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

What is Target’s return policy?

Confused over how to start the return process for Target?

For Target, their official return policy states that:

Most unopened items sold by Target in new condition and returned within 90 days will receive a refund or exchange. The return window for items sold on Target.com begins once the order has been invoiced. Invoicing happens when any part of the order is shipped, delivered by a Shipt shopper or made ready for pick up. Some items sold by Target have a modified return policy noted on the receipt, packing slip, Target policy board (refund exceptions), Target.com or in the item description. Items that are opened or damaged or do not have a receipt may be denied a refund or exchange.

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 Target.

The return barcode is available in the Target app or on Target.com for purchases linked to your account: 

• Access your Target account. 
• From the toggle at the top of the page, select In-Store to view your store purchases. 
• Locate your item under " Orders " on Target.com or under " Purchases " in the Target app. 
• App: Select the Return option, then the return barcode will appear on the page.
• Web: The return barcode will appear on the page.
• Present this barcode to Guest Services inside the store.

What is the Target’s return time period?

Target's return policy allows customers to return most items within 90 days of purchase, with some exceptions for specific categories. Be sure to confirm any exceptions before proceeding!

What can I not return at Target?

The following items cannot be returned: 

• Trading cards & trading card accessories (e.g., Pokemon, Sport cards, trading card binders)
• Open or defective collectibles (e.g., special edition Barbie dolls, porcelain dolls, action figures and die-cast cars)
• Personalized items and digital downloads
• Opened/unsealed breast pumps
• Specialty gift cards, pre-paid gift cards and Target GiftCards cannot be returned or redeemed for cash or credit except where required by law. This includes Target GiftCards, Visa®, Mastercard®, or American Express® Gift Card, restaurant, entertainment, lottery cards.

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 Target’s helpline:

Visit the Target.com Help Center to find answers to common questions, use their online chat, and more. You may also contact their customer service team at 1-800-440-0680

How do I do returns for Target 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 Target 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 Target associates, as they work within company policies.

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

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

How can you make Target’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 Target.

How do I return a large item?

• Most items, including large items, can be returned to a Target store for a refund with no stocking fees. Some large items, such as furniture and electronics, may be eligible for return pickup. To determine if your item is eligible for pickup by our return carrier, have your order information handy and call Target.com Guest Services at 1-800-591-3869.

How do I report an item missing from my order delivered by the EFW

• For help with your missing item, please contact Target.com Guest Services at 1-800-591-3869.

How will I be refunded?

• In most cases your refund will automatically go back to the original form of payment used for the purchase. If you used multiple forms of payment, your refund may go back to all payment methods used.
• If you’re returning something in a store, but you don’t have the original receipt or return barcode, you may get a merchandise return card for your refund.
• Refunds are issued to the original payment method(s) in most circumstances.
• Purchases made with a Target GiftCard will be credited back as a new Target eGiftCard.
• Items paid for with PayPal prior to September 13, 2022, will be refunded to a Target GiftCard.
• If you’ve lost the credit or debit card the refund is supposed to go back to you on, contact the card issuer for refund information.

Have any further questions? You can check out Target’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