order confirmation, or account details. Without proof, you’ll receive store credit.
Are there any return shipping fees?
Return shipping is free for Star Rewards members. Non-members pay $9.99 per return, deducted from the refund.
Can I return worn or used items?
Generally, no. Items must be unworn, unwashed, and in original condition, except for gently used cosmetics and fragrances.
What items are final sale and non-returnable?
Last Act clearance, custom/personalized items, food, beverages, live plants, Beauty Box, and Bridal Salon items are non-returnable.
How are refunds issued?
Refunds are credited to the original payment method or as store credit. Cash refunds are immediate; card refunds take 3–5 business days.
How do I exchange an item?
Exchanges are processed in-store. For online purchases, return the item and place a new order.
Are shipping fees refundable?
Shipping fees are not refundable unless the return is due to Macy’s error or a defective product.
How long does it take to receive a refund?
Mail-in refunds are processed within 7 days of receipt at Macy’s facility. Allow additional time for bank processing.