The Walgreens return policy in 2025 keeps things simple: 30 days for most items, even if opened, plus a 100% guarantee on Walgreens brand products. Whether you’re returning online or in-store, this guide explains exactly what’s eligible, what to expect without a receipt, and how to get a fast refund. Skip the guesswork and shop with confidence.
Key takeaways
- Most items can be returned within 30 days of purchase.
- Both in-store and online purchases are eligible for return at any Walgreens location.
- Returns without a receipt are refunded as store credit for the lowest sale price in the last 60 days.
- Walgreens brand products have a 100% satisfaction guarantee—even if partially used.
What is the Walgreens Return Policy?
Walgreens aims to provide a straightforward, customer-friendly return experience. Most items purchased at Walgreens stores are eligible for return or exchange within 30 days of purchase. However, there are important exceptions, conditions, and procedures to be aware of—especially for specific product categories and purchase methods.
Return Timeframes:
- Standard Return Window:
Most products can be returned or exchanged within 30 days of purchase. - Online and In-Store Purchases:
The 30-day window applies to both in-store and online purchases. - Special Categories:
- Photo Orders: Must be returned within 14 days.
- Oversized Items: Require special handling—contact Customer Care for instructions.
- Walgreens Brand Products: Covered by a 100% satisfaction guarantee, with flexibility for returns even if the product is partially used.
- Holiday and Promotional Periods:
Walgreens may extend the return window during peak holiday seasons, but always check the specific promotion’s terms.
Condition Requirements for Walgreens Returns
- General Merchandise:
Items should be in new or like-new condition, preferably with original packaging and tags. Opened items are often accepted, but the store manager has discretion, especially for cosmetics and electronics. - Walgreens Brand Products:
Even partially used products can be returned if you’re dissatisfied. - Original Packaging:
Required for certain items, especially electronics and contact lens accessories. - Damaged or Defective Items:
If you receive a damaged or defective product, contact Walgreens Customer Service for a replacement or refund. - Exceptions:
Some items, especially those that pose health or safety risks, may not be returnable once opened.
Walgreens was founded in 1901 by Charles R. Walgreen Sr. in Chicago, Illinois. It began as a small neighborhood pharmacy but has since grown into a nationwide chain with over 9,000 stores.
Proof of Purchase: What’s Required?
- Original Receipt:
Strongly preferred for all returns. Ensures a full refund to the original payment method. - Order Confirmation (Online Purchases):
A printed or digital order confirmation or packing slip is accepted. - Gift Receipt:
Allows returns for store credit or exchange. - Loyalty Account Lookup:
Purchases made with a Walgreens Rewards account can sometimes be verified by phone number or account lookup. - No Proof of Purchase:
Returns without a receipt are possible but typically refunded as store credit (Walgreens gift card) for the lowest sale price in the last 60 days. A valid photo ID is required.
Final Sale and Non-Returnable Items
Certain categories are always final sale and cannot be returned or exchanged:
- Gift cards, prepaid cards, phone cards
- Prescription medications
- Sexual wellness products
- Bathing suits, underwear, earrings
- Seasonal and holiday merchandise
- Clearance items (as marked)
- COVID-19 test kits
- Hazardous materials (hazmat) items
- Mobile phones
Exceptions:
Defective items may be eligible for exchange or refund even if normally non-returnable. Always contact Customer Service for guidance.
How to Start a Walgreens Return
In-Store Returns
- Bring the item(s), receipt, and payment method to any Walgreens store.
- Visit the customer service counter.
- Present your receipt or proof of purchase.
- The associate will verify eligibility and process your return.
- Refunds are issued to the original payment method or as store credit.
Online Returns
- Log in to your Walgreens.com account.
- Locate your order and select the item(s) for return.
- Follow on-screen instructions to request a return.
- Print the prepaid shipping label (if provided).
- Pack the item securely, include the return slip, and attach the label.
- Drop off at a UPS or FedEx location.
- Track your return and await refund processing.
Mail Returns (Non-Online Purchases)
- Contact Customer Service for instructions and a return authorization.
- Ship the item with proof of purchase and reason for return.
Walgreens Refund Policy
- Original Payment Method:
Refunds are credited to the original payment method (credit card, debit card, cash, PayPal). - Store Credit:
Returns without a receipt or with a gift receipt are refunded as store credit on a Walgreens gift card. - Refund Timelines:
- In-Store Purchases (Card/Cash):
- Credit/Debit: 3–5 business days to appear on your account.
- Cash: Immediate.
- Check: Up to 10 business days.
- Online Returns:
- 3–5 business days after the return is processed.
- Allow up to 30 days for mail returns.
- In-Store Purchases (Card/Cash):
- Shipping Fees:
Refunded only if the return is due to Walgreens’ error or a defective product. - Delays:
Bank processing times, holidays, and weekends may cause delays.
“At Walgreens, we’re committed to making health and happiness simpler, easier and within reach.” – Stefano Pessina (Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of Walgreens Boots Alliance)
Return Policy Full Breakdown
- Most items can be returned within 30 days of purchase.
- Both in-store and online purchases are eligible for return at any Walgreens location.
- Receipt or proof of purchase is preferred for a full refund.
- Returns without a receipt are refunded as store credit for the lowest sale price in the last 60 days.
- Some categories, like prescription medications and gift cards, are always final sale.
- Opened items are often accepted if not abused; manager discretion applies.
- Walgreens brand products have a 100% satisfaction guarantee—even if partially used.
- Online returns can be initiated through your Walgreens.com account or by contacting Customer Service.
- Prepaid shipping labels are available for many online returns.
- Refunds are generally processed within 3–5 business days for card payments.
- Cash refunds are immediate; check refunds may take up to 10 business days.
- Oversized and hazmat items require special return instructions.
- Seasonal and clearance items may have stricter return conditions.
- Photo orders must be returned within 14 days.
- Valid photo ID is required for returns without a receipt.
- Walgreens may refuse returns that violate policy or pose health/safety risks.
- Store managers have discretion in approving or denying certain returns.
Walgreens Return policy FAQs
Can I return items to Walgreens without a receipt in 2025?
Yes, but you’ll receive store credit for the lowest sale price in the last 60 days, and you must present a valid photo ID.
What is the return window for most products at Walgreens?
You have 30 days from the date of purchase for most items. Photo orders must be returned within 14 days.
Can I return opened or used items to Walgreens?
Usually, yes—especially for Walgreens brand products and if the item is not abused. Manager discretion applies.
Which products are non-returnable under the Walgreens return policy?
Yes. Gift cards, prescription medications, sexual wellness products, certain personal items, and seasonal merchandise are non-returnable.
How do I return an online Walgreens order by mail or in-store?
Initiate the return through your Walgreens.com account or contact Customer Service. You can return by mail or at a Walgreens store.
Does Walgreens refund shipping charges on returned online purchases?
Shipping fees are only refunded if the return is due to Walgreens’ error or a defective product.
How long does it take to receive a refund from Walgreens after a return?
Card refunds take 3–5 business days; cash is immediate; check refunds take up to 10 business days; online returns may take up to 30 days.
What is the Walgreens return policy for gifts without a receipt?
Yes, with a gift receipt you’ll receive store credit.
How do returns work at Walgreens if I paid cash and lost the receipt?
You can still return the item for store credit, but you must present a valid photo ID.
Are there special return rules for electronics or cosmetics at Walgreens?
Yes. Returns are often at the manager’s discretion and may be refunded as store credit.