We take look at what you need to know when it comes to taking back unwanted presents...
I've received a gift that I don't want - can I get a refund?
Many of us assume that we are automatically entitled to a refund if we change our mind about a purchase or want to return an unwanted gift. However, this is not the case and stores are under no legal obligation to give you your money back.
Fortunately, many choose to offer their own returns policies, and may offer a refund, exchange or credit note provided you can show proof of purchase such as a receipt. So before returning an item, check what the store's policy is which will be displayed either on a sign, on your receipt or online.
You also need to make sure you return your item in the specified time, so don't risk missing the cut-off date by putting it off. The good news is that over Christmas this period is often extended.
A lot of high street stores now offer gift receipts, so if you are the buyer, this is a good option. If your relative/friend doesn't like their present, they can exchange it for something they really do want.
A present I received doesn't work - what are my options?
Under the Sale of Goods Act, if you buy an item that is faulty, not as described or unfit for purpose, you have the right to get your money back. Most stores will refund or replace without question, however if you received the item as a gift, these rights unfortunately don't transfer. With this in mind, it may be worth asking the person who bought it to return it.
You'll also need some sort of proof of purchase - however, this doesn't have to be a receipt. A credit card bill or bank statement should be acceptable. It's also crucial that you return the faulty item as soon as you can.
For these regulations to apply, you have to have returned the item back in a 'reasonable amount of time' to be able to claim a refund. Unfortunately, there isn't a definition of what is considered a 'reasonable' length of time and this will depend individually on the item and the circumstances.
After this time you won't be entitled to a refund but you can demand a repair or replacement.
I bought a present for someone online but have changed my mind. Can I send it back?
You may think that you're less protected if you buy online. However, you actually have more rights. The Distance Selling Regulations allow a 'cooling off' period of seven days in which you can change your mind and get a full refund even if there is nothing wrong with the item. The seven-day period begins from the day after the gift was received.
If you receive a present that was bought online and are not happy with it, you can still send it back but will need proof of purchase and to know the date the gift was received.
Sometimes, high street stores allow you to bring the item back to a branch. Again, you'll need proof of purchase, normally in the form of a despatch note.
Are there some items that you can't return?
Yes, there are some items that you can't return. Earrings, make-up and toiletries cannot be returned due to hygiene reasons and this will usually be specified somewhere on the product or its packaging. DVDs, CDs, computer games and software also can't be returned if the packaging has been opened. Personalised gifts or clothes made to measure will not be accepted either.
I bought something in the January sales - can I still return it?
Many of us will know the feeling of impulsively snapping up bargains in the January sales only to realise when we get home that it's not quite as we thought.
What you may not realise is that you have exactly the same rights as something bought at full price. Again, there is no legal obligation on a store to refund something that isn't faulty, but if they have a returns policy, you will usually be offered an exchange or credit note.
Always read the returns policy before buying, as many shop operate slightly different policies during sales periods.
Please note: Any rates or deals mentioned in this article were available at the time of writing.
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