Returning something to Staples shouldn’t be a guessing game. Whether you purchased electronics, school supplies, or office furniture, knowing the 2025 Staples return policy helps you get your money back without the hassle. This guide breaks down every return rule—from standard timelines and item condition requirements to refund speeds, in-store and online processes, and what happens if you’ve lost your receipt.
Key takeaways
- Staples offers a 30-day return window for most items; technology/electronics have a 14-day window.
- Preferred Business and Teacher Rewards members get extended return periods.
- Returns can be initiated online or in-store, regardless of purchase method.
- Opened headphones/earbuds and downloadable software are non-returnable.
What is the Staples Return Policy?
Staples aims for complete customer satisfaction. If you’re not happy with your purchase, you can return most items for a refund or exchange. The process is straightforward, but there are important details to consider depending on what you bought, how you bought it, and when you return it.
Standard Return Windows:
- Office Supplies: 30 days (60 days for Preferred Members/Teachers)
- Technology/Electronics: 14 days (28 days for Preferred Members/Teachers)
- Furniture: 30 days (60 days for Preferred Members/Teachers)
- Unopened Software, Movies, Music: 30 days (60 days for Preferred Members/Teachers)
- Ink/Toner Cartridges (unopened): 30 days (60 days for Preferred Members/Teachers)
- Custom Products: Not returnable unless defective
Holiday Extension:
- Items purchased between November 1 and December 24 can be returned until January 12 or the standard return window, whichever is longer.
Item Condition Requirements
To qualify for a return, items must meet these requirements:
- Sellable Condition: Items should be unused, undamaged, and in original packaging with all parts, manuals, and accessories.
- Original Packaging: Required for technology, electronics, and most office supplies.
- Furniture: Must be unassembled and in original packaging. Assembled furniture is not returnable.
- Software, Movies, Music: Must be unopened and in saleable condition.
- Headphones/Earbuds: Opened items are not returnable.
- Defective or Damaged Items: Contact customer service; Staples may arrange for return or exchange.
In 1996, to celebrate the opening of its 500th store, Staples held a record-breaking ribbon-cutting ceremony. The ribbon used in the event measured an astonishing 1.5 miles long, setting a new world record.
Proof of Purchase: What You Need
Staples requires proof of purchase for all returns. Accepted forms include:
- Original receipt (paper or digital)
- Order confirmation email
- Packing slip or shipping invoice
- Gift receipt (refund as store credit or gift card)
- Staples Rewards account purchase history
No Receipt?
Staples may offer store credit or exchange at the lowest price in the past 30 days. You may need to present a valid government-issued ID.
Final Sale and Non-Returnable Items
Certain categories are non-returnable or have special rules:
- Custom Products: Non-returnable unless defective.
- Opened Software, Downloadable Software, Movies, Music: Non-returnable.
- Opened Headphones/Earbuds: Non-returnable.
- Gift/Prepaid Cards: Non-returnable.
- Personalized or Special Order Items: Non-returnable unless defective.
- Clearance Items: May be final sale; check at purchase.
Defective Items:
Even for final sale items, defective products may be eligible for exchange or refund within the warranty period.
How to Start a Staples return
In-Store Returns
- Bring the item in sellable condition with original packaging.
- Provide proof of purchase.
- Present the original payment method.
- Store staff will process your return and issue a refund or exchange.
Online Returns
- Log in to your Staples account and view your order history.
- Select the order and click “Return Order.”
- Choose items to return and provide the reason.
- Follow email instructions for packaging and shipping.
- Drop off at a carrier or schedule a pickup (as instructed).
Returns by Mail (for non-online purchases)
Contact Staples customer service to arrange a return by mail. You may need to cover shipping costs unless the item is defective or incorrect.
Staples Refund Policy
- Credit/Debit Card: 3–5 business days to original payment method.
- Gift Card: Refund to a new Staples gift card (email within 7–10 business hours).
- Check: Mailed within 7–10 business days for large cash/check purchases.
- Store Credit: Issued for returns without a receipt or with a gift receipt.
- Staples Rewards: Points refunded within 72 business hours.
Shipping Fees:
Original shipping fees are typically not refundable unless the return is due to a Staples error.
“Staples has managed to evolve with the changing needs of businesses and consumers, proving that they are more than just an office supply store. They’re an essential resource for businesses of all sizes.”-Mark Cuban, Entrepreneur and Investor
Return Policy Full Breakdown
- Staples offers a 30-day return window for most items; technology/electronics have a 14-day window.
- Preferred Business and Teacher Rewards members get extended return periods.
- Items must be in original, sellable condition with packaging and accessories.
- Proof of purchase is required; options include receipts, confirmation emails, or account lookup.
- Returns can be initiated online or in-store, regardless of purchase method.
- Some items, like custom products and opened software, are non-returnable.
- Refunds are processed to the original payment method within 3–10 business days.
- Store credit or exchange may be offered for returns without a receipt.
- Holiday purchases have extended return windows.
- Assembled furniture cannot be returned; must be unassembled.
- Opened headphones/earbuds and downloadable software are non-returnable.
- Gift returns are refunded as store credit or gift card.
- Staples monitors returns and may decline excessive or suspicious returns.
- Return shipping is free for most online purchases.
- Refund timelines may vary based on payment method and return channel.
Staples Return policy FAQs
What is the standard return window for Staples purchases in 2025?
Most items can be returned within 30 days, but technology/electronics must be returned within 14 days.
Can I return items to Staples without a receipt?
Yes, but you may receive store credit at the lowest price in the last 30 days, and ID may be required.
How do I return an online order from Staples by mail or in-store?
Initiate the return through your Staples account online, print the label, and ship the item or bring it to a store.
Does Staples refund shipping fees on returned online purchases?
Shipping fees are typically non-refundable unless the return is due to a Staples error.
Which items are non-returnable under the Staples return policy?
Custom products, opened software, downloadable software, opened headphones/earbuds, and gift cards.
How long does it take Staples to process a refund after a return?
Refunds are processed in 3–10 business days, depending on the payment method.
Can I return assembled or used furniture to Staples?
No, furniture must be unassembled and in original packaging.
What is the return process if my Staples item is defective or damaged?
Contact Staples customer service for a replacement or refund, even for some final sale items.
What is the Staples return policy for gifts without a receipt?
Yes, with a gift receipt or order number. Refunds are issued as store credit or gift card.
Does Staples offer extended holiday return periods in 2025?
Yes, items bought from November 1 to December 24 can be returned until January 12 or the standard window, whichever is longer.