Apple's Return and Exchange Policy: Complete Guide for Hassle-Free Returns and Exchanges

What is Apple’s return policy?

Confused over how to start the return process for Apple?

For Apple, their official return policy states that:

There are a few important things to keep in mind when returning a product you purchased online from Apple: You have 14 calendar days to return an item from the date you received it. Only items that have been purchased directly from Apple, either online or at an Apple Retail Store, can be returned to Apple. Apple products purchased through other retailers must be returned in accordance with their respective returns and refunds policy. Please ensure that the item you're returning is repackaged with all the cords, adapters and documentation that were included when you received it.

Here is a summary table:

How do I start a return?

According to their most updated return policy, these are the steps to take to initiate a return with Apple.

Returning to store:

• Bring your item, together with the receipt, box and all accessories to any U.S Apple store. An Apple Specialist will assist you with your return. Your refund will be processed at that time.

Ship your item back to Apple:

• Sign in to your order listing page with your apple account and password.

• After signing in, you will se your recent orders. Select into the item you would like to return, and use the "Start a Return" link below the item, and then click Get started

• Next, read the instructions and select the Print Return Label button to print your shipping and any required hazmat labels.

• If you’re shipping multiple boxes, use the Print Return Label button again to print new labels for each box. We recommend using the original packaging if you are returning a computer.

• You can either schedule a pickup with the carrier or drop off the package at any of the carrier’s locations.

What is the Apple’s return time period?

Apple's return policy allows customers to return most items within 14 days of purchase, with some exceptions for specific categories. Be sure to confirm any exceptions before proceeding!

What can I not return at Apple?

There are some items, however, that are ineligible for return, including:

Opened software* Electronic Software Downloads Software Up-to-Date Program Products (software upgrades) Apple Gift Cards (includes previous generation Apple Store Gift Cards and App Store & iTunes Gift Cards) Apple Developer products (membership, technical support incidents, WWDC tickets) *You can return software, provided that it has not been installed on any computer. Software that contains a printed software license may not be returned if the seal or sticker on the software media packaging is broken.

What do I need to bring for a return?

To process a return, you will need proof of purchase, which can be a physical or digital receipt. Additionally, ensure the item is in good, unused, unwashed condition, preferably in its original packaging.

Who can I contact for help?

For further clarification, you can always reach out to Apple’s helpline:

For questions about returns or to initiate a return, contact Apple Support directly through apple.com/support or visit your nearest Apple Store.

How do I do returns for Apple without a receipt?

If you don’t have a receipt, you may still be able to process a return using delivery and shipping confirmation emails, your Apple account information, or credit card statements. If you've lost a physical receipt, returning to the original store can increase your chances of a successful return. Here’s what to bring to assist in verifying your purchase:

• A valid ID (driver's license or state ID).
• Details about the product, including name, brand, and approximate purchase date.
• Refunds may be issued as store credit or at the current selling price.
• Remember to be patient and polite when interacting with Apple associates, as they work within company policies.

Having these items will significantly improve your chances of a successful return.

💡 Pro Tip: Always digitize your Apple receipts immediately after purchase using Receiptor AI's WhatsApp scanner for hassle-free returns later.

How can you make Apple’s return policy even easier and quicker?

Unlike physical receipts, digital data is easier to locate and organize in bulk. By digitizing your receipts using Receiptor AI, you will never lose a receipt again.

1. Easily track return periods

Simply go to Sources > Email Accounts.

Receiptor AI automatically extracts key information from digital receipts in your emails, store names, dates, and itemized lists – all without lifting a finger.

Beyond keeping your receipts so you don’t lose them, Receiptor also has bonus features:

• Sync with budgeting apps or expense trackers for comprehensive financial management.
• Receiptor AI can categorize your purchases, making it easier to track spending patterns.
• Set up alerts for important purchases that are approaching end-of-return periods.

2. Capture and store your receipts digitally whenever, wherever you are

Receiptor AI has a WhatsApp Scanner feature for paper receipts that automatically adds and processes your receipt images.

After a simple setup (Settings > Personal Information > Enter your Phone Number):

• Open WhatsApp, enter the Receiptor AI chat, tap the camera icon, and send a photo of your receipt.
• Your digitized receipt will be available in your documents in a few moments.
• Easily send receipt files to family members for shared purchases or to your accountant for tax purposes.
• Find any receipt quickly by searching by date or store name on your Receiptor AI documents page.

Note: Many retailers now offer the option to receive digital receipts via email. For an additional layer of security, always opt for this when available.

By digitizing your receipts, you're not just preparing for potential returns—you're streamlining your entire purchase history. Whether it's for warranty claims, expense reports, or simply keeping track of your spending, digital receipts are a game-changer in modern shopping.

FAQ Section

Beyond what we have covered, here are some common questions relating to processing returns at Apple.

Where can I return Apple products?

• Only items bought directly from Apple (online or retail stores) can be returned to Apple. Products from other retailers must be returned to those retailers.

What is Apple's Holiday Return Policy?

• Purchases made between November 8, 2024 - December 25, 2024 will have a extended return window until January 8, 2025

Have any further questions? You can check out Apple’s FAQ page for other common enquiries at this link.

Found this article helpful?

Read on to find out more about Receiptor AI.

• Is there an app to find receipts in email?
• Receipt Scanners: What is the Best Way to Digitize Receipts?
• I Lost My Receipt: What to Do Next?
• Receiptor AI: A Founder's Vision for Automated Bookkeeping