lowe's return policy without receiptWhen you do home improvements, you often end up needing to return things – perhaps you purchased too much plywood or picked up the wrong set of tools, and now you need a refund or an exchange.
Not all companies simplify the return process, but luckily, Lowe’s is an exception. Here's what you need to know about the specifics of Lowe’s return policy, for both online and in-store purchases, and how it stacks up against other home improvement stores.
Lowe’s Return Guidelines Explained
Lowe’s strives to keep its return policy straightforward. If you have a receipt, you can return most new, unused items within 90 days from the purchase date.
If your purchase was made using a Lowe’s Business Rewards (LBR), Lowe’s Advantage Card (LAC), Lowe’s Business Advantage (LBA), Lowe’s Commercial Account (LCA), you have up to one year from the purchase date to make a return.
While the policy applies to most products, any in-store returns require manager approval, and they may decide on refunds or repairs at their discretion..
Unfound Receipts
Returning items to Lowe’s usually goes smoothly if you have a receipt. But what if you don't have one?
Luckily, you can still return items without a receipt. Often, a Lowe’s staff member can find the details of your original purchase in their system using your credit card number, phone number, checking account number, or a MyLowe’s card.
If you're returning something without a receipt, you will need to bring a valid photo ID. Lowe’s needs this to confirm your identity and verify that you made the original purchase.
Remember, just like their usual return policy, any return is subject to a manager's approval. They may also limit how many items you can return without a receipt.
Understanding Exceptions to Lowe's 90-Day Return Guidelines
Every return policy has its exceptions, meaning some items cannot be returned or exchanged. These include:
- Delivery or shipping costs
- Costs for installation and labor
- All types of gift cards, such as those from Lowe’s, Visa, or Mastercard
- In-store merchandise cards, refund cards, or credits
- Any masks or face coverings bought at Lowe’s
If you need to return items that contain flammable liquids, gases, or other materials considered hazardous, like lithium batteries, you must return them in person. Even if you purchased the item online, Lowe’s does not accept returns of hazardous materials by mail, even if the item is emptied of its hazardous contents.
Return Policy: 30-Day Window
Most items at Lowe's have a 90-day return policy, but some must be returned in “like-new” condition within 30 days to qualify for a refund or exchange, including:
- Holiday items: Seasonal items such as Halloween decorations or Christmas ornaments need to be returned by the holiday date or before.
- TV and electronics: Electronics that are damaged, like TVs with dents or cracks,will not be accepted.
- Major appliances: This category includes items like Washers, dryers, refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, microwaves, cooktops, wall ovens, washer pedestals, and hoods.
- Liquid paint: You must not use the liquid paint if you want to return it.
- Outdoor power equipment: This includes items like pressure washers and lawnmowers. However, Black + Decker and Craftsman cordless and corded power items are excluded (these are covered by the 90-day policy).
- Plumbing: This includes larger items such as water heaters.
- Highway trailers: You need to return the trailer in-store with all original paperwork, including the title, if applicable.
How to Return Items Covered by Warranty
Most items at Lowe's have a return policy of 30 or 90 days. But what if a product with a warranty stops working after 90 days?
Always check for a warranty if the item fails after this period. Some products might have longer warranties that cover defects from the manufacturer.
If your product is under warranty, take it to a Lowe’s store. You might get it fixed for free or arrange for repairs at your home.
How Do You Return Online Purchases to Lowe’s?
Returning items to the store is often the fastest way to get a refund or exchange. However, you can also make returns online through their website. This method isn't available for all items, but Lowe’s provides prepaid returns for certain merchandise.
How to Utilize Lowe's Centralized Parcel Return Facility?
When you return something using Lowe’s online return system, it goes to their main parcel return center. Here’s how to do it:
Pack the item securely in a strong envelope or box.
If you have more than one item to return, only send back the items listed on the return slip.
Include all original packaging and any accessories that came with the product, such as instruction manuals.
Complete the return slip and make sure to put it in the package with your items.
Attach the shipping label to your package and take it to your local post office or give it to your local carrier.
Home Depot vs. Lowe’s: Which Has the Better Return Policy?
Similar to Lowe's, Home Depot offers a 90-day return policy. They will accept returns without a receipt if you have an ID. Home Depot requires that all returned items come with their original packaging, regardless of whether the purchase was made in-store or online.
Lowe’s and Costco: A Return Policy Showdown
Costco's return policy is more flexible than Lowe's. It has no time limit, allowing returns anytime as long as the item is in “like-new” condition and undamaged. However, a manager must approve the return.
