Key takeaways
- Target’s return policy allows most items to be returned within 90 days; electronics and entertainment items have a 30-day window.
- Proof of purchase is required for a full refund; Target can look up purchases made with most cards.
- Target-owned brands can be returned within one year with a receipt.
- Final sale items include gift cards, digital downloads, personalized products, and opened breast pumps.
- RedCard holders receive an extra 30 days for returns.
- Refunds are processed quickly, with most being immediate or within 2–10 days.
- Online and in-store return processes are similar, but online returns can be mailed back or processed via Drive Up.
Shopping at Target is known for its convenience, variety, and customer-first approach. But what happens if your purchase doesn’t meet expectations? Whether you’re dealing with an unwanted gift, a wrong size, or a defective product, understanding the Target return policy can save you time and stress.
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about the Target 2025 return policy, including timeframes, item conditions, proof of purchase requirements, special exceptions, and how to process returns both online and in-store. You’ll also find answers to common questions and practical tips to ensure a smooth experience.
What is the Target Return Policy?
Target’s Standard Return Timeframe
The Target return policy allows most items to be returned within 90 days of purchase. This 90-day window applies to both in-store and online purchases, giving customers ample time to decide if their purchase is right for them.
Key details:
- The 90-day return window starts from the date of purchase for in-store buys, and from the date the order is invoiced for online orders.
- Target Circle™ Card (RedCard) holders receive an extra 30 days, totaling 120 days for returns.
- Target-owned brands offer an extended return window of up to one year with a receipt.
- Electronics and entertainment items (including Apple products) have a 30-day return window.
- Holiday purchases may have special extended return periods, especially for electronics and entertainment items bought between October and December.
Condition Requirements for Returned Items
To qualify for a refund or exchange, items must generally be:
- Unopened and in new condition.
- Returned with all original packaging, accessories, and tags attached.
- Apparel and accessories must be unworn, unwashed, and with original tags.
- Some categories (like electronics) require all original accessories and packaging, even if opened.
- Opened items may be accepted if they are in good condition and not excluded by category rules (e.g., most beauty products can be returned even if opened, if you have proof of purchase).
- Damaged or used items may be denied a refund unless the item was defective upon receipt.
Exceptions:
- Opened breast pumps, personalized items, digital downloads, and certain collectibles cannot be returned.
- Food and beverages are generally non-returnable unless defective.
Target is known for its successful private-label brands like Good & Gather (grocery), Up & Up (household products), and Cat & Jack (kids’ apparel), which generate billions annually. (Returns up to 1 year)
Proof of Purchase Requirements
Target offers multiple ways to verify your purchase, making returns easier even if you’ve lost your original receipt.
Accepted proof of purchase includes:
- Original paper receipt.
- Digital barcode from your Target account (app or website).
- Packing slip or order confirmation email for online orders.
- Payment card used for the purchase (Target can look up receipts for purchases made with most major credit/debit cards or Target Circle™ cards).
- Gift receipt or packing slip for gifts.
No proof of purchase?
- Target may offer a merchandise return card for the item’s lowest recent selling price.
- For Target Plus™ Partner items, proof of purchase is required.
Final Sale and Non-Returnable Items
Certain items are considered final sale and cannot be returned or exchanged:
- Gift cards (including specialty and prepaid cards)
- Digital downloads and personalized items
- Opened/unsealed breast pumps
- Trading cards and trading card accessories
- Open or defective collectibles (e.g., special edition dolls)
- Some clearance or “as-is” merchandise
- Food and beverages (unless defective)
- Certain health and personal care items (unless defective)
Exceptions:
If a final sale item is defective or was damaged during shipping, contact Target Guest Services for assistance.
Online vs. In-Store Returns: Key Differences
FEATURE | IN-STORE RETURN | ONLINE RETURNS |
Return Window | 90 days (30 days for electronics) | 90 days (30 days for electronics) |
Proof of Purchase | Receipt, barcode, payment card | Order confirmation, barcode, slip |
Return Initiation | Guest Services desk | Target app/website return center |
Refund Method | Original payment/store credit/card | Original payment/store credit/card |
Return Shipping | N/A | Free return label for most items |
Drive Up Returns | Available at all stores | Initiated via Target app |
How to Start a Return at Target
In-Store Returns:
- Bring the item and proof of purchase (receipt, barcode, payment card) to Guest Services.
- Present your return barcode from the Target app or website for faster processing.
- If you don’t have a receipt, provide the payment method used for the purchase.
- Receive your refund to the original payment method, a Target GiftCard, or a merchandise return card.
Online Returns:
- Log in to your Target account on the app or website.
- Go to “Orders” and select the item you wish to return.
- Choose “Return” and follow the prompts to print a return shipping label.
- Pack the item securely with all original packaging and accessories.
- Drop the package at the designated carrier or use Drive Up returns for eligible items.
Returns by Mail (for in-store purchases):
- Not typically available unless arranged with Guest Services for special circumstances.
Refund Processing and Timeframes
- Refunds are generally issued to the original payment method.
- Cash, Target GiftCard, or merchandise return card refunds are typically immediate.
- RedCard refunds: Up to 2 days.
- Third-party credit/debit cards: Up to 5 days.
- Online Return Center: 7–10 days after receipt.
- If you return a gift, you’ll receive a Target GiftCard.
- Shipping fees are refunded only if the return is due to Target’s error or a defective item.
Key Points and Special Considerations
- Target Plus™ Partner items may have different return windows and must be returned to Target, not the partner.
- Target-owned brands have a one-year return window with proof of purchase.
- RedCard holders get an extra 30 days for returns.
- Holiday returns for electronics and entertainment items are extended for purchases made in the holiday period.
- Items bought with EBT must be returned within 90 days.
- Some items, like music, movies, and video games, can only be exchanged for the same title or platform.
“When I walk into Target, I lose all self-control. They know how to pull you in with design and simplicity.”
— Chrissy Teigen, Model and Entrepreneur
Target’s return policy is designed to be flexible and customer-friendly, offering generous timeframes, multiple proof of purchase options, and convenient return methods—including the innovative Drive Up service. Whether you shop online or in-store, understanding these policies ensures you can shop with confidence and handle any returns with ease. If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends or subscribe for more shopping tips!
Target Return policy FAQs
What is Target’s standard return window?
Most items can be returned within 90 days of purchase, except for electronics and entertainment items, which are 30 days.
Can I return items bought online to a Target store?
Yes, online purchases can be returned in-store, via mail, or through Drive Up.
What if I lost my receipt?
Target can look up your purchase with the payment method or Target account. If not found, you may receive a merchandise return card.
Are there items that cannot be returned?
Yes, gift cards, digital downloads, opened breast pumps, and some collectibles are non-returnable.
How long does it take to get a refund?
Refunds are usually immediate for cash and gift cards, 2 days for RedCard, 5 days for other cards, and 7–10 days for online returns.
Can I return opened items?
Most opened items can be returned if in good condition, except for certain categories like personal care and food.
Do Target-owned brands have a special return policy?
Yes, you have up to one year to return Target-owned brand items with a receipt.
What is the process for returning a gift?
Gifts can be returned with a gift receipt or packing slip for a Target GiftCard.
Are shipping fees refunded?
Only if the return is due to Target’s error or a defective item.
What is Target Returns with Drive Up?
A service allowing you to return items from your car at any Target store, initiated through the Target app.